Introduction
Irish Doodles are a charming hybrid breed created by blending the spirited Irish Setter with the intelligent Miniature or Standard Poodle. As a relatively new mix, Irish Doodles are not yet officially recognized as a breed and therefore don’t have an established breed standard. However, by exploring the traits of their well-known parent breeds, you can get a clear picture of what to expect when welcoming an Irish Doodle puppy into your home.
Irish Setters, originally bred as bird dogs, are known for their athleticism and boundless energy. Beyond their stunning glossy chestnut coats, they captivate with their sweet, playful, and affectionate nature.
Poodles, often admired for their elegant appearance, actually possess dense, curly coats that were essential for their early work as water retrievers. Their intelligence ranks among the highest of all dog breeds, making them both brainy and beautiful companions.
With such remarkable heritage, your Irish Doodle is likely to be a loving, lively, playful, and social dog. Their coat, inherited from both parents, often features wavy or curly fur with gorgeous red hues—so be prepared to dedicate regular time to grooming and coat care.
Caring for an Irish Doodle
Irish Doodles make wonderful family pets, but they aren’t the best match for every household.
As descendants of two energetic working breeds, Irish Doodles possess high energy and drive that need to be channeled through safe and stimulating physical and mental activities. They thrive in active homes where they receive daily exercise and plenty of attention. Due to their natural hunting instincts, outdoor play should always be supervised with a leash or within a securely fenced area to prevent them from following scents into unsafe situations.
Their size varies depending on the poodle parent involved. Irish Setters generally weigh between 60–70 pounds, Miniature Poodles weigh 10–15 pounds, and Standard Poodles tip the scales at 40–70 pounds. Mini Irish Doodles, with Miniature Poodle parents, will be noticeably smaller than those with Standard Poodle lineage.
Standard-sized Irish Doodles tend to be large and energetic, so they usually require ample living space and may not adapt well to apartment living. They can also be a bit overwhelming for very young children due to their enthusiastic and boisterous nature. Irish Setters often retain youthful energy longer than many breeds, so their Irish Doodle offspring may accidentally topple small children during play.
Irish Doodle Health Issues
Both Irish Setters and Poodles are generally healthy breeds with long lifespans—12 to 15 years for Setters and 10 to 18 years for Poodles. Still, like all dogs, they can pass on certain hereditary health conditions to their Irish Doodle puppies.
Bloat
Bloat occurs when a dog’s stomach fills with gas or food and starts to expand dangerously. In severe cases, it can progress to gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), a life-threatening condition where the stomach twists, blocking blood flow and causing severe pain.
GDV is more prevalent in large, deep-chested breeds such as Standard Poodles and Irish Setters. Pet owners must recognize the signs of bloat, which include:
- Retching or dry heaving without vomiting
- Distended, swollen abdomen
- Sudden restlessness, pacing, or inability to find a comfortable position
- Excessive panting and drooling
- Collapse
If you notice any of these symptoms in your Irish Doodle, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is an abnormal development of the hip joint that results in a loose joint and can cause painful osteoarthritis. Large breeds, including both Irish Setters and Poodles, are more susceptible. Mild cases may be managed with anti-inflammatory medications, while severe cases could require surgery.
Signs to watch for include:
- Limping or lameness
- Hesitancy to rise, jump, or climb stairs
- Shifting weight to the front legs
- Muscle loss in the hind legs
- Signs of hip discomfort or stiffness
Idiopathic Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder causing recurrent seizures. Idiopathic epilepsy—epilepsy of unknown cause—is commonly seen in both Irish Setters and Poodles.
Seizures usually last one to two minutes and might involve loss of consciousness, uncontrollable muscle spasms, urination, and defecation. Management typically involves lifelong medication under veterinary supervision.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a group of inherited eye diseases present in both parent breeds that lead to gradual vision loss due to the degeneration of retinal cells.
PRA can manifest as:
- Early-onset forms, where retinal cells don’t develop properly from puppyhood
- Late-onset forms, where deterioration starts in adulthood
Symptoms include reluctance to enter dark areas, clumsiness, dilated pupils reacting slowly to light, increased eye reflectiveness at night, and the development of cataracts. Unfortunately, PRA leads to eventual blindness and has no cure.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid glands produce insufficient hormones, essential for regulating metabolism and organ function. This condition commonly affects medium to large dogs such as Irish Setters, especially between ages 4 and 10.
Affected dogs may exhibit increased weight, poor hair growth, excessive panting, and recurrent skin or ear infections. Treatment involves lifelong hormone replacement therapy through oral medication.
Sebaceous Adenitis
Poodles tend to develop sebaceous adenitis, an inflammatory skin disorder that impacts oil-producing glands and leads to coat and skin issues. In long-coated breeds like Poodles, signs include:
- Patchy hair loss
- Unpleasant odor around the hairline
- Small mats or clumps of fur
- Dull, brittle, or coarse hair texture
- Persistent scratching
- White scale buildup on the skin
- Clusters of lesions, commonly appearing on the head
Treatment varies based on severity and may involve oral medications and specialized shampoos containing antibiotics.
Von Willebrand Disease
Von Willebrand disease (vWD) is a genetic bleeding disorder more frequently seen in Poodles. It results from a deficiency in a protein necessary for proper blood clotting.
Affected dogs may experience excessive bleeding from the nose, gums, urinary tract, or genital areas and prolonged bleeding after injury or surgery. Veterinarians typically recommend testing for vWD before any planned operation, including spaying or neutering.
What To Feed an Irish Doodle
Every Irish Doodle is unique. Due to the variability in size between Miniature and Standard Poodle parents, there’s no one-size-fits-all nutrition plan. Collaborate closely with your veterinarian to craft a balanced, complete diet tailored to your pup’s specific age, size, and health profile.
How To Feed an Irish Doodle
Adult Irish Doodles typically do best with two meals per day—one in the morning and one in the evening. Splitting meals can help reduce the risk of bloat. For dogs that tend to eat too quickly—a known bloat risk factor—using a slow feeder bowl can encourage slower, safer eating.
Puppies burn energy faster and usually benefit from a third midday feeding. Your veterinarian can help you determine the ideal feeding schedule based on your pup’s age and activity level.
How Much Should You Feed an Irish Doodle?
Feeding guidelines on dog food packages provide a rough estimate based on weight alone. For greater accuracy, consult your veterinarian, who will take into account your dog’s body condition, lifestyle, and any special health needs.
Don’t forget to include treats in your dog’s daily calorie allowance, especially during training sessions, as treats can quickly add up—this is particularly important for the smaller Mini Irish Doodles.
Nutritional Tips for Irish Doodles
When feeding an Irish Doodle a high-quality dog food approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), additional supplements are usually unnecessary. However, in some cases, supplements or prescription diets may be recommended to address or prevent certain health issues.
Always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new supplements or specialized diets.
Irish Doodle Personality and Temperament
Irish Doodles are affectionate and outgoing dogs who typically adore both people and other pets. However, their large size, ample energy, and extended puppy-like behavior may prove overwhelming for very small children.
Bred as hardworking hunting companions, Irish Doodles require opportunities for both mental and physical stimulation, as well as plenty of interaction with their family.
Irish Doodle Behavior
These dogs need about an hour of exercise every day to stay happy and healthy, with ample companionship to prevent boredom. Without sufficient stimulation, they may develop undesirable behaviors such as excessive barking or destructive chewing.
Because of their strong hunting instincts, Irish Doodles often enjoy chasing small animals, so outdoor time must always be supervised, using a leash or secure fencing to keep them safe.
Expect your Irish Doodle to be affectionate, lively, playful, and friendly.
Irish Doodle Training
The critical socialization period in puppies lasts through around 16 weeks of age, which is when they learn to navigate life with humans and other animals. Find out from your breeder how socialization was handled and continue consistent socialization once your puppy joins your family.
While highly intelligent and eager to please, Irish Doodles may sometimes display a mind of their own. If your pup inherits the Irish Setter’s prolonged youthful energy, training may demand additional patience and realistic expectations.
Using positive reinforcement techniques is the most effective and kind way to train your Irish Doodle.
Fun Activities for Irish Doodles
- Obedience training
- Jogging
- Swimming
- Long walks
- Hiking
- Agility courses
- Hunting
- Lure coursing
Irish Doodle Grooming Guide
Thanks to their Poodle heritage, Irish Doodles are low-shedding, but caring for their coat is still a commitment. Their long, wavy fur needs daily grooming, and fortunately, these dogs are typically sweet and tolerant grooming companions.
Additionally, Irish Doodles may be better suited for some allergy sufferers, although no dog is completely hypoallergenic. Spending time with the breed before adopting will help you gauge your allergic response.
Skin Care
Healthy skin starts with proper coat care. Matted fur can trap dirt, moisture, and irritants against your dog’s skin, potentially leading to infections.
Ask your veterinarian how often you should bathe your Irish Doodle. If your dog enjoys swimming or frequent outdoor adventures, more regular bathing might be necessary. Just remember that excessive bathing can strip natural oils and cause skin dryness and irritation.
Coat Care
To keep your Irish Doodle’s long, curly-to-wavy coat free from mats and tangles, daily brushing followed by thorough combing is ideal. If mats form, avoid cutting them out with scissors to prevent accidental injury. Instead, gently work them apart with your fingers or a comb after brushing.
Regular visits to a professional groomer and opting for shorter haircuts can make home grooming easier and more manageable.
Eye Care
Given the risk of progressive retinal atrophy in their lineage, watch your Irish Doodle’s eyes for any signs such as cloudiness. Keeping the fur trimmed around their eyes can prevent irritation and keep their vision comfortable.
Ear Care
Irish Doodles have long, furry ears that are prone to infections—especially if your dog loves swimming. Consult your veterinarian for advice on cleaning frequency and technique. If you notice redness, unpleasant odor, itching, or your dog shows discomfort, schedule a vet visit promptly.
Considerations for Pet Parents
Before bringing an Irish Setter-Poodle mix into your home, reflect on these important questions:
- Am I willing and able to brush and comb a dog’s coat every day?
- Can I afford professional grooming as needed?
- Do I have enough time at home to provide consistent companionship?
- Is my living environment free from very small children who might be accidentally overwhelmed by an energetic dog?
- Can I commit to daily mental and physical exercise for a high-energy, intelligent breed?
- Do I have the patience, skills, and dedication to train a dog using positive reinforcement methods?
- Am I financially prepared to cover routine and emergency veterinary care?
- Can I offer a loving, stable home for the entirety of my dog’s potentially 18+ year lifetime?
If you can confidently answer “Yes!” to these questions, you’re likely ready to welcome an Irish Doodle into your life.
What is the temperament of an Irish Doodle?
Irish Doodles blend the Poodle’s smarts and the Irish Setter’s playful spirit. They tend to be energetic, affectionate, and thrive in active homes with lots of space to run and play.
How big do Irish Doodles get?
Their size can vary widely. Irish Setters usually weigh between 60 and 70 pounds. Poodle parents might be Miniature (10–15 pounds) or Standard (40–70 pounds). As a result, adult Irish Doodles can range from about 50 to 70 pounds, while Mini Irish Doodles are often closer to half that size.
What is the difference between a Goldendoodle and an Irish Doodle?
Goldendoodles are the delightful mix of Golden Retrievers and Poodles, while Irish Doodles combine the traits of Irish Setters and Poodles, resulting in distinct personalities and coat types between the two hybrid breeds.
