How to Groom a Havapoo: Coat Care, Tools & Maintenance Tips

The Havapoo—a sweet, spirited mix between the Havanese and the Poodle—has a fluffy, lovable appearance and a coat that’s just as charming as their personality. While these pups are often praised for being low-shedding and allergy-friendly, keeping their coat clean, soft, and mat-free requires a consistent grooming routine.

In this guide, we’ll break down the grooming tools you’ll need, how often to groom, and the step-by-step process to help your Havapoo look and feel their best.

Why Regular Grooming Matters for Havapoos

The Havapoo’s coat is typically wavy or curly and prone to tangles—especially without consistent brushing. Beyond looks, grooming your Havapoo plays a big role in their overall health and comfort by:

• Preventing mats, which can become painful if left untreated

• Supporting healthy skin by removing debris and loose hair

• Keeping your dog fresh and clean between baths

• Allowing you to check for bumps, dryness, or fleas early on

• Building trust and bonding with your pup during quiet grooming moments

Types of Havapoo Coats

Like other Doodle mixes, Havapoos may inherit one of a few different coat types. Each requires slightly different maintenance:

Regardless of coat type, a full grooming session by a professional is recommended every 4–6 weeks to keep your Havapoo clean, trimmed, and tangle-free.

Grooming Tools You’ll Want to Have On Hand

To properly care for your Havapoo at home, prepare a small grooming kit that includes:

• Slicker brush – Helps remove knots and loose hair

• Steel comb – Perfect for checking behind ears and legs where mats often form

• Detangler spray – Makes brushing easier and reduces hair breakage

• Dog clippers or grooming scissors – For trimming around the face, paws, and sanitary areas

• Gentle dog shampoo and conditioner – Preferably sulfate-free and hypoallergenic

• Ear cleaning solution – To prevent infections in floppy ears

• Dog nail clippers or grinder – To avoid overly long nails

Step-by-Step: Grooming Your Havapoo at Home

1. Brush Before Bathing

Always start by brushing your Havapoo thoroughly. Bathing a matted dog can make tangles worse, so use a slicker brush and comb to smooth the coat before introducing water.

2. Bathe with Care

Use a gentle, moisturizing shampoo designed for dogs. Make sure to rinse thoroughly—leftover shampoo can cause skin irritation.

3. Condition and Blow Dry

Apply a light conditioner to keep the coat soft and manageable. After towel-drying, blow-dry on a cool or low setting while brushing gently to avoid new tangles.

4. Trim Where Needed

Use scissors or clippers to carefully trim:

• Hair near the eyes

• Fur on the paw pads

• The rear and sanitary areas

• Overall body length if you're confident

When in doubt, book an appointment with a professional groomer.

5. Tend to the Ears and Nails

Havapoos can be prone to ear infections. Use a vet-recommended cleaner weekly, and trim your pup’s nails every 2–3 weeks to keep them walking comfortably.

Grooming Routine for a Healthy Havapoo

Havapoo Grooming Challenges to Watch For

• Matting in friction areas – Behind ears, under legs, and around collars

• Tear stains – Especially in white or cream-colored Havapoos

• Dry or sensitive skin – Use gentle products and don’t overbathe

• Clipper fear – Introduce slowly with treats to help them get comfortable

When to Call in the Pros

Even with regular home grooming, professional groomers are essential for:

• Complete coat trims or styling

• Mat removal

• Paw and sanitary area maintenance

• Anal gland expression (if needed)

• Nail grinding

Schedule a grooming session every 4–6 weeks for best results.

Tips for Easier, Happier Grooming Sessions

• Start grooming early in your Havapoo’s life so they get used to it

• Use treats and calm reassurance throughout the process

• Keep sessions short and positive

• Make brushing part of a daily or weekly bonding ritual

Expert Content You Can Trust

At Mawoo Pets, all of our blog content is reviewed by licensed breeders and veterinarians to ensure accuracy and reliability. We’re dedicated to helping you care for your pet with expert tips you can count on.

Discover more grooming and care guides:

• Pros & Cons of the Havapoo

• Pros and Cons of Small Dogs

Explore all articles at mawoopets.com/blog