Doodle Line Brushing

Apr 19

Line brushing is the secret weapon for keeping your doodle's coat tangle-free, especially if they have that fluffy, curly, or fleece-style hair. It’s more thorough than just brushing the surface—you're brushing in layers, all the way down to the skin.

Here’s a step-by-step on how to line brush your doodle like a pro:

🧼 1. Start with a clean, dry coat

Always brush before a bath. Mats get tighter when wet.
If the coat is super tangled, consider using a detangling spray.

🪮 2. Grab your tools

Slicker brush – for most of the brushing
Steel comb – to check for remaining tangles
Detangling spray (optional) – to make brushing easier and less damaging
A grooming table or elevated surface (optional, but helps if your doodle is squirmy)

✂️ 3. Work in sections

Start at the bottom of your dog (like a back leg or the lower back) and work your way up.

Part the hair horizontally with your fingers, exposing the skin.
Hold the hair above the part out of the way.
Brush the hair underneath in small sections—down to the skin.
Once that row is smooth and tangle-free, move up a bit and repeat.

Think of it like brushing in layers or “lines”—that’s where the term line brushing comes from.

✅ 4. Use the comb as your test

After brushing a section with the slicker brush, run the steel comb through it from root to tip.

If the comb glides through smoothly: ✔️ good job!
If it snags: 🛑 go back and brush that area again.

⏱️ 5. Be patient

This takes time—especially if your dood has a dense or curly coat. But it really helps prevent mats, especially in problem areas like:

Behind the ears
Under the armpits
Around the collar
Inner thighs and tail base

🎉 6. Keep it positive

Give treats, praise, and breaks when needed. Doodles are smart and sensitive—you want them to associate grooming with good vibes.

📅 How often?

Try to line brush at least every other day. If your dog’s coat mats easily, daily is best.

TL;DR: Line brushing = brushing in layers from the skin outward, section by section. It takes more time, but saves you (and your doodle) a ton of trouble with mats down the line.

Taylor Beck