As a dog mum to two Cavoodles and the founder of mycavoodle, an Aussie grooming brand made specifically for Oodles, I’ve learned just how sensitive these curly coats can be, especially when it comes to product selection.

Cavoodles, Groodles, and other Poodle-cross breeds often require more coat maintenance than first-time owners expect. And unfortunately, not all pet grooming products are created equal.

Bella Moro is the founder of mycavoodle, a premium Australian dog grooming brand made specifically for Cavoodles and curly-coated breeds. As a Cavoodle mum and long-time cavoodle lover, Bella is passionate about empowering Oodle parents to safely and confidently care for their dog’s coat at home, minus the stress and matting.

Here are five things I’d never use on my own dogs and why they might be worth avoiding on yours too.

1. Human shampoo (even baby shampoo)

While it may feel like a quick fix or easy option to reach for, using human shampoo on your dog, even baby varieties, can disrupt their skin’s natural balance. Human shampoos are formulated for more acidic skin, whereas dogs have a more alkaline pH. Using the wrong product can dry out their coat, cause flaking, or lead to skin irritation.

What to use instead: Always choose a pH-balanced dog shampoo that’s been formulated with their skin and coat in mind.

2. Products with sulphates or parabens

These ingredients are commonly found in shampoos and conditioners for their foaming and preserving properties, but they’re not ideal for dogs. Sulphates can strip away natural oils, leaving your dog’s skin dry and itchy, while parabens may cause sensitivity or allergic reactions over time.

Tip: “Foamy” doesn’t mean clean – a low-suds, sulphate-free formula is much gentler, especially for sensitive-skinned breeds. When I created the mycavoodle shampoo we tested the formula for 6 months to get a perfect lather without Sulphates or Parabens which I’m super proud of!

3. DIY formulas or coconut oil directly on the coat

If you’ve ever been in a Facebook community page for your dog you have probably seen your local Karen preach she makes her own dog shampoo with ingredients in her pantry, but please DON’T try this on your dog or DIY your own dog shampoo, you aren’t a chemist and can do more harm to your furbaby than good!

Some ingredients like Coconut oil have become a popular at-home remedy for dry skin, but applying it directly to your dog’s coat can create more problems than it solves. It’s heavy, greasy, and very difficult to rinse out, which can trap dirt and even contribute to matting, especially in curly coats.

A better alternative: Use products that include coconut oil in a balanced way, blended with other ingredients that help it absorb properly without leaving residue.

4. Very cheap supermarket brands or non-australian formulas

While the convenience and price of supermarket pet shampoos might be appealing, many of these products cut corners, often using lower quality ingredients, synthetic fillers, or harsh preservatives. Overseas formulations may not meet Australian standards, and they’re rarely designed with Oodle coats in mind.

In my experience, these cheaper products can lead to dry skin, lacklustre coats, or increased matting over time.

What to look for: Australian-made, breed-aware formulations that prioritise ingredient transparency and coat health over mass-market appeal.

5. 100% “natural” fragrances (it’s not always better)

There’s a common belief that natural = safer, but when it comes to grooming products, that’s not always the case. Natural fragrances can be overpowering, inconsistent in quality, and just as likely to irritate your dog’s skin as synthetic options, if not more so.

When I developed my own range, I actually chose to use a synthetic fragrance in a very small, safe percentage. Why? Because it offers consistency in scent, better longevity on the coat, and most importantly, it’s less likely to trigger irritation.

Always prioritise what’s safest and most suitable for your dog’s skin over what seems the most “natural” on the label.

It’s not just about clean – it’s about coat health

With the rise in popularity of Cavoodles and other curly-coated breeds in Australia, grooming is no longer optional – it’s essential. But grooming well starts with understanding the difference between what works and what causes long-term damage.

Read your labels, avoid common irritants, and always choose products that support your dog’s specific coat type and sensitivities. With the right knowledge, you can build a grooming routine that keeps your dog clean, healthy, and tangle-free without the stress.

Top image: Pure Love Portraiture

How do you manage your dog’s coat? Leave us a comment below.