How to Stop Cavoodle Hair from Matting: A Complete Guide for Pet Parents

Cavoodles are now the most popular breed in Australia, and we all know why. As a dog mum of two cavoodles myself, I get to experience their loving temperament, intelligence, and irresistibly cute appearance, they’re the perfect companions for our  family. But one feature that makes Cavoodles especially charming is their soft, wavy or curly coats, which, can be on the high-maintenance side (and I should know since I created a brand that caters to these exact issues).

Since they are a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle, they are prone to tangling and matting and if they are not properly cared for, their hair can become tightly matted, causing them discomfort, skin issues, and even infections.

So, how do you keep their beautiful coat soft, fluffy, and tangle-free?

Let me break it down for you and share with how you can stop Cavoodle hair from matting.

Why Does Cavoodle Hair Mat?

Knowing the reason why Cavoodle hair mats is very important as it let us understand why your Cavoodle’s coat is more prone to matting than other breeds.

1. Cavoodle Coat Types

Cavoodles typically inherit one of three coat types:

• Wavy Coat (Fleece Coat) – Soft and slightly wavy, this coat is the easiest to manage but still prone to light tangles.
  

• Curly Coat (Wool Coat) – Similar to the Poodle’s coat, this type is dense and curly, making it the most likely to mat.
  

• Straight Coat – Less common, but easier to maintain.
  

2. Hair Growth Cycle

Image reference: Tips to Control and Reduce Dog Shedding

Most of us know that Cavoodles don’t shed in the same way as other breeds. Instead of fur falling out onto your floor or furniture, their loose hair gets trapped in the curls or waves of their coat. That is why, if it is not brushed out, these loose hairs twist and knot into mats.

3. Activity Level and Lifestyle

If your Cavoodle is one of the active little dogs who love playing outdoors. Rolling everywhere they feel rolling, like in the grass, running through sand, or even going for a swim, can contribute to matting if their coat isn’t cleaned and brushed afterwards (by afterwards, we mean, directly)

Results of Matting Leading to These Problems

Matting isn’t just an issue for how your Cavoodle looks. When it is left untreated, these mats can cause several problems, like:

• Skin irritation and hot spots: Their matted hair traps moisture and dirt against the skin, creating the perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
  

• Restricted movement: These severe mats, especially around joints or underarms, can restrict your dog’s movement and cause pain. (ouch)
  

• Discomfort and pulling: These mats are expected to eventually tug on your dog’s skin and cause discomfort, especially when they are walking or lying down.
  

• Vet and grooming costs: Again, it’s more than just the appearance, but severe matting might also require sedation or professional grooming if left unresolved, which can cost you money.
  
  

Preventing Cavoodle Matting: A Step-by-Step Routine

So, now that we understand the causes and risks, how do you prevent mats from forming in the first place. The major thing that plays a great role in preventing matting on your Cavoodles is a consistent grooming routine, supported by the right tools and products.

1. Brushing Daily

If there’s one thing I should say from one Cavoodle parent to another. You should be committed to brushing your dog daily. This is your first and best defence against tangles and mats.

Tools You’ll Need:

• Slicker Brush – Ideal for removing surface tangles.
  

• Detangling Comb – Great for reaching deeper knots.
  

• De-matting Tool – Helps gently break up tough mats.
  

Start with the slicker brush to loosen any tangles, then move to a wide-tooth comb to ensure that there are no hidden mats near the skin.

Pro Tip: Make sure that you pay close attention to common mat-prone areas like behind the ears, under the collar, armpits, groin, tail, and around the paws. Those are the areas where the mats love staying.

Recommended Product: Cavoodle Grooming Tool Set

2. Use the Right Shampoo and Conditioner

Having your Cavoodle's consistent bath is sometimes not enough. Bathing them is essential, but the type of shampoo and conditioner you use makes a big difference. Harsh or drying shampoos can make the coat worse, resulting in brittle hair and making it even more prone to matting.

