Cleaning Up After Doodle Puppies: Complete Guide for Cavapoos, Cockapoos, Schnoodles & Schnockerpoos
Bringing a Cavapoo, Cockapoo, Schnoodle, or Schnockerpoo puppy into your home is an exciting experience, but it also comes with a few inevitable messes. From the potty training phase and occasional accidents to shedding (minimal though it may be with our Doodle breeds) and general puppy mayhem, cleaning up after a Doodle puppy can present unique challenges. At Silver Bell Doodles, we’ve helped hundreds of families prepare for and manage these messes with effective, pet-safe cleaning solutions.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover:
- Essential cleaning supplies every small Doodle owner needs
- How to effectively clean and remove puppy stains and odors
- Pet-safe cleaning products that won’t harm your puppy
- Preventative measures to minimize messes
- Breed-specific cleaning considerations for our small Doodle varieties
- How to maintain a clean home while raising a puppy
Essential Cleaning Supplies for Doodle Owners
Every small Doodle owner should have these cleaning tools and products ready before bringing their puppy home:
Enzymatic Cleaners
Why you need it: Regular household cleaners mask odors but don’t break down the proteins in pet waste. Enzymatic cleaners use natural enzymes to completely eliminate both stains and odors, preventing your puppy from being attracted back to the same spot.
Our recommendation: My Pet Peed – Pet Stain & Odor Remover
- Enzyme formula breaks down urine, feces, and vomit completely
- Money-back guarantee if it doesn’t work
- Safe for use on multiple surfaces
- Prevents remarketing by eliminating scent
Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner
Why this is a must-have: For deeper cleaning when enzymatic sprays aren’t enough, especially for carpets and upholstery.
Our recommendation: BISSELL SpotClean Pet Pro Portable Carpet Cleaner
- Specifically designed for pet messes
- Powerful suction lifts deep stains
- Includes specialized tools for tough pet messes
- Compact size for easy storage
Absorbent Towels
Why you need them: Quick response to accidents minimizes damage. Having super-absorbent towels on hand lets you blot up messes immediately.
Our recommendation: Microfiber Pet Towels
- More absorbent than regular towels
- Quick-drying
- Machine washable for repeated use
- Gentle enough to use on your puppy after baths
Air Purifier
Why this is indispensable: Helps eliminate pet odors and can reduce dander in the air, which is beneficial even for our low-shedding Doodle breeds.
Our recommendation: LEVOIT Air Purifier with HEPA Filter
- HEPA filtration captures 99.97% of particles
- Removes pet odors with activated carbon filter
- Quiet operation for bedroom use
- Energy efficient
Vacuum Designed for Pet Hair
Why it’s essential: Even our low-shedding Doodle breeds can leave some hair around the house, especially during seasonal coat changes or before grooming appointments.
Our recommendation: Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional
- Strong suction specifically designed for pet hair
- HEPA filter to trap allergens
- Lift-away feature for stairs and furniture
- Brush roll shutoff for delicate surfaces
Tackling Potty Accidents Effectively
Potty training accidents are inevitable with puppies. Here’s how to clean them properly:
For Fresh Urine Accidents
- Blot immediately with absorbent towels, pressing down firmly without rubbing
- Apply enzymatic cleaner generously, covering an area slightly larger than the visible stain
- Let sit for 10-15 minutes (or according to product instructions)
- Blot again to remove moisture
- Allow to air dry completely
For Set-In Urine Stains
- Saturate completely with enzymatic cleaner
- Cover with clean damp towel
- Place something heavy on top and leave overnight
- Remove and allow to air dry
- Repeat if necessary
- Follow up with portable carpet cleaner for deeper cleaning
For Solid Waste Accidents
- Remove solid matter using gloves and paper towels
- Clean area with enzymatic cleaner
- For carpets, follow with portable carpet cleaner after enzymatic treatment
- Allow to dry completely
“The key to preventing repeat accidents is thorough cleaning that completely eliminates the odor—not just for your nose, but for your puppy’s much more sensitive one.” — Silver Bell Doodles Training Specialist
Managing Shedding and Doodle Hair
While our Cavapoos, Cockapoos, Schnoodles, and Schnockerpoos are considered low-shedding breeds, they still require coat maintenance to minimize the hair in your home.
