Enjoy this guide and overview with lots of great tips for new and existing owners of Pootalian Doodle Dogs.

A Pootalian, also known as an Italian Greyhoundoodle or Italian Greyhoundpoo, is a rare mix of an Italian Greyhound and a Poodle.

History of Pootalian Doodle Dogs

The captivating history of the Pootalian begins with understanding the Italian Greyhound’s lineage. These elegant dogs have their origins in ancient Egypt, where pharaohs cherished them as companions and hunters. Known for their slender and graceful appearance, Italian Greyhounds were the lapdogs of nobility throughout history.

Italian Greyhounds were prized for their speed and agility, used for coursing small game and even racing. Their refined charm and affectionate nature endeared them to the aristocracy of Europe during the Renaissance period.

The Poodle, on the other hand, has its own rich history. Originally bred as water retrievers in Germany, Poodles were highly valued for their intelligence and versatility. Their distinctive curly coat served a practical purpose in the water, protecting them from the cold.

Over time, both the Italian Greyhound and the Poodle transcended their historical roles to become beloved pets, each known for their unique qualities.

The concept of combining these two remarkable breeds emerged as part of the trend toward creating designer dogs in the late 20th century. The intention was to merge the Italian Greyhound’s elegant poise with the Poodle’s hypoallergenic coat and sharp intellect. This quest for a new breed that embodied the best traits of both worlds led to the birth of the Pootalian.

While the precise timeline of the first Pootalian’s existence is somewhat nebulous, the popularity of designer dogs soared in the late 20th century. Enthusiasts sought to create new breeds that would blend the grace and charm of the Italian Greyhound with the Poodle’s intelligence and coat traits. Thus, the Pootalian emerged as a wonderful combination of these two breeds, offering the best of both in a single, charming package.

Selecting a Pootalian Doodle Dog

Pootalians often inherit the Italian Greyhound’s elegant demeanor and the Poodle’s intelligence. They can be a bit reserved with strangers but are deeply loyal to their families. If you’re looking for a companion dog with a touch of elegance, the Pootalian might be an excellent choice.

Pootalians can adapt to apartment living if their exercise and mental stimulation needs are met. However, be mindful of their sensitivity to extreme temperatures, especially cold weather, due to their short coat and smaller size.

Ensure that the breeder has conducted health screenings on the puppy’s parents to check for any breed-specific health issues. Discuss the health history of both parent breeds and ask about any potential concerns.

Pootalians can inherit different coat types from their Poodle parent. Some may have curly, low-shedding coats, while others may have smoother, shorter coats. If allergies are a concern, lean towards a Pootalian with a coat that leans more towards the Poodle’s curly type.

Pootalians are known for their bursts of energy and agility, owing to their Italian Greyhound lineage. If you’re an active person or family, a Pootalian might be a great fit. Ensure you have the time and space to accommodate their exercise needs. They love to run and play, thanks to their Italian Greyhound heritage. If you have a fenced yard or live near open spaces, it can be a bonus for their exercise needs.

Pootalians are intelligent and can be quick learners, but they may also inherit a bit of stubbornness from their Italian Greyhound side. Consistent training, starting from puppyhood, is crucial to bringing out their best behavior.

Size and Lifespan of Pootalian Doodle Dogs

The Pootalian is a small dog, standing up to 15 inches and weighing about 10 pounds.

Benefits of Pet Insurance for Doodle Dogs

Pootalians generally enjoy a relatively long and healthy lifespan, which is a great advantage for those seeking a long-term companion. On average, Pootalian Doodle Dogs live for approximately 12 to 15 years.

Health and Maintenance of Pootalian Doodle Dogs

Here’s a detailed guide to keeping your Pootalian healthy and thriving.

1. Back Health:

• Spinal Sensitivity: Due to their Italian Greyhound ancestry, Pootalians can be prone to back issues, including intervertebral disc disease. Watch for any signs of discomfort, reluctance to move, or abnormal posture. Avoid activities that strain their backs, such as jumping off high surfaces.
• Gentle Handling: When picking up your Pootalian, support their hindquarters to minimize stress on their spine. Use a harness instead of a collar for walks to prevent neck strain.

