Enjoy this guide and overview with lots of tips for new and existing owners.

A Cadoodle, also known as a Colliepoo or Colliedoodle, is a crossbreed dog that is a hybrid of a Collie and a Poodle

History of Cadoodle Doodle Dogs

The Collie, the non-Poodle parent of the Cadoodle, boasts a history that is as rich and storied as any dog breed. Originating from the Scottish Highlands, Collies were primarily used as herding dogs.

It is believed that the word “Collie” comes from the Old English word “col,” which means “black.” It’s possible that this refers to the black-faced sheep that the Collies used to herd or even to the hue of some of the first canines.

Queen Victoria fell in love with Collies after visiting the Scottish Highlands and brought some to England. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, they became more popular.

But it wasn’t just British royalty that fell for the charms of the Collie. Across the Atlantic, the breed became a household name, thanks to the famous fictional Collie, Lassie. In movies and television, the dog’s loyalty and bravery captured the hearts of millions worldwide and cemented the breed’s reputation as a devoted family companion.

Combined with the Collie’s intelligence, loyalty, and work ethic and its growing popularity as a family pet, breeders blended the traits with those of the Poodle, a perfect counterpart.

The Cadoodle emerged from this vision. While the exact timeline is somewhat murky, it’s believed that the breed originated in the latter part of the 20th century, as the demand for hypoallergenic and easy-to-groom family pets grew. This combination aimed to produce a dog with the Collie’s herding instincts, devotion, and intelligence along with the Poodle’s curly, low-shedding coat. As with many Doodle breeds, the Cadoodle was also seen as a great companion for those with allergies.

This new hybrid quickly gained attention for its unique look, endearing temperament, and lesser tendency to shed, making the Cadoodle a heartwarming presence in homes around the world.

Selecting a Cadoodle

Since Cadoodles are a mix of Collie and Poodle, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the characteristics of both breeds. The Cadoodle can inherit traits from either parent, so it’s beneficial to be prepared for a range of personalities and needs.

A trustworthy breeder should provide references from other families who have adopted their puppies. Speaking with previous buyers can give insight into the breeder’s practices and the traits of their dogs.

Understand that Cadoodles can live for over a decade, and your pet will have different needs as they age. Think ahead about how your living situation, lifestyle, and financial capacity might change over the years and how that aligns with the needs of an aging dog.

The size of your Cadoodle can vary significantly. Be sure to select a size that goes well with your lifestyle.

Spend some time with the puppy to get a sense of how it will act. Look for signs of a balanced nature, friendliness, and curiosity.

Before selecting your puppy, inquire about any health guarantees and understand potential breed-specific ailments.

Size and Lifespan of Cadoodles

A Standard Poodle bred with a Collie can yield Cadoodles that are medium to large in size, typically standing between 18 and 24 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 30 and 65 pounds. If a Collie is bred with a Miniature or Toy Poodle, the resulting Cadoodles will be on the smaller side.

Cadoodles typically enjoy a lifespan of 12 to 15 years, though this can vary based on several factors, including genetics, overall health, diet, and regular veterinary care. Given their mixed-breed nature, Cadoodles can sometimes sidestep certain breed-specific health issues, contributing to a longer, healthier life.

Benefits of Pet Insurance

Health and Maintenance of Cadoodles

A fusion of two vibrant breeds, the Cadoodle inherits not just the intelligence and charm of its parentage but also potential health concerns.

Collie Health Issues:

• Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA): A genetic condition that affects the retina, choroid, and sclera. Regular eye checkups can help detect this.
• Hip Dysplasia: is an inherited condition where the thigh bone doesn’t fit snugly into the hip joint. This can lead to pain and, in severe cases, arthritis.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A group of diseases that cause the retina to degrade over time, leading to vision loss.

Poodle Health Issues:

• Von Willebrand’s Disease: A blood clotting disorder. Look out for symptoms like frequent nosebleeds or bleeding gums.
• Addison’s Disease: A condition where the adrenal glands produce insufficient hormones. Symptoms can include lethargy, stomach upset, or skin discolorations.
• Sebaceous adenitis is a skin problem where the sebaceous glands become inflamed, often leading to hair loss, scaly skin, and infections.

Joint Issues: Being larger dogs, Cadoodles can also suffer from joint problems, especially if they’re on the heavier side or lead a very active life.

Required Vaccines for Doodle Dogs

Make sure to schedule regular vet checkups twice a year. Exercise, diet, grooming, and training are all keys to overall good health. By being proactive about your Cadoodle’s health and maintenance, you’ll ensure a happy, active, and fulfilling life.

Personality and Behavioral Traits of Cadoodles

Cadoodles are inherently social creatures. They inherit the Collie’s gregarious nature and the Poodle’s friendly disposition. This mix ensures they generally get along well with both humans and other animals. Don’t be surprised if your Cadoodle tries to make friends with everyone at the park!

