If you’re on the lookout for a new canine companion, there is quite a bit of research you want to do before you bring a new dog into your home. This is a big life decision, after all, so it’s important to really think about the type of dog that will fit in with your lifestyle. Here at Dog Friendly Living, we love all dog breeds but have a special, soft spot for Doodles!
If you’ve ever lived with or met a Doodle, then you probably already know how great these dogs are. If you haven’t, then it’s time you learned! Whether you already have a Doodle and you want to learn more, or you’re looking into adopting a Doodle and you’re doing your research, then stay right here! We’re about to tell you everything you need to know about Doodles!
What Makes A Dog A Doodle?
Believe it or not, Doodles aren’t a breed recognized by the AKC (American Kennel Club). Doodles are crossbreeds, sometimes derisively referred to as “designer dogs”. The term Doodle is used for any cross between a Poodle and another breed. The most popular for family dogs are Labradoodles and Goldendoodles. Have you heard of a Cockapoo? That’s a Doodle dog that’s been around since the 1950s!
And Schnoodles, Aussiedoodles, and Peekapoos are just a few more of the Doodle dogs that are there for your consideration.
Other dog breeds are crossed with Poodles to help produce dogs that have the intelligence, loyalty, and trainability of the Poodle with the desirable traits of the other breeds, like size, temperament, and activity level.
How Did Doodles Come To Be?
Cockapoos were arguably the first Doodle dogs. The idea really took off in the 1980s when a visually impaired woman was trying desperately to find a guide dog that her husband could tolerate with his allergy. Wally Conron of the Royal Guide Dog Association of Australia thought a Lab/Poodle mix would be the perfect solution. You get the trainability of a Lab with the low shedding coat and intelligence of a Poodle.
Since then, Labradoodles and Goldendoodles have become popular as service dogs. They are intelligent dogs who are sweet and non-aggressive. Poodles, Goldens, and Labs are also well known for their loyalty to their owners and their drive to please. Combined, they continue to express these highly desirable traits which makes them perfect candidates for the role of a service dog.
Do Doodles Shed?
You may have heard that Doodle dogs don’t shed, which can be a very appealing trait for those allergy-sufferers out there. But the truth is, it really depends. Some Soodles, especially first-generation, what is known as F1a, can be high shedders. Usually, Doodles a little further removed from their non-Poodle ancestor, what is known as multi-generational, have lower shedding coats.
The amount a Doodle sheds can also be predicted by coat type. Dogs with curly coats are low to non-shedders. Wavy coats also tend to be lower shedders. Straight coats are likely to have the same amount of shedding as any other dog.
What Makes Doodles So Great?
But Doodles are great for more than just their guide dog abilities and low shedding coats! Doodles have sweet, silly temperaments and are always eager to please their people. Even the smaller varieties of Doodles can make great family pets because they tend to have very laid-back temperaments.
The variety of Doodle breeds makes for a variety of sizes and activity levels. Goldendoodles are perfect for outdoorsy, active families. They’re high-energy dogs who need plenty of activity. Meanwhile, Maltipoos are perfect for a first-time dog owner with a smaller space. They like to walk, and they’re playful little dogs, but they don’t need as much activity to stay happy and satisfied.
We’ve mentioned it before, but it’s worth saying again. Doodles are usually very easy to train. Every dog is different, so you can’t absolutely guarantee what a dog will be like. On the whole, however, the intelligence and willingness to please that makes Poodles such great dogs is present in Doodles as well.
Doodles tend to have fewer genetic problems than purebred dogs. They have the benefits of “hybrid vigor” which means the chances of inherited problems like hip dysplasia are much lower. They also have a life expectancy as long as 15 years, which means you will be able to spend many happy years with them.
And finally, looks aren’t everything, but you can’t deny, they’re just so cute! Of course, every dog is cute, but there’s just something about Doodles. Their big, silly grins and their curly mop tops will absolutely steal your heart.
Where To Get A Doodle Dog
By now, you’ve probably realized a Doodle is what you’ve been missing your entire life. Before you rush right out, think about a few things. Do you want an older dog or a puppy? Do you know the generation of Doodle dog you want, or does it matter to you?
If you’re looking for a puppy, then a breeder is the way to go. Be sure not to go for the first breeder who has a nice website. Take time to interview them and make sure they have good breeding practices. They should have a health history of both parents and be able to provide a record of the veterinary care the puppies have received.
You can sometimes get older dogs from a breeder. Reputable breeders should take back their pups for any reason. They may have a slightly older puppy or young dog that was a bad placement in another home that you click with.
If you prefer to rescue a dog but you have your heart set on a Doodle, check with a rescue group. There are many breed-specific rescues for Doodles. Be sure you have everything ready at home. Rescue groups often do home visits to ensure their dogs are going to safe and happy homes.
Whatever route you choose, we know that you’ll create the perfect home for your new Doodle family member. And when you do, don’t forget to check out the Dog Friendly Living shop for all of the Doodle dog gear you could possibly need!