Coat Change

 

When we talk about the “coat change”; this is the transition from the puppy to the adult coat. This usually occurs anywhere between 8 months, to around 14 months, as every dog is different. On non-shedding doodles; the adult coat, tangles with the puppy coat, at the follicle, as it is growing in. Proper maintenance; is the key, to get through this difficult time. At least once a week or more, if possible, brush regularly to help keep the forming of mats to a minimum during this period.  This must be done by taking sections; using the brush or comb, and stroke a little bit at a time, till you reach the skin, and then brush outward. These mats are usually hiding under the longer hair. Most people neglect this area, and concentrate on getting the outer hair mat-free to the eye, while the inside is all tangled-up, hidden underneath.

 

If the matted coat starts clumping together into a mass, it cannot be brushed out, especially when it is down to the skin. The only thing that can be done at this point, is to cut down under the mats. The closer the knots are to the skin, the shorter the hair has to be trimmed! As little as one area being matted will result in the need for a shorter overall look, if the new hair is to grow in evenly. If you are bathing your dog you must brush or comb the dog first, before you wash, or you will turn those mats into knots so tight they will be like cement and can never be brushed out. Having said this, I strongly recommend, not to shampoo or bathe your dog, before any scheduled grooming.