The Irish Doodle is a mixed breed dog that is a cross between the Irish Setter and the Poodle. This breed is also known as the Irish Setter Poodle mixed breed. The Irish Doodle is a relatively new breed and has only been around for a few decades, but already popular among dog lovers.
Irish Doodles are intelligent and easy to train, which makes them a great choice for first-time dog owners. They are also low-shedding, which means they are a good choice for people who suffer from allergies. They do need a lot of grooming, however, and while these are clean dogs, it’s worth giving them a spritz doggy deodorant after bathtime.
Irish Doodle puppies for sale are available from reputable breeders, and it is important to do adequate research before purchasing a puppy and always explore adoption first. We have referenced a lot of Asia Moore’s Irish Doodle Manual for a comprehensive guide on the breed.
So, What Is The Irish Doodle?
The Irish Doodle is a crossbreed between an Irish Setter and a Poodle. This breed is a relatively new addition to the designer dog world, and is still extremely rare. One of their most notable traits is their allergy-friendly coat that is usually a deep red color. These are active dogs that love to run and play.
Their coat makes them an excellent choice for individuals who suffer from allergies. It is typically curly or wavy and can come in a variety of colors, such as red, black, brown, and cream.
The Irish Doodle is available in three sizes – Miniature, Toy, and Standard. The Miniature Irish Doodle is a smaller version of the breed and is perfect for those who live in smaller homes or apartments. Even other popular poodle mixes have miniature versions, such as Toy Goldendoodles or Mini Labradoodles.
The Standard Irish Doodle is a larger version of the breed and is great for families who have more space to accommodate a larger dog. Both sizes of the Irish Doodle have a friendly and outgoing personality, making them great family pets.
Note: Some people use the term “Irish Doodle” to refer to a mix between an Irish Water Spaniel and a Poodle. However, this article expounds on Irish Doodles as an Irish Setter and Poodle mix.
Origins And History of the Irish Doodle
Where Did the Irish Setterpoo Come From?
The Irish Doodle is still a relatively new breed, so its history is not as well-documented as some other breeds. However, the first Irish Doodles were believed to be bred in the United States in the 1990s.
Since then, the breed has become increasingly popular, and many breeders are now specializing in breeding Irish Doodles. These mixes were bred for functionality just like other Doodles, such as Sheepadoodles, initially bred to be part of the military.
Other popular Irish Doodle names include:
- Irish Doodle Setters;
- Irish Setterpoos;
- Irish Poo Setter; and
- Irish Setterdoodle.
The AKC doesn’t recognize the mixed breed. However, they have other popular designer club recognition, like ACHC (American Canine Hybrid Club), DBR (Designer Breed Registry), and DDKC ( Designer Dogs Kennel Club).
Poodle and Irish Setter History
The Poodle has a long history dating back to the 15th century in Germany, where it was originally bred as a water retriever. The Poodle was later brought to France, where it became a popular breed among the French nobility. This explains why Poodles are associated with and are the national symbol of France, even though it’s not the country of origin.
The Irish Setter, on the other hand, originated in Ireland in the 18th century as a hunting dog. They were specifically used for setting or pointing game birds such as grouse, pheasants, and partridge. They are also called Red Setters and gained popularity in the mid-19th century.
Standard Irish Doodle vs. Mini Irish Doodle vs. Toy Doodle
When it comes to Irish Doodles, there are three different sizes available: Standard, Mini, and Toy. Each size has its own unique characteristics, but they all share the same friendly and loving personality.
Standard Irish Setterdoodle
The Standard Irish Doodle is the largest of the three sizes, weighing between 50 and 70 pounds and standing around 22 to 26 inches tall. They have a sturdy build and are known for their playful and affectionate nature. Standard Irish Doodles typically have wavy or curly coats that require regular grooming to prevent matting.
Mini Irish Doodle
The Mini Irish Doodle is a smaller version of the Standard Irish Doodle, weighing between 25 and 50 pounds and standing around 16 to 22 inches tall. They have a similar build to the Standard Irish Doodle but in a more compact size. They are achieved by breeding an Irish Setter and a Miniature Poodle.
Toy Irish Doodle
The Toy Irish Doodle is the smallest of the three sizes, weighing between 10 and 20 pounds and standing around 10 to 14 inches tall. Most Toy Doodles are achieved by breeding a Mini Irish Doodle (First or F1 generation ) and a Toy Poodle to get an F1BB mix. Our article on F1B Goldendoodles will help you understand mixed-breed generations better.
