Mini Spoodle Guide: Size, Lifespan, Temperament, and Adoption Tips

Mini-spoodle dog breed is a combination of a poodle and a cocker spaniel. It takes the best attributes of these breeds and combines them into a lovable ball of fur with tons of energy.

Despite being so small, these dogs are very energetic, so they’re going to require plenty of exercise. Australians who adopt a mini-spoodle will need to prepare themselves for many walks. When it comes to picking a dog, it is always best to adopt it, even if it is difficult to find the specific breed you want.

In particular, it can be difficult to find mini-spoodle dogs in shelters because they’re somewhat rare and they’re very popular among Australians. Continue reading below to learn more about this breed.

Highlights Of Mini Spoodle Dogs

As the name suggests, mini spoodles are small, with most weighing up to 14kg at the max. Most weigh around 7kg. They rarely grow taller than 38cm. The spoodle doesn’t shed as much as other breeds, making them a good choice for people with allergy issues. The first mini spoodles were bred in the United States in the 60s.

The mini spoodle is bigger than a toy spoodle but smaller than a standard spoodle. Since they inherit the traits of their cocker spaniel parent, it is common for these dogs to be wary and anxious.

Spoodles are often compared to Cavoodles, but there are key differences. In particular, spoodles are better for families who want a slightly bigger dog.
On average, the mini spoodle can live up to 13 years.

History Of The Mini Spoodle Breed

The mini spoodle was introduced in the United States in the 1960s. Around this time, it was created by breeding a miniature poodle with a cocker spaniel. In the last ten years, this breed has become one of the most popular in Australia.

During the crossbreeding phase, the breeder can use an English or American cocker spaniel. Simultaneously, they have the option of a toy or miniature poodle. Toy dogs are generally under twenty pounds. As for miniature dogs, they weigh between six and twenty pounds.

The goal of crossbreeding was to reduce the risk of genetic diseases that are common among purebred dogs. Today, it is common for these dogs to be called cockapoos or cockerdoodles since it is a crossbreed of a cocker spaniel and a poodle. Designer dog breeders in the United States created the first cockapoo.

Their goal was to breed a healthier dog that wouldn’t inherit the genetic defects associated with the two parent breeds. These dogs have been consistently bred since the 1960s. Since then, they’ve become one of the most popular and expensