Will the Hair on My Goldendoodle's Ears Grow Out If I Trim Them?

A Goldendoodle is the hybrid resulting from a cross between a Golden Retriever and Poodle. "Doodles" are highly sought after due to their luxurious coats that are either non-shedding or nearly non-shedding. These coats require special grooming to keep the dog healthy and comfortable.

Ear Hair

The more dominant the Doodle's poodles genes, the more likely hair will grow inside the ear. If not trimmed or plucked this hair will continue to grow and can quickly build up into a tangled mass blocking the ear canal and possibly leading to infection.The state of this hair growth should be checked monthly if not more often as it will grow back once plucked or trimmed.

Grooming the Ears

A Doodle's ears should be checked for hair buildup at every grooming session. Using your finger, gently loosen packed hairs. Then, with tweezers, a hemostat or your fingers, pluck them out a few at a time. If you prefer not to pluck the hairs, they may be trimmed carefully with small clippers or scissors. Plucking is preferred so as not to risk nicks to the skin.

Dangers of Ear Neglect

Ear grooming is crucial to the health of your Doodle. Ear problems resulting from untended ears include bacterial infection, ear mites and yeast buildup. Signs of trouble may include pawing and scratching at the ears, shaking the head or a foul odor inside the ear.

References

• Goldendoodle Kennels: Goldendoodle Information
• Goldendoodle Kennels: Mini-Goldendoodle-Puppy-Care
• Golden Doodle World: Grooming Your Golden Doodle
• Standard Poodles USA: Standard Poodles-Ear Care

Resources

• The Goldendoodle & Labradoodle Website: FAQ: Goldendoodles