(Cocker Spaniel X Poodle)

Other names:

Cockapoo, Cockerpoo, English Cockapoo

Introducing the Spoodle:

A Spoodle is a hybrid breed that is developed by crossing an English Cocker Spaniel and Toy Poodle. Spoodles have grown in popularity because of their wonderful temperaments, which is what they were specifically bred for. They are a medium sized breed (about 35cm at the shoulder) with semi long hair and long soft ears.

Description of the Spoodle:

The appearance of this breed may vary since its parents are two separate pure breeds, however, there are some characteristic of its appearance that are very common. The texture of a Spoodle’s coat may be curly or feathered. The body of the Spoodle is shorter than average when compared to the length of its legs, but still very strong. Spoodles often have a very rounded head and a reasonably long muzzle when compared to the Cavoodle. The ears are long and usually set well above the eyes and hang low past its chin. The neck is elongated and transitions to its straight back. Its tail is long and usually hangs freely past the hocks.

Temperament of the Spoodle:

One definite characteristic of the Spoodle is its temperament and outgoing nature. Both Mini and Medium Spoodles should be easy going and sociable since both of their parents have these characteristics. It is a playful breed that enjoys interacting with well-behaved children. The Spoodle is loyal, intelligent, and very affectionate. Having a very sweet nature Spoodles steal the hearts of many. Spoodles are best described as “social butterflies”. Since one of its parents is a Poodle, it may have a tendency to want a significant amount of attention and special treatment.

Spoodle Activity level:

The Spoodle is an intelligent, a happy-go-lucky dog that loves to run and play with his family. A home with a yard is preferable to no yard at all for Spoodles, but daily walks will be required for these active dogs. Spoodles are more active than the very similar Cavoodle. Spoodles have the tendency to over eat so exercise is needed for this dog to stay maintain their weight and stay healthy. They are just as comfortable whether living with an active family or spending time on the couch with a less active family watching TV.

Spoodle Colours:

The Spoodle is usually single coloured but most the solid colour is broken up with white markings. Spoodles can come in any colour that Poodles can be found in, including parti colours but the most common colours are gold or black. Parti colours are rarer but do occur.

Grooming your Spoodle:

The Spoodle should carry coat characteristics from both the Poodle and the Cocker Spaniel. The preferred coat is dense, curly or heavily wavy, and close. The Spoodle should be brushed and combed regularly. As Spoodles are a low to non-shed breed, clipping is required. The amount of grooming required for a Spoodle will depend on the length of its coat. All coat types will require some grooming but Spoodles with longer coats will need to be brushed more often than dogs with clipped coats. Spoodles need to have their ears properly dried after their bath to avoid infections.

Training your Spoodle:

Both Poodles and Cocker Spaniels which make up the Spoodle are highly intelligent breeds and the Spoodle is a very quick learner. Early socialization and obedience are recommended for all Spoodles. Spoodles are fairly easy to train they make wonderful training students. They will not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. Training must be done with firmness, fairness, patience, and consistency. It can sometimes be difficult to keep your Spoodle puppy’s attention for long periods of time so try to make training times short and fun. Also make sure your Spoodle puppy will come when called in the backyard before going out to an unfenced area as they have a tendency to wander over to new people they meet and “say hello”.

Spoodle Size:

Mini Spoodles grow to about 35cm at the shoulder as adults.

Medium Spoodles grow to about 45cm at the shoulder as adults.

Spoodle Life Span:

11 – 13 years

Finding Spoodle puppies for sale from Spoodle breeders

Spoodles can still be classed as being fairly rare at this stage and locating a Spoodle breeder can be a little difficult but one of the best ways is to go through a breeders agent. They will have contact with many different breeders and will usually be informed first of when litters are planned or available. A reputable breeders agent will also be able to provide you with further information on the care of your Spoodle puppy as well as ensuring that the puppy has had the appropriate vaccinations, worming etc and is the right age to go to their new home. We have found Chevromist Kennels to be exemplary in their level of knowledge and service both before and after adopting a puppy and have no hesitation in recommending them to anyone wishing to adopt a Designer breed puppy. You can visit their website with photos of their beautiful puppies at www.chevromist.com