Cadoodle: Your Complete Guide

The cadoodle is a combination of a poodle and a collie. When you mix these breeds, you get an intelligent dog with a mild temperament that meshes well with other people, animals, and even children. For this reason, cadoodles have become a popular family dog across the United States, Europe, and the rest of the world. Cadoodles are so highly sought-after due to their unique appearance, protective nature, and low grooming needs.

While there is a lot to learn about cadoodles, you’re in the right place. This article covers what a cadoodle is, their history, their temperament, and who they’re a good fit for. Read on to learn everything you need to know about the cadoodle.

Quick Look at the Cadoodle

Below is a quick glance at the cadoodle breed in terms of their physical characteristics, lifespan, temperament, height/weight, and grooming needs.

What Is the History of Cadoodles?

To understand the history of the cadoodle you need to learn the vast history of the parent breeds: the poodle and the collie. We’ll begin with the poodle, then move into the collie and cadoodle.

The standard poodle has been around for centuries. Poodles were bred for hunting in harsh terrains with minimal coat maintenance, and they’re thought to have originated in Germany. While the breed is thought to have come from Germany, poodles have a vast history that stretches across Europe. In fact, there are French, Spanish, Polish, and English poodles. That said, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized poodles as a breed in 1888.

On the other hand, the collie is thought to have originated in England around 2,000 years ago. Some sources also suggest that the dogs could have originated from Scotland. What made the collie popular was their usefulness for herding and their gentle temperament with other people and animals. Collies were recognized by the AKC in 1885.

While the history of the poodle and collie is more well-known, the history of this mixed breed is less obvious. However, people began mixing the breeds decades ago to pair the collie’s herding ability with the poodle’s intelligence.

What Do Cadoodles Look Like?

Cadoodles are usually medium-sized dogs that are around 22-26 inches tall with short or medium coats. They look like a mix of a collie and a poodle but the breed might share more traits with one parent breed than the other. For example, you won’t always come across a perfect 50/50 mixture. That said, there are some consistencies across the breed. Their coats are usually double-coated, thick, and hardy, while their ears can be pointed or floppy.

As for their eye color, most cadoodles have dark eyes that are usually brown. Some common coat colors include blue merle, brown, white, and black. However, some cadoodles may have a mix of these colors.

Some other notable features include their medium-length muzzle and athletic build. Females are also smaller, on average, than their male counterparts but this can depend on the parent genes.

What Size Is a Cadoodle?

Cadoodles vary in height and weight based on the parent genes. Plus, male and female cadoodles have some variations you need to consider. Typically, male cadoodles are about 26 inches tall at the shoulder, and they can weigh up to 70 pounds. On the other hand, females are about 22 inches tall at the shoulder and usually closer to 50 pounds. Still, these are general trends, and with mixed breeds, you have to consider variations based on patent genetics. Overall, expect a medium-sized dog.

What Is a Cadoodle’s Coat Type and Length?

A caboodle’s hair type and length vary depending on the influence of the parents. For example, some cadoodles will have rough and curly hair like a poodle, while others will have straight hair from the collie. Mixes between hair types, like wavy or wiry, are also possible in cadoodles. That said, many cadoodles inherit a water-repellent coat from their poodle parents.

Typically, the coat type is medium in length, so you don’t have to worry about long hair being found all over the place.

What Is a Cadoodle’s Temperament?

Cadoodles are a mix between a poodle and a collie, so they share many of the personality traits with their parent breeds. On the poodle side of things, cadoodles are calm, patient, smart, and mostly quiet. While they do have a prey drive this is usually a behavior that can be trained away. Most cadoodles also have the loyalty that poodles have and the energy that collies have, so be ready for a little ball of energy when they get outside.

Are Cadoodles Good With Kids?

