Double Doodle Dogs: The Ultimate Hybrid Breed
Meet one of the newer Doodle breeds, the Double Doodle—the ultimate Poodle mix. Also called the North American Retriever, this is a newer designer hybrid dog that's gaining popularity among doodle enthusiasts. If you want to learn about where Double Doodle dogs come from and what makes them special, you're in the right spot!
What are Double Doodle dogs?
The Double Doodle breed is new to the world of Doodle hybrid breeds. This designer dog doesn't have a long history. As you might guess, Double Doodles are a "double" mix of two popular doodle breeds.
The Double Doodle is usually a cross between a Goldendoodle (Golden Retriever + Poodle) and a Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever + Poodle). However, many other Doodle combinations are becoming popular. Think of it as a mixed-breed dog with three parent breeds. (Regular Doodles have two parent breeds.)
Many Goldendoodles and Labradoodles are multi-generation crosses. They are not always 50% Poodle and 50% Golden Retriever, or 50% Poodle and 50% Labrador Retriever. So, when crossing a Goldendoodle and a Labradoodle, their puppies are not always 25% Golden Retriever, 25% Labrador Retriever, and 50% Poodle.
It all depends on the mix of their parents. Double Doodles can have varying amounts of Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and Poodle in their mix.
Hybrids, Mixed-Breed or Purebred: What's the difference?
With all the different doodle breeds, remember that they are still mixed-breed dogs. Doodles are called hybrids because they have known parents. Still, a Double Doodle puppy could inherit any trait from each of the parent breeds.
Hybrid breeds can be great family dogs with many qualities of popular purebreds. It only makes sense that trying to combine the best traits of these purebred dogs would be an excellent choice for a breeding program.
They can be smart, affectionate, and easy-going, just like all three parent breeds. For example, the Labrador Retriever and Golden Retriever are well-known as friendly dogs and great family pets. On the other hand, the Poodle is a highly intelligent dog breed.
But genetics is not predictable. The temperament of a hybrid breed can vary. You might not get only the good traits. If there is anything about the parent breeds that you don't like or want, think carefully about getting a Double Doodle. Make sure you understand the temperament and care required for all breeds in the mix.
Be prepared for any combination. With hybrid dogs, you don't always get predictable traits every time. When breeding a doodle to another doodle, you don't know what traits a puppy will inherit. On the other hand, when breeding a poodle to a poodle, you would be positive that you'd get a poodle puppy.
Popular Double Doodle dogs
Golden Labradoodle: The most common Double Doodle is a Goldendoodle mixed with a Labradoodle. Everyone loves these breeds for their friendly personality and teddy bear cuteness. So it’s no surprise that this is one of the more popular Double Doodles. It is typically a hypoallergenic, low-shedding dog and can have either a curly coat or a wavy coat.
Double Labradoodle: Labradoodle mixed with any type of Doodle other than a Goldendoodle. Their coats are typically hypoallergenic and low-shedding, with curly or wavy coats.
Golden Mountain Doodle: Goldendoodle mixed with a Bernedoodle (Bernese Mountain Dog + Poodle). Bernese Mountain Dogs usually have a calmer personality. People love their tri-color, hypoallergenic coats.
Aussie Goldendoodle: Goldendoodle mixed with an Aussie Doodle (Australian Shepherd + Poodle). If you love the Australian Shepherd personality and intelligence but don't like the shedding, you will appreciate the Aussie Goldendoodle.
The Appearance of double doodle dogs
Double Doodles come in a variety of colors, sizes, and coat textures, depending on the traits they get from their Labrador, Golden Retriever, and Poodle genes. They can have curly coats or wavy fur. Double Doodles have many types of hypoallergenic coats. This makes them perfect for people with allergies or sensitivities to pet dander.
The amount of shedding depends on what Poodle genes they inherit. Even though they are half Poodle, they could still get a coat more like a Labrador. Even if dogs have the same mix of three breeds, they can look very different from each other. This is true, even within the same litter.