That is why you always use a high-quality, breed-specific shampoo that nourishes and detangles the coat. And I have developed a product specifically for these issues.

Recommended Product: All-in-One Shampoo for Cavoodles

3. Make Sure to Dry Your Cavoodle Properly After Baths

I understand that we don’t have all the time, and sometimes, we leave our Cavoodle damp after a bath, but we have to understand that in this way, it will just give them more reason to create mats. Always towel-dry first, then finish with a blow-dryer on a cool, low setting while brushing.

Never let your dog air-dry with a curly or wavy coat—it’s a recipe for tangles.

Recommended Product: Professional Grooming Dryer

4. Cavoodle Regular Trims

Although we’ve mentioned above to regularly brush your Cavoodle, they would still need some professional grooming every 6–8 weeks. This would help them keep their coat at a manageable length and reduce the chances of mats forming.

Pro Tip: If you want, you can ask your groomer for a “teddy bear cut”, it is short enough to prevent tangles but still keeps that adorable Cavoodle look.

 

5. Use Detangling Spray Between Baths

In between washes, a detangling spray can help manage the coat. Lightly mist and brush through areas that are beginning to tangle. Make sure it's safe for dogs and free of alcohol and harsh chemicals.

Recommended Product: Leave-in Conditioner for Cavoodles

6. Keep their Collars and Harnesses in Check

As mentioned above, one of the areas that mat easily is the upper part of their body, and if you are using collars and harnesses, this can also cause friction and matting around the neck and underarms. What you need to do is remove them when your Cavoodle is at home, and check these areas regularly for developing mats.

What To Do When You Find a Mat

We can never deny the fact that sometimes we neglect these tips above, and despite our best efforts, mats can still happen. But here’s how to safely deal with them:

1. Don’t panic or pull -Tugging at mats can hurt your dog and damage the coat.
   

2. Use your fingers first – Try to gently loosen the mat using your fingers before using tools.
   

3. Apply detangling spray – This can help loosen the hair strands and make brushing easier.
   

4. Use a de-matting comb – Start at the ends and work slowly toward the skin.
   

5. When in doubt, see a groomer – If the mat is too close to the skin or too large, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
   
   

Lifestyle Tips to Reduce Matting

Beyond the usual things we know about how to prevent matting, grooming, and several lifestyle tweaks can help keep your Cavoodle mat-free:

• Brush after walks or outdoor play – This helps remove dirt and debris before it tangles.

• Use a grooming set designed for Oodles – The right tools make all the difference.
  

• Feed a balanced diet – Good coat health starts from the inside out. Omega-3s and a balanced diet will keep the coat strong and less likely to tangle.
  

• Stay consistent – Matting prevention is all about routine. Skipping a few days can undo all your hard work.
  
  

Grooming Essentials for Cavoodle Owners

To make coat care easy and effective, Cavoodle owners can benefit from using grooming products tailored to their breed’s unique coat needs.

Try Our Grooming Essentials

All-in-One Shampoo for Cavoodles
This shampoo is specially formulated for Oodle breeds like Cavoodles. It conditions while cleansing, making bath time quicker and more effective. Say goodbye to dryness and hello to soft, silky fur that resists matting.

Cavoodle Grooming Tool Set
Includes everything you need: a slicker brush, comb, de-matting tool, and more. Designed specifically for Cavoodle coats, this tool set helps you stay on top of brushing and prevents tangles before they turn into mats.

Keeping our Cavoodles looking good and staying fresh is always our goal. 

Remember: prevention is always easier than dealing with severe mats. With daily brushing, the right shampoo, and attention to trouble spots, your Cavoodle will stay mat-free and fabulous all year round.

So next time you run your fingers through that soft, fluffy fur, you’ll know it’s thanks to the love and care you’ve put into your grooming routine. Ready to make matting a thing of the past?

Explore our Cavoodle-specific grooming collection now at My Cavoodle.