You should always keep your eyes on your kids around and dog breed, but cadoodles aren’t too much of a problem. If your children are toddlers or younger, you’ll want to let them interact but in a supervised environment. Otherwise, teenagers and adolescents shouldn’t have any issues with a cadoodle. Just make sure no play sessions get too rough to avoid any problems.

Are Cadoodles Good With Other Animals?

Cadoodles are great with other animals, but how good will depend on the genetic makeup of the dog. For example, cadoodles with more collie in them will have less of a prey drive and more of a herding background, so they’ll get along with animals of all sizes without much socialization. However, cadoodles that have more poodles in them are more likely to have a prey drive and that can result in them chasing smaller animals.

While it’s hard to tell right out of the gate what types of genes your cadoodle has, the best way to avoid problems is to socialize them young.

Are Cadoodles Aggressive?

Cadoodles are not aggressive. In fact, they’re quite the opposite. Cadoodles are friendly dogs that love to please their owners. Plus, they’re calm and patient with strangers, children, and sometimes other animals. While they can get aggressive to protect your family if you’re in danger, don’t expect random outbursts of aggression that result in harm. Of course, it’s always possible, but highly unlikely with this breed.

Do Cadoodles Bark?

Cadoodles can bark but they don’t bark very often. However, if they notice other animals or dogs they may bark as a reaction. Some cadoodles will also bark at strangers or other people but this behavior can always be trained away if it’s something that bothers you. It’s also important to note that cadoodles can also bark more if their predominantly collies because collies are known for barking more frequently.

Are Cadoodles Affectionate?

Cadoodles can be affectionate dogs but this depends on their temperament. On average, cadoodles are loyal and will enjoy being around you but they’re not always lap dogs. Some cadoodles will also be more open to strangers and meeting new people or animals than others. If you’re looking for a dog that will offer some occasion snuggles without having to be the center of attention, the cadoodle is perfect.

Are Cadoodles Intelligent?

As a mix between poodles and collies, yes, there is no question that a cadoodle is a smart breed. These dogs are a combination of two of the smartest breeds around, so you’ll have no problem training them, controlling them, and instilling discipline in them. That said, they are smart enough to get into trouble or escape from your yard or home, so we recommend dog-proofing it to the best of your ability.

Are Cadoodles Energetic?

Cadoodles are energetic dogs. They’re not the most energetic dogs but you should help them get at least one hour of exercise per day. Their parent breeds are poodles and collies, which are breeds that have experience with hunting and herding, so it’s not uncommon for them to be ready to get to work. Make sure you walk them, play with them, or train them to keep them happy.

These dogs also love to be trained and challenged, so a passive approach is bound to end up with a cadoodle running all over the place in your home.

Are Cadoodles Easy to Train?

Cadoodles are easy dogs to train. Regardless of how much poodle or collie the dog has, both parent breeds are easy to train as it is. Therefore, it makes sense that cadoodles can learn complex commands. Plus, they can be trained as work dogs, service dogs, and even emotional support animals with the right time and patience.

Cadoodles are also easy enough to train yourself, so you shouldn’t need to bring in too much help. That said, we do recommend working with a professional for more advanced training methods.

Are Cadoodles Good Watchdogs?

Cadoodles are alert and brave, so they can be good watchdogs. They’re not known for barking at everyone who passes by, so if they’re barking at a stranger there’s a good chance that they’re barking for a reason. Cadoodles are also brave and loyal enough to charge in head-first for their owners at the first sign of danger. They’ve been shown to protect all members of the family, so they make great watchdogs. With a little bit of training, they can be even better.

Are Cadoodles Good Service Dogs?

Cadoodles can be good service dogs but it’s not a common service dog breed. The reason that they’re not common is not because they’re a bad fit but because they’re not always easy to adopt. That said, they can handle physical, psychiatric, and other types of service dog work. In fact, they have enough emotional intelligence and discipline to be therapy dogs or emotional support dogs (ESD) as well.

How to Care for a Cadoodle?

