Doberman Poodle Mix: Your Guide To The Doberdoodle

The Doberman Poodle Mix, also known as Doberdoodle or Dobiedoodle, is a mixed breed dog breed that has gained popularity in recent years. This breed is a cross between a Doberman Pinscher and a Standard Poodle, resulting in a dog that is both intelligent and loyal.

This breed is known for its high energy levels and playful nature, making it a great choice for families with children. They are an active breed, so make sure to take care of their paw pads with a protective and moisturizing canine paw balm.

The Doberman Poodle Mix is also highly trainable, thanks to its intelligence and eagerness to please its owner. To give you all the answers on this sensitive but fun loving and energetic fluff ball, we consulted expert sources on Doodle mixes and few reports from owners of this rare mix.

The Doodleman Pinscher is a relatively new breed that was developed in the early 2000s. The breeders aimed to create a dog that would inherit the intelligence and trainability of a Poodle while also having the protective instincts and loyalty of a Doberman Pinscher.

Doodleman Pinschers are medium to large-sized dogs that can weigh up to 90 pounds. They have a muscular and athletic build with a curly or wavy coat that can come in a variety of colors such as black, brown, and white.

Due to their Poodle ancestry, Doodleman Pinschers often shed very little but this does not mean they are hypoallergenic. Their coat varies significantly from dog to dog, with most of them inheriting a Doberman’s coat with a few wiry long guard hairs and a beard. They are also highly intelligent and trainable, making them great companions for families and individuals who are looking for a loyal and obedient dog.

Overall, the Doodleman Pinscher is a unique and intelligent mixed breed that combines the best traits of both the Doberman Pinscher and the Poodle.

It’s hard to call this mix a designer breed, as most crosses are accidental. Doberdoodles are not a common doodle and it is very hard to find them.

Other names for the Doberman Poodle mix: Doberdoodle, Doberpoo, Dobiepoo.

Origins of the Doberman Poodle Mix

Doberman Pinscher History

The Doberman Pinscher was developed in the late 19th century by a German tax collector named Louis Dobermann. He wanted a dog that could accompany him on his rounds and protect him from robbers. He crossed several breeds, including the Rottweiler, the German Pinscher, and the Greyhound, to create a dog that was loyal, intelligent, and fearless. The Doberman Pinscher was originally bred as a working dog, but it quickly became popular as a companion and guard dog. Today, the Doberman Pinscher is known for its sleek, muscular build, its intelligence, and its loyalty.

Poodle History

The Poodle is a breed that has been around for centuries. It originated in Germany, where it was used as a hunting dog. The Poodle’s curly coat helped protect it from the cold water, and its intelligence and trainability made it an excellent retriever. Over time, the Poodle became a popular companion dog, and it was bred in several different sizes, including the Standard, the Miniature, and the Toy. Today, the Poodle is known for its curly coat, its intelligence, and its versatility.

The Doberdoodle is a relatively new mixed breed, and its exact origins are not well-documented. The Doberdoodle is known for its intelligence, its loyalty, and its hypoallergenic coat. It is a popular breed for families with children, as it is gentle and affectionate. These dogs are one of many Doodle mixed breeds that have gained popularity recently, including:

• The Chi-poo;
• The Husky Poodle mix;
• The Newfypoo;
• Corgipoo;
• Doxiepoo;
• Pyredoodle;
• Giant Schnoodle; and
• Mini Schnoodle

Although the American Kennel Club does not recognize the Doberdoodle, the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC) and the Designer Breed Registry will register them if they are from purebred, registered parents.

What is a Mini Doberman Poodle Mix?

A Mini Doberman Poodle Mix, also known as a Doberdoodle or Doodleman Pinscher, is a crossbreed between a Miniature Pinscher and a Miniature or toy Poodle (sometimes even a teacup Poodle). This mix breed is recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC) and the Designer Breed Registry, but they are not recognized as a purebred dog by the American Kennel Club (AKC).

Sometimes this can also refer to Doberman Pinscher that is mixed with miniature Poodle for a smaller Doodleman Pinscher designer breed.