2. Dental Care:

• Small Breed Dental Issues: Like many small breeds, Pootalians can experience dental challenges due to the crowding of teeth. Regularly brush their teeth several times a week to prevent tartar buildup and promote gum health.
• Chew Toys: Provide appropriate chew toys or dental treats to help keep their teeth clean and healthy.

3. Eye Health:

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): Some Pootalians may be prone to PRA, a genetic eye condition that can lead to blindness. Schedule regular vet check-ups to monitor their eye health and seek prompt treatment if any issues arise.

4. Joint Care:

• Kneecap Dislocation: Small breeds like Pootalians can be susceptible to patellar luxation (kneecap dislocation). Maintain a healthy weight to alleviate potential joint stress. Consult your vet for guidance on exercise and joint supplements.

5. Exercise and Activity:

• Balanced Exercise: While Pootalians are energetic, they don’t require as much exercise as some larger breeds. Daily walks coupled with play sessions should suffice. Avoid excessive jumping or strenuous activities to protect their back.

Vaccines Required for Doodle Dogs

Individualized Care: Collaborate closely with your veterinarian to tailor health and maintenance routines specifically to your Pootalian’s unique needs. Regular check-ups are crucial to catch and address any potential health issues early.

Personality and Behavioral Traits of Pootalian Doodle Dogs

Pootalians are deeply attached to their family members, forming strong bonds of loyalty and affection. They thrive on companionship and are often found shadowing their favorite person around the house.

Thanks to their Poodle lineage, Pootalians are sharp and quick learners. They possess a natural curiosity about the world, making them great companions for various activities, from puzzle toys to learning new tricks.

The Italian Greyhound side can sometimes bring out a stubborn streak in Pootalians. While they’re keen learners, they might occasionally showcase a willful side. Consistent training, starting from puppyhood, is key to navigating this trait.

Generally, Pootalians are friendly and can get along well with other pets and children. They tend to be adaptable and enjoy interacting with different family members. Early socialization is vital to ensuring they are well-adjusted. Expose them to various people, animals, and environments to build confidence and reduce shyness or anxiousness.

The Italian Greyhound’s historical role as a hunter might manifest in Pootalians as a tendency to be alert and somewhat vocal. They can be wary of strangers and might bark to alert their owners of someone’s arrival. Proper introductions to new people can help curb excessive barking. Training and positive reinforcement can also help manage their alertness.

Pootalians have a zest for life and enjoy play sessions, but they are also quite adaptable to their living situation. They can do well in apartments as long as their exercise and mental stimulation needs are met. Owners should be aware of their sensitivity to extreme temperatures, especially cold, given the Italian Greyhound’s short stature and belly close to the ground. Ensure they are appropriately dressed and protected during chilly weather.

Pootalians have a playful and adaptable nature, making them great companions for various lifestyles. They can thrive in different environments, from urban apartments to suburban homes, as long as they receive adequate exercise and attention. Due to their deep attachment to their family members, Pootalians can sometimes suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for prolonged periods. It’s important to gradually train them to be comfortable with short periods of separation.

12 Tips for Socializing Doodle Dogs

Free online workshop to train your Pootalian to behave like a well-trained service dog

Nutrition and Diet for Pootalian Doodle Dogs

Nutrition:

1. High-Quality Ingredients: Always prioritize dog food that contains high-quality, real, identifiable meat sources as the primary ingredient. Avoid foods with artificial additives, fillers, or by-products.
2. Balanced Diet: Look for dog food that provides healthy fats, quality protein sources, and balanced carbohydrates. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids can support the Pootalian’s typically luscious coat.
3. Sensitivity Consideration: Italian Greyhounds, and consequently Pootalians, can sometimes have sensitivities to certain foods. If your Pootalian experiences any digestive issues or skin allergies, consult a vet and consider a hypoallergenic diet.
4. Bone Health: Given the potential for spinal issues in Pootalians, it’s crucial to provide foods fortified with calcium and phosphorus to maintain their bone health. Consult your vet for guidance on appropriate supplements.