Cadoodles aren’t hard dogs to care for, and they’re similar to their parents. Poodles and collies are both independent breeds that thrive on learning commands, hunting, and activities like herding. These traits make it easy to care for cadoodles because you don’t have to worry too much about grooming, their diet, and getting them enough exercise. As long as you get the right food, take your cadoodle to the vet once a year, and ensure that they get about an hour of exercise each day, you shouldn’t have any problems caring for a cadoodle.

Do You Need to Groom a Cadoodle?

Yes, you need to groom a cadoodle. Every dog needs some type of grooming, even if their coat doesn’t need a lot of maintenance. When it comes to cadoodles, you don’t have to worry too much about maintaining their coat as long as you brush them out a few times per week. Playing with your cadoodle and taking them on walks is also enough to wear down their nails as well. That said, sometimes you may have to get their nails clipped by a professional if they don’t wear down on their own.

It’s also a good idea to take them to a professional groomer every three or four months to have their coat maintained. Last but not least, make sure you take care of their dental health with brushing or treats that help with gum health.

Do Cadoodles Shed?

Cadoodles may or may not be heavy shedders depending on the genes they get from their parents. For example, some cadoodles might shed a lot once they exit the puppy phase, whereas other cadoodles will rarely shed at all. Therefore, it comes down to the individual dog and their coat type. Cadoodles with more curly hair have a lower chance of shedding frequently compared to straight-haired breeds.

What Health Problems Do Cadoodles Have?

Cadoodles don’t have too many health problems, but you have to be prepared for any problems that arise as they age. Like any dog breed, cadoodles can become worn down as they grow older, and that can lead to heart disease, cancers, kidney problems, and other issues. The best way to prevent these ailments is to take your cadoodle to the vet annually, especially once they get older. If they need medications, make sure they take them and do your best to keep the weight off as they grow older. The added weight is bad for their hips, legs, heart, and just about everything else.

When it comes to specific issues with cadoodles, Addison’s disease is something you have to worry about as they get older, and it can happen due to poor kidney function. Basically, kidneys stop producing the necessary amount of steroid hormone, and that leads to chronic fatigue and other health issues. To prevent this problem take your dog to the vet often and do your best to keep them hydrated.

Hip dysplasia is also a common problem in cadoodles, as it is in poodles and collies. This condition can be prevented by managing weight.

How Long Do Cadoodles Live?

Cadoodles have a long lifespan compared to some other breeds. Depending on how you care for your cadoodle and their genetic history, it’s possible for them to live for 12 to 15 years. Taking them to the vet often will help you extend their lifespan, so keep this in mind.

What Should a Cadoodle Eat?

Cadoodles need to eat a balanced diet that includes meat, vegetables, fiber, and other micronutrients. This can be obtained in kibble, wet food, and sometimes table food if you don’t mind feeding your dog some of the things that you cook. When it comes to kibble and wet food, look for dog food that’s made for medium-sized dogs for the best nutritional results.

As your cadoodle gets older, you need to ensure that they’re active and keep an eye on their weight. If they become overweight, you might have to change their diet; and yes, just like us, dogs like to pack on the pounds.

Is a Cadoodle the Right Dog for Me?

Cadoodles are an easy breed to care for and won’t have any problems adapting to family life. Therefore, they’re a great choice for first-time dog owners and experienced veterans alike. Ultimately, if you’re looking for an easy dog to train and bond with, you can’t go wrong with this cross between a poodle and a collie.

Still, there are some things you need to consider. While their temperament is usually friendly, it’s possible for the inner poodle to take over around small animals, so you might have to focus on socialization training at an early age to avoid problems with other animals in the house. Also, if you have small children, you don’t want them to play too rough, or they can bite and get rough back, so just be on the lookout for that.

Otherwise, you shouldn’t have any issues with a cadoodle. They thrive in homes of any size, and as long as you can take them for walks, they don’t even need a backyard.