The Miniature Pinscher is a small, energetic breed that originated in Germany. They are known for their strong-willed personality and high energy levels. On the other hand, the Miniature Poodle is a highly intelligent breed that is often used for its hypoallergenic coat and trainability.

When these two breeds are combined, the result is a small to medium-sized dog that is intelligent, energetic, and affectionate. The Mini Doberman Poodle Mix typically weighs between 10 to 20 pounds and stands at around 10 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder.

This hybrid breed has a coat that is typically short and curly, with colors ranging from black, brown, and tan to white and cream. They are known for being low-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for those with allergies.

Overall, the Mini Doberman Poodle Mix is a great choice for those looking for a small, energetic, and intelligent dog with a hypoallergenic coat. However, as with any mixed breed, it is important to do your research and find a reputable breeder to ensure that your new furry friend is healthy and well-socialized.

Note: Mixed or designer breed dogs are often called “hybrids.” However we never use the term hybrid because a hybrid is technically a mix between two different species, like a wolf and a dog, not two different dog breeds. When a dog has some wolf ancestry (like a grandparent or great grandparent) we call it a wolfdog rather than a hybrid (which is 50% wolf and 50% dog).

Other common mixed breeds include:

• Saint Bermastiffs;
• German Rotties;
• North American Mastiff; and
• Pyradors

Physical Characteristics of the Doberman Poodle Mix

What does the Doberman Poodle mix look like?

The Doberman Poodle mix can inherit physical traits from both parents, resulting in a unique appearance. The Doodleman Pinscher has a muscular and athletic build, with a broad chest and deep ribcage. The breed’s head is usually elongated and narrow, with a long snout and a strong jawline. The ears of the Doodleman Pinscher are typically floppy, but they may also be semi-erect.

To get erect ears, some owners may tape and post the ears when they are puppies. This is not the same as cropping. 

How big does the Doberman Poodle Mix Get?

On average, a full-grown Doodleman Pinscher will stand between 24 and 28 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 60 and 90 pounds. The size of a Doodleman Pinscher can vary depending on the size of the Poodle parent. Standard Poodles produce larger Doodleman Pinschers, while smaller Poodles produce miniature Doodleman Pinschers. 

How Big Does the Mini Doodleman Pinscher Get?

The mini Doodleman Pinscher is a smaller version of the Doodleman Pinscher, resulting from breeding a Miniature Poodle with a Doberman Pinscher or from a Miniature Pinscher with a Toy Poodle. Full grown Mini Doodleman Pinschers are smaller than their standard counterparts, standing between 15 and 20 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 30 and 50 pounds.

Coat Types and Colors

The Doodleman Pinscher’s coat can vary in length and texture, depending which coat they inherit. Surprisingly, most examples of Doberman Poodle crossbreeds have short coats with a few long wiry guard hairs and beard. In fact, they look a lot like a German Wire-Haired Pointer.

The mixed breed’s coat can also be curly or wavy, with a soft and fluffy texture, especially if they are back bred to a Poodle to get the poodle hypoallergenic coat. 

The coat colors can range from white, black, brown, gray, blue, fawn, chocolate, tan, red, cream, or a combination of these colors. The Doodleman Pinscher is a low-shedding breed, making it a good option for people with allergies. Regular grooming is required to maintain the coat’s health and prevent matting.

Overall, the Doodleman Pinscher is a unique and athletic breed that can make a great companion for active individuals or families.

Temperament and Behavior

Doberman Poodle Mix Personality

The temperament of the Doodleman Pinscher is one of the most surprising things about them. The confusion arises from the popular misconception that Doberman Pinschers are aggressive, dominant, and scary guard dogs. But this is rarely the case.

For most of them, this could not be further from the truth. Unless a Doberman comes from very rare European working dog lines, these dogs actually have a temperament similar to a Poodle, meaning that the Poodle mix has a more predictable personality than most mixed breeds.

Most Dobermans are surprisingly soft and sensitive dogs. They can be a little wary of strangers and sometimes still have a decent guarding instinct (but not as much as you might think). They are really energetic family dogs that thrive with older children and active lifestyles. These dogs do not do well with harsh treatment.

