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

The Foodle is a captivating fusion of two dynamic breeds: the Fox Terrier and the Poodle.

History of the Foodle Dog

To truly appreciate the evolution of the Foodle, we must first dive deep into the rich tapestry of its parentage.

The Fox Terrier’s Legacy

Hailing from the rolling hills of England, the Fox Terrier has its roots firmly set in the 19th century. Originally bred to flush foxes out of their hiding places during hunts, this breed boasts an energetic, courageous, and sometimes even mischievous personality. Their innate agility, sharp wits, and undying loyalty made them instant favorites, both as hunting companions and cherished household pets.

Fox Terriers gained rapid popularity in the show ring as well, and soon became iconic as symbols of British upper-class life. With their pointed noses and perky ears, they’ve not only graced paintings and literature but have also found their way into the hearts of royals and celebrities over the decades.

The Poodle Pairing

The Poodle, on the other hand, with its origins in Germany but refined in France, was bred primarily for water retrieving. Known for their curly, hypoallergenic coat and intellectual prowess, Poodles have a longstanding reputation for being performers, shining bright in circuses and shows alike. Moreover, their adaptable nature and affectionate demeanor made them favorites among various breeders looking for potential pairings to create hypoallergenic designer breeds.

Birth of the Foodle

As the world witnessed a surge in the popularity of designer breeds during the 20th and 21st centuries, breeders sought to combine the best traits of beloved dogs.

Enter the Foodle. A delightful concoction of wit, playfulness, and elegance. Its inception wasn’t just mere experimentation but a purposeful stride towards creating a breed that’s not only aesthetically pleasing but also carries the legacy of both its parent breeds. The Foodle, in essence, embodies the vivacious spirit of the Fox Terrier and the sophisticated intelligence of the Poodle.

As we step into the present, the Foodle is increasingly becoming the choice for families and individuals alike, craving a pet that’s active yet gentle, smart yet goofy—truly the best of both worlds.

Selecting a Foodle

Both Fox Terriers and Poodles are known for their high energy and intelligence. This means your Foodle will likely need ample exercise and mental stimulation. If you lead an active lifestyle or have kids, a Foodle will be a great fit!

Always opt for breeders who conduct genetic and health screenings. Both Poodles and Fox Terriers have certain breed-specific health issues. Ensuring your Foodle puppy comes from health-checked parents can prevent potential future health complications.

Foodles can inherit the mischievous streak of the Fox Terrier and the sharp intelligence of the Poodle. It’s essential to begin obedience training early, ideally with positive reinforcement techniques, to channel their energy productively.

If possible, meet the Poodle and Fox Terrier parents. This will give you a more concrete idea of the temperament, size, and coat type your Foodle puppy might grow into.

Join Foodle or Doodle communities online or in your locality. Existing owners can provide invaluable insights about the quirks, needs, and joys of owning a Foodle.

Size and Lifespan of the Foodle

Toy Foodle: It ranges from 5 to 10 pounds and stands about 8 to 10 inches tall.

Miniature Foodle: Typically weighs between 10 and 20 pounds. and ranges from 10 to 15 inches in height.

With smaller breeds often living longer, you can expect these sizes to have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years, and sometimes even longer.

Benefits of Pet Insurance

Health and Maintenance of the Foodle

Genetic Predispositions:

• Like all breeds, Foodles can inherit certain health issues from their parent breeds.
  • From the Fox Terrier:
    • Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease: A hip joint disorder.
    • Deafness: Especially in predominantly white dogs.
    • Skin Allergies: Often manifesting as itchy skin or rashes.
  • From the Poodle:
    • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): An eye disorder causing gradual vision loss.
    • Hip Dysplasia: A malformation of the hip joint leading to arthritis.
    • Von Willebrand’s Disease: A bleeding disorder

Annual vet visits are essential to monitor for any of the hereditary health concerns mentioned earlier and to ensure vaccinations and preventative treatments are up-to-date.

Required Vaccines for Doodle Dogs

Smaller Foodles (toys and miniatures) can be prone to dental issues due to their compact jaw size. Regular dental checks and cleanings are pivotal.

Diet, Exercise, Training, grooming, and regular health checks are essential to maintaining a healthy Foodle.

Personality and Behavioral Traits of the Foodle

Both the Fox Terrier and the Poodle are known for their keen intelligence. Combine the two, and you’ve got a Foodle—a pooch with brains to boot!

The Foodle often inherits the boundless energy of the Fox Terrier, meaning they’re always up for a game or a quick dash around the yard. With their playful antics and curious nature, don’t be surprised if your Foodle quickly becomes the star of any family gathering or dog park visit.

With their adorable faces and perky ears, Foodles have a knack for communicating with a range of expressions. From the head tilt of curiosity to the wide-eyed “I didn’t do it” look, they’re sure to keep you entertained.

The Fox Terrier lineage means that the Foodle can sometimes be a bit mischievous. They’re known for their keen sense of curiosity, which might lead them into some light-hearted trouble every now and then! Their Poodle genes make Foodles quick on the uptake, which can be a blessing for training but also means they might learn a naughty trick or two if left to their own devices!

Foodles often form strong bonds with their families. They love cuddling sessions as much as they adore playtime. They’re generally adaptable, whether in an apartment or a house with a yard. However, they need their play and exercise space. Without it, they might resort to undesirable behaviors like chewing.

The Foodles playful nature resonates with children, but it’s always advisable to supervise interactions with younger kids to prevent unintentional rough play.

