When it comes to choosing the perfect dog for your family, "oodles" (designer dogs bred with Poodles) have taken the dog world by storm. These hybrid dogs combine the intelligence and hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle with the friendly characteristics of other breeds, making them an excellent choice for a variety of households. Whether you live in a Brisbane apartment or a house with a yard, there’s an oodle suited for your lifestyle.
What Are Oodles?
Oodles are hybrid dogs that combine the Poodle’s intelligence, trainability, and hypoallergenic qualities with the unique traits of another breed. As Brisbane's leading dog trainers, we’ve worked with various oodles and know how well these dogs can adapt to any family or home, provided they receive proper training and care.
Brief History of Oodle Breeds Worldwide:
The trend of breeding "oodle" dogs—Poodles mixed with other purebred dogs—began in the late 20th century, around the 1980s, but the concept of crossbreeding for specific traits has much older roots. The first widely recognised oodle breed, the Labradoodle, was intentionally bred in 1989 by Wally Conron, an Australian breeder working with the Royal Guide Dog Association of Australia. He was tasked with creating a guide dog for a visually impaired woman whose husband had severe allergies to dog hair. The idea was to combine the hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle with the trainability and temperament of a Labrador Retriever, one of the most popular guide dog breeds.
The Labradoodle’s success sparked an interest in crossing Poodles with other popular breeds, particularly for their low-shedding coats, intelligence, and adaptability to a wide range of family settings. What began as a functional solution for allergy sufferers grew into a worldwide phenomenon as families and individuals fell in love with the various traits these mixed breeds offered. Many people call this dog the Australian Cobberdog. This is a registered Breed with the foundations being in January of 2012.
Why Poodles?
Poodles were selected as the parent breed for oodles due to their many desirable traits: My mother Val Bonney has always said one of the smartest dog is the Poodle. This of course may be a little biased but none the less - they are very clever.
Hypoallergenic Coat: Poodles are known for their low-shedding, curly coats, making them a popular choice for people with allergies. This trait has been a key reason for their use in crossbreeding.
Intelligence: Poodles are one of the most intelligent dog breeds, known for being quick learners and highly trainable. This makes them an ideal breed for creating designer dogs with a focus on trainability.
Variety in Size: Poodles come in three main sizes—Toy, Miniature, and Standard—which allows for a variety of oodle breeds that range from small, apartment-friendly dogs to larger, more active dogs suited for homes with space to roam.
Expansion of Oodle Breeds:
Following the success of the Labradoodle, other Poodle mixes quickly became popular throughout the 1990s and 2000s, especially in the United States, Australia, and the UK. These designer dogs gained recognition not only for their hypoallergenic coats but also for their friendly dispositions and adaptability to different living environments.
Popular oodle breeds like the Goldendoodle (Golden Retriever x Poodle), Cavoodle (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel x Poodle), and Spoodle (Cocker Spaniel x Poodle) emerged shortly after, each offering a unique combination of traits suited to various family needs.
This breeding trend quickly expanded beyond the most common family dogs. People began experimenting with more unique combinations, leading to oodles like the Sheepadoodle (Old English Sheepdog x Poodle), Bernedoodle (Bernese Mountain Dog x Poodle), and even smaller varieties like the Moodle (Maltese x Poodle) and Shihpoo (Shih Tzu x Poodle). Each of these crosses was designed to take advantage of the Poodle’s hypoallergenic coat and intelligence while incorporating the temperament and physical traits of the other breed.
Why the Popularity of Oodles Continues?
The continued popularity of oodles stems from their versatility, which appeals to a wide range of dog owners. Their various sizes, from tiny Toy Poodle mixes to larger Standard Poodle crosses, mean there’s an oodle for every home and lifestyle, whether you live in an apartment or on a large property. Additionally, the wide range of temperaments—from the gentle and calm Cavoodle to the energetic and playful Aussiedoodle—means that prospective dog owners can choose an oodle breed that fits their specific needs.
Oodles also benefit from being generally easier to train, thanks to the Poodle’s intelligence. They tend to be responsive to positive reinforcement and are often quick to learn commands and routines, which is why they are ideal candidates for our puppy and dog training programs at Bonnie’s Dog Obedience and Puppy School, Brisbane’s #1 dog training school. All oodles are not created equal. It is very important to know the parental lines of the new family dog. Perhaps read this article on Temperament and disposition.
