Irish Doodle

Characteristics

Health & Longevity

Average Life Span: 10-13 years
The Irish Doodle is a crossbreed between the Poodle and the Irish Setter. Like all hybrid breeds, the Irish Doodle is less prone to hereditary health problems than his purebred counterparts. However, it is still possible that he will inherit health issues common to either parent breed.

Joint issues like patellar luxation and joint dysplasia may impact the Irish Doodle. Patellar luxation occurs when the knee joint slides easily into and out of place, resulting in frequent dislocation of the kneecap. This leads to discomfort, pain, and sometimes limping. Patellar luxation may also cause intermittent lameness. In some cases, corrective surgery is possible, but it is not always an option. Joint dysplasia, most commonly the hip and the elbow, is the result of malformed joints causing symptoms such as discomfort, pain, limping, arthritis, or even lameness. In the most serious cases, surgery may be required. Although it is hereditary, hip dysplasia can be triggered by rapid weight gain or injury, so ensure that your puppy is not jumping excessively or running on slippery floors while his joints are still developing.

Hypothyroidism is a possibility for the Irish Doodle. This is a thyroid condition caused by the thyroid gland producing insufficient amounts of hormone. Hypothyroidism often leads to issues such as obesity, lethargy, infertility, and hair loss. It can be treated, but will require the affected dog to take daily medication for the duration of his life.

A blood clotting disorder known as Von Willebrand’s disease can be a concern for the Irish Doodle. Von Willebrand’s disease results from insufficient amounts of Von Willebrand’s factor, which aids in the blood clotting process. Due to this deficit, affected dogs may experience excessive and uncontrollable bleeding, even from minor injuries.

Some Irish Doodles may experience bloat, which is caused by the stomach filling with gas, food, or fluids, expanding dangerously and putting excess pressure on surrounding organs. In some cases, gastric torsion may also occur, when the stomach twists, trapping blood and blocking it from flowing to the heart and other crucial areas. Bloat can be fatal, so take your Irish Doodle to the veterinarian immediately if you notice symptoms such as pale gums, excessive drooling, failed attempts to vomit, or a swollen stomach.

Other potential health problems for the Irish Doodle include epilepsy and eye problems. They may also be prone to obesity.

The average lifespan for an Irish Doodle is 10-13 years.

Temperament & Train-ability

Like all mixed breeds, the Irish Doodle’s temperament can vary. However, the typical Irish Doodle is intelligent, friendly, affectionate, and loving. He makes a loyal family companion who loves to entertain and be the center of attention.

If adequately exercised, the Irish Doodle can be content in an apartment. Most Irish Doodles have only moderate exercise needs that can be satisfied with a couple of long daily walks and a bit of play time. Jogging, ball games, and brisk walks are preferred activities for this breed. Mental simulation is also important for this intelligent breed and can be provided through puzzle toys, human interaction, and training.

Although the Irish Doodle is excellent with children and peaceful with dogs and other pets, some may have a tendency to be aggressive towards strangers. This means proper training and socialization are critical. Expose the Irish Doodle early and often to a wide variety of sights, sounds, people, places, and pets to ensure that he learns appropriate behavior. The Irish Doodle does make an excellent watchdog who will alert owners of danger, and he typically does not bark without reason.

Training the Irish Doodle can be a challenge and is not recommended for first-time dog owners. He is intelligent and wants to please his owner, but he can get bored and distracted very easily. Firm leadership is essential, and you must be absolutely consistent in enforcing your rules and expectations. Motivate your Irish Doodle with positive reinforcement by providing favorite treats, extra playtime, and encouraging praise when earned. You must be patient and persistent in order to successfully train your Irish Doodle.

Grooming

The Irish Doodle’s coat may vary, but it sheds minimally. Like his Poodle parent, the Irish Doodle can be a good choice for dog lovers with allergies. Brushing twice a week is recommended to avoid tangles and matting. Bathe your Irish Doodle as needed.

Trim his nails regularly to prevent overgrowth and cracking. Check his ears at least once per week for signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or odor. To maintain good oral health and prevent bad breath, brush his teeth at least 2-3 times weekly.

Diet

The average Irish Doodle should eat 2.5-3 cups of high-quality dry dog food daily. This breed is prone to obesity, so be sure you are not overfeeding him.

Take precautions against bloat by ensuring that your dog does not eat his food too rapidly. Do not allow him to drink large amounts of water immediately before or after eating. Enforce a one hour waiting period between eating and physical activity. Do not feed him from a raised bowl, unless his veterinarian specifies otherwise.

Ensure that your Irish Doodle has access to clean, fresh drinking water at all times.
 

Find An Irish Doodle Breeder

Irish Doodle Puppies For Sale

Adopt An Irish Doodle

Cost

The typical Irish Doodle costs $1,000-$2,400. Prices may vary according to factors such as breeder location and reputation, gender, and the puppy’s parentage.

If you are able to adopt an Irish Doodle, expect adoption fees to cost up to $175, depending on your location.

Paws ‘N’ Pups Ranking

Paws ‘N’ Pups ranks every breed out of 4 with 1 being easiest to integrate into your life and 4 being the toughest – The lower the ranking the better.

Ranking takes into account a few basic factors including cost, skill level needed, high vs low maintenance and how critical regular training is to success. The Irish Doodle ranks a 2.5. He is a very loving companion who is generally healthy and has a fairly low maintenance, somewhat hypoallergenic coat. He gets along well with children and other pets but needs proper training to prevent aggression toward strangers. He has only moderate exercise needs, but training an Irish Doodle can be a challenge, and he is not recommended for first-time dog owners.

 

Irish Setter

Poodle

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Labradoodle