Irish Doodle Dog Breed Complete Guide In 2023

Q: 1. Are Irish Doodles hypoallergenic?

Irish Doodles are considered hypoallergenic due to their low-shedding coat, making them suitable for allergy sufferers. However, individual dogs may vary, so it's essential to spend time with the specific dog to assess any allergic reactions.

The Irish Doodle, also known as the Irish Setter Doodle or Irish Poo Setter, is a hybrid dog breed that originated from crossbreeding the Irish Setter and the Poodle. This intentional crossbreeding aimed to combine the desirable features of both parent breeds, such as the Poodle’s intelligence and hypoallergenic coat with the Irish Setter’s friendly nature and striking appearance.

With 195 formally recognized breeds and more on the horizon, the world of dogs offers a diverse array of choices. Among these, the Irish Doodles are gaining popularity, despite the American Kennel Club not recognizing them. This unique breed has captured the hearts of many dog enthusiasts in recent times.

Overview

Weight	Male 25-70 Ibs Female 25-60 Ibs
Height	13-15 inches
Lifespan	10-15 years
Temperament	Loyal, devoted, quiet, social, Intelligent, friendly
Comparable Breeds	Irish Setter, Poodle
Exercise Needs	High
Friendly With Other Dogs	High
Hypoallergenic	Yes
Separation Anxiety	High

Origin And History

The Irish Doodle is a captivating hybrid canine, born from the crossbreeding of two vastly different hunting dog breeds: the German retrieving dog, the Poodle, and the elegant red field hunting dog, the Irish Setter. Despite the common association of the Poodle with France, its origins can be traced back to Germany, where it was known as the “Pudlehund,” with “Pudle” meaning to splash around and “hund” meaning dog.

While many people perceive Poodles, especially the miniature and toy varieties, as companion animals or trained entertainers, their true heritage reveals a different story. Originally bred as hard-working waterfowl retrievers similar to Labrador or Golden Retrievers, both Standard and Miniature Poodles can still admirably fulfill this retrieving role, with the Miniature Poodle excelling in smaller game birds.

On the other hand, the Irish Setter, developed in Ireland during the 1700s, emerged as a skilled field-hunting dog. By the early 1800s, the breed had gained popularity not only in Ireland but also across the British Isles. While written records from that time are scarce, experts believe the Irish Setter to be an ancestor of breeds like the Irish Water Spaniel, the Gordon Setter, and the Irish Terrier.

The earliest Irish Setters were bred to locate birds and hold their position, preventing them from interfering with the line of fire. Initially found in red and white or yellow and white variations, the characteristic deep red color became the ideal standard in the mid-1800s. During the mid-1800s, enthusiasts imported this versatile breed into the United States. They served as gun dogs and specialized retrievers for game birds, showcasing exceptional skills. Consequently, the American Kennel Club officially recognized Irish Setters in 1878.

What Is An Irish Doodle?

The Irish Doodle is a delightful crossbreed, a mix between an Irish Setter and a Poodle. Often referred to as designer dogs, they share this status with breeds like Goldendoodles, Sheepadoodles, Cava Poos, and Yorkie Poos. Besides the common name Irish Doodles, they can also be called Irish Doodle Setter, Irish Poo Setter, Irish Setterdoodle, or Irish Setterpoo.

This charming canine combines the best of both parent breeds, resulting in an energetic, friendly, and loyal companion. Despite the name, the Irish Doodle is not a Doodles dog from Ireland, but rather a unique blend of the Irish Setter and Poodle. The mix with a Miniature Poodle is known as the Miniature Irish Doodle, further adding to the variety of this beloved hybrid.

Are Irish Doodles Hypoallergenic?

Yes, Irish Doodles are generally considered to be hypoallergenic to some extent. As a cross between a Poodle, known for being a low-shedding breed, and an Irish Setter, which is a moderately shedding breed, most Irish Doodles will likely have a coat that sheds less and produces less dander compared to other breeds. This can make them more suitable for people with allergies.

However, it’s important to note that no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic, and individual dogs may vary in their level of allergenicity. If you have allergies, spending time with an Irish Doodle beforehand can help determine if it triggers any allergy symptoms.

Is The Irish Doodle An Irish Dog Breed?

No, the Irish Doodles are not officially recognized as an Irish dog breed. Although they have Irish roots through their Irish Setter ancestry, the Irish Doodles are classified as designer dogs and are not included in the list of officially recognized native Irish dog breeds.