The Poodle is quite similar in temperament, being even more sensitive, intelligent, and energetic. One point to note is that these dogs can be a handful until they reach mental maturity between two and three years old, with females maturing faster than males.

This can make them difficult to handle as they are often rambunctious and exuberant, and easily bored, leading to destructive behavior. We recommend plenty of activity, training, and socialization for these dogs, who can be fantastic family members with gentle guidance and commitment.

They love to swim and play fetch and have a very high prey drive, so don’t let them loose where they may have something to chase.

The Doberman Poodle Mix is a highly intelligent and loyal breed that may be a bit more protective than most Doodles. This breed is a mix of two highly energetic breeds, and as a result, they require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. They are also highly trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. See our article on how to discipline dogs safely if you have trouble in the early years.

Interaction with Children

The Doberman Poodle Mix can be a great family dog. They are gentle and patient with children, but as with any dog, it is important to supervise interactions between children and dogs. Teach children how to properly interact with dogs, such as not pulling on their tails or ears. Also be careful with smaller children as these are excitable dogs that can knock kids down while playing. They should also be socialized with kids from a young age.

Interaction with Other Pets

The Doberman Poodle Mix can get along well with other pets if properly socialized at a young age. However, they have a strong prey drive and may chase smaller animals. It is important to supervise interactions between this breed and other pets to prevent any injuries.

Overall, the Doberman Poodle Mix is a highly energetic and intelligent breed that requires a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. They can be great family pets as long as they are properly trained and socialized.

Health and Lifespan

Common Health Issues

The Doberman Poodle mix is a relatively healthy breed, but like all dogs, they are prone to certain health issues. One of the most common health issues in this breed is hip dysplasia. This is a condition where the hip joint does not develop properly, causing pain and stiffness in the dog’s hind legs, so make sure they get lifelong canine mobility supplements.

Other common health issues include genetics issues that could affect either the Doberman or the Standard Poodle, and we will refer to Dr. Alex Gough’s book on breed predispositions so that you

Behavioral Issues

• Blanket and Flank Sucking: This is a compulsive behavior where the dog constantly sucks or chews on its flank, or side area, leading to skin damage. It’s often seen as a response to stress or boredom and is most common in the Doberman Pinscher.
• Pica: This is a condition where dogs eat non-food items, which can lead to intestinal blockages and other health problems.
• Nervousness: Doodleman Pinschers may exhibit signs of anxiety or nervousness, which can manifest in behaviors like excessive barking, pacing, and destructiveness.
• Fear Aggression: Fear aggression occurs when a dog feels threatened and responds with aggressive behavior. It often requires careful behavioral training to mitigate. They can be reactive toward other dogs or have a low tolerance for busy children.

Heart Problems

• L-carnitine Deficiency-related DCM: Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a disease where the heart becomes enlarged and weak, which can lead to heart failure. A deficiency in L-carnitine, an amino acid important for heart health, can contribute to DCM. Studies show that Dobermans are very prone to L-Carnitine deficiencies.
• Atrial Fibrillation (AF): This is an irregular heartbeat that can lead to heart disease and other complications.
• Atrial Septal Defect: This is a birth defect that causes a hole in the wall between the heart’s upper chambers. It can cause blood to flow improperly through the heart.
• Patent Ductus Arteriosus: Another congenital defect, it’s when the ductus arteriosus, a blood vessel that should close shortly after birth, remains open, which can cause heart problems.

Skin Problems

• Sebaceous Adenitis: This is an inflammatory disease that affects the sebaceous glands in the skin and can cause hair loss and skin infections.
• Allergies: These can cause a variety of skin issues, including itching, redness, and hives.
• Ear Infections: These are common in dogs, especially those with floppy ears, and can cause discomfort, discharge, and itchiness.
• Blastomycosis: This is a fungal infection that can cause skin lesions, fever, and respiratory problems.
• Color Dilution Alopecia: This is a genetic disorder that causes hair loss and skin problems in dogs with dilute coat colors.