Regular Grooming Routine
Establish a consistent grooming schedule:
- Daily quick brush with slicker brush
- Weekly more thorough brushing with metal comb
- Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks
Furniture Protection
Our recommendation: Waterproof Pet Furniture Covers
- Protects furniture from hair and accidents
- Machine washable
- Non-slip backing stays in place
- Available in different sizes for couches, chairs
Lint Rollers
Keep lint rollers strategically placed around your home for quick touch-ups:
Our recommendation: Extra Sticky Pet Hair Lint Roller
- Extra sticky sheets designed specifically for pet hair
- Large sheet size covers more area
- Ergonomic handle for comfortable use
- Economical bulk pack
Cleaning Muddy Paws and Outdoor Messes
Preventing dirt from coming inside is easier than cleaning it up later:
Paw Cleaning Stations
Create a cleaning station by your door:
Our recommendation: Portable Dog Paw Cleaner
- Gentle silicone bristles clean between paw pads
- Add warm water and mild soap for thorough cleaning
- Compact design for easy storage
- Perfect size for small Doodle breeds
Washable Door Mats
Our recommendation: Absorbent Door Mat with Non-Slip Backing
- Super absorbent microfiber catches dirt and moisture
- Machine washable for easy maintenance
- Non-slip backing for safety
- Low profile for door clearance
Pet-Safe Cleaning Products
Many conventional cleaning products contain chemicals harmful to pets. Here are safer alternatives:
All-Purpose Cleaners
Our recommendation: Seventh Generation All-Purpose Cleaner
- Plant-based ingredients
- No harsh fumes
- Effective cleaning without toxic residue
- Safe for surfaces your puppy might lick
Floor Cleaners
Our recommendation: Method Squirt + Mop Wood Floor Cleaner
- Non-toxic formula safe for pets
- No rinsing required
- Pleasant almond scent
- Safe for sealed wood floors
Laundry Additives
For washing pet bedding and items soiled with pet messes:
Our recommendation: Nature’s Miracle Laundry Boost
- Adds enzymatic cleaning to your regular detergent
- Eliminates tough pet odors
- Safe for all washable fabrics
- Works in all water temperatures
Breed-Specific Cleaning Considerations
Each of our small Doodle breeds has unique characteristics that can affect cleaning needs:
Cavapoo Cleaning Considerations
Coat characteristics:
- Soft, often wavy coat
- Can trap dust and debris
- May have lighter coloring that shows dirt
- Often more prone to tear staining
Specific cleaning needs:
- More frequent face cleaning to prevent tear stains
- Light-colored varieties may need more frequent spot cleaning
- May bring in more debris due to low-hanging coat
Cockapoo Cleaning Considerations
Coat characteristics:
- Often more curly than Cavapoos
- May have longer ears that drag in food/water
- Generally robust coat that repels some dirt
- Active temperament may lead to more outdoor messes
Specific cleaning needs:
- Regular ear cleaning and checking for debris
- More frequent paw cleaning due to active nature
- May need more frequent brushing to prevent matting that can trap debris
Schnoodle Cleaning Considerations
Coat characteristics:
- Often more wiry or textured coat
- Typically good at repelling dirt
- Facial furnishings may need extra attention
- May have beard that collects food and water
Specific cleaning needs:
- Face/beard wiping after meals and water
- Less hair shedding but more brought-in debris possible
- May need specialized grooming for different coat textures
Schnockerpoo Cleaning Considerations
Coat characteristics:
- Highly variable depending on which traits are dominant
- May combine aspects of all three parent breeds
- Can have facial furnishings that need extra attention
- Often intelligent and active, leading to more creative messes
Specific cleaning needs:
- Adaptable cleaning routine based on individual coat type
- May need more environmental management due to intelligence and curiosity
- Regular checking of paws and beard for debris
Preventative Measures to Minimize Messes
Preventing messes is always easier than cleaning them up:
Potty Training Aids
Our recommendation: EZwhelp Reusable Dog Pee Pads
- Waterproof, absorbent pads for potty training areas
- Machine washable for repeated use
- 48″ x 60″ size provides ample coverage
- More economical and eco-friendly than disposable pads
Play Area Containment
Our recommendation: North States MyPet Petyard Passage
- Configurable to create safe, cleanable play area
- Includes lockable pet door
- 26″ height appropriate for small Doodles
- Can be used to block off less cleanable areas of home
Mess-Minimizing Feeding Stations
Our recommendation: Neater Feeder Express Elevated Dog Bowls
- Catches food and water spills
- Elevated design better for digestion
- Separates spilled food from water
- Easy to clean
Creating a Cleaning Routine
Maintaining a clean home with a puppy is easier with a consistent routine:
Daily Cleaning Tasks
- Wipe paws after outside trips
- Quick vacuum of high-traffic areas
- Wash food/water bowls
- Wipe down any soiled surfaces
- Empty and clean litter box if used for indoor potty training
Weekly Cleaning Tasks
- Thorough vacuum of all floors and furniture
- Wash pet bedding and toys
- Clean crate if used
- Mop hard floors with pet-safe cleaner
- Check for any overlooked accidents with UV light
Monthly Cleaning Tasks
- Deep clean carpets with portable or rented machine
- Wash pet beds thoroughly including removable stuffing
- Clean air purifier filters
- Inspect home for any lingering odors that might need attention
- Rotate and wash pet toys
FAQs About Cleaning Up After Doodle Puppies
How can I remove pet odor from my carpet if enzymatic cleaners didn’t work?
