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

A Daisy Doodle Dog, often referred to as a Daisy Dog, is a delightful blend of Bichon Frise, Poodle, and Shih-Tzu.

History of Daisy Doodle Dogs

The Daisy Doodle Dog is relatively new on the designer dog scene. Each of its foundational breeds—the Bichon Frise, Poodle, and Shih-Tzu—boasts a rich history.

The Bichon Frise, known for its white, fluffy coat and cheerful disposition, originated in the Mediterranean. It soon became a favorite among European nobility, particularly during the Renaissance period in France.

The Poodle, recognized in three sizes (standard, miniature, and toy), traces its roots to Germany but gained immense popularity in France. Renowned for its intelligence and hunting prowess, the Poodle was also favored as a circus performer due to its trainability and unique coat.

Lastly, the Shih-Tzu, often referred to as the “Lion Dog”, is believed to have originated in Tibet and was bred in the Chinese Imperial Courts. Chinese royals adored these dogs for their affectionate nature, especially during the Ming Dynasty.

It’s unclear exactly when breeders first decided to combine these three breeds to create the Daisy Doodle Dog.

This unique mix brings together some of the most adored traits from each breed, resulting in a charming and lovable companion.

Selecting a Daisy Doodle Dog

When considering the addition of a Daisy Doodle Dog to your family, it’s essential to understand the unique characteristics and needs that arise from its mix of Bichon Frise, Poodle, and Shih-Tzu heritage. Here are some valuable points:

Ask for health screenings and genetic testing results for both dog parents. A good breeder will be transparent about the potential health risks and the steps they take to ensure their puppies are healthy.

While Daisy Doodles inherit intelligence from their Poodle lineage, they can also inherit the occasional stubborn streak from the Shih-Tzu side. Early and consistent training, combined with positive reinforcement methods, can make a significant difference.

If someone in your household has allergies, remember that while the Poodle’s hair is hypoallergenic, the Bichon Frise and Shih-Tzu are not entirely so. Though they shed less, there’s still the potential for allergens.

Daisy Doodles are energetic and thrive with regular exercise and playtime. Ensure you have the time and energy to cater to their activity needs.

Size and Lifespan of Daisy Doodle Dogs

Average Size: Based on the typical breeding combinations, most Daisy Doodles will stand between 9 and 15 inches at the shoulder and weigh anywhere from 9 to 20 pounds.

Benefits of Pet Insurance for Doodle Dogs

Lifespan: The blended lineage of the Daisy Doodle contributes to a lifespan of approximately 12 to 15 years.

Health and Maintenance of Daisy Doodle Dogs

Health Concerns:

• Joint Issues: Like many small breeds, Daisy Doodles can be prone to patellar luxation, where the knee cap slips out of place. Regular checkups can ensure early detection.
• Eye Conditions: The Shih-Tzu influence can mean susceptibility to eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts. Regular eye exams are crucial.
• Skin Allergies: Bichon Frises are known to sometimes develop skin allergies. A Daisy Doodle’s skin should be checked regularly for any signs of redness, irritation, or excessive scratching.
• Dental Problems: Smaller dogs often face dental challenges. Regular dental check-ups, brushing, and dental treats can help manage potential issues.
• Respiratory Issues: The Shih-Tzu lineage may make them prone to brachycephalic syndrome, causing breathing difficulties. Always ensure your dog doesn’t get overly exerted, especially in hot weather.
• Digestive Sensitivities: Some Daisy Doodles can inherit the Poodle’s sensitive stomach. It’s essential to be vigilant about their diet and note any digestive irregularities.

Required Vaccines for Doodle Dogs

Maintenance Needs:

• Grooming: Daisy Doodles typically have a soft, wavy to curly coat that requires regular grooming. Brushing a few times a week helps prevent matting and tangling. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks is recommended.
• Ears: These dogs, especially due to the Poodle and Shih-Tzu genes, can have hair grow inside their ears. Regular ear cleaning and occasional plucking (by a professional) are necessary to prevent infections.
• Diet: Given their potential digestive sensitivities, a high-quality dog food free from fillers and artificial additives is ideal. Monitor for any food allergies or sensitivities and adjust their diet accordingly.
• Exercise: Daisy Doodles are spirited and playful. Regular walks, coupled with playtime, are essential to keeping them physically fit and mentally stimulated. However, ensure not to overexert them, especially if they show signs of respiratory challenges.
• Training: These dogs are typically intelligent and eager to please, but early training and socialization are vital. They can sometimes inherit the Shih-Tzu’s stubborn streak, so consistency is key.
• Nail Care: Regular nail trimming is crucial to prevent overgrowth, which can lead to discomfort and potential foot problems.

