Spoodle

The Spoodle, a charming crossbreed between the English Springer Spaniel and Poodle, has become increasingly popular among Australian families seeking an intelligent, friendly companion with reduced shedding qualities. This designer breed combines the best traits of both parent breeds, resulting in dogs that are typically energetic, loyal, and highly trainable.

Originally developed in the late 20th century as part of the designer dog movement, Spoodles were bred to capture the Springer Spaniel's gentle temperament and hunting instincts alongside the Poodle's hypoallergenic coat and exceptional intelligence. In Australia, these dogs have gained significant popularity due to their adaptability to various climates and their suitability for active families.

Australian Spoodle enthusiasts appreciate the breed's versatility, as these dogs adapt well to both suburban and rural lifestyles. Their moderate size makes them suitable for most Australian homes, while their energy levels match well with the outdoor lifestyle many Australian families enjoy. From beach walks along the Gold Coast to bushwalking in the Blue Mountains, Spoodles thrive in Australia's diverse environments.

The breed's popularity has grown steadily across Australia, with responsible breeders found in most states. Their reputation as excellent family dogs, combined with their potential for reduced shedding inherited from their Poodle parent, makes them particularly appealing to Australian families with allergies or those who prefer lower-maintenance grooming routines.

As a crossbreed, it's important to understand that Spoodles can vary in their characteristics, potentially inheriting different combinations of traits from each parent breed. This variability means that potential owners should research both parent breeds thoroughly and work with reputable breeders who can provide information about the specific lineage and expected characteristics of their puppies.

Spoodles are renowned for their delightful temperament, typically inheriting the best personality traits from both parent breeds. These dogs are generally friendly, outgoing, and eager to please, making them excellent companions for Australian families. Their Springer Spaniel heritage contributes to their gentle, affectionate nature, while their Poodle lineage adds intelligence and a strong desire to learn and interact with their human family.

With children, Spoodles typically display patience and playfulness, making them wonderful family pets. Their moderate size and gentle nature mean they're usually appropriate for families with children of all ages, though as with any dog, supervision is recommended with very young children. They often form strong bonds with all family members and can be particularly protective without being aggressive.

Training a Spoodle is generally a rewarding experience due to their high intelligence and eagerness to please. They respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement techniques and often excel in obedience training. Their Poodle heritage means they're quick learners who enjoy mental challenges, while their Springer Spaniel side provides a willing, cooperative attitude that makes training sessions enjoyable for both dog and owner.

Key Personality Traits:

• Highly intelligent and trainable
• Friendly and outgoing with people
• Gentle and patient with children
• Loyal and devoted to family
• Energetic and playful
• Alert and responsive to training
• Social and enjoys interaction
• Adaptable to various situations

Regarding socialisation, Spoodles generally get along well with other pets when properly introduced and socialised from a young age. Their hunting heritage from the Springer Spaniel side means they may have some prey drive, so early socialisation with smaller pets is particularly important. With other dogs, they're typically social and enjoy companionship, making them suitable for multi-pet households in many cases.

Spoodles are considered medium-sized dogs, though their exact size can vary depending on which parent breed's characteristics are more dominant and whether a Standard, Miniature, or Toy Poodle was used in the breeding. Typically, Spoodles stand between 35-50 centimetres (14-20 inches) at the shoulder and weigh approximately 12-25 kilograms (26-55 pounds) when fully mature.

Their coat is one of their most appealing features, often combining the Poodle's low-shedding qualities with a texture that can range from wavy to curly. The coat is typically dense and can vary in length, usually requiring regular grooming to maintain its condition and prevent matting. Many Spoodles inherit the Poodle's hypoallergenic qualities, though this isn't guaranteed in crossbreeds and can vary between individual dogs.

Coat colours in Spoodles show beautiful variety, reflecting the colour possibilities from both parent breeds. Common colours include black, brown, chocolate, cream, white, golden, and various combinations of these colours. Some Spoodles may have the distinctive markings associated with Springer Spaniels, while others may display the solid colours more typical of Poodles. Parti-coloured coats (two or more distinct colours) are also common and highly sought after.

Physically, Spoodles typically have a well-proportioned, athletic build that reflects their active heritage. Their eyes are usually expressive and intelligent, often dark in colour, and their ears are typically medium-length and may be either droopy like a Springer Spaniel's or more upright depending on which parent breed's characteristics are dominant. Their tail is usually carried with a gentle curve and may be naturally long or docked, depending on breeding preferences and local regulations.

