A swim can be the best part of a warm day for an Oodle. The tricky bit comes afterwards: sand, salt, pool water and a damp curly coat can make tangles harder to manage. A few gentle steps after swimming can help keep your dog comfortable between grooms.
Before they jump in
Check the coat for existing knots, especially behind the ears, under the legs and around the harness. Water can make a tangled coat harder to work through later. If you find a tight mat close to the skin, ask a professional groomer for help rather than pulling or cutting at it.
Choose a safe swimming spot, supervise your dog around water and make sure they have fresh drinking water available. Not every dog is a confident swimmer.
Rinse away what the swim leaves behind
After a beach or pool visit, rinse the coat and paws with fresh water to remove loose sand, salt or pool residue. Part thicker areas of the coat gently so water reaches beneath the outer fluff. Check between the toes for grit or debris, and look over the legs and belly for anything caught in the hair.
Dry gently, then check for tangles
Press water out with a towel instead of rubbing the coat in circles. Don't leave a dense coat damp for hours. Dry it thoroughly using a comfortable temperature, taking care not to overheat your dog or direct hot air at the skin. Once the coat is suitably dry, work in small sections with your usual brush and finish with a comb check near the skin. Stop if you reach a knot that hurts or won't ease apart gently.
Pay attention to ears and skin
Gently dry the outside of the ears, but don't put cotton buds or tools into the ear canal. If your dog repeatedly shakes their head, scratches at an ear, has a strong odour, or develops redness or sore skin after swimming, contact your vet. A grooming product isn't a substitute for treating an ear or skin problem.
Keep the routine realistic
You don't need an elaborate bath after every splash. A fresh-water rinse, careful drying and a quick coat-and-paw check are a useful starting point. Adapt the routine to your dog's coat length, how often they swim and your groomer's advice. Regular brushing and grooming still matter, even if your Oodle wears a shorter summer clip.
Heading away for a beach weekend? Pack your usual grooming tools and a small wash option for when a bath is actually needed. Our 60ml shampoo and conditioner travel packs come in Vanilla Latte and Manuka Honey. Follow the product directions and rinse thoroughly. For an ordinary swim, a fresh-water rinse may be enough; you don't need to shampoo after every dip.
For more on brushing, bathing and mat prevention throughout the year, see our Complete Oodle Coat Care Guide.