Personality and Behavioral Traits of Daisy Doodle Dogs

Here’s a guide to understanding the Daisy Doodle personality

• Affectionate and Loving: One of the defining traits of Daisy Doodles is their affectionate nature. They form close bonds with their families and tend to thrive on human interaction. Whether it’s a toddler or a senior, they will generously dole out licks, cuddles, and tail wags.
• Intelligent and Curious: Thanks to their Poodle heritage, Daisy Doodles are highly intelligent. This intelligence, combined with the curiosity of a Shih-Tzu, makes them eager to explore their surroundings. They are quick learners but can sometimes be a little stubborn.
• Sociable Butterfly: Whether it’s people or other animals, the Daisy Doodle is naturally sociable. They are usually not aggressive and enjoy playing with other dogs. However, early socialization helps ensure they’re well-rounded.
• Adaptable: While they love play and activity, they’re also content to snuggle up on a couch. This means they fit comfortably into various living environments, from apartments to houses with vast gardens.
• Gentle with Children: The gentle disposition of the Bichon Frise shines through in Daisy Doodles. They’re generally patient with children and can be fantastic playmates. However, it’s always crucial to supervise interactions between dogs and young children.
• Alert and Vocal: Daisy Doodles can be quite alert and will often notify their owners of visitors or unusual sounds. This trait makes them decent watchdogs, but training might be required if they become excessively vocal.
• Independent Streak: The Shih-Tzu in them can sometimes showcase a tad of independence. This streak means that while they love attention, they’re also okay spending some time on their own. However, prolonged isolation can lead to separation anxiety.
• Playfulness: They have a zest for life! Daisy Doodles love to play, whether it’s fetch, tug-of-war, or just romping around in the yard.
• Lap Lovers: Despite their playful nature, they are lap dogs at heart. They cherish moments spent cuddling on the lap of their loved ones.
• Mildly Stubborn: Training a Daisy Doodle is generally a joy, but occasionally the Shih-Tzu’s obstinate nature might peek through. Consistent, positive reinforcement-based training is the key.

12 Tips for Socializing Doodle Dogs

Ultra-Specific Traits:

• Twirling Delight: Some Daisy Doodles have the adorable habit of twirling in circles when they’re excited or happy.
• “Smiling” Dogs: Many owners report that their Daisy Doodles “smile—a charming quirk where they seem to grin, especially when they’re content or seeking attention.
• Fluff Ball: Due to their mixed heritage, some Daisy Doodles have a unique fluffy appearance that makes them look like walking cotton balls, especially post grooming.

Free online workshop to train your Daisy Doodle Dog to behave like a well-trained service dog.

Nutrition and Diet for Daisy Doodle Dogs

While the nutritional needs of the Daisy Doodle Dog largely align with those of many other breeds, it’s the little details that can make all the difference. Considering their unique blend of Bichon Frise, Poodle, and Shih-Tzu, here are some tailored nutrition and diet tips for this special breed:

Nutrition:

1. Avoid Food Additives: Steer clear of food that contains artificial additives, fillers, or by-products. Daisy Doodles benefit from clean, wholesome ingredients.
2. Balanced Diet: Ensure the food has balanced carbohydrates, healthy fats, and high-quality protein. Since the Shih-Tzu lineage can sometimes be prone to weight gain, a well-balanced diet can prevent unnecessary weight issues.
3. AAFCO Guidelines: Always choose dog food that meets the standards of the Association of American Feed Control Officials Guidelines.
4. Sensitive Stomach: Due to their Bichon Frise heritage, some Daisy Doodles might have a sensitive stomach. Opt for dog foods formulated for sensitive digestion or ones with easily digestible proteins.

Feeding:

1. Puppy Needs: Puppies should be fed 4 to 6 times daily. After they reach 6 months old, switch to twice daily.
2. Adult Portions: For adult Daisy Doodles, feeding them twice a day is standard. However, always heed your veterinarian’s recommendations.
3. Monitoring Weight: Keep an eye on your dog’s weight. Daisy Doodles, especially ones leaning more towards their Shih-Tzu lineage, can easily put on excess weight if overfed.
4. Treat Intake: Be cautious with treats. While they are lovely for training and spoiling, treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
5. Fresh Water: Ensure your Daisy Doodle always has access to fresh, clean water.

Specific Tips for Daisy Doodle Dogs:

1. Bone Health: Due to the Poodle’s genetics, ensure the diet supports joint health. Foods fortified with glucosamine can be beneficial.
2. Allergies: Bichon Frises are known to sometimes develop allergies. Be vigilant about any allergic reactions in your Daisy Doodle, which might manifest as skin issues or digestive problems. If you notice symptoms, consider hypoallergenic dog food.
3. Hair Health: To maintain the luscious coat of a Daisy Doodle, foods enriched with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids can help keep their fur shiny and healthy.

Free Homemade Food Recipes for Doodle Dogs

Lastly, remember that individual Daisy Doodles might have unique dietary requirements. Regular vet checkups are invaluable, ensuring they’re getting the right nutrition and maintaining a healthy weight. Regularly assessing your dog’s health, coat quality, energy levels, and weight will guide you in making any necessary adjustments to their diet.

Average Cost to Purchase a Daisy Doodle Dog and Annual Costs

As of now, the price range for a Daisy Doodle in the U.S. is approximately $1,500 to $3,500.

List of Reputable Doodle Dog Organizations in USA

In total, the yearly expenses for maintaining a Daisy Doodle Dog in a healthy and comfortable state can range from $1,200 to $2,650. These variables include food, healthcare, training, insurance, and spoiling your Daisy Doodle with toys and treats!

List of items needed to prepare for a Doodle Dog

Grooming a Daisy Doodle Dog

Daisy Doodle Dogs, with their delightful blend of Bichon Frise, Poodle, and Shih-Tzu genes, are nothing short of adorable. Their unique appearance and diverse coat colors can vary significantly, but with regular grooming, these dogs can truly shine.

Typical Appearance: Daisy Doodles often boast a wavy to curly coat, reminiscent of their Poodle heritage, yet it can sometimes lean towards the straighter side due to the influence of the Bichon Frise and Shih-Tzu. They have expressive, round eyes, typically dark in color, and their ears drop down, framing their faces.

Coat Colors: The coat can come in a wide range of colors, including white, cream, apricot, black, gray, and even a mix of these shades. Some may have solid coats, while others might exhibit lovely patterns or patches.

Coat Care: Regular brushing, at least every other day, is essential to prevent tangles and matting, especially if their coat leans towards the curly side. A metal comb and slicker brush will be your best tools. Remember to be gentle when detangling to prevent any discomfort.

Ear Care: Their drooping ears can be a breeding ground for bacteria if not maintained properly. Make sure to check them weekly for any signs of infection, like bad odor or redness. Wipe them gently using a dog-specific ear cleaner or a warm, damp cloth. Always dry the ears thoroughly after baths or swimming to prevent moisture buildup.

Eye Care: Due to their Shih-Tzu ancestry, they might have tear staining around their eyes. Cleaning the area daily with a soft, damp cloth can help prevent this. Be cautious to avoid direct contact with the eyes. Investing in a dog-specific eye wipe or solution might be beneficial.

Nail Care: Their nails should be trimmed regularly, ideally every 3–4 weeks. If you hear their nails clicking on the floor, it’s a sign they’re too long. Use a dog-specific nail clipper and be careful not to cut into the quick, which can be painful and cause bleeding.

Professional Grooming: Considering their mixed coat type, professional grooming is advisable every 6–8 weeks. This not only keeps them looking their best but also ensures their skin and coat remain healthy. Regular trims, especially in the warmer months, can also make them feel more comfortable.

Join Our Doodle Dog Community

At Doodle Dogs Utopia, we believe that Daisy Doodles and all Doodle Dog breeds are pure joy. Join our community by subscribing to our newsletter for the latest updates and stories.

We love hearing stories about how Daisy Doodles have brought joy and happiness to people’s lives. From providing companionship and emotional support to serving as therapy dogs, they truly make a positive difference. Please share your stories and tips for all types of Doodle Dogs!