Doodles have increased in popularity over the last decade, with new mixes popping up all the time. Essentially, any poodle crossbreed can be classified as a doodle. However, this variety often leads to controversy—particularly in the grooming world.
Certified Master Groomer Melissa Verplank sheds light on the hidden “blessings” doodles can offer groomers. Their coats require regular maintenance, which Verplank believes presents a significant business opportunity. In the video she recorded with Paragon School of Pet Grooming, she shares insights on working with doodles and how groomers can leverage these opportunities.
Though many groomers express frustration with doodles, primarily due to some breeders’ lack of transparency about coat care and the dogs’ personalities, Verplank points out the potential for groomers to become trusted resources for doodle owners.
The Opportunity: Educating Doodle Parents
Working with doodle parents is an ideal chance to educate them on the importance of coat maintenance—especially given the breeds doodles are often crossed with. Many owners may be misinformed, believing these coats are “low maintenance” and require minimal care. This is a perfect opportunity to build trust by explaining why this is not the case.
Navigating Difficult Conversations
When addressing doodle care, patience and understanding are crucial tools. Pet parents invest significant amounts of money into their doodles and may not have been fully informed about grooming needs. Meeting them where they are and guiding them through the grooming process strengthens the relationship, making you the go-to groomer for their doodles.
Choosing the Right Cut
Once you’ve got the doodle parent’s attention, now it’s time to discuss the ideal cut. Consider the dog’s lifestyle, activity level, and their commitment to regular grooming. Here are a few popular cuts and their associated benefits to suggest:
Teddy Bear Cut: Short body coat with longer hair around the face, perfect for a fluffy, cute look.
Lamb Cut: Similar to the teddy bear cut, but with longer hair on the legs—great for active dogs.
Puppy Cut: Easy to maintain, minimizes tangling, and provides a fluffy look.
Kennel Cut: A short, practical cut that keeps the dog cool and requires minimal brushing.
The Health Benefits of Grooming
Encourage doodle owners to stay involved in their dog’s coat health. If aesthetics aren’t a priority for them, approach grooming from a health perspective. Regular brushing not only strengthens the bond between dog and owner but also provides an opportunity to check for parasites or skin changes early. Here are a few things they can address with regular grooming:
1. Prevents painful matting
2. Helps identify fleas and other parasites
3. Reduces the risk of skin infections and hot spots
4. Allows owners to spot lumps or other abnormalities that may need veterinary attention
Conclusion: Embracing the Opportunity
While doodles present unique challenges, they also offer a chance to grow your business. By adjusting your approach to these popular dogs, you can provide valuable, tailored services to doodle owners. And remember, we’re here to help you navigate these challenges, and to offer solutions that allow you to focus on what you do best: providing excellent care to your clients.
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