For example, one dog can look like a large Poodle with dark red, curly hair. Another can look like a smaller Labrador with white, wavy hair. They each have a look that is all their own!
There’s no guarantee of the exact traits Double Doodle puppies will get from their parents. No two Double Doodles look the same. Some can look very unusual!
grooming of Double Doodle dogs
A Double Doodle's coat is made of hair, not fur. This trait comes from their Poodle genes. That means they are more hypoallergenic with low dander and minimal shedding. This is important for allergy sufferers and those who want less shedding around the house. On the other hand, they require regular grooming and brushing. Dog grooming is expensive.
Taking care of a Double Doodle's coat requires regular care to keep it looking its best. Here are some tips on taking care of a Doodle’s coat and the best brushes based on coat type.
Depending on the fur’s texture, Double Doodles may need brushing several times a week to prevent matting and tangling. It’s also important that regular baths, nail trims, and ear cleanings are part of their grooming routine.
Many Double Doodle owners have their dogs professionally groomed for that well-known teddy bear look. Their coats continually grow out. That means they need regular grooming to prevent their hair from growing into their face and blocking their vision or irritating their eyes.
Double Doodle Dogs Health
As a hybrid breed, Double Doodles often do not suffer from the same health problems as Labradors, Golden Retrievers, or Poodles. They usually benefit from the variety in their genes. This is called “hybrid vigor.”
It's still important to know the common health problems in the parent breeds. For example, the most common health issues they may inherit are joint issues and digestive problems. Other common health issues may be:
Joint issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia and patellar luxation
Eye and vision problems such as retinal dysplasia or cataracts
Ear infections
Skin infections
Allergies
Here are some Doodle healthcare tips and what to think about when it comes to pet health insurance. Like any dog, Double Doodles could have unrelated health problems. Make sure to schedule regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations so your Double Doodle stays healthy and happy for years to come.
How Large Are Double Doodle dogs?
There are three sizes of Double Doodles: Standard, Medium, and Mini. Keep in mind that the full-grown size of mixed-breed dogs can vary as puppies reach full-grown size.
Standard Double Doodle: As large dogs, they may weigh between 50 and 80 pounds. As with any large dog, they need enough outdoor space to meet their activity needs and prevent boredom. A large backyard is ideal for running and burning off excess energy, in addition to daily walks.
Medium Double Doodle: These dogs can weigh between 30 and 70 pounds. If you do not have a backyard or outdoor space, they must have daily walks to meet their exercise needs.
Mini Double Doodle: There are varying sizes of mini Doodles. They usually weigh less than 30 pounds. Many are bred specifically for their tiny, toy-like features. Even though they are perfect for small living spaces, they are still active dogs who need daily exercise and companionship.
Even though there are three sizes, a Double Doodle puppy can be larger or smaller than the predicted adult size. The truth is, they come in many shapes and sizes!
You can estimate a puppy’s eventual adult size using these growth charts and formulas.
Exercise and Activity Needs
The Double Doodle parent breeds, Labradoodles and Goldendoodles, are sporting dogs and were originally used for hunting. This breeding makes them active dogs that thrive on daily exercise and mental stimulation. Similarly, Poodles, Golden Retrievers, and Labradors are intelligent, athletic dogs that also need physical and mental stimulation.
Double Doodles have high energy levels and can be a problem if they aren't able to expend their pent-up energy. They have high energy inherited from all of their family genes. That means some Double Doodles could need as much as 2 to 3 hours of activity each day.
Daily walks, playtime in the backyard, and interactive toys will help keep these energetic pups happy and healthy. They love a game of fetch, a hike in the mountains, or a swim in the lake. Double Doodles love to burn off energy and explore the great outdoors with their human companions. Plenty of exercise and activity will prevent your Double Doodle from becoming bored and developing destructive behaviors.
Regular exercise will keep both you and your dog happy and healthy.
Double Doodle dogsTraining Needs
Thanks to their Poodle genes, Double Doodles are incredibly intelligent and eager to please. They are quick learners. From basic obedience commands to advanced tricks, these clever canines love practicing new skills.
