How to Groom a Cockapoo at Home

A cockapoo is a smart, social dog that's a cross between a cocker spaniel and a poodle. They're versatile and easygoing, making them an ideal family pet. Grooming a cockapoo at home should start when the dog is a puppy, so it becomes part of a routine and can be a bonding activity for you and your dog. Bathe the dog once a month and brush its coat at least twice a week to ensure a healthy coat free of snarls.

Things You'll Need

  • Grooming brush or comb
  • Cotton balls
  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner (optional)
  • Hair dryer (optional)
  • Thinning shears (optional)
  • Cotton swab
  • Nail trimmer or file
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Instructions

    • 1

      Brush or comb your cockapoo, removing any knots or snarls in the undercoat. Knots can become large mats when the dog is bathed, making the grooming process uncomfortable for your dog. Begin with a wide-tooth comb if your dog has many knots or is sensitive to grooming.

    • 2

      Place cotton balls in your dog's ear to avoid getting water in the ear canal. Water in the ear can lead to infection, so keeping the inner ear clean and dry is essential.

    • 3

      Shampoo your cockapoo. Use a shampoo made specifically for dogs, being careful to avoid getting shampoo in the dog's eyes and ears. Rinse thoroughly. Apply conditioner, if desired, and rinse thoroughly. If the dog isn't rinsed completely, the residual product can be irritating to its skin.

    • 4

      Dry your dog completely. Use a towel until damp and then let your dog air dry. If it's cold, use a hair dryer on a low setting.

    • 5

      Comb and brush your dog thoroughly, working through the undercoat to remove any knots that may have occurred during the bathing process.

    • 6

      Trim your dog's coat with thinning shears, if desired. Thinning shears will remove excess coat while still maintaining a natural look for your cockapoo. Trim a small amount and then examine your work before trimming the coat further. This is especially beneficial around the ears, eyes, tail and legs.

    • 7

      Clean your cockapoo's ears with a cotton swab. Gently swipe the cotton swab in the ear canal. Check for any dark or excess wax, which could be a sign of infection.

    • 8

      Inspect your cockapoo's nails for jagged edges or excess growth. Trim the nails with a nail trimmer or file made for dogs. Be careful not to trim too much, otherwise you will risk cutting the quick of the nail, which can be painful to your dog.