When it comes to choosing the right size of Irish Doodle, it’s important to consider your lifestyle and living situation. A Toy or Mini Irish Doodle may be a better fit if you have a small apartment or limited space. However, a Standard Irish Doodle may be the perfect addition to your family if you have a larger home and plenty of space.
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Physical Characteristics of the Irish Setterpoo
What does the Irish Setterdoodle Look Like?
The Irish Doodle is a mixed breed cross between the Poodle and the Irish Setter. As a result, the Irish Doodle inherits physical characteristics from both parent breeds.
The breed has a small or medium to large-sized body with a long and lean build. Irish Setterdoodles are known for their elegant and athletic build. They have a strong, muscular body with fairly long limbs, a deep chest, and a graceful posture.
They have a broad head with long ears that hang down, and their skull may be dome-shapped like the Setter parents. The eyes are almond-shaped and come in shades of brown or hazel. They have an overall alert but affectionate expression.
Just look at this majestic Irish Setterdoodle.
Irish Doodle Coat Types and Colors
The Irish Doodle has a coat that is curly or wavy, and it can be long or short. Since many Irish Setterpoos have more of the Poodle, they most likely have a curly, allergy-friendly coat.
The coat can come in a variety of colors, including:
- Red;
- Black;
- White;
- Brown;
- Cream; and
- Parti-colored.
How Big Does The Standard Irish Doodle Get?
The Standard Irish Doodle is the largest of the Irish Doodle breed, weighing between 45 to 75 pounds (20 to 34 kg) and standing between 22 to 27 inches (56 to 69 cm) tall at the shoulder.
How Big Does The Mini Irish Doodle Get?
The Mini Irish Setterdoodle weighs between 20 to 30 (9 to 13 kg) pounds and stands between 14 to 18 inches (30 to 43 cm) tall at the shoulder.
How big does the Toy Irish Doodle Get?
The Toy Irish Doodle is a smaller version of the Irish Doodle breed, weighing between 12 to 20 pounds (5 to 9 kg) and standing between 10 to 15 inches (25 to 38 cm) tall at the shoulder.
Irish Doodle Temperament and Intelligence
Irish Setters are known for being friendly, outgoing, and affectionate, intelligent, energetic dogs. They are generally good-natured, love to be around people, and enjoy being the center of attention. They are known to have their goofy moments thanks to their playful Poodle side.
Poodles are highly intelligent and versatile dogs. They are typically considered highly trainable and excel in various activities such as obedience, agility, and even therapy work. Their empathy can also make them successful service dogs.
Care and Maintenance
How To Groom An Irish Doodle
1. Brushing
Grooming an Irish Doodle is essential to keep their coat healthy and clean. They have a wavy or curly coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting. It is recommended to brush their coat at least twice a week to keep it clean and tangle-free
A slicker brush or a comb can be used to remove loose hair and prevent matting. A professional groomer can also help maintain their coat and keep it trimmed. Check out this Irish Doodle being professionally groomed
2. Baths
Irish Doodles also require regular bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy. It is recommended to bathe them every 3 to 4 weeks using a mild shampoo. Avoid using human shampoo or harsh chemicals that can cause skin irritation and itching after grooming.
3. Brushing
Brush your Irish Setterpoo’s teeth at least twice a week and use dog mouthwash on the other days for oral health.
4. Other Grooming
Be sure to trim their nails and clean their ears and eyes monthly or bi-weekly with quality clippers, ear wipes, and eye wipes, respectively.
What Should an Irish Setterdoodle Eat?
Irish Doodles have a high energy level and require a balanced diet to maintain their health. A diet rich in protein (25 to 30% composition), vitamins, and minerals is recommended to keep them healthy and active.
It is important to feed them high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs. Avoid feeding them table scraps or human food that can cause digestive issues.
Exercise Requirements
It is recommended to provide them with at least 60 to 90 minutes of exercise daily. Regular exercise can also help prevent obesity and other health issues. These are active and energetic dogs that need a lot of daily activity. Both parents are hunting breeds, so they really love to chase.
Irish Doodles are an active breed and require regular exercise to maintain their health and energy level. They enjoy activities such as walking, running, and playing fetch.
Health Concerns
Common Health Issues in Irish Setterpoos
Like all dogs, Irish Doodles are susceptible to certain health issues. These include:
- Hip dysplasia that affects many medium to large dogs where the hip doesn’t develop properly
- Hypothyroidism: A condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones.
- Von Willebrand’s Disease: A bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency of von Willebrand factor, a protein required for proper blood clotting.
- Addison’s Disease: A hormonal disorder that affects the adrenal glands. Research has shown that Poodles are at a higher risk of developing this condition.