By offering the potential for low-shedding, intelligent, and adaptable pets, oodles have captured the hearts of dog owners around the world, a trend that shows no signs of slowing down. The blending of desirable traits from both parent breeds makes them an appealing choice for families, singles, and allergy sufferers alike.
At Bonnie’s Dog Obedience and Puppy School, Brisbane’s #1 puppy school, we specialise in training all breeds and include oodles, ensuring that these intelligent and loving dogs thrive in their new homes. Here’s a comprehensive guide to 21 popular and some uncommon oodle breeds, their temperaments, and the best living environments for each.
21 Oodle Breeds: Temperaments and Ideal Living Environments for your HOME:
1. Labradoodle
Mix: Labrador Retriever x Poodle
Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, and loyal. Labradoodles are great family pets, known for their easy-going nature and playfulness.
Living Environment: Suitable for both apartments and homes with yards, but they require regular exercise to stay healthy.
2. Goldendoodle
Mix: Golden Retriever x Poodle
Temperament: Affectionate, energetic, and great with children. Goldendoodles are social and eager to please.
Living Environment: Best suited for homes with outdoor space, though smaller Goldendoodles (Mini) can adapt to apartment living.
3. Cavoodle (Cavapoo)
Mix: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel x Poodle
Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, and good with children. Cavoodles are calm and love spending time with their families.
Living Environment: Ideal for apartment living due to their small size and moderate exercise needs.
4. Spoodle (Cockapoo)
Mix: Cocker Spaniel x Poodle
Temperament: Playful, energetic, and intelligent. Spoodles are known for their friendly nature.
Living Environment: Adaptable to both apartments and homes, as long as they receive daily physical and mental stimulation.
5. Schnoodle
Mix: Schnauzer x Poodle
Temperament: Loyal, protective, and energetic. Schnoodles are known for their versatility and intelligence.
Living Environment: Suitable for apartments, especially the smaller versions, as long as they get regular activity.
6. Bernedoodle
Mix: Bernese Mountain Dog x Poodle
Temperament: Calm, affectionate, and intelligent. Bernedoodles are gentle giants, great with children.
Living Environment: Standard Bernedoodles are better for homes with space, while Miniature Bernedoodles can adapt to apartment life if exercised often.
7. Groodle
Mix: Golden Retriever x Poodle
Temperament: Friendly, energetic, and easy to train. Groodles are known for their love of people and high intelligence. My sisters family dog "Alfred" is a fantastic dog and super friendly. He does need to "Mind his manners" when a little excited.
Living Environment: Larger Groodles thrive in homes with space, but Mini Groodles can do well in apartments with adequate exercise.
8. Moodle (Maltipoo)
Mix: Maltese x Poodle
Temperament: Playful, affectionate, and gentle. Moodles are loyal and enjoy companionship.
Living Environment: Perfect for apartment living due to their small size and lower energy needs.
9. Bordoodle
Mix: Border Collie x Poodle
Temperament: Highly intelligent, energetic, and loyal. Bordoodles need mental stimulation and enjoy learning new tasks.
Living Environment: Best suited to homes with outdoor space, as they require a lot of physical and mental activity.
10. Aussiedoodle
Mix: Australian Shepherd x Poodle
Temperament: Energetic, intelligent, and playful. Aussiedoodles thrive on activity and are great companions for active families.
Living Environment: Ideally suited for homes with a yard, though they can adapt to apartments if given enough exercise.
11. Jackapoo (Jackadoodle)
Mix: Jack Russell Terrier x Poodle
Temperament: Energetic, playful, and clever. Jackapoos are full of energy and thrive on activity.
Living Environment: Homes with outdoor space are ideal, though smaller versions can adapt to apartment life with sufficient exercise.
12. Sheepadoodle
Mix: Old English Sheepdog x Poodle
Temperament: Friendly, calm, and affectionate. Sheepadoodles are gentle and enjoy family life.
Living Environment: Better suited to homes with a yard due to their size, but they can adapt to smaller homes if exercised regularly.
13. Shih-poo
Mix: Shih Tzu x Poodle
Temperament: Affectionate, easygoing, and playful. Shih-poos are known for their friendly and loving nature.
Living Environment: Perfect for apartment living due to their small size and moderate exercise requirements.
14. Woodle
Mix: Wheaten Terrier x Poodle
Temperament: Friendly, energetic, and outgoing. Woodles love to socialize and are great with families.
Living Environment: Suitable for apartments with enough outdoor activity, though they thrive in homes with yards.
