Are Poodle Mixes Healthy

Poodle mixes refer to the offspring of a purebred Poodle and another purebred dog breed. It started way back 1950s and 1960s when the Cockapoo was introduced. However, Poodle mixes’ popularity has been continuously increasing as years passed. It is because they are also known to be friendly, intelligent, cute, and hypoallergenic. 

But, some potential dog owners that are new to dog hybrids are concerned about whether Poodle mixes are healthy. So, this article will discuss Poodle mixes’ health, their potential health issues, and what are the healthiest poodle mixes.

Are Poodle Dog Mixes Healthy?

The majority of poodle mix dogs are generally healthy. Dogs of mixed breeds have a greater genetic variety than dogs of purebreds, giving them a better chance of avoiding genetic illness. However, to be sure whether your Poodle mix is at risk of any type of health problem, it is crucial to speak with a professional breeder to learn more about the genetic health of the parents.

Even though Poodle mixes are considered healthy, it does not mean that they are completely safe from the genetic disease that their purebred parents have. For example, if a Poodle mix’s parent has a hip dysplasia recessive gene, they are still at risk of inheriting it. 

What Are the Potential Health Issues of Poodle Mixes 

Now, here are the potential health issues of Poodle mixes. Knowing these possible issues can help you watch out for their health better and more effectively. 

Addison’s Disease

All dogs, whether purebred or mixed, can develop Addison’s Disease. This disease occurs when your pet’s adrenal glands are not producing enough corticosteroid hormones. These hormones are responsible for controlling your dog’s immune system and stress response, producing anti-inflammation properties, and more. 

Although it can emerge in dogs as young as 15 weeks old, Addison’s disease commonly develops in middle-aged canines between the ages of 4 and 6 years old. 

Cardiomyopathy

According to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine (n.d), canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) reduces the heart’s capability to pump blood. DCM is a crucial disease that needs immediate professional attention. All dogs can be affected; however, medium to large-sized dog breeds are more prone.

Eye issues

The most common eye issues among Poodle mixes are tear staining. When this happens, brown, pink, or red stains called “tear stains” appear in the corners of the eyes. It is a pretty prevalent issue, especially in breeds with white coats. Aside from tear staining, other common eye issues are progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cataracts, and glaucoma.

Epilepsy

Affecting 0.75% of the dog population, Epilepsy is considered the most prevalent neurological condition among dogs. This health issue is usually hereditary, and since it is common for Standard Poodles, it increases the chances of Doodles with Standard Poodle parents acquiring it too. 

In most cases, lifelong medicine is required to help control seizures, and regular blood tests are necessary to track side effects.

Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV)

Any dog may be afflicted with a life-threatening condition known as gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV). However, it is most frequently observed among big and “deep-chested” dogs. GDV symptoms may begin abruptly and worsen swiftly. Dogs are more vulnerable after consuming large amounts of food or liquids, especially if they partake in physical activities immediately after eating or drinking. 

The major signs of GDV include:

• Bloating
• Stomach pain
• Excessive drooling and vomiting
• If your dog is trying to vomit but can’t 

Hip dysplasia

Hip dysplasia among Poodle mixes is usually due to genetics. Dogs with hip dysplasia have unsteady gait and trouble getting out of a seated or reclining posture. Some dogs will hesitate when climbing stairs. Although pups as young as a few months old might exhibit these symptoms, dogs one to two years of age exhibit them most frequently.

Hypothyroidism

This disease is prevalent among dogs in general. Hypothyroidism refers to the hormone imbalance that is often caused by thyroid gland swelling or shrinking. When this happens, it decreases the level of your dog’s thyroid hormones and results in thyroid function destruction. 

Legg-Perthes Disease

Small-sized breeds are more prone to Legg-Perthes Disease. It is hereditary and mostly affects breeds like Poodles, Chihuahuas, and Pomeranians. Unlike other diseases, Legg-Parthes already show up during your dog’s early months. When the femur’s ball at the top stops receiving blood, it degenerates inside the hip joint and causes this issue.

Luxating Patella

A luxating patella is a result of a dog’s kneecap (or patella) shifting out of its original place. The dog patella is normally located on the thighbone. It may affect one or both of the back legs. The majority of small breed dogs progress in this direction medially, or toward the interior of the leg.

Von Willebrand’s Disease

Mostly, purebred dogs are the ones who suffer from the blood condition Von Willebrand disease. However, that does not mean that Poodle mixes o hybrid dogs, in general, are safe from it. If a purebred parent has a recessive gene carrying the disease, their offspring can acquire it. 