The overall appearance of a Spoodle should suggest an active, alert dog with balanced proportions. Their expression is typically friendly and intelligent, reflecting their excellent temperament and trainability.

Spoodles typically enjoy a healthy lifespan of 10-14 years, benefiting from what's often called 'hybrid vigour' that can occur in crossbreed dogs. However, as with any breed, they can be susceptible to health conditions that affect their parent breeds, making it essential for Australian owners to be aware of potential health considerations.

Common health issues that may affect Spoodles include hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and epilepsy, which can be inherited from either parent breed. From their Springer Spaniel heritage, they may be prone to ear infections due to their floppy ears, while their Poodle lineage may contribute to risks of bloat and certain eye conditions. Responsible breeders will conduct health testing on parent dogs to minimise these risks.

Australian-specific health considerations include heat management, as Spoodles can be sensitive to extreme temperatures due to their coat type. During hot Australian summers, owners should ensure adequate shade, fresh water, and avoid exercising during peak heat hours. Their dense coat means they're more susceptible to overheating than some breeds, making air conditioning or cooling mats beneficial during heatwaves.

Paralysis tick prevention is crucial for Australian Spoodle owners, particularly in tick-prone areas along the eastern coast. Their coat density can make tick detection challenging, so daily tick searches and appropriate tick prevention products are essential. Regular grooming also helps with early detection of skin issues or parasites.

Preventive care should include regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations appropriate for your local area (including consideration for snake bite vaccination in relevant regions), dental care, and maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise. Many Australian pet insurance companies now cover crossbreeds like Spoodles, which can help manage unexpected veterinary costs. Early health screening and maintaining a relationship with a local veterinarian familiar with both parent breeds will contribute significantly to your Spoodle's long-term health and wellbeing.

Spoodles require regular grooming to maintain their coat health and appearance, with grooming needs varying depending on which parent breed's coat characteristics are more dominant. Generally, their coat requires brushing 2-3 times per week to prevent matting and tangling, with daily brushing recommended during shedding periods or for dogs with curlier coats.

Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks is typically recommended to maintain coat length and shape, with many Australian owners opting for a 'puppy cut' or shorter style during summer months to help with heat management. The cost of professional grooming ranges from $80-150 AUD depending on location and specific requirements. Between professional grooms, regular brushing with a slicker brush and metal comb will help maintain coat condition.

Bathing should be done as needed, typically every 4-6 weeks or when the dog becomes dirty or smelly. Use a high-quality dog shampoo and ensure thorough rinsing to prevent skin irritation. In Australia's dusty conditions or after beach visits, more frequent bathing may be necessary. Always ensure the coat is completely dry after bathing to prevent skin issues.

Regular ear cleaning is particularly important for Spoodles due to their often floppy ears inherited from their Springer Spaniel parent. Clean ears weekly with a veterinarian-approved ear cleaner to prevent infections, which can be more common in Australia's humid coastal areas. Nail trimming should be performed every 2-3 weeks, and dental care including regular teeth brushing and dental chews is essential for overall health.

Australian climate considerations include extra attention during hot weather, when regular brushing helps remove excess undercoat and allows better air circulation. During tick season, daily grooming sessions provide an opportunity to check for parasites. Many Australian Spoodle owners find that maintaining a slightly shorter coat during summer months improves their dog's comfort while still preserving the breed's attractive appearance.

Spoodles are moderately to highly active dogs that require regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental wellbeing. Adult Spoodles typically need 60-90 minutes of exercise daily, which can be divided into multiple sessions including walks, play time, and mental stimulation activities. Their exercise needs reflect both the Springer Spaniel's working heritage and the Poodle's intelligent, active nature.

Daily walks are essential, with most adult Spoodles enjoying 2-3 walks per day totalling 5-8 kilometres. They particularly enjoy varied routes and opportunities to explore different environments. Swimming is an excellent exercise option for Spoodles, combining their love of water with low-impact fitness that's perfect for Australia's beach and lake environments. Many Spoodles inherit a natural affinity for water from both parent breeds.