The Irish Kennel Club officially acknowledges nine native Irish dog breeds, whereas the American Kennel Club recognizes eight of these Irish dogs.

To learn more about the native Irish dog breeds, you can refer to the comprehensive Irish Dog Breed Guide. Additionally, you can explore detailed information about each individual Irish Dog Breed through the links provided below:

Irish Setter
Irish Red and White Setter
Irish Water Spaniel
Irish Wolfhound
Kerry Beagle
Irish Terrier
Kerry Blue Terrier
Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Glen of Imaal Terrier

Irish Doodle’s Personality

The Irish Doodle is a unique and delightful mix of the Irish Setter and the Poodle, inheriting charming traits from both parent breeds. These sweet-tempered and intelligent dogs are fast learners, making training relatively easy with consistency from an early age.

While they love exercise and play, they are a bit less active than purebred Irish Setters, making them suitable for various living situations, including apartments, as long as they receive sufficient attention and daily exercise.

Irish Doodles are excellent family dogs, getting along well with children and other pets when properly socialized. However, early training is crucial to ensure they interact appropriately with strangers.

Temperament And Behavior

Irish Doodles are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature, making them wonderful companions for their owners. Their intelligence also contributes to their trainability, making them easier to train than some other breeds. They are particularly well-suited for families with children, as they are gentle and loving towards kids, often becoming great playmates.

However, this breed doesn’t do well when left alone for extended periods. They are prone to separation anxiety, which may lead to destructive or undesirable behaviors. To ensure their well-being and happiness, Irish Doodles require regular companionship and attention from their human family members.

Maintenance And Grooming

Regular maintenance and grooming are essential for Irish Doodles. Their coat, which may be wavy or curly, doesn’t shed much, but it can become matted if not brushed daily. Trimming the hair, especially in the ears, helps prevent dirt buildup and ear infections. Regular dental care, including brushing their teeth a few times a week, is crucial for preventing dental issues. Keeping their nails trimmed also ensures the dog’s comfort. By taking care of their grooming needs, you can keep your Irish Doodles looking and feeling their best.

Training And Exercise

Training Irish Doodles is relatively easy, given their intelligence and eagerness to please. Starting obedience training as a puppy and enrolling in an obedience class can be beneficial. Socializing them early with various environments and people helps develop a well-rounded temperament.

As active dogs, they require ample daily exercise, including long walks and playtime in a fenced-in yard. Providing toys for independent play can also help them burn off energy. Remember to wait until they are fully vaccinated before exposing them to many different places. With proper training and exercise, your Irish Doodles will thrive and be joyful companions

Irish Doodles Generations

F1 Irish Doodles: This is the first generation, resulting from breeding an Irish Setter with a Poodle. F1 Irish Doodles have a 50% Irish Setter and 50% Poodle genetic makeup.
F1b Irish Doodles: This is the second generation, achieved by crossing an F1 Irish Doodle with a Poodle. F1b Irish Doodles have a higher percentage of Poodle genes (usually 75% Poodle and 25% Irish Setter), which may lead to more Poodle-like traits, such as a non-shedding coat.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Irish Doodle

1. They’re of an Unknown Origin

The Irish Doodle’s creation is known, but its true origin remains a mystery. Despite being unrecognized by groups like the American Kennel Club, the Irish Doodle is undeniably a worthy and lovable companion for humans.

2. They’re a Bit Unpredictable

Irish Doodles, stemming from the fusion of two diverse breeds, can display varying temperaments. Your Irish Doodle puppy might be calm and pleasant or a tad mischievous and unruly. That’s why prioritizing training from an early age is essential before your Irish Doodle matures into an adult.

3. They Have Lots of Nicknames

Owners of this affectionate breed often delight in inventing unique nicknames for their Irish Doodles. You might hear them lovingly called the Irish Poo Setter, the Irish Setter Doodle, the Irish Doodle Setter, or even the Irish Setterpoo. With new monikers emerging regularly, the list of nicknames for Irish Doodles continues to expand over time.

Irish Doodle Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Intelligent: They inherit their intelligence from their Poodle parent, which makes learning commands a breeze for this breed.	High exercise needs: Possess a lot of energy and require daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Hypoallergenic: They have minimal to no shedding, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.	May develop separation anxiety: Irish Doodles thrive as companion dogs and don’t fare well when left alone for extended periods. Solitude can lead to separation anxiety and potentially destructive behavior.
Friendly: They are exceptionally friendly and great with children, making them ideal family dogs.	Expensive, especially for Mini Irish Doodles: Irish Doodles can be more expensive to purchase than many other dog breeds, particularly when it comes to Mini Irish Doodles, which are even pricier.
Great family pet: They are an excellent choice for those in search of the perfect family pet. They are gentle, playful, and affectionate, making them fantastic playmates and best friends for children.

