Best Shampoo for Cavoodles & Groodles with Sensitive Skin (A Grooming Guide)

Walk into any park in Sydney or Melbourne, and you are guaranteed to see a Cavoodle, Spoodle, or Groodle. They are Australia’s favourite family dogs for a reason, low shedding and high intelligence.

But ask any "Oodle" owner about their biggest headache, and they will all say the same thing: The Grooming.

These breeds are prone to severe matting and often suffer from sensitive, itchy skin. Many owners unknowingly make the problem worse by using the wrong type of shampoo.

The "Oodle" Coat Dilemma: Fleece vs. Wool

Not all Poodle mixes are the same. Understanding your dog's specific coat type is the first step to better grooming.

1. Fleece Coats: Soft, silky, and wavy. These are easier to manage but tend to pick up burrs and grass seeds easily.

2. Wool Coats: Tighter curls that feel more like a purebred Poodle. These trap dirt and loose hair inside the curl, leading to tight mats close to the skin if not brushed daily.

The Mistake: Over-Stripping the Oils

Because Oodles don't shed much, owners often wash them frequently to keep them smelling fresh.

• The Problem: Generic pet store shampoos are often packed with sulphates (detergents). These strip the natural oils from the hair shaft.

• The Result: Dry hair creates static, and static causes tangles. If you wash an Oodle with a harsh shampoo, you are essentially setting their coat up to mat the moment they dry.

The Solution: Hydration is Everything

For Poodle mixes, you shouldn't just look for a "cleaner", you need a "hydrator."

We recommend the Barkmere 2-in-1 Shampoo & Conditioner.

• Why it works for Oodles: It cleans gently using coconut-based cleansers, but crucially, it deposits natural oils back into the coat during the wash.

• The Detangle Factor: By conditioning the hair shaft while you wash, the comb glides through much easier afterwards, reducing the stress of brushing for both you and your dog.

A Pro Grooming Routine for Oodles

To stop the itch and the mats, follow this simple routine:

Step 1: The "Pre-Brush" (Crucial!) Never wash a matted dog. Water tightens mats, turning them into felt that has to be shaved off. always brush your Cavoodle or Groodle before the bath. Slicker Brush and Coat Brush

Step 2: The Wash Lather up with Barkmere 2-in-1 Shampoo & Conditioner. Our 2 in1 shampoo's formula are specifically chosen to soothe the sensitive skin often found in Poodle crosses, while the essential oils leave them smelling amazing without artificial perfumes. Wash Brush

Step 3: The "Pat and Dry" Don't rub the towel vigorously—that creates knots. Pat them dry, then use a slicker brush while blow-drying on a cool setting to fluff the curls out.

Step 4: The Finishing Touch For extra gloss and to prevent static, spritz a little Barkmere Spritzer or run a tiny amount of Bark Butter Balm through the ends of the coat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should I wash my Cavoodle? We recommend washing every 2–4 weeks. Because Barkmere products are natural and soap-free, you can wash them more frequently than with harsh chemical shampoos without drying out their skin.

Why is my Groodle itchy after the groomer? This is often "Clipper Burn" or a reaction to the highly perfumed "cologne" sprays some salons use. If your dog is sensitive, bring your own bottle of Barkmere 2-in-1 Shampoo & Conditioner to the groomer and ask them to use that instead. Our shampoo's and soap bars are hydrobath friendly.

What is the best brush for Oodles? A "Slicker Brush" is essential for getting through the thick coat to the skin, followed by a metal "Coat Brush" to check for hidden mats.