Grooming for Curly Breeds: Dog Coat Tips

Curly-coated breeds are some of the most eye-catching and charismatic dogs around—from the elegant Standard Poodle to the fun-loving Cockapoo. But with great curls comes great responsibility. Unlike short or straight coats, curly fur requires special grooming techniques, tools, and styling expertise to keep it healthy, mat-free, and fabulous.

At Kinga’s Dog Grooming Salon in Newington, Edinburgh, we’re specialists in curly-coated dog breeds. Our clients trust us to groom not only Poodles but also Doodles, Bichons, and curly mixed breeds with precision and care. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of grooming curly-coated dogs—from bath to blow-dry, clipper work to scissor artistry.

Why Curly-Coated Dogs Need Special Grooming

Curly coats are unique because they:

• Trap dirt and debris more easily

• Tangle and mat quickly if not regularly brushed

• Grow continuously, requiring frequent trims

• Are prone to dryness without the right products

Grooming isn’t just a beauty service—it’s essential for comfort, hygiene, and skin health.

Top Curly-Coated Breeds That Require Specialty Grooming

Breed Coat Type Grooming Frequency Standard Poodle Dense, curly single coat. Every 4–6 weeks Miniature Poodle. Same as standard. Every 4–6 weeks Cockapoo Wavy to curly mix coat. Every 5–7 weeks Labradoodle Variable – often wooly Every 6–8 weeks Bichon Frise Soft, curly double coat Every 4–6 weeks Portuguese Water Dog Dense, waterproof curls Every 6–8 weeks

10 Curly Coat Grooming Tips from the Pros

1. Brush Daily to Prevent Mats

Use a slicker brush and a steel comb:

• Brush in layers, starting at the skin and working out

• Focus on friction points: behind ears, underarms, groin, and collar area

• Follow up with a comb to find hidden knots

2. Never Bathe a Matted Dog

Water tightens mats, making them harder to remove. Always brush thoroughly before bathing to avoid pain and skin damage.

3. Use Moisturising Shampoo and Conditioner

Curly coats can dry out fast. At Kinga’s, we use:

• Sulfate-free, pH-balanced shampoos

• Deep conditioners with coconut oil, oatmeal, or aloe

This keeps curls soft and prevents breakage.

4. Fluff Dry for That Signature Volume

After towel drying:

• Use a high-velocity dryer on low heat

• Brush while drying to straighten the curls for even trimming

• Avoid air drying—it leads to uneven curl patterns and tangling

5. Invest in the Right Tools at Home

For daily maintenance, have:

• Slicker brush

• Wide-tooth comb

• Detangling spray

• Dog-safe conditioner

• A trimming shear for emergency touch-ups

6. Choose a Professional Clip That Suits Your Dog’s Lifestyle

We offer styles such as:

• Lamb Cut – great for cold weather and active dogs

• Teddy Bear Cut – cute and manageable

• Kennel Clip – low maintenance for summer

• Puppy Clip – ideal for first timers or young pups

All styles are adjusted to your dog’s coat density and curl type.

7. Don’t Skip the Feet, Face, and Sanitary Areas

These areas tend to mat first. Regularly:

• Trim around the eyes and mouth

• Keep the foot pads clean and free of fur

• Sanitary trims maintain hygiene and prevent odour

8. Monitor for Skin Conditions

Curly breeds are prone to:

• Dry, flaky skin

• Hot spots

• Yeast infections in the ears

We check your dog during every groom and will alert you to anything unusual.

9. Stick to a Regular Schedule

Set a grooming routine every 4 to 8 weeks, depending on your dog’s coat type. Skipping appointments leads to mats, discomfort, and sometimes the need for a full shave.

10. Trust the Pros for Complex Cuts

Some styles, like the traditional Poodle Continental Clip, require expert scissoring and breed knowledge. At Kinga’s, we’re trained in both show cuts and pet trims.

How We Tailor Grooming for Curly Breeds at Kinga’s

At Kinga’s Dog Grooming Salon, we understand that no two curly coats are identical. Here’s what sets our service apart:

1. Personalised Coat Assessments

Each appointment begins with a coat check to assess:

• Curl tightness and density

• Skin condition

• Matt levels

• Style preference

2. Custom Styling Options

Whether you prefer classic poodle elegance or a modern doodle cut, we provide:

• Hand-scissored finishes

• Blended clipper work

• Face and paw shaping

3. Calm, One-on-One Appointments

Many curly-coated breeds can be nervous. That’s why we offer:

• Quiet sessions

• Calming sprays and music

• Grooming breaks as needed

FAQs: Grooming for Curly Breeds

1. How often should I groom my curly-coated dog?

Every 4–8 weeks professionally, plus daily brushing at home to prevent mats.

2. Can I shave my dog to avoid grooming?

We strongly advise against shaving curly coats short unless medically necessary. It can:

• Damage the coat’s texture

• Increase sunburn risk

• Lead to matting as the coat regrows unevenly

3. My dog hates brushing. What can I do?

Start slow. Use positive reinforcement, treats, and short sessions. Or book a "brush training" session at Kinga’s.

4. Are doodles easier to groom than poodles?

Not always! Doodle coats are unpredictable—they may be more prone to matting than purebred Poodles. Regular grooming is essential.

5. What’s the best haircut for summer?

Try a lamb cut or teddy bear trim that keeps curls light and cool without exposing the skin.

6. Can I maintain my dog’s curls without going to a salon?

Home brushing is critical, but for trims, shaping, and deep cleaning, a professional salon like Kinga’s is your best option.

Conclusion: Curls Done Right with Kinga’s Touch

Curly coats are charming—but they’re also challenging. Each coat type, from tight Poodle curls to fluffy Doodle waves, deserves custom grooming care. At Kinga’s Dog Grooming Salon in Newington, we offer the tools, training, and techniques to make every curly dog look and feel their absolute best.