Mental stimulation is equally important as physical exercise for this intelligent crossbreed. Puzzle toys, training sessions, nose work, and interactive games help prevent boredom and destructive behaviour. Their high intelligence means they thrive on learning new commands, tricks, and participating in activities like agility or obedience training. Many Australian dog training clubs welcome crossbreeds and provide excellent socialisation opportunities.

Age-appropriate exercise modifications are important: puppies under 12 months should have limited forced exercise, with play and short walks being more appropriate than long hikes. Senior Spoodles may require gentler, shorter exercise sessions but still benefit from regular movement and mental engagement.

Australian climate adaptations include exercising during cooler parts of the day (early morning and evening) during summer months, carrying water for both dog and owner, and being aware of hot pavement that can burn paw pads. During extreme heat warnings, indoor activities and mental stimulation can substitute for some outdoor exercise. In bushfire-prone areas, having indoor exercise alternatives is essential during poor air quality periods. Winter exercise in southern Australian regions may require consideration for cold-sensitive dogs, though most Spoodles tolerate cool weather well with their dense coat.

The initial purchase price for Spoodle puppies in Australia varies significantly based on breeder reputation, location, and breeding quality. Pet-quality Spoodles typically range from $1,500-3,500 AUD, while dogs from premium bloodlines or with extensive health testing may cost $3,000-5,000 AUD or more. Prices tend to be higher in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne compared to regional areas.

First-year costs extend well beyond the purchase price and can total $3,000-5,000 AUD. Essential expenses include initial veterinary care (vaccinations, microchipping, desexing: $600-1,200 AUD), quality food and supplies ($800-1,200 AUD), training classes ($300-600 AUD), grooming ($400-800 AUD), and pet insurance ($400-800 AUD annually). Additional costs may include crate, bedding, toys, leads, and emergency veterinary fund establishment.

Ongoing annual costs for Spoodle ownership typically range from $2,500-4,000 AUD. Regular expenses include high-quality food ($600-1,000 AUD), routine veterinary care including vaccinations and health checks ($400-800 AUD), professional grooming ($800-1,500 AUD), pet insurance ($400-800 AUD), and replacement of toys and equipment ($200-400 AUD). Additional costs may include boarding during holidays, emergency veterinary care, and optional services like dog walking or training.

Money-saving strategies for Australian Spoodle owners include learning basic grooming skills to extend time between professional appointments, buying quality food in bulk, maintaining preventive health care to avoid expensive treatments, and comparing pet insurance policies for the best value. Many local councils offer discounted registration fees for desexed pets, and some areas provide free or low-cost microchipping services.

Location significantly impacts costs, with metropolitan areas generally more expensive than regional centres. However, regional areas may have fewer specialist services available, potentially requiring travel to access certain veterinary or grooming services. When budgeting for a Spoodle, Australian families should also consider potential costs related to property damage during puppyhood and the possibility of unexpected veterinary expenses throughout the dog's 10-14 year lifespan.

How to Find a Responsible Spoodle Breeder

Finding the right Spoodle breeder is crucial for ensuring you bring home a healthy, well-socialised puppy. Unfortunately, not all breeders operate with the same standards, so it's important to know what to look for and what red flags to avoid.

Red Flags to Avoid

Be wary of breeders who refuse to let you meet the puppy's parents, especially the mother. Puppy farms often operate this way, keeping breeding dogs in poor conditions away from public view. Other warning signs include breeders who have multiple litters available at once, pressure you to make an immediate purchase, or can't provide health testing documentation for the parent dogs. Avoiding scams is essential when searching for your perfect Spoodle companion.

What Responsible Breeders Provide

Ethical Spoodle breeders will always provide comprehensive health clearances for both Poodle and Cocker Spaniel parent lines, including hip scoring, eye clearances, and DNA testing for hereditary conditions. They should offer a written contract with health guarantees, provide ongoing support throughout your dog's life, and ensure puppies are properly socialised from birth. Responsible breeders will also ask you questions about your lifestyle and experience to ensure their puppies go to suitable homes.

Essential Questions to Ask

When evaluating potential breeders, ask to see health testing certificates for both parents, inquire about the puppy's vaccination schedule and worming history, and request references from previous puppy buyers. Ask about the breeder's experience with Spoodles specifically, their approach to socialisation, and what ongoing support they provide. Key considerations when assessing breeders can help guide your evaluation process.