Endocrine Issues

• Addison’s Disease: This is a condition where the adrenal glands don’t produce enough hormones, which can cause symptoms like fatigue, vomiting, and weight loss. Studies show it is very common in the Standard Poodle, which can pass it on the Doberpoo.
• Hypothyroidism: This condition is caused by an underactive thyroid, leading to symptoms like lethargy, weight gain, and hair loss.
• Diabetes: Diabetes in dogs results in high blood sugar levels, and can lead to excessive thirst, increased urination, and weight loss.

Gastrointestinal Issues

• Chronic Hepatitis: This is inflammation of the liver that persists for a long time, leading to decreased liver function.
• Bloat: This is a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and sometimes twists, trapping the gas inside.
• Parvo: This is a highly contagious viral illness that causes gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.
• Portosystemic Shunt: This is a birth defect in which blood bypasses the liver, leading to a buildup of toxins in the body. Dogs with this condition may need a special dies.

Blood and Immune Problems

• Hemophilia: This is a genetic disorder that impairs the body’s ability to make blood clots, leading to excessive bleeding.
• Von Willebrand’s Disease: This is another clotting disorder, which studies show is particularly common in Dobermans. Dogs with this condition have trouble forming clots, leading to excessive bleeding. If you have a Doodleman Pinscher female, be sure to ask your vet to check her for von Willebrand’s, specifically before an operation like spay surgery. I have known a Doberman female that passed away after a spay surgery from blood loss as the vet did know she carried the hemophilia or von Willebrand’s gene. So be proactive about this to prevent tragedy.

Musculoskeletal Problems

• Osteochondrosis: This is a joint disorder in which the cartilage doesn’t develop properly, leading to pain and lameness.
• Patellar Luxation: This is when the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal position, causing discomfort or lameness.
• Hip Dysplasia: This is a condition where the hip joint is malformed, which can lead to arthritis and mobility problems.
• Carpal Laxity Syndrome: This is when a puppy’s wrists become lax and bent, often due to rapid growth.

Cancer

• Various cancers, including stomach cancer, osteosarcoma (bone cancer), lipoma (fat tissue tumors), breast cancer, and melanoma (skin cancer), may affect Doodleman Pinschers.

Neurological Issues

• Epilepsy and Seizure: These are disorders that cause recurrent seizures, which can range from mild to severe.
• Dancing Doberman Disease: This is a specific condition in Dobermans where they intermittently flex one rear leg when standing.
• Cervical Vertebral Malformation (Wobbler Syndrome): This condition affects the vertebrae in the neck and can cause a wobbly gait or even paralysis.
• Idiopathic Head Tremor Syndrome: This condition causes uncontrolled tremors in the dog’s head and neck.
• Deafness: This can occur due to a variety of causes, from old age to specific genetic disorders.

Eye Problems

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): This is a group of diseases that cause the retina of the eye to deteriorate over time, leading to blindness.
• Cataracts: This condition causes cloudiness in the lens of the eye, impairing vision and potentially leading to blindness.

Remember that while these health issues may be potential risks for a Doodleman Pinscher, not every individual will experience these problems. Regular vet checkups and a healthy lifestyle can go a long way toward preventing many of these conditions.

How Long Does the Doberman Poodle Mix Live?

The lifespan of a Doberman Poodle mix is typically between 10-15 years. However, this can vary depending on factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and overall health. To ensure a long and healthy life for their Doberman Poodle mix, owners should provide them with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and plenty of love and attention.

It’s important to note that the lifespan of a Doberman Poodle mix can be affected by the health issues mentioned above. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian and early detection and treatment of any health issues can help to extend the lifespan of this breed.

Care and Maintenance

Dietary Needs

The Doberman Poodle Mix requires a well-balanced diet to maintain good health. They need high-quality dog food that contains all the necessary nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. They may need extra taurine and L-carnitine in their diet for a healthy heart, as they are prone to DCM. Other common problems, like liver shunts or diabetes may also need special diets.

It is recommended to feed them dry food twice a day and provide fresh water at all times. Avoid overfeeding as it can lead to obesity, which can cause health problems.

Exercise Requirements

The Doberman Poodle Mix is an active breed that requires regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They need at least 45 to 60 minutes of exercise every day. It can be a brisk walk, jogging, hiking, or playing fetch. They also enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and swimming. Lack of exercise can lead to boredom, which can cause destructive behavior.

