What’s a Springerdoodle?
The Springerdoodle is a popular “designer breed” resulting from crossing an English Springer Spaniel with a Poodle. These dogs are growing in popularity thanks to the desirable traits they inherit from both parents.
Springerdoodles are often intelligent, energetic, and eager to please, making them great family pets. They are also relatively low-shedding, thanks to their Poodle heritage.
If you’re thinking about bringing Springerdoodle puppies into your home, this article will provide a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know, from temperament and care to potential health concerns.
Understanding the Springerdoodle Breed
The Springerdoodle is what’s known as a “designer breed,” a deliberate cross between two purebred dogs. In this case, the Springerdoodle is a mix of English Springer Spaniel and Poodle.
English Springer Spaniels are known for their intelligence and high energy levels. Poodles are also smart and active, and come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy.
Appearance and Size Variations
Springerdoodles typically stand between 16 and 24 inches tall, and weigh between 30 and 60 pounds.
Because they’re a mixed breed, Springerdoodles can inherit coat types and colors from either parent. If your Springerdoodle inherits more Poodle-like genes, they may have a curly, low-shedding coat. If they inherit more from the Springer Spaniel side, they may have a longer, wavy coat that requires more grooming.
What are Springerdoodles like?
Springerdoodles are generally intelligent, eager to please, playful, energetic, and gentle. They tend to get along well with kids, other dogs, and even cats and other pets. These dogs are happiest when they’re with their families and can become anxious if left alone for too long.
Because Springerdoodles are so smart and want to make their owners happy, they’re also very easy to train. This makes them a good choice for both first-time dog owners and people who’ve had dogs their whole lives.
However, it’s important to remember that each dog is an individual. While Springerdoodles tend to share certain traits, your puppy’s personality will also be shaped by their environment and training.
Exercise and Activity Needs
Springerdoodles are bundles of energy. They need a lot of exercise to stay happy and healthy. These dogs require daily activity to burn off their energy.
Good options for Springerdoodles include trips to the dog park, swimming, hikes, and a lot of playtime. Daily walks are also essential, and they need mental stimulation, too. Without adequate exercise, Springerdoodles can become bored and destructive.
Keep in mind that each dog is different, and their needs can change as they age. A young Springerdoodle puppy will need more frequent, shorter bursts of activity, while an older dog might prefer longer, more leisurely walks.
Springerdoodle Grooming
Springerdoodles are considered moderate- to high-maintenance dogs when it comes to grooming, but exactly how much grooming they need depends on what kind of coat they inherit.
If your Springerdoodle has more of a Poodle coat, you can expect a curly, low-shedding coat that needs regular brushing to prevent matting. Springerdoodles with Springer Spaniel coats will shed more, but may not require as much professional grooming.
No matter what kind of coat your dog has, you’ll need to brush them several times a week and take them to a professional groomer regularly.
Don’t forget nail, ear, and dental care! Brush your Springerdoodle’s teeth daily (or at least a few times a week) with dog-safe toothpaste. Check their ears regularly and clean them as needed. And trim their nails about once a month.
Health Considerations
Springerdoodles are generally considered healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they’re prone to certain health conditions.
Potential Health Issues
When you mix two breeds, the puppies can inherit any of the health conditions common to either parent breed. With Springerdoodles, that can include hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, eye conditions, ear infections, skin issues, patellar luxation, epilepsy, Von Willebrand’s disease, Addison’s disease, Cushing’s disease, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, and PFK deficiency.
Springerdoodles are also at higher-than-normal risk for bloat, a dangerous condition in which the stomach fills with gas and then twists. It’s important to know the symptoms of bloat in dogs and seek immediate veterinary care if you suspect your dog has it.
Preventative Care and Screening
To minimize the risk of health problems, it’s important to choose a reputable breeder who screens their dogs for genetic health issues. Ask breeders about the genetic history and health of the parents.
It’s also important to take your Springerdoodle for regular veterinary checkups and vaccinations. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight by feeding them a nutritious diet is also a key factor in keeping them healthy.
How well do Springerdoodles adapt to different living environments?
Springerdoodles aren’t the most adaptable dogs. They do best in a home with a fenced yard where they can run around.
They can tolerate both warm and cold temperatures, but they aren’t built for extremes. Don’t leave your Springerdoodle outside for long when the weather is very hot or very cold.
Like other intelligent breeds, Springerdoodles need a lot of stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Make sure your dog has lots of toys and gets plenty of exercise.
Springerdoodles as Family Pets
Springerdoodles tend to be friendly, affectionate dogs, which makes them wonderful family pets. Most love kids, and they’re usually happy to play for hours.
Early socialization and training are important to ensure your Springerdoodle puppy grows into a well-adjusted dog. Enroll in obedience classes as soon as your vet says it’s safe.
Don’t expect your Springerdoodle to be much of a watchdog, though. They’re usually too chill to bother with guarding the house.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Springerdoodles good dogs?
Generally, yes! Springerdoodles are known for being intelligent, affectionate, and energetic dogs, making them great family pets. Their friendly nature and trainability often make them well-suited for households with children. However, like any breed (or mix), individual temperament can vary.
What are the cons of a Springerdoodle?
Springerdoodles can be prone to certain health issues inherited from both Springer Spaniels and Poodles. These can include hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and ear infections. Their high energy levels also mean they require significant exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behaviors. Grooming can also be time-consuming and/or expensive.
How much do Springerdoodles cost?
The price of a Springerdoodle puppy can vary widely depending on the breeder, location, and parent’s pedigree. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $3,000 or more. Remember that the initial purchase price is just the beginning; factor in the ongoing costs of food, vet care, grooming, and training.
How big will a Springerdoodle get?
The size of a Springerdoodle depends on the size of the Poodle parent used in the breeding. Standard Springerdoodles typically weigh between 40 and 60 pounds and stand 18 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder. Miniature Springerdoodles, bred with a miniature Poodle, will be smaller, usually weighing between 20 and 40 pounds.
Wrapping Up
The Springerdoodle is an intelligent, energetic, and affectionate dog who needs regular exercise and grooming to thrive. If you’re considering bringing a Springerdoodle puppy into your life, be sure to find a responsible breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.
Before you commit to a Springerdoodle, do your homework, consider your lifestyle, and make sure you can provide the love, care, and attention this wonderful breed deserves.