Verification Resources

While Dogs Australia (ANKC) and state bodies like Dogs NSW and Dogs Victoria maintain breeder directories, remember that Spoodles are crossbreeds and may not always be listed with these organisations. However, reputable Spoodle breeders often have experience with purebred Poodles or Cocker Spaniels and may be affiliated with these bodies. Understanding breeding regulations in your state can also help you make informed decisions.

Why Choose Doggo

At Doggo, we take the guesswork out of finding responsible Spoodle breeders. Every breeder on our platform undergoes thorough verification, ensuring they meet our high standards for health testing, ethical practices, and ongoing support. You can browse with confidence, knowing that all our listed breeders are committed to producing healthy, well-socialised Spoodle puppies.

Browse verified Spoodle breeders on Doggo today.

Spoodles are adaptable dogs that can thrive in various living situations across Australia, from suburban homes with yards to apartments, provided their exercise and mental stimulation needs are met. They generally require moderate space and are well-suited to families who can provide daily exercise, training, and companionship. A securely fenced yard is beneficial but not essential if adequate daily exercise is provided through walks and other activities.

These dogs are particularly well-suited to active Australian families who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, beach visits, or camping. Their intelligence and trainability make them excellent companions for families with children, while their moderate size suits most housing situations. They typically adapt well to both urban and rural environments, though their social nature means they prefer to be close to their human family rather than isolated in outdoor kennels.

Climate considerations are important in Australia's diverse conditions. Spoodles generally handle temperate climates well but may struggle in extreme heat without proper management. In tropical northern regions, air conditioning during peak summer months and careful exercise timing are essential. In cooler southern areas, their coat provides good insulation, though some dogs may appreciate a coat during very cold weather. Their adaptability makes them suitable for most Australian climate zones with appropriate care.

Spoodles are not suitable for families seeking a low-maintenance pet, as they require regular grooming, daily exercise, and mental stimulation. They're also not ideal for families who are away from home for extended periods regularly, as they can develop separation anxiety. First-time dog owners should be prepared for the commitment required for training and socialisation, though their intelligent, eager-to-please nature makes them more manageable than some breeds.

Before bringing a Spoodle home, ensure you have time for daily exercise, grooming, and training, plus access to veterinary care and professional grooming services. Consider the long-term commitment of 10-14 years and ensure all family members are committed to the responsibility. Find your perfect Spoodle companion today.

How much does a Spoodle cost in Australia?

Spoodle puppies from responsible breeders in Australia typically cost between $2,500 and $5,000, depending on size, coat type, colour, and the breeder's health testing programme. Toy Spoodles and popular colours may be at the higher end of this range.

Are Spoodles good family dogs?

Spoodles make excellent family dogs! They're affectionate, playful, and great with children. Their enthusiastic nature and love of games make them wonderful playmates for kids. They do best in families that can match their energy and provide regular exercise and interaction.

Do Spoodles shed?

Spoodles are generally low to moderate shedders, depending on their coat type. Those with curlier, more Poodle-like coats shed very little, while those with straighter, Cocker-like coats will shed more. No Spoodle is completely non-shedding, but most are significantly less than purebred Cocker Spaniels.

How big do Spoodles get?

Most Spoodles weigh between 5 and 14 kg and stand 25–45 cm tall, depending on the size of the Poodle parent (Toy or Miniature) and the type of Cocker Spaniel. The most common size in Australia is around 8–12 kg.

What is the difference between a Spoodle and a Cockapoo?

They're the same cross! Spoodle is the Australian term, while Cockapoo is used in the US, UK, and most other countries. Both refer to a Cocker Spaniel crossed with a Poodle.

How much exercise does a Spoodle need?

Spoodles need approximately 45–60 minutes of exercise daily. This should include walks, active play, and mental stimulation. They're more energetic than many people expect and do best with owners who enjoy an active lifestyle.

Are Spoodles easy to train?

Yes, Spoodles are intelligent and eager to please, making them highly trainable. They respond best to positive reinforcement methods with plenty of praise and rewards. Early training and socialisation are recommended to channel their enthusiasm into good manners.

Do Spoodles bark a lot?

Spoodles can be moderately vocal. They may bark to alert you to visitors or when excited, and some can develop nuisance barking if bored or under-exercised. Consistent training from puppyhood and adequate mental stimulation help keep barking in check.

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