The Curly Dog Detangling Routine That Actually Works

If you're constantly fighting knots, mats, and tear-filled brushing sessions with your curly-haired dog—you’re not alone.

Poodle mixes, Portuguese Water Dogs, and other curly-coated breeds have stunning fur… but keeping it tangle-free can feel like a full-time job. Most detangling routines focus on brushing after the fact—but by then, it's already too late.

We’ve found a better way. One that’s gentler, smarter, and helps prevent mats from happening in the first place.

Let’s walk you through the CurlyWags Detangling Routine—a step-by-step method designed for dogs with curls, coils, and waves.

Why Curly Coats Get Tangled So Easily

Curly fur naturally wraps around itself, especially when dry or dirty. Add in movement (like zoomies in the backyard) and friction (like harnesses or sleeping), and you’ve got the perfect recipe for tangles—especially behind the ears, under the arms, and around the legs.

Brushing after the coat mats is uncomfortable for your dog and time-consuming for you.

That’s why a detangling routine needs to start earlier—with moisture, prep, and curl-friendly products.

🐾 Step-by-Step: The CurlyWags Detangling Routine

1. Cleanse & Condition Deeply

Start with a warm bath using a clean, dog-safe shampoo.

Then—here’s the trick—apply a generous amount of conditioner, and don’t rinse it out right away. Let it sit while you work through the coat.

🧴 We recommend Wild Wash or Earth Bath conditioners for curly dogs.

2. Layer Brush While Wet & Conditioned

While the conditioner is still in the coat, use a curly coat brush to work through small, horizontal sections from bottom to top.

This “layer brushing” technique helps you avoid pulling, and the conditioner creates slip, so you’re brushing through tangles—not ripping through them.

💡 Tip: Focus on trouble zones first—like the armpits, neck folds, inner legs, and ears.

3. Rinse Thoroughly—Then Apply Curl Cream

Once the coat is detangled, rinse out the conditioner fully. Then, while your dog is still damp, apply Curl Magic Cream.

Use your hands in a raking motion to coat the fur root to tip. This locks in moisture, reduces future tangles, and helps the coat dry into soft, defined curls—not frizz.

🌿 Our vegan formula is packed with Aloe, Jojoba, Neem, Flaxseed, and Chamomile—no heavy silicones or drying alcohols.

4. Blow-Dry (Gently!)

Use a diffuser or low-heat dryer and keep it at a distance to preserve curl pattern and reduce frizz.

Dry thoroughly—especially under the arms and legs—to prevent post-bath matting.

Why This Works (When Brushing Alone Doesn’t)

1. Conditioner + brushing = less pulling and pain
2. Curl cream = curl memory, softness, and tangle prevention
3. Layer brushing = no missed spots or hidden mats
4. Whole routine = fewer sessions, longer-lasting results

Detangling Can Be Kind

No more wrestling matches. No more post-grooming guilt.

The CurlyWags Detangling Routine is a better way to care for your dog’s curls—with less stress and more snuggles.

Want to try it?

Start with our Curl Magic Cream and follow the CurlyWags Method—your dog (and your brush) will thank you.