irish doodle
If you’ve ever seen an Irish Doodle, you probably thought, “Wow, that dog looks like it just walked out of a Pixar movie.” And honestly, you wouldn’t be wrong. With its curly coat, big personality, and goofy grin, this breed is equal parts adorable and entertaining. It’s basically what happens when you mix the elegance of an Irish Setter with the smarts of a Poodle. But before you start daydreaming about snuggling one on your couch, let’s dig into where they come from, what they’re like to live with, and whether they’re the right fit for you.
Irish Doodle Origin History
The Irish Doodle hasn’t been around forever—it’s actually a fairly new “designer dog.” Breeders wanted to combine the graceful, athletic Irish Setter with the super-brainy, low-shedding Poodle. Turns out, it was a match made in doggy heaven.
Experts like Dr. Stanley Coren (yep, the guy who wrote The Intelligence of Dogs) point out that crossbreeds like this often benefit from “hybrid vigor,” which is science-speak for saying they usually come out healthier and sturdier than their purebred parents. Pretty cool, right? (AKC on Hybrid Dogs)
Is an Irish Doodle a Good Family Dog?
In short: absolutely. These pups love people and are happiest when they’re right in the middle of the action. They’re playful enough to keep kids entertained but gentle enough not to knock over grandma when she comes to visit.
Dr. Lisa Radosta, a vet behaviorist, explains that dogs like Irish Doodles thrive when they’ve got structure, training, and plenty of affection (American College of Veterinary Behaviorists). Translation: give them a little guidance and a lot of love, and you’ve got yourself a family dog superstar.
What is the Personality of an Irish Doodle?
Think of the Irish Doodle as that one friend who’s always cheerful, curious, and just a little clingy. They’re playful, smart, and absolutely people-obsessed. You’ll notice they’re quick learners, but also quick to get bored if you’re not keeping them busy.
Don’t be surprised if they shadow you around the house like a little furry detective. They don’t do well being left alone for hours, so if you’re gone all day, this may not be the pup for you.
Irish Doodle Puppies
If you think adult Irish Doodles are cute, wait until you see the puppies. They look like tiny stuffed animals brought to life. But don’t let the cuteness fool you—they’re a handful! Start training and socializing them early, because they’re clever enough to pick up bad habits if you’re not paying attention.
Good breeders (like Greenfield Puppies) will always health-test their litters, especially for hip and eye issues that can crop up in the parent breeds.
Irish Doodle Pros and Cons
Every dog has its ups and downs, and the Irish Doodle’s no exception.
Pros:
- They hardly shed (yay, less vacuuming).
- Friendly, playful, and great with kids.
- Smart and easy to train.
- Adaptable to both city apartments and country homes.
Cons:
- Their coat takes work (hello, grooming bills).
- High energy—they’re not couch potatoes.
- They hate being alone too long.
- They can be pricey to buy.
How Much Does an Irish Doodle Cost UK & USA?
So, how much does one of these curly cuties set you back? In the UK, you’re looking at around £1,200–£2,000. In the USA, the price tag usually lands between $1,500–$3,000.
That’s a chunk of change, but breeders who include health checks and training support often charge more—and honestly, it’s worth it. Adoption, on the other hand, is much cheaper, usually $200–$500.
Irish Doodle Sale
If you’re sold on getting one, here are a few trusted spots in the USA to check out:
Always do your homework before buying—visit the breeder if possible and ask for health certifications.
What Kind of Grooming Do Doodles Need?
The Irish Doodle’s coat is gorgeous, but let’s be real—it’s high-maintenance. Expect a trip to the groomer every 6–8 weeks, plus brushing at home to keep tangles away.
Award-winning groomer Chrissy Joy recommends using detangling sprays and slicker brushes to keep doodle coats smooth and shiny. Basically, think of it like a regular spa day for your dog.
Do Irish Doodles Shed a Lot?
One of the best things about the Irish-Doodle? They don’t shed much. While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, these guys are pretty allergy-friendly compared to most breeds. A little brushing here and there, and your home stays mostly fur-free.
Irish Doodle Size and Weight
Most Irish-Doodles are medium-to-large dogs, depending on which parent they take after.
- Males: 40–70 lbs, 22–28 inches tall
- Females: 35–65 lbs, 21–26 inches tall
Mini Irish-Doodles exist too, and they’re about 25 lbs—perfect for smaller homes or city living.
The Amount of Food an Irish Doodle Needs
| Dog Size | Serving Size (per meal) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Small (25–35 lbs) | 1–1.5 cups | 2x daily |
| Medium (35–55 lbs) | 1.5–2 cups | 2x daily |
| Large (55–70 lbs) | 2–3 cups | 2x daily |
Stick to high-quality kibble with plenty of protein and omega-3s. It’ll keep their coat glossy and their joints happy.
How Long Does an Irish Doodle Live?
These pups have a pretty solid lifespan of 10–15 years. Smaller ones often live a little longer. With good food, regular vet visits, and daily walks, you’ll enjoy over a decade of tail wags and cuddles.
Do Irish Doodles Like to Cuddle?
Oh yes. Irish-Doodles are big-time snugglers. They’ll happily curl up on your lap (or try to, even if they’re too big). If you’re looking for a dog that doubles as a furry hot water bottle, you’ve found it.
Do Irish Doodles Bark a Lot?
They’re not yappy by nature, but they will bark to let you know someone’s at the door. With training, they learn quickly when it’s okay to sound the alarm and when it’s chill time.
FAQ
Are Irish Doodles Calm?
With enough exercise, yes. Without it, they’ll bounce off the walls.
Do Irish Doodles Swim?
Most of them love it! With Poodles in the mix, water is in their DNA.
Do Irish Doodles Fade?
Yep, coat colors (especially reds and apricots) can lighten over time.
Are Irish Doodles Picky Eaters?
Some are, but mixing up proteins usually keeps them happy.
Are There Mini Irish Doodles?
Yes—and they’re super popular, especially for folks living in apartments.
Conclusion
The Irish-Doodle isn’t just a cute face—it’s a loving, smart, and fun companion that thrives in family life. They need exercise, grooming, and attention, but in return, you get a dog that’s loyal, goofy, and full of personality. If you’re ready for long walks, regular brushing, and endless cuddles, the Irish-Doodle might just be your perfect match.
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