Labradoodle Care 101: Why Grooming, Walking, and Exercise Are Essential for Your Doodle’s Health and Happiness
- thedanekelley
- Jun 27, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 3, 2025
Labradoodles are one of the most popular and beloved dog breeds today, and for good reason! A mix between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, Labradoodles are friendly, intelligent, and full of energy. Their unique curly or wavy coats, coupled with their playful personalities, make them wonderful family pets. However, owning a Labradoodle comes with specific responsibilities, especially when it comes to regular grooming, walking, and exercise.
In this article, we’ll break down why maintaining a consistent grooming and exercise routine is crucial for keeping your Labradoodle healthy, happy, and looking their best.
The Unique Grooming Needs of Labradoodles
Labradoodles have a variety of coat types, ranging from curly and wool-like to wavy fleece or straight hair. Regardless of coat type, one thing remains the same: Labradoodles require regular grooming.
Why Regular Grooming Is Non-Negotiable for Labradoodles
Their coats are prone to matting, tangling, and trapping dirt and debris. (see our blog post on matting and how to prevent and treat it!) Neglecting grooming can lead to skin irritation, hot spots, and painful matting that may require shaving down the coat.
Brushing Schedule:
Labradoodles should be brushed at least 3-4 times a week, and daily if your Doodle has a thicker or curlier coat. Regular brushing prevents matting and keeps their coat looking soft and healthy.
Benefits of Consistent Grooming:
Reduces shedding (though many Labradoodles are low-shedding, they still need coat maintenance)
Improves skin health
Keeps your home cleaner
Allows you to check for lumps, bumps, or skin conditions early
Professional Grooming:
Most Labradoodles need professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks. Services typically include a bath, blow dry, haircut, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and de-shedding treatments.
Mobile Grooming:
For busy pet parents, mobile dog grooming services are an excellent option. Groomers come directly to your home, eliminating the stress of car rides and waiting rooms for both you and your dog.
The Importance of Nail Trimming and Ear Care
Labradoodles are active dogs, but their nails still require regular trimming. Overgrown nails can affect posture, gait, and joint health.
Aim to trim your Labradoodle’s nails every 3-4 weeks. Mobile groomers can include this as part of their standard grooming package.
Because of their floppy ears, Labradoodles are prone to ear infections. Regular ear cleaning helps prevent buildup and reduces the risk of infections, especially after swimming or playing outdoors.
The Physical and Mental Benefits of Walking Your Labradoodle
Labradoodles are a high-energy breed that needs daily physical activity. Without it, they can quickly become bored and destructive.
How Much Walking Does Your Labradoodle Need?
On average, Labradoodles need at least 30-60 minutes of walking per day, depending on their age and energy level.
For Puppies: Short, frequent walks combined with playtime.
For Adults: Longer walks, ideally split between morning and evening.
For Seniors: Gentle, shorter walks to keep joints mobile without overexertion.
Why Walking Matters:
Physical Health: Helps maintain a healthy weight, strengthens muscles, and supports cardiovascular health.
Mental Stimulation: Labradoodles are smart! Walks expose them to new smells, sights, and sounds.
Behavior Management: A well-exercised Labradoodle is less likely to develop behavioral issues like chewing, digging, or excessive barking.
Bonding Time: Walks are a great way to reinforce leash training and enjoy quality time with your dog.
Beyond Walks: Exercise Ideas for Your Energetic Labradoodle
While daily walks are essential, Labradoodles also benefit from more vigorous exercise and mental challenges.
Fun Exercise Ideas:
Fetch and Retrieval Games: Perfect for burning energy quickly. Labradoodles love to chase balls and frisbees.
Agility Training: Set up a backyard obstacle course or enroll your dog in a local agility class. This challenges their mind and body.
Swimming: Thanks to their Labrador heritage, most Labradoodles love water. Swimming is excellent low-impact exercise for dogs of all ages.
Hiking Adventures: Take your Labradoodle on local trails. Hiking provides both physical exercise and mental stimulation.
Puzzle Toys and Treat Dispensers: Mental exercise is just as important as physical. Puzzle feeders and interactive toys help prevent boredom, especially on rainy days.
The Connection Between Grooming, Walking, and Overall Health
Grooming and exercise go hand in hand when it comes to your Labradoodle’s well-being.
For example:
After an energetic hike, your dog may need a bath to clean off dirt and debris.
Regular brushing after outdoor adventures helps remove loose fur and prevents mats.
Nail trimming is especially important for active dogs to prevent cracked nails from hard surfaces.
Grooming sessions offer the perfect time to check for ticks, foxtails, or injuries after a day outdoors.
By keeping both grooming and exercise consistent, you’re reducing the risk of skin conditions, joint problems, obesity, and behavioral issues.
Why Mobile Grooming Is Ideal for Labradoodles
Given their size, energy, and grooming needs, Labradoodles are perfect candidates for mobile dog grooming services..
Benefits of Mobile Grooming for Labradoodles:
Convenience: No need to load your dog into the car or wait at a salon.
Less Stress: Grooming happens in a quiet, familiar setting close to home.
One-on-One Attention: Your Labradoodle gets dedicated time with the groomer, minimizing anxiety.
Time-Saving: While your dog gets pampered outside, you can continue working or spending time with your family.
Mobile groomers are trained to handle all coat types and personalities, making grooming sessions smoother for Doodles who may get nervous at traditional salons.
Final Tips for Labradoodle Owners
To keep your Labradoodle looking and feeling their best:
Brush frequently at home (at least 3-4 times per week)
Schedule professional grooming every 4-6 weeks
Walk your dog daily for at least 30-60 minutes
Incorporate play and mental exercise to keep them stimulated
Inspect ears, nails, and coat regularly for signs of issues
Consider mobile grooming for convenience and less stress
A happy, healthy Labradoodle is one that’s well-exercised, mentally engaged, and properly groomed.
Book your dog’s next groom today and give them the best care from the comfort of home.
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