Cadoodle Basics
The Cadoodle is a loving, loyal cross between a collie and a standard poodle. They are also known as Colliedoodles or Colliepoos. Cadoodles are sweet, smart and energetic. They are great family dogs when socialized properly, and are best kept in warmer climates or indoors as they don’t like the cold.
Typically, the Cadoodle coat is either black, blue or white, but they can also carry on a merle coloring. This often depends on whether it’s a first generation Cadoodle, or the product of two Cadoodle parents. They have a thick coat which sometimes requires grooming, but they are hypoallergenic.
The Cadoodle is a loving, loyal cross between a Collie and a Standard Poodle.
Cadoodle Origin
The origin of the Cadoodle is unknown – it’s a new hybrid breed.
Pedigree
Cadoodles are a combination of the Collie and the Poodle. Second generation Cadoodles are the product of breeding two Cadoodles together.
Food/Diet
Cadoodles are considered large breed dogs since they typically weigh over fifty pounds. A large breed diet is recommended for them to help them grow up happy and healthy. Grain free and all natural diets are recommended to keep them lean and from gaining extra weight. Glucosamine supplements are always a good idea for adult/aging Cadoodles’ joints.
One of the parent breeds, the poodle, is prone to allergies. With this in mind, it’s not a bad idea to put the dog on a grain free diet that doesn’t have chicken in it. Grains and chicken are two of the top allergens in dogs. Putting the Cadoodle on the proper diet right off the bat, will help prevent allergies from cropping up.
Both of the parent breeds of the Cadoodle are intelligent and do well with early training.
Training
Both of the parent breeds of the Cadoodle are intelligent and do well with early training. The Cadoodle is known for its ease of training – they will pick up cues quickly. They aren’t stubborn and have a great willingness to learn.
Positive reinforcement classes are important so that the Cadoodle learns to listen in a happy, rewarding environment. Once this dog has mastered the obedience portion of training, it’s a wise idea to find them a job. Agility is perfect for them since they are agile and love to learn.
Weight
Cadoodles typically weigh between 50 and 75 pounds. This is only an estimate since the breed is a hybrid.
Temperament/Behavior
Cadoodles live up to their name – they do love to cuddle. They are affectionate and loving towards their families. They do well with children, but as with any dog, they require socialization early on to prevent any fear issues from cropping up.
The Cadoodle is fairly laid back once it’s a full-grown adult. Growing up they can be feisty, but they mellow out when the reach maturity. Adults are still energetic, but they don’t require a ton of exercise.They are extremely intelligent, so giving them a job to do helps keep them happy and prevent them from developing naughty behaviors in the home.
Common Health Problems
There are no listed health problems for the Cadoodle, being that they are a relatively new hybrid breed. When purchasing a first generation Cadoodle, it’s important to look to the parent breeds for health information.
Collies have a range of eye issues common to the breed, as well as skin problems and a tendency towards bloat. Allergies are also common in collies.
Unfortunately, the biggest health problem for the Poodle is also eye related. They are prone to Progressive Retinal Atrophy just like the collie. This can lead to blindness.
By creating a hybrid breed, the health issues common in the parent breeds tend to get bred out. There is never a guarantee, so finding a reputable breeder with a history of both parents is important.
Life Expectancy
Cadoodles tend to live between 12 and 15 years.
Exercise Requirements
Cadoodles do require exercise daily, and it’s important to keep them worn out to prevent them having issues in the house. They aren’t the most high-energy of breeds, but at least one long walk a day is necessary.
Cadoodles are bright dogs, so the mental exercise is just as important as the physical. They need to be stimulated either through agility, obedience training, puzzle games, etc. to keep them happy and balanced.
The Cadoodle is fairly laid back once it’s a full-grown adult.
Recognized Clubs
The Cadoodle is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, as it is considered a hybrid breed. However, it is recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC); Designer Breed Registry (DBR); Designer Dog Kennel Club (DDKC); Dog Registry of America (DRA); and the International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR)
Coat
Cadoodles are hypoallergenic, which is great for families with allergies. Their coats are black, blue, white, or occasionally merle. Their coat is thick and rough and does require grooming occasionally. Cadoodles do best in warm climates.
Puppies
Cadoodle puppies are little balls of floofy love. They are little Cadoodles who will win your heart at first glance.
Photo credit: Jess/Bigstock; buchsammy/Bigstock; Life on White/Bigstock
