Doodle Coat Guide

At Kimberlee’s Kennels, we believe that an informed family experience is just as important as intentional breeding. Doodle coats are beautifully diverse in both texture and color; understanding these variations allows families to confidently select the puppy that best fits their needs.



Each litter is thoughtfully bred with careful attention to lineage, temperament, and overall quality—resulting in coats that are visually stunning, along low shedding and allergy friendly.

Coat Textures


Doodles typically fall into two to three distinct coat types, each offering its own aesthetic and maintenance level.


#1 Wavy (Fleece Coat)

The most common and the most highly sought-after coat type. Wavy coats can be found in both F1 and F1b litters. Wavy coats are soft, flowing, and gently textured, offering a natural, effortless look. They are typically low to non-shedding and require moderate grooming to maintain their appearance. This coat is especially popular among families seeking slightly less maintenance when it comes to grooming while maintaining a allergy friendly and signature shaggy appearance.


#2 Curly (Wool Coat)

Dense, plush, and curled, this coat type is most commonly seen in F1b generations and our top recommendation if you have severe allergy concerns. Curly coats are considered the most allergy-friendly due to their non- shedding. They do, however, require more brushing and regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain their luxurious texture. Curly coats are definitly a classic and sought after by many families.



#3 Straight (Hair Coat)

Reminiscent of the Golden Retriever or Bernes Mountain dog, this coat type is smooth and flat in appearance. It is the easiest to maintain but will shed more noticeably than other coat types. Straight coats are ideal for those who prefer a simpler grooming routine and have no allergy concerns. At Kimberlee's kennels we only offer one litter- our ultra bernedoodles that will feature this coat type.

Coat Development Over Time


A doodle’s coat will continue to evolve as they grow. Many puppies experience a transition period—often around 5 to 8 months of age—where texture, wave, and curl may shift. This is a completely normal stage of development and an important part of maturing into their adult coat.


It is not uncommon for a puppy’s coat to appear different after their first grooming, as the adult coat begins to emerge. Early indicators, such as facial texture and ear coat, can provide helpful clues, though final results will always develop with time.


Doodles are born with a soft, straight, and  fluffy “puppy coat.” You may notice a few main difference while your puppy is going through a coat change. The first sign will be shedding! It is very common for any puppy (F1 and F1b) to shed only during this period. There coat will most likely appear uneven, wispy, and even thin until they develop into their adult coats. Due to an increase of shedding, we highly recommend daisy brushing during this transition as your puppy will also be more prone to matting during this time. Extra grooming care during the coat change will be most important.


Once your puppy has developed into their adult coat you may notice a slight difference of coat texture. Curly coats can often times become more curly, while wavy coats can appear more bounce or have more of a defined texture.

Understanding Coat Color


Coat color in doodles can be influenced by complex genetic factors, along with lifestyle of each puppy, and while lineage provides helpful insight, natural variation should always be expected.


Rich deep red tones are among the most desirable, though they may soften or lighten slightly as the dog matures. Typically, around four years of age, any red, chocolate, and coppers may lighten one to two shades pending lifestyle. Darker shades such as black and chocolate tend to be more genetically dominant and consistent over time. In some cases, deeply pigmented reds may appear as mahogany or rust, offering a particularly striking and elegant appearance.


While we thoughtfully select pairings to produce beautiful and well-balanced litters, no ethical breeder can guarantee an exact adult color. Subtle changes throughout development are a natural part of the breed. With this being said, any white or black tones tend to stay very true to puppy color.

Grooming & Care


Maintaining your doodle’s coat is an essential part of their long-term health and appearance. Whether you choose professional grooming or prefer to care for your dog at home, establishing positive grooming habits early is key.


We recommend gently introducing your puppy to brushing, handling, and grooming tools from a young age. Regular exposure helps build comfort and confidence, creating a more enjoyable experience for both dog and owner. We start the grooming socialization process here with our puppies. Our approach focuses on confidence-building rather than force. Puppies are never pushed beyond their comfort level. Instead, we build trust through repetition, calm energy, and positive reinforcement. This early investment makes a significant difference; families often notice their puppy is noticeably more relaxed during grooming compared to doodles without this foundation.


Grooming frequency will vary depending on coat type, with curlier coats requiring more consistent maintenance to prevent tangling or matting.


Brushing Routine

Depending on coat type, brushing should be done:

  • Wavy coats: 2+times per week
  • Curly coats: Near-daily

Brushing must reach down to the skin to prevent hidden matting, especially in friction areas like:

  • Behind the ears
  • Under the collar
  • Armpits and hindquarters


Professional Grooming

We recommend establishing a relationship with a professional groomer or at home care early.

Typical schedule:

  • Every 6+ weeks for maintenance
  • Earlier introduction helps puppies build confidence


At-Home Maintenance

Regular care between grooming appointments includes:

  • Light brushing and combing
  • Checking for tangles or debris
  • Keeping the face, paws, and sanitary areas clean


Consistency is key to preventing discomfort and more intensive grooming needs later.

Temperament First


While coat type and color are often a focus, we believe the true value of a puppy lies in their temperament.

At Kimberlee’s Kennels, each puppy is raised with intentional early socialization during critical developmental stages. This foundation helps ensure a confident, affectionate, and well-adjusted dog that transitions seamlessly into family life.

We are committed to helping you select not only a beautiful puppy, but the right personality for your home.


We highly recommend choosing a puppy for temperament of your puppy above any coat or color preferences unless you have allergy concerns and require a specific coat type. This being said, we can understand the importance of choosing a puppy that aligns with both your lifestyle, and asthetic desires.

A Thoughtful Approach


At Kimberlee’s Kennels, our focus extends far beyond appearance. Every puppy is the result of careful planning, quality breeding practices, and a commitment to raising exceptional puppies.

While each doodle is uniquely beautiful, we prioritize consistent coats, temperament, and health of every litter.