5 Things to Do Right After Your Cockapoo’s Grooming Appointment

March 28, 2025 3:12 pm

Your Cockapoo just got back from the groomers, looking fresh and feeling soft—but grooming doesn’t stop the moment you leave the salon. Proper post-grooming care helps ensure your pup stays comfortable and their coat remains healthy between appointments. Here are five essential things to do right after your Cockapoo’s grooming session to keep them looking and feeling their best.

1. Give Your Cockapoo Time to Relax and Decompress

Grooming can be an exciting but sometimes overwhelming experience for dogs. The sights, sounds, and physical handling can leave your Cockapoo feeling a little overstimulated or tired afterwards. Once you get home, provide a calm, comfortable space where they can relax and settle down at their own pace. Some dogs may want to nap, while others might need some quiet time before jumping back into their usual routine.

Watch for signs of stress, such as excessive yawning, panting, or pacing, which may indicate your pup needs extra time to decompress. If they seem particularly unsettled, try offering a favourite toy or a cosy blanket to help them feel secure. Avoid overly stimulating activities like rough play or long walks immediately after grooming—let them ease back into their day naturally.

2. Reward Them with Praise and Positive Reinforcement

Just like humans appreciate compliments after a fresh haircut, your Cockapoo deserves to know they did a great job! Jo Rumming, Owner of Jo’s Dog Shedd In, says treats and positive reinforcement is key to making grooming a pleasant experience for them. Offer plenty of verbal praise, gentle pets, and perhaps a small treat to reward their good behaviour during the appointment.

If your Cockapoo seemed nervous at the groomer, this is an especially important step. Reinforcing the experience as something positive can help ease their anxiety about future appointments. Some owners even create a post-grooming routine, such as a short cuddle session or a special toy they only get after a trip to the salon. This helps associate grooming with good things, making it easier for both you and your pup in the long run.

3. Keep Up with Brushing to Maintain Their Coat

One of the biggest mistakes Cockapoo owners make is assuming they don’t need to groom their dog between professional appointments. Cockapoos have a unique coat that tends to mat and tangle quickly, so regular brushing is crucial to keeping it healthy and tangle-free.

Depending on your dog’s coat type—whether it’s curly, wavy, or straight—you’ll want to brush them at daily. Julian Sandy, the owner of Woofterz Dog Grooming, recommends daily brushing for all Cockapoos. Use a high-quality slicker brush to gently remove knots and loose hair, followed by a comb to check for any hidden tangles.

Pay special attention to problem areas like behind the ears, under the legs, and around the collar, as these spots are prone to matting. Regular brushing also helps distribute natural oils, keeping their coat soft and shiny. If you’re unsure about the best brushing routine for your Cockapoo, ask your groomer for personalized recommendations.

4. Check for Any Signs of Irritation or Discomfort

While professional groomers handle dogs with care, your Cockapoo’s skin can sometimes be sensitive after a grooming session. It’s a good idea to give them a quick check-up once they’re home to make sure they’re comfortable.

Look for any signs of redness, rashes, or irritation, particularly around the eyes, ears, paws, and belly. Some dogs may have a mild reaction to grooming products or clippers, which can cause itching or sensitivity. If your pup is excessively scratching or seems uncomfortable, try wiping the affected area with a damp cloth and monitoring their reaction.

In some cases, post-grooming itching can be due to dry skin, especially in colder months. Consider using a dog-friendly moisturizer or spray to keep their skin hydrated. If you notice any persistent issues or your Cockapoo seems distressed, contact your groomer or veterinarian for advice.

5. Pay Special Attention to Their Ears and Paws

Cockapoos are known for their adorable floppy ears, but these can also be a breeding ground for bacteria if not properly cared for. After grooming, check your dog’s ears to make sure they are clean and dry. Groomers often trim the hair inside the ears to improve airflow, but it’s still important to keep up with regular cleaning at home. Use a vet-approved ear cleaner and a cotton pad to gently wipe away any dirt or buildup—never use cotton swabs, as they can push debris deeper into the ear canal.

Likewise, inspect your Cockapoo’s paws and nails after their grooming session. Many groomers will trim the nails, but if they still seem long or sharp, you might need to smooth them out with a nail grinder at home. Check for any redness or sensitivity between the paw pads, as dogs with trimmed fur in this area may initially experience a different texture when walking. Keeping your Cockapoo’s paws clean and moisturized helps prevent cracking and irritation.

Final Thoughts

Grooming doesn’t end when you leave the salon—taking the right steps afterwards ensures your Cockapoo stays happy, healthy, and looking their best. By allowing them time to decompress, offering praise, maintaining a regular brushing routine, checking for irritation, and caring for their ears and paws, you’re setting them up for success between appointments.

A well-groomed Cockapoo isn’t just about appearances—it’s about their overall well-being. With consistent at-home care and professional grooming, your pup will always feel as great as they look!

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