Recognized Clubs

Many of the most loved crossbreeds and designer dogs lack official recognition from leading world dog breed registries, especially those that are not purebred. Similarly, the Irish Doodle is not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as it is considered a hybrid breed.

However, it has gained recognition from several other reputable organizations, including the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC), the Designer Breed Registry (DBR), the Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC), the Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA), and the International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR). While it may not have AKC recognition, these other organizations have acknowledged the Irish Doodles, paving the way for wider recognition of this beloved breed in the future.

Irish Doodles Price

The price of Irish Doodles can vary considerably depending on several factors. The color of the dog is likely to determine some of the price. At the lower end of the price scale, you can find the apricot-colored Irish Doodles, which are the most common and priced at about US$1400.

The red Irish Doodles are more expensive, costing around US$1800, and those with special white markings can be even more costly. Prices can go even higher, reaching around US$3000, so it’s essential to shop around and consider what health checks and guarantees the breeder provides. Mini Irish Doodles, which typically come in smaller litters, are even more expensive, with a minimum cost of around US$2200.

Popular Names For Irish Doodles

Here are some popular names for Irish Doodles:

Murphy
Bailey
Finn
Molly
Riley
Lucky
Rosie
Max
Bella
Charlie
Daisy
Brody
Sadie
Teddy
Ruby

Common Health Issues

Hip Dysplasia: This genetic condition typically occurs during a dog’s growth stage and can be exacerbated by factors like improper weight, excessive growth rate, and unbalanced nutrition. Symptoms may include decreased range of motion, decreased activity, loss of thigh muscle mass, limping, and enlargement of the shoulder muscle mass.
Epilepsy: A relatively common neurological disorder affecting around 0.75% of dogs, characterized by sudden outbursts of electrical activity in the brain. It can lead to various symptoms and disruptions in the dog’s body.
Cataracts and Eye Disorders: Irish Doodles may inherit eye problems from their Poodle and Irish Setter parents. Cataracts are a common eye health issue, especially in older dogs, causing vision impairment and potential blindness.
Canine Atopic Dermatitis: Similar to Irish Setters, Irish Doodles can suffer from this skin allergy known as “atopy.” Allergic symptoms may appear after exposure to allergens like pollens, molds, weeds, or fungi, leading to inflammation and itching in areas such as the underarms, feet, face, and groin.

Conclusion

Irish Doodles are delightful and unique crossbreeds with a mix of Irish Setter and Poodle traits. They are known for their intelligence, trainability, and affectionate nature, making them excellent family pets. While not recognized by all major dog breed registries, they are gaining popularity and recognition among various hybrid breed clubs.

Irish Doodles have minimal shedding and are often considered hypoallergenic, making them suitable for individuals with allergies. However, potential owners should be aware of their specific needs, including regular grooming, exercise, and socialization. Like all breeds, they may be prone to certain health concerns, such as hip dysplasia, epilepsy, cataracts, and atopic dermatitis, which require proper care and attention. With the right care, Irish Doodles can lead happy and healthy lives, bringing joy to their families with their loving and friendly personalities.

FAQs

1. Are Irish Doodles hypoallergenic?

Irish Doodles are classified as hypoallergenic dogs because of their low-shedding coat, making them a suitable choice for individuals with allergies. However, individual dogs may vary, so it’s essential to spend time with the specific dog to assess any allergic reactions.

2. How much do Irish Doodles cost?

The price of Irish Doodles can vary based on factors such as color, size, and breeder. Generally, they can range from around $1400 for apricot-colored ones to approximately $3000 for certain variations, with Mini Irish Doodles being even more expensive.

3. Are Irish Doodles easy to train?

Yes, Irish Doodles are generally easy to train because they are intelligent and eager to please. Starting training early and using positive reinforcement techniques can yield great results.

4. How much exercise do Irish Doodles need?

Irish Doodles have high energy levels and need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation are essential to keep them physically and mentally engaged.

5. Do Irish Doodles require grooming?

Yes, regular grooming is necessary for Irish Doodles, especially because of their non-shedding coat. Daily brushing is advisable to prevent matting and tangling of the coat, and occasional hair trims may be necessary.