For stubborn odors, try a deeper cleaning method: mix equal parts white vinegar and water, saturate the area, let sit for 15 minutes, then blot and allow to dry. Follow with baking soda sprinkled liberally over the area, let sit overnight, then vacuum thoroughly. For severe cases, consider renting a professional-grade carpet cleaner with pet-specific cleaning solution.
Are there any cleaning products I should absolutely avoid around my Doodle puppy?
Yes, avoid products containing ammonia, chlorine bleach, phenols, formaldehyde, isopropyl alcohol, and phthalates. These can cause respiratory issues, skin irritation, and even organ damage if ingested or absorbed through the skin. Always read labels and look for pet-safe alternatives.
My Cavapoo has tear stains. How can I clean them safely?
For tear stains, use a solution specifically formulated for this purpose, or make your own with equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water (avoiding the eyes). Apply with a cotton ball daily, and keep the facial hair trimmed short to prevent moisture accumulation. Consider stainless steel water bowls, as some tear staining can be caused by minerals in plastic bowls.
How often should I wash my Doodle puppy’s bedding?
For puppies, wash bedding weekly to prevent odor buildup and remove allergens. If your puppy has an accident on the bedding or it becomes visibly soiled, wash it immediately. Use fragrance-free detergent with an enzymatic booster to thoroughly remove odors and stains. Having multiple beds or washable covers makes this process easier.
My Schnoodle’s beard gets dirty quickly. Any tips for keeping it clean?
Schnoodles and other bearded Doodle varieties benefit from daily beard wipes after eating and drinking. Keep a supply of pet-safe grooming wipes near your feeding area. Consider using a specialized beard bowl that keeps facial hair out of food and water, or trim the beard shorter for easier maintenance.
How can I keep my home smelling fresh with a puppy in the house?
Regular cleaning is the foundation, but you can also use pet-safe air fresheners like activated charcoal bags, HEPA air purifiers with carbon filters, or essential oil diffusers (using only pet-safe oils like lavender or cedarwood). Baking soda can be sprinkled on carpets before vacuuming to absorb odors, and washing soft furnishings regularly helps maintain freshness.
Conclusion: Maintaining a Clean Home While Raising Your Doodle
Welcoming a Cavapoo, Cockapoo, Schnoodle, or Schnockerpoo puppy doesn’t mean surrendering to a messy home. With the right tools, products, and routines, you can maintain a clean, fresh-smelling environment while your small Doodle puppy learns house manners.
The puppy phase is temporary, but the habits you establish now—both in training your puppy and in your cleaning routine—will serve you well throughout your dog’s life. Investing in quality cleaning products designed specifically for pet messes will save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.
Remember that consistency is key, both in training your puppy and in maintaining your cleaning routine. Address accidents immediately, use the right products for the job, and establish preventative measures to minimize future messes.
At Silver Bell Doodles, we believe that a clean home contributes to a happy, healthy relationship with your puppy, allowing you to fully enjoy the companionship and joy these special small Doodle breeds bring to your life.
Have questions about cleaning up after your Doodle puppy? Contact us today or leave a comment below, and we’ll be happy to help!
Disclaimer: We earn a small commission from purchases made through our affiliate links, which helps support our breeding program and educational content. We only recommend products we use and trust with our own puppies.
This article was last updated on March 19, 2025.