- Autoimmune thyroiditis where thyroid cells are destroyed by immune responses
- Epilepsy
- Hypothyroidism and diabetes
- Arthritis
- Canine leucocyte deficiency
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV): A life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, commonly referred to as bloat.
- Other common health issues like allergies, skin and ear infections, obesity, and dental issues
How Long Does the Irish Doodle Live? Mini vs. Standard Life Expectancy
On average, Irish Doodles have a lifespan of 10-15 years. However, this can vary depending on a number of factors, such as diet, exercise, and genetics. Miniature Irish Doodles tend to have a slightly longer lifespan than standard-sized Irish Doodles.
Training the Irish Doodle
The Irish Doodle is a highly intelligent and trainable breed. Behavioral training is essential for any dog, and the Irish Doodle is no exception. It is important to start training your Irish Doodle early and be consistent with your training methods. Positive reinforcement is the best way to train your Irish Doodle, as they respond well to praise and rewards.
Socialization is also an essential aspect of training your Irish Doodle. Socializing your dog helps them become comfortable with new people, animals, and environments, reducing the risk of fear-based aggression or anxiety.
Finding Irish Doodle Puppies
When looking for an Irish Doodle puppy for sale, it’s important to find a reputable breeder or consider adoption options. In this section, we’ll cover some tips on how to find your perfect Irish Doodle puppy.
Choosing a Breeder
Choosing a responsible breeder is crucial when looking for a healthy and happy Irish Doodle puppy. Here are some things to consider when selecting a breeder:
- Health testing: A reputable breeder will conduct health testing on their breeding dogs to ensure that their puppies are healthy and free from genetic diseases.
- Socialization: A good breeder will socialize their puppies from a young age to ensure they are well-adjusted and comfortable with people.
- References: Ask for references from previous puppy buyers to get an idea of the breeder’s reputation.
- Contract: A responsible breeder will provide a contract outlining their responsibilities and expectations and your responsibilities as a puppy owner.
Adoption Options
Adopting an Irish Doodle is a great way to give a loving home to a dog in need. Here are some adoption options to consider:
- Rescue organizations: There are many rescue organizations that specialize in Irish Doodles and other doodle breeds. These organizations rescue dogs from shelters or take in dogs from owners who can no longer care for them.
- Shelters: Check with your local animal shelter to see if they have any Irish Doodle puppies available for adoption.
- Online adoption sites: There are many online adoption sites that list Irish Doodle puppies available for adoption. However, be sure to research the site and the breeder before committing to adoption.
By following these tips, you can find a healthy and happy Irish Doodle puppy that will make a great addition to your family.
What Is A Good Home For An Irish Doodle?
- Howes with a yard and plenty of space
- Homes with people suffering from allergies since they’re more allergy-friendly than other breeds
- People with an active lifestyle
- Owners that will be at home a lot or have someone over
- A multi-pet household since they’re sociable dogs
- Owners committed to daily grooming as Irish Doodles have high maintenance coats.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does a mini Irish Doodle Puppy cost?
The cost of a mini Irish Doodle puppy for sale can vary depending on the breeder and location. On average, a mini Irish Doodle puppy can cost between $1,500 to $3,000.
How much does a standard Irish Doodle puppy cost?
The cost of a standard Irish Doodle puppy can also vary depending on the breeder and location. On average, a standard Irish Doodle puppy can cost between $1,200 to $2,500.
Do Irish Doodles shed?
Irish Doodles have a wavy or curly coat that sheds minimally. However, regular grooming is required to prevent matting and keep their coat healthy.
Are Irish Doodles Hypoallergenic?
Irish Doodles are more hypoallergenic than most dogs, but no dog is completely hypoallergenic. It is important to note that every person’s allergies are different, so it is recommended to spend time with an Irish Doodle before bringing one home.
Are Irish Doodles good with kids?
Irish Doodles are known for their friendly and social nature, making them great companions for kids. However, as with any dog, it is essential to supervise interactions between children and dogs to ensure safety.
Are Irish Doodles good with other pets?
Irish Doodles can get along well with other pets if they are properly socialized from a young age. However, it is important to introduce them slowly and supervise their interactions to ensure they get along well.
Final Thoughts
Irish Doodles are a unique and charming breed that combines the intelligence and loyalty of a Poodle with the friendly and outgoing personality of an Irish Setter. They are highly adaptable to different living situations and make great family pets. While they are a relatively new breed, Irish Doodles have already gained a loyal following thanks to their friendly and affectionate nature.
Meet Your Experts
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.