Welcome! I am a Toronto based pet photographer and I love photographing Doodle dogs!

I’ve had the opportunity to photograph numerous Doodle mixes and they are really wonderful dogs. In fact the love of my life, Lexi is an Aussiedoodle! So I am definitely a Doodle person. There’s her photo below.

So then you may be asking why I don’t recommend Doodles for everyone?

In this blog post, we will explore 5 reasons why Doodle dogs may not be the right dog for everyone.

Since May 1st is International Doodle Dog day, I thought it timely to write about why these wonderful mixed breed dogs may not be right for everyone!

International Doodle Dog Day s a special day dedicated to celebrating one of the most popular crossbreeds in the world, and certainly here in the Toronto area:  Doodle dogs. It started in  2018 when a group of doodle dog enthusiasts came together to celebrate their love for these adorable pups. Since then, the holiday has gained popularity and has become a worldwide celebration of poodle-mix breeds from all around the world.

Doodle dogs, which are a crossbreed between a poodle and another breed, are known for their friendly personalities, low-shedding coats, and high intelligence levels. Some of the most popular Doodles are Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, Bernedoodles, and Aussiedoodles.

Take a look at a related post on the pros and cons of owning a Goldendoodle.

But is a Doodle the right dog for you and your lifestyle? If you are thinking about getting a Doodle, what are the factors that you need to consider before you go out and purchase that puppy?

1. Maintenance

Doodles are often recommended for people who suffer from mild pet allergies. Being part Poodle, their coats are considered to be hypoallergenic with very little shedding.

But the idea that they are low maintenance could not be further from the truth. You need to expect and prepare for daily home maintenance. This includes brushing and combing almost everyday or they can become very matted. They will also require a haircut 6 or more times per year which means frequent trips to the groomer or learning how to groom them yourself.

You could of course keep your Doodle shaved down but then you don’t have the gorgeous fluffy hair that may have attracted you to the breed in the first place.

2. Energy

Poodles are among the most intelligent of dog breeds. So your Doodle is sure to be a smart dog that is quick and eager to learn, of course depending on what he or she is mixed with. If its a Goldendoodle, a Labradoodle or an Aussiedoodle you know you’re going to have really smart dog that is easy to train.  

But beware!!

Doodle dogs tend to be highly energetic and require a significant amount of exercise and mental stimulation. They may not be the best fit for those with a sedentary lifestyle or those who don't have the time or resources to provide them with regular exercise and activity.

Being a combination of Poodle and another working breed, such as Golden Retrievers, Australian Shepherds, Labradors, Sheepdogs, Bernese Mountain dogs, they are high-maintenance, high-energy dogs. They can and will become destructive if they are bored. They will require training, and quite a lot of it. You will need to help them channel all that energy and put it to good use instead of mischief.

If you don't have the time, resources or ability to provide them with regular exercise and activity then this is not the dog for you!

3. Expense

Doodles can be expensive to own. Firstly Doodle breeders are charging several thousand dollars for a puppy, due to the popularity of the breeds. Then you need to factor in the frequent trips to the groomer which are easily over $120 per time. That doesn’t include a tip.

4. Sociability

Doodles tend to be highly sociable which in most cases make for a great family dog.

However, if you are not able to spend the time to provide them with the attention they desire they will most likely become bored and depressed. This can then lead to bad behaviours including destroying stuff around the home and suffering from separation anxiety.

Their desire to be with people must be taken into account if you work long hours and need to leave your pup home alone or if you travel a lot. If this is you, consider another breed.

5. Barking

I came across this informative site called Doodle Doods that gives a lot of info on the various Doodle Dogs.
In their survey results from hundreds of Doodle owners to see what behaviour issues Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, Bernedoodles, and Aussiedoodles are prone to, it was found that they tend to bark more than average. So if you are hoping for a nice quiet dog - you may want to strike a doodle dog off your list!

Well, by now you’ve read why Doodle Dogs may not be the right dog for everyone.

But having said that, they do have many wonderful traits and if the precautions mentioned above do not apply to your lifestyle, then go ahead - get that Doodle puppy or rescue and enjoy many wonderful years with a loyal and loving companion.

An important note when considering a Doodle is to ensure that you do your research on any potential breeder.  Their surge in popularity in recent years, has unfortunately led to some unethical breeding practices. For information on reputable breeders in Canada, please visit Goldendoodle Association of North America 

If you are in the Toronto area and are considering a pet photography session with your Doodle dog, you are in the right place!  Simply contact me and we can chat.

And while we are on the subject of Doodle dogs, Dallas dog photographer Tracy Allard of Penny Whistle Photography shares some cute photos of the oodles of doodles she's photographed in and around the DFW metroplex.

Then click the link at the end of her post for more on Doodles. Keep clicking the links at the end of each post until you get right back here. That’s the blog circle!

Terri J Photography specializes in on-location pet photography in the Toronto area, providing dogs and cats and their people with memorable portraits. Also serving Richmond Hill, Markham, Vaughan, Etobicoke, Scarborough, Mississauga and beyond.