Understanding Australian Labradoodle Coat Types

Before you can build a grooming routine, you need to know what kind of coat your Australian Labradoodle has. Unlike many breeds with a single coat type, Australian Labradoodles come in two primary coat varieties — and caring for them is quite different.

Fleece Coat

The fleece coat is the most common coat type seen in Australian Labradoodles. It has a soft, silky texture with a loose wave or gentle curl. Fleece coats are low-shedding and considered allergy-friendly, though they do require regular brushing to prevent tangles and matting. When well-maintained, a fleece coat has a beautiful, flowing appearance.

Wool Coat

The wool coat is tightly curled — similar to a Poodle's coat — and is the most allergy-friendly option, as it sheds very minimally. Wool coats tend to trap debris rather than shed it, which means they mat more easily if not brushed consistently. Despite requiring more maintenance, many allergy sufferers specifically seek out wool-coated dogs.

Hair Coat

Occasionally, Australian Labradoodles may carry a flatter, straighter "hair" coat. This coat type sheds more and is not considered allergy-friendly. Reputable breeders generally screen for and breed away from the hair coat gene.

How Often Should You Brush Your Australian Labradoodle?

Regular brushing is the single most important thing you can do between grooming appointments. Here's a general guide:

  • Fleece coat: Brush at least 2–3 times per week; daily brushing is ideal during coat transition (puppies switching from puppy to adult coat at 8–14 months)
  • Wool coat: Brush at least 3–4 times per week, paying close attention to high-friction areas

Focus especially on areas prone to matting: behind the ears, under the collar, in the armpits, and around the legs. Always brush down to the skin, not just the surface layer — mats form close to the skin where brushing is often missed.

The Puppy Coat Transition: What to Expect

One of the most challenging periods for Australian Labradoodle owners is the puppy coat transition, which typically occurs between 8 and 14 months of age. During this phase, the soft puppy coat sheds out and the adult coat grows in. The two coats can become interlocked, dramatically increasing the risk of severe matting.

During this period, daily brushing is strongly recommended. Many owners also schedule more frequent grooming appointments to help manage the transition.

Professional Grooming: How Often and What to Expect

Most Australian Labradoodles need a full professional groom every 6 to 10 weeks, depending on coat type, the length you prefer, and how diligently you brush at home. A typical grooming appointment includes:

  1. Bath and blow-dry
  2. Full brush-out and dematting (if needed)
  3. Scissor or clipper trim to your preferred length
  4. Ear cleaning and hair removal from the ear canal
  5. Nail trim
  6. Paw pad tidy

Australian Labradoodles grow hair inside their ear canals, which can trap moisture and debris if not removed regularly. Ask your groomer to pluck or remove this hair at each appointment to reduce the risk of ear infections.

At-Home Grooming Essentials

Having the right tools makes brushing much easier and more effective. Recommended tools include:

  • Slicker brush — great for general brushing and removing loose debris
  • Steel comb (greyhound comb) — essential for checking that you've brushed all the way to the skin; if the comb moves freely, there are no hidden mats
  • Dematting comb or mat splitter — for carefully working through small tangles before they worsen
  • Detangling spray — helps loosen tangles and makes brushing more comfortable for your dog

A Note on Matting

Severe matting is painful and can cause skin irritation and infections beneath the surface. If mats are too close to the skin to safely brush out, a groomer may need to shave the coat short and start fresh. The best way to avoid this is consistent at-home brushing combined with regular professional grooming. Start grooming habits early — the more comfortable your puppy becomes with brushing, the easier the entire process will be throughout their life.