15. Poochon (Bichpoo)
Mix: Bichon Frise x Poodle
Temperament: Cheerful, affectionate, and playful. Poochons are excellent companions and get along well with children.
Living Environment: Ideal for apartment living due to their small size and low exercise needs.
16. Cadoodle
Mix: Collie x Poodle
Temperament: Intelligent, loyal, and energetic. Cadoodles are problem-solvers and enjoy mental challenges.
Living Environment: Best suited to homes with space, though smaller versions can live in apartments with enough exercise.
17. Boxerdoodle
Mix: Boxer x Poodle
Temperament: Energetic, loyal, and playful. Boxerdoodles are full of life and thrive in active households.
Living Environment: Homes with a yard are ideal, though they can adapt to apartments with plenty of outdoor activity.
18. Pyredoodle
Mix: Great Pyrenees x Poodle
Temperament: Gentle, protective, and calm. Pyredoodles are affectionate and laid-back, making them ideal for families.
Living Environment: Best for larger homes or rural environments, though with enough exercise, they can adapt to suburban homes.
19. Springerdoodle
Mix: Springer Spaniel x Poodle
Temperament: Energetic, friendly, and intelligent. Springerdoodles are known for their love of play and exploration.
Living Environment: Homes with outdoor space are ideal, though they can live in apartments with sufficient exercise.
20. Saint Berdoodle
Mix: Saint Bernard x Poodle
Temperament: Calm, affectionate, and good-natured. Saint Berdoodles are gentle giants that enjoy family life.
Living Environment: Best suited for homes with a yard, though they are typically calm indoors.
21. Newfypoo
Mix: Newfoundland x Poodle
Temperament: Gentle, calm, and affectionate. Newfypoos are large but known for their laid-back personalities.
Living Environment: Best suited for homes with larger spaces, but their calm demeanor can allow them to adapt to smaller spaces with enough outdoor activity.
What Health Considerations and Care Tips for Oodles would you need to know?
When choosing an oodle breed, it’s important to consider the potential health concerns that come with these dogs. While mixing breeds can reduce the risk of some hereditary diseases—thanks to what's known as "hybrid vigor"—oodle breeds can still inherit health issues from both parent breeds. Here’s a closer look at some common health concerns, along with care tips to keep your oodle happy and healthy.
What are some Common Health Issues associated in Oodle Breeds?
Hip Dysplasia
What It Is: Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to arthritis and mobility issues later in life.
Oodles at Risk: Larger oodle breeds like the Labradoodle and Goldendoodle, which inherit this condition from both Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers, are particularly prone to hip dysplasia. Bernedoodles and Sheepadoodles are also at risk due to their large size and parent breeds' susceptibility.
Prevention & Care: Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight are key to managing or reducing the risk of hip dysplasia. Many breeders also perform hip scoring tests to ensure the condition is not passed on. For dogs already affected, supplements like glucosamine, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy can help manage symptoms.
More information from American College of Veterinary Surgeons:
Ear Infections
What It Is: Oodles, especially those with floppy ears like Spoodles (Cocker Spaniel x Poodle) and Labradoodles, are prone to ear infections due to the combination of their floppy ears and curly coats, which can trap moisture and dirt.
Oodles at Risk: Any oodle with a floppy ear shape is prone to ear infections, including Cavoodles, Goldendoodles, and Cockapoos.
Prevention & Care: Regular ear cleaning is essential to prevent infection. Use a vet-approved ear cleaner, and ensure the ears are kept dry, especially after swimming or baths. If your dog is scratching at their ears or shaking their head frequently, it may indicate an infection that needs veterinary attention.
Patellar Luxation
What It Is: This condition occurs when the kneecap dislocates from its normal position, causing pain and difficulty walking.
Oodles at Risk: Smaller oodle breeds like Moodles (Maltese x Poodle), Shihpoos (Shih Tzu x Poodle), and Cavoodles are particularly prone to patellar luxation due to their smaller frame.
Prevention & Care: Weight management and regular, low-impact exercise are key to reducing the likelihood of this condition. In severe cases, surgery may be required to correct the problem.
Allergies and Skin Conditions
What It Is: Due to their Poodle heritage, many oodles can suffer from allergies, which often manifest as skin irritations, itching, or digestive issues.
Oodles at Risk: This can affect any oodle breed, particularly those with sensitive skin such as Spoodles and Goldendoodles.