Grooming Needs

The Doberman Poodle Mix has a low-shedding coat that requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and shiny. They need to be brushed at least twice a week to prevent matting and tangling. If they have the longer Poodle coat, they need daily brushing with a slicker brush.

They also need to be bathed every three months or as needed with canine aloe vera shampoo. It is essential to trim their nails regularly with a pet guillotine nail clipper to prevent them from growing too long and causing discomfort.

Don’t forget their dental health with canine dental mouth rinse, and use dog eye wipes and canine ear cleansers to prevent infections.

In conclusion, the Doberman Poodle Mix is a wonderful breed that requires proper care and maintenance to stay healthy and happy. By providing them with a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper grooming, they can live a long and fulfilling life.

Training the Doberman Poodle Mix

The Doberman Poodle Mix is an intelligent and energetic breed that requires proper training to become well-behaved and obedient. Training should start at a young age to establish good habits and prevent bad behaviors from developing.

Positive reinforcement is the most effective training method for the Doberman Poodle Mix. This involves rewarding good behavior with treats, praise, and affection. It is important to be consistent with rewards and to avoid punishing the dog for bad behavior, as this can lead to fear and anxiety.

Basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel should be taught early on. These commands can be reinforced through repetition and consistent positive reinforcement. The Doberman Poodle Mix is a quick learner and should be able to master these commands with ease.

Socialization is also an important aspect of training for the Doberman Poodle Mix. They should be exposed to different people, animals, and environments from a young age to prevent fear and aggression. Socialization can be achieved through puppy classes, playdates, and walks in different areas.

Consistency and patience are key when training the Doberman Poodle Mix. It is important to establish a routine and stick to it, as this will help the dog understand what is expected of them. Training should be done in short sessions throughout the day, rather than one long session.

In summary, training the Doberman Poodle Mix requires positive reinforcement, basic obedience commands, socialization, consistency, and patience. With proper training, the Doberman Poodle Mix can become a well-behaved and obedient companion.

Where to Find Doberman Poodle Mix Puppies

If you’re interested in adopting a Doberman Poodle mix puppy, there are a few options available to you. This section will cover the two most common ways to find a Doberman Poodle mix puppy: adoption and finding a reputable breeder by contacting the Designer Breed Registry.

However, we must warn of backyard breeders that may be adding to the shelter dog population by not responsibly breeding dogs. So we strongly encourage anybody interested in a Doodleman Pinscher to look into adoption.

Adoption Options

Adopting a Doberman Poodle mix puppy is a great way to give a dog a second chance at a happy life. There are many animal shelters and rescue organizations that specialize in finding homes for mixed breed dogs, including Doberman Poodle mixes.

To start your search for a Doberman Poodle mix puppy, check with your local animal shelters and rescue organizations. You can also search online for rescue organizations that specialize in Doberman Poodle mixes, like:

• IDOG rescue;
• Doodle Rescue Collective; and
• Doodle Rock Rescue.

When adopting a Doberman Poodle mix puppy, it’s important to keep in mind that these dogs may have had a difficult past. Some may have been surrendered by their previous owners, while others may have been rescued from abusive situations. With patience, love, and proper training, however, these dogs can make wonderful pets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Doberman Poodle Mix is a unique and interesting breed that combines the intelligence and loyalty of a Doberman with the hypoallergenic coat of a Poodle. While this breed is not recognized by major kennel clubs, it has gained popularity among dog lovers in recent years.

It’s important to note that the temperament and characteristics of a Doberman Poodle Mix can vary depending on the individual dog’s genetics and upbringing. Some may have a more dominant Doberman personality, while others may be more laid-back like a Poodle.

Potential owners should be prepared for a high-energy and active dog that requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. This breed may not be suitable for first-time dog owners or those who do not have the time or resources to provide proper training and socialization.

Overall, the Doberman Poodle Mix can make a loving and loyal companion for the right owner. As with any dog, it’s important to do thorough research and consider the breed’s needs and temperament before making a decision.

Meet Your Experts

Tamsin De La Harpe

Author

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.