Feeding:

1. Age and Size Considerations: Understand that the dietary needs of your Pootalian will change with age and size. Puppies should be fed three to four times a day until they’re six months old. After this period, transitioning to feeding twice a day is recommended. Always monitor for overeating tendencies or any weight gain.
2. Weight Management: Maintaining an optimal weight is crucial for Pootalians, given their elongated body structure. Being overweight can strain their spine and lead to potential health issues. Consult your vet to determine the appropriate portion size.
3. Consultation: Always refer to the feeding guidelines on your dog food package, but keep in mind that every Pootalian is unique. Consult with your veterinarian to ensure you’re feeding the right quantity and type of food that suits your individual dog’s needs.
4. Treat Moderation: While it’s tempting to give in to those puppy eyes, treats should be given sparingly. Ensure that they don’t exceed 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake, and consider offering healthy alternatives like carrot sticks or blueberries.
5. Hydration: Ensure your Pootalian has access to fresh and clean water at all times. Regularly clean their water bowls to avoid bacterial buildup.

Special Consideration for Pootalians:

Given their potential for sensitive digestion and the importance of bone health, here are some specific tips:

• Sensitive Digestion: Monitor your Pootalian’s reaction to different foods, especially during puppyhood. If they experience upset stomachs or skin issues, consult your vet to determine any food sensitivities.
• Bone Health: As mentioned, Pootalians can be prone to spinal issues. Make sure they receive the appropriate levels of calcium and phosphorus in their diet, whether through their regular food or supplements recommended by your vet.

Free Homemade Food Recipes for Doodle Dogs

Average Cost to Purchase a Pootalian Doodle Dog and Annual Costs

On average, you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,500 for a Pootalian Doodle puppy from a reputable breeder. Rare coat colors or puppies from champion lineages may be more expensive.

Reputable Doodle Dog Rescue Organizations in the USA

On average, you can expect to spend approximately $1,100 to $2,800 per year on your Pootalian Doodle Dog. This is a varied estimate based upon your area and personal choices for food, grooming, training, healthcare, supplies, insurance, toys, accessories, and miscellaneous expenses.

List of items needed when preparing for a Doodle Dog

Grooming a Pootalian Doodle Dog

Grooming your Pootalian Doodle Dog is an essential part of their care routine, helping them look and feel their best. Pootalians have distinctive appearance traits influenced by their Italian Greyhound and Poodle heritage.

Typical Appearance:

Pootalians are a small dog with a very elegant appearance. They can have coats that range from curly (inherited from the Poodle parent) to smoother and shorter (inherited from the Italian Greyhound parent). Some may have a long and silky coat if the Italian Greyhound parent had a long-haired coat. Coat colors can also vary widely, including black, white, brown, gray, and various combinations and patterns. Pootalians can have solid colors or a mix of colors.

Grooming Tips:

1. Brushing:
   • Curly Coats: If your Pootalian has a curly coat inherited from the Poodle parent, regular brushing is essential to prevent matting. Aim for daily to every-other-day brushing sessions.
   • Smooth Coats: For Pootalians with shorter, smoother coats from the Italian Greyhound side, weekly brushing may suffice.
   • Long Coats: If your Pootalian has a long and silky coat, they may need brushing several times a week to prevent tangles and maintain their appearance.
2. Bathing:
   • Pootalians don’t need frequent baths, unless they get particularly dirty. Aim for a bath once a month or every 6–8 weeks. Always use a dog-specific shampoo to maintain the natural oils in their coat. Conditioner can help prevent tangles, especially if their coat is on the curly side.
3. Nail Care:
   • Regular nail trimming is essential, especially if your Pootalian isn’t wearing down their nails naturally. Typically, monthly nail trims are recommended, but this can vary based on individual needs.
4. Ear Care:
   • Due to their Poodle heritage, Pootalians may have floppy ears that can trap moisture, leading to ear infections. Regularly check and clean their ears, using a dog-specific ear cleaner. If you notice any signs of infection, consult your vet.
5. Eye Care:
   • Keep an eye on your Pootalian’s eyes for any discharge or redness. Wipe away any discharge with a damp, clean cloth. If you notice persistent issues, consult your vet.
6. Professional Grooming:
   • Depending on your Pootalian’s coat type, you may need to visit a professional groomer every 6–8 weeks for a trim and coat maintenance, especially if they have a curly or long coat.

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