Which Issues Are Similar to All Poodle Mixes

As mentioned, even though Poodle mixes have lower chances of inheriting genetic diseases because of their larger gene pool, they are still at risk. With that, all Poodle mixes can inherit any condition that their purebred parent might have. Some of those genetic problems are the ones mentioned above. 

Are Some Doodles Healthier Than Others?

The health of a Poodle mix ultimately depends on factors other than the breeds of its parents and must take into account aspects like the health of each parent individually, the generation of the hybrid, and even then, there may still be diversity within a litter.

However, comparing the breed being considered for crossbreeding with the Poodle to the list of typical Poodle health issues might be a helpful predictor. For example, since Great Danes and Newfoundlands are also predisposed to GDV or “bloat”, it is unlikely to be eliminated during crossbreeding with a Poodle.

Moreover, their diet can also play a big role in their health.

10 Healthiest Poodle Mixes

Here is the list of healthiest Poodle mixes: 

Aussiedoodle

The Aussiedoodle is a mixed-breed dog that has an Australian Shepherd and Poodle as its parents.  Although poodles and Australian shepherds are both generally healthy dogs, there are a few important conditions to look out for, including hip and elbow dysplasia, genetic eye problems, and epilepsy.

Even though hip dysplasia can also be a genetic issue, good weight control and the right amount of activity for an Aussiedoodle can help avoid it.

Bernedoodles

Bernedoodles are considered a healthier dog breed compared to purebred Bernese. It is endearing, silly, upbeat, and intelligent due to its parent’s (Poodle and Bernese Mountain Dog) common characteristics.

Cavoodles

Even though Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are generally a healthy mixed breed, the National Breed Club recommends they undergo these tests to know if they have some of the most common health issues among their breed: Patella Evaluation, Cardiac Exam, Ophthalmologist Evaluation, and Hip Evaluation.

Dalmadoodles

These poodles, which are typically between 40 and 70 pounds, are a cross between a Dalmatian and a Poodle. They have a lifespan of between 11 and 14 years on average. Moreover, their dalmatian parents have been known to contain genes that cause loss of hearing and vision. Thus, it is crucial to thoroughly conduct health tests while they are young since this problem may be passed on to puppies.

Goldendoodles

Goldendoodles are the offspring of a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. They are known to be active and muscular with a weight range of  15 to 90 pounds. Their median lifetime is between 10 and 15 years, with smaller dogs often living longer. Goldendoodles are more prone to eye, skin, and hip dysplasia illnesses.

Great Danoodles

Great Danoodles are the offspring of a Great Dane and a Poodle. Given that they may weigh anywhere from 75 to 100 pounds, these dogs are larger than most Poodle mixes. Even though this hybrid does not have many genetic problems, larger dog breeds are still prone to some medical issues like cancer, epilepsy, and joint dysplasia. Danoodles generally live between 8 and 13 years.

Irish Doodles

Poodle and Irish Setter hybrids are known as Irish Poodles. These dogs have one of the shortest lifespans among the poodle breeds, averaging 10–13 years and weighing between 40 and 70 pounds. They may be predisposed to epilepsy, blindness, and hip dysplasia.

Labradoodles

A Labrador and a Poodle hybrid create Labradoodles. Their weight ranges from 15 to 60 pounds, and they are healthy Poodle crossbreed. Labradoodles have a lifespan of 15 years or longer if they have a healthy lifestyle and engage in regular exercise. 

Regarding health issues, Labradoodles are susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia, which can result in arthritis. Additionally, ear infections may be more common among them due to their floppy ears, which they inherited from their Labrador parent.

Sheepadoodles

The offspring of a sheepdog and a poodle is known as a sheepadoodle. It has a lifetime of 12 to 15 years and its size ranges from 15 to 85 pounds. They are typically in excellent health, however, they can have gastric dilation, diabetes, and hip dysplasia.

Schnoodles

Schnoodles, which are a cross between a schnauzer and a poodle, may weigh anywhere from 7 pounds to 75 pounds. As long as they are in good condition and are active, this breed normally lives 12 to 16 years. As they age, eye issues might emerge. These might show up as gradual retinal atrophy or cataracts. 

Are Poodle Mixes Healthy: FAQs

Before we officially wrap this article, here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Poodle mixes’ health: 

There is no specific Poodle mix that is the healthiest since it will always depend on their exercise, diet, and their parent’s health and genes. Now, to ensure that your dog is in their healthiest form, ensure that they attain the right amount of exercise, has an appropriate diet and underwent its required health tests.