For seniors who maintain an active lifestyle, Foodles can be comforting companions. Their affectionate demeanor and moderate size make them manageable, but it’s essential to address their energy levels.

While they’re friendly, some Foodles can be initially wary of strangers, a trait inherited from the protective Fox Terrier. Early socialization helps ensure they’re well-adjusted and not overly timid or aggressive.

12 Tips for Socializing Doodle Dogs

In essence, the Foodle, with its dynamic blend of personalities, can be an enriching addition to diverse households.

Free online workshop to teach your Foodle to behave like a well-trained service dog

Nutrition and Diet for the Foodle

The nutritional needs of the Foodle draw from the combined requirements of the Fox Terrier and Poodle. Serving the right food in the right quantities not only maintains their health but also fuels their vibrant personalities.

General Dietary Guidelines:

1. High-Quality Dog Food: Whether it’s dry kibble, canned, or raw, always opt for premium-quality dog food formulated for the Foodle’s specific size, age, and activity level.
2. Protein is Primary: The main ingredient in their food should be a high-quality animal protein source like chicken, lamb, or fish. This aids in muscle development and sustains their energy.
3. Balanced Fats: Healthy fats, especially omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, are essential for a glossy coat and optimal brain function.
4. Vitamins and Minerals: Fresh vegetables, fruits, and grains can provide necessary vitamins and minerals. However, always be cautious about foods that are toxic to dogs, such as grapes, raisins, and chocolates.
5. Avoid Fillers: Foods filled with unnecessary fillers, artificial colors, or flavors can cause allergies and digestive issues. Always check the ingredient list.
6. Consistent Feeding Schedule: Regular feeding times help maintain their metabolism and energy levels. Typically, two meals a day work well for adults.

Foodle-Specific Dietary Tips:

1. Beware of Overfeeding: Given their active nature, it might be tempting to feed them more. However, Foodles can be prone to obesity if overfed, especially if they inherit the more laid-back demeanor of some Poodles. Monitoring their weight and adjusting the diet as needed is essential.
2. Joint Support: If your Foodle leans more towards the Fox Terrier side and exhibits the lively jumps and dashes typical of terriers, consider foods fortified with glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health.
3. Sensitive Stomachs: Some Poodles are known for their sensitive digestive systems. If your Foodle seems to have inherited this, opt for foods that are formulated for easy digestion. Ingredients like ginger, pumpkin, and probiotics can be beneficial.
4. Coat Health: To maintain the Foodle’s varied coat types, whether curly or wiry, a diet rich in omega fatty acids can ensure their coat remains shiny and healthy. Foods or supplements containing fish oil can be advantageous.
5. Treats in Moderation: While it’s delightful to reward your Foodle with treats, especially during training sessions, ensure treats don’t constitute more than 10% of their daily caloric intake. Consider healthier options like carrots or apple slices (sans seeds).

Free Homemade Food Recipes for Doodle Dogs

Cost to Purchase and Annual Costs of Owning a Foodle

A Foodle from a well-regarded breeder, especially one who prioritizes health screenings and provides early socialization, can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000.

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Food, health care, pet insurance, grooming, training, toys, beds, supplies, and pet sitting as needed are all items to consider when owning a Foodle.

List of items needed to prepare for a Doodle Dog

Grooming the Foodle

Typical Appearance and Coat Colors:

Foodles have a diverse range of appearances, influenced by which parental genes dominate. Their coats can be:

• Curly: Much like the Poodle, soft and dense.
• Wiry: Resembling the Fox Terrier, coarser to touch.
• Wavy: An intermediate between the two, showcasing a delightful mix.

As for colors, the palette can vary widely.

• Solid Tones: Black, white, brown, and gray
• Combinations and Patterns: Bicolored like black and white, brown and white, or even tricolor. They might also showcase tuxedos or abstract patterns.

Coat Care:

1. Brushing: A curly coat needs daily brushing to prevent tangles and matting. For wiry or wavy coats, 3–4 times a week is generally sufficient. Always use a quality slicker brush or a pin brush.
2. Bathing: Depending on their activity levels, a monthly bath is ideal. Use a gentle dog shampoo and conditioner to maintain the coat’s natural oils.
3. Trimming: If their coat leans more towards the Poodle’s, regular trims every 6–8 weeks help in maintaining shape and manageability. It’s advisable to get professional grooming for the best results.

Ear Care:

1. Regular Checks: Look out for signs of redness, foul odor, or excessive wax buildup, indicating possible infections.
2. Cleaning: Using a vet-approved ear cleaner, wipe the ears gently with a soft cloth or cotton ball. Never insert anything deep into the ear canal.

Eye Care:

1. Daily Cleaning: Wipe away any debris or discharge using a soft, damp cloth. Always move from the inner corner to the outer, using a separate area of the cloth for each eye.
2. Tear Stains: Some Foodles might develop tear stains, especially lighter-colored ones. Use vet-recommended products to gently clean these areas.

Nail Care:

1. Trimming: Depending on their activity levels, Foodles might need nail trims every 3-4 weeks. Always use a quality nail clipper and be cautious not to cut into the quick.
2. Grinding: If you’re apprehensive about clipping, consider using a nail grinder, which can be less stressful for some dogs.

Grooming your Foodle isn’t just about maintaining their stunning looks; it’s also about ensuring their comfort and health.

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We love hearing stories about how Bernedoodles 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!