Prevention & Care: Regular grooming helps to reduce the risk of skin issues. Feeding a high-quality diet that avoids common allergens like wheat or corn, and using hypoallergenic shampoos, can also help manage allergies. If your dog is experiencing frequent skin irritation, consult your vet to determine the underlying cause and possible treatment options.
Grooming and Coat Care:
One of the major reasons people are drawn to oodles is for their low-shedding, hypoallergenic coats. However, these coats require regular maintenance to keep them healthy and tangle-free.
Brushing: Oodles, especially those with curly coats like Labradoodles and Cavoodles, need regular brushing to prevent matting. Depending on the curliness of the coat, daily or every-other-day brushing is recommended. A slicker brush and a comb designed for curly coats can help manage tangles.
Professional Grooming: Oodles often need professional grooming every 6-8 weeks to maintain their coat and avoid painful mats. Regular trims, ear cleaning, and nail clipping are essential, especially for breeds with thick or curly coats like the Bernedoodle and Sheepadoodle.
Bathing: Oodles should be bathed every 4-6 weeks, using a gentle, dog-safe shampoo to avoid drying out their skin but NOT a human product as the Ph can be completely wrong for our dogs. After bathing, it’s important to thoroughly dry their coats to prevent moisture from being trapped in their curly fur, which can lead to skin infections.
What Nutrition and Exercise does my oodle need?
Diet:
Oodles thrive on a balanced diet rich in high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Whether you're feeding a Labradoodle or a smaller breed like the Moodle, it’s important to avoid overfeeding as oodles can be prone to obesity, which exacerbates health issues like hip dysplasia and patellar luxation.
Consulting your vet for breed-specific dietary recommendations can ensure that your oodle receives the right nutrients. Some oodles, particularly smaller breeds, may benefit from specialized small-breed formulas, while larger breeds may require large-breed diets with added joint support.
Exercise Needs:
Energetic Oodles: Oodles like the Aussiedoodle, Bordoodle, and Goldendoodle require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. Daily walks, off-leash play, and interactive games are essential to keep them physically and mentally healthy.
Lower-Energy Oodles: Smaller oodles such as the Moodle and Shihpoo need less exercise but still benefit from short walks and indoor play. Regular mental stimulation, like puzzle toys, can also help keep them happy.
Mental Stimulation:
Oodles are known for their intelligence, which means they can easily get bored if not mentally engaged. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and training sessions help keep their minds active. Breeds like the Bordoodle (Border Collie x Poodle) and Aussiedoodle (Australian Shepherd x Poodle) particularly benefit from tasks that challenge their problem-solving abilities.
What Veterinary Check-ups and Preventative Care should i take with my oodle?
Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for maintaining your oodle’s health. Puppies should have their first vet visit within the first few weeks after adoption, followed by scheduled vaccinations, deworming, and flea/tick prevention. For adult oodles, annual check-ups are essential to monitor for any developing health issues, especially for breeds predisposed to joint problems or eye conditions.
Incorporating regular health screenings for conditions like hip dysplasia or PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) can help detect early signs and allow for more effective management of the condition.
Why Oodles Are Great for All Living Situations?
Oodles are perfect for a variety of living situations, whether you live in an apartment in Brisbane or have a large backyard. Their hypoallergenic coats, combined with their intelligence and friendly nature, make them ideal companions for families and individuals alike. By enrolling your oodle in Bonnie’s Dog Obedience and Puppy School, Brisbane’s #1 dog training school, you can ensure that your oodle becomes a well-behaved, obedient pet, perfectly suited to your home and lifestyle.
Training Your Oodle in Brisbane
"At Bonnie’s Dog Obedience and Puppy School, we tailor our training programs to the specific needs of each oodle breed. Whether you have an energetic Aussiedoodle or a calm Cavoodle, we’ll help ensure your dog reaches its full potential." From basic puppy training to advanced dog obedience, we provide a supportive environment that allows your oodle to thrive. Our positive reinforcement techniques ensure that your oodle learns quickly and effectively. As Brisbane’s #1 dog training school, we’re committed to helping your oodle become the best companion they can be.
A little about the Author: Master Puppy Trainer Peter Bonney is a renowned expert in the field of dog training, with decades of experience in shaping well-behaved, confident puppies. As the head trainer at Bonnie’s Dog Obedience and Puppy School, Peter has honed his skills in positive reinforcement techniques, creating a safe, structured environment where puppies thrive. His deep understanding of canine behavior and his dedication to helping dog owners build strong, lasting bonds with their pets have made him one of Brisbane’s most trusted and respected dog trainers.
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