How to Groom Your Stokeshire Doodle Like a Pro

Grooming your Stokeshire Doodle, often referred to endearingly as the "Teddy Bear Cut", is a crucial part of their maintenance routine to keep them looking as cute and cuddly as they were the day you brought them home. Whether you're a professional groomer or a dedicated pet owner, the key to mastering the grooming process lies in patience, the right tools, and an understanding of your dog's unique coat and grooming needs. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you groom your Stokeshire Doodle to perfection.

Understanding the Stokeshire Doodle's Coat

The Stokeshire Doodle's coat is typically long, soft, and wavy. This coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling, maintain hygiene, and ensure your Doodle's comfort. Since the Stokeshire Doodle is also quite a large dog, grooming can be a significant undertaking, but the results are always worth the time and effort.

It's important to be very specific with your groomer! Everyone has a distinct style preference and likes different looks. If you have a specific look in mind, be sure to communicate that to the receptionist and show them this guide! For the teddy bear hair style, ask for the following:

Tell your groomer you would like:

- A small notch shaved between the eyes

- Short hair trim around the ears and eyes

- Use of round scissors around the dog's muzzle

- Use of blending shears to help blend the hair evenly around the face and ears

- Even shaving throughout the body, approximately 1.5-2 inches in hair length

- Trimming of round feet

- Long tail feathering tapered towards the tip

Preparing for the Grooming Session

Before you even turn on the clippers, there are a few preparatory steps you should take to make the grooming experience pleasant for both you and your furry friend. Here's what you'll need:

• A quiet and well-lit grooming space with a non-slip surface.

• All grooming tools, including clippers with extra blades, guard combs, scissors, and a slicker brush.

• Treats or a favorite toy to keep your Doodle calm and happy.

• Protective gear for you, such as gloves and a grooming apron, especially if you're new to grooming.

• A bath towel and a non-slip surface in case your Doodle needs a bath.

• Time; grooming a Stokeshire Doodle can take several hours, so plan accordingly.

The Grooming Process

Step 1: Checking for Mats and Tangles

Begin by thoroughly checking for mats and tangles in your Doodle's coat. Use a slicker brush to gently work through the hair, starting from the ends and working your way up. If the brush doesn't glide through the coat smoothly, there may be a mat that requires attention.

Step 2: Pre-Shave if Necessary

If mats are extensive, it's best to pre-shave the coat using clippers with a long guard comb. This can help reduce the discomfort and time spent on the actual grooming. Work carefully, section by section, following the direction of the hair growth. For mats close to the skin, you may need to use a shorter blade, but avoid going too short to prevent skin irritation or nicks.

Step 3: Sanitary Trim

A clean and neatly trimmed rear end not only looks better but also makes it easier for your Doodle to maintain personal hygiene. Use a shorter blade to trim around the anus and the base of the tail. For females, trim around the vulva, and for males, trim around the penis and scrotum. Be cautious and work with short, deliberate strokes to avoid the sensitive areas.

Step 4: Paw and Foot Trimming

Stokeshire Doodles have furry paws that can quickly mat if not managed regularly. Use a shorter blade to clean up the hair around the paw pads and between the toes. The goal is to create a rounded look that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, as it helps maintain traction and keeps dirt and moisture out of the paw pads.

Step 5: Bathing

When it's time for a bath, use a dog-safe shampoo and conditioner. Make sure to lather well and rinse thoroughly to avoid skin irritation. After the bath, dry your Doodle using a high-velocity dryer, which will not only make the process quicker but will also help straighten the coat, making it easier to trim.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Once dry, run a slicker brush through the coat again before trimming. Trimming the body with a guard comb helps maintain a consistent length and a textured look. Trim the hair on the tail to a desirable length and shape, often a tapered approach or a rounded appearance, just be sure to consider your dog's comfort and wagging room.

Step 7: Trimming the Face and Ears

Use rounded-tip scissors to trim around the eyes, ears, and beard, ensuring that hair does not obstruct vision or irritate the eyes. The area around the ears should be trimmed to keep them neat and tidy. Take your time with these sensitive areas, and don't hesitate to take breaks to avoid stressing your dog.

Step 8: Final Inspection

With the grooming complete, give your Doodle a once-over for any missed spots or uneven trims. Check the body, tail, paws, and face to ensure everything looks well-proportioned and tidy.

Post-Grooming Care

After the grooming session, show your Stokeshire Doodle some love with cuddles and treats. Pay attention to their behavior, eating habits, and any signs of discomfort, especially if it's their first time with a new cut. Keep your Doodle's grooming schedule regular, about every four to six weeks, to maintain their lovely appearance and health.

Grooming your Stokeshire Doodle can be a rewarding and bonding experience, and it also ensures your companion looks their best, feels comfortable, and stays healthy. If at any point you feel unequipped to handle a grooming task, do not hesitate to consult a professional groomer. Happy grooming!