Thanks to their sharp-witted Poodle genes, Cadoodles are highly intelligent. This intelligence, combined with their natural curiosity, makes them quick learners. While this trait is mostly beneficial, it also means they can pick up bad habits just as quickly if not properly trained.

Known for their undying loyalty, Collies are famous as family dogs, and Cadoodles have imbibed this trait. They form strong bonds with their families, ensuring an endless supply of cuddles, nuzzles, and tail wags.

Both Collies and Poodles are known for their empathetic natures. Cadoodles can often sense the mood of their owners and will try to comfort them during tough times. This sensitivity, however, also means they might not respond well to harsh training methods or loud environments.

Cadoodles are generally great with kids of all ages, especially if they’re socialized early. Their gentle and patient demeanor makes them a favorite among children. However, as with all dogs, it’s crucial to teach kids how to approach and play with them properly.

The protective instinct of the Collie combined with the alertness of the Poodle makes Cadoodles excellent watchdogs. They’re keen observers and will promptly alert their owners to any unfamiliar presence.

While they love a good cuddle session, Cadoodles also have a playful side. They relish outdoor games, interactive toys, and agility activities, making them great companions for active individuals or families.

12 Tips for Socializing Doodle Dogs

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

Nutrition and Diet for Cadoodles

General Nutrition Guidelines:

1. High-Quality Dog Food: Ensure you choose premium dog food that’s devoid of artificial additives, fillers, or by-products.
2. Balanced Ingredients: Your Cadoodle’s food should contain a healthy balance of carbohydrates, fats, and high-quality protein.
3. AAFCO Standards: Always choose food that meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials Guidelines, ensuring quality and nutritional completeness.

Feeding Tips Specific to Cadoodles:

1. Sensitive Stomachs: Cadoodles, much like Collies, can sometimes have sensitive digestive systems. Considering this, opt for dog food that uses lamb, fish, or venison as its primary protein source, as these are generally easier to digest.
2. Bone Health: Due to the Collie lineage, it’s good to ensure that your Cadoodle’s diet is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which can help maintain joint health, especially if they’re active and playful.
3. Healthy Fats: Both Collies and Poodles have lush coats. To maintain the Cadoodle’s shiny, healthy coat, ensure their diet includes sources of Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids.

Feeding Guidelines:

1. Feeding Based on Life Stage: Your Cadoodle’s dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and then to their senior years. Always choose food formulated for their specific life stage.
2. Puppy Feeding: Cadoodle puppies should be fed 4–6 times daily. Transition them to twice-daily feedings after six months.
3. Adult Cadoodles: Feed them twice a day, or as recommended by your vet. Monitor their weight and adjust food quantities accordingly.
4. Treats: While Cadoodles love their treats, especially during training sessions, ensure that treats don’t comprise more than 10% of their daily caloric intake.

Water: As with all breeds, always provide fresh water for your Cadoodle. Ensure the water bowl is cleaned regularly to avoid bacterial buildup.

Unique Dietary Concerns: While Cadoodles are generally robust, always be on the lookout for any signs of food allergies, which can manifest as skin irritations, digestive issues, or ear infections. If you notice any adverse reactions to their diet, consult your veterinarian.

Free Homemade Food Recipes for Doodle Dogs

Average Cost to Purchase a Cadoodle and Annual Costs

Average Purchase Price: Between $1,500 and $2,500 Puppies from champion bloodlines or with specific color patterns may fetch higher prices.

Reputable Doodle Dog Rescue Organizations in USA

Estimated Annual Cost: $1,450 to $2,800 This can include food, treats, vet checkups, grooming, training, toys, bedding, and pet insurance.

List of items needed for Preparing for a Doodle Dog

Grooming a Cadoodle

The Cadoodle is a charismatic fusion of the sleek Collie and the fluffy Poodle. These dogs often turn heads with their distinct appearance, and keeping them well-groomed will ensure they remain the talk of the town. Here’s a closer look at their appearance and grooming needs:

Appearance: Cadoodles boast a harmonious blend of the Collie’s grace and the Poodle’s charm. They may have a medium-to-long, wavy, or curly coat. Their expressive eyes, often inherited from the Collie parent, have an endearing spark, and their ears can be either floppy or semi-erect, adding to their individualistic appeal.

Coat Colors: Cadoodles can come in a variety of shades. Common colors include sable, tri-color (black, white, and tan), merle, and solid colors like black, white, or brown. They can also inherit the Poodle’s unique coat patterns or the Collie’s distinctive sable and merle hues.

General Coat Care: Their coat, particularly if it leans toward the Poodle’s curly texture, may be prone to matting. Regular brushing, at least three times a week, is essential. Depending on the coat type, a slicker brush or a pin brush will be the tool of choice. Detangle any knots gently to prevent any discomfort.

Bathing: Cadoodles do not require frequent baths—once every 6–8 weeks should suffice, unless they roll in something particularly unpleasant! Use a gentle dog shampoo to keep their skin healthy and their coat shiny.

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