Positive reinforcement, such as treats, praise, and clicker training, work wonders with Double Doodles. With practice, they can become well-mannered and obedient companions. When socialized properly, their natural intelligence and problem-solving skills can make them great for agility and therapy work.
Throughout their first year, Double Doodle puppies need consistent puppy training and ongoing training in basic obedience. Investing in your dog's training teaches them good manners. It also helps with household rules and provides the mental stimulation they naturally need.
Regular training and practice sessions will make both you and your dog happier. Good leash manners will help you enjoy walks with your dog. Here are some tips on developing good leash manners. When socialized and trained from an early age, Double Doodles can be great family dogs.
Temperament and Personality of Double Doodle dogs
The Double Doodle personality is similar to that of Labradoodles and Goldendoodles. Usually considered to be good family dogs, they are friendly, affectionate, playful, and energetic. If you’re looking to train a guide dog, a double doodle could be the right choice, depending on the individual dog.
Their playful nature and loyalty make them beloved members of the family. Because of their friendly and outgoing nature, these dogs thrive on human companionship. They love spending time with their families. Whether it's cuddling on the couch, playing fetch in the backyard, or going for long walks in the park, Double Doodles are always up for an adventure.
For this reason, they can become depressed and bored when isolated. Here are some tips on recognizing dog boredom and how to prevent it.
If you work long hours and are away from home for long periods, you'll need to arrange for regular daycare, dog-sitting, or dog-walking services. If they don't get the attention and activity they require, Double Doodles will develop unwanted behaviors such as excessive barking and destructive chewing.
Finding Your Perfect Double Doodle Companion
If you've fallen for the charm of Double Doodle dog breeds, you might be wondering where to find your perfect furry companion. Adoption shelters, rescue organizations, and reputable breeders are excellent places to start your search. Be sure to do your research, ask plenty of questions, and meet the dog in person before deciding.
Remember, bringing a Double Doodle home is a lifelong commitment that requires love, patience, and dedication. If you decide to purchase a Double Doodle, research the breeder so that you are not inadvertently supporting puppy mills or unethical breeding practices.
Make sure the puppy comes from a responsible and well-respected breeder or rescue that prioritizes the health, safety, and well-being of the dogs at all times. The more experience they have, the easier it will be to research them. Read through their website and social media to get a sense of their reputation.
Look for testimonials from people who have gotten puppies from them in the past. You should also be able to visit the litter at the breeder's location. Take note of the environment and the condition of the dogs. Does the property look clean? Do the puppies appear to be thriving, lively, and vigorous?
The breeder should also care about who you are. They should ask you questions and want to know that their puppy will be going to a good home. This is a good sign that they care about their dogs.
What to look for when visiting a breeder:
Ask to see the litter’s parents. A responsible breeder may not always have the father on site, but the mother should be there. They should be happy to have you meet her. If you are not allowed to see the mother or the breeder hesitates, find a different breeder. This is a red flag for unsanitary, overcrowded conditions with unhealthy dogs.
Observe the mother's temperament. Spend some time with the mother. Play with her, and give her a treat. Notice how she reacts. Her temperament will tell you a lot about the puppies’ personalities.
Take note of the living conditions of the dogs. Is the kennel area clean? Do the dogs look comfortable and content? Do they have access to an indoor area? How much time are the dogs in the kennel? Do they have time to play in an open area? Do they interact with the dogs in and out of the kennel? It is ideal for the dogs to be allowed in the breeder’s house so the puppies can be socialized. A good breeder will expose the puppies to a wide range of experiences appropriate for their age, such as contact with kids, household activities, and other pets. They should have plenty of interaction and outdoor time, especially after four weeks of age.
Conclusion
As a relatively new hybrid breed, Double Doodles are becoming more popular. Hopefully, this article has given you a little more information on these adorable dogs. If you're thinking of getting one, take some time to do some research, so you know what to expect. Make sure you're prepared to take care of a Double Doodle’s health care, grooming needs, and living requirements.
If you decide to welcome a Double Doodle into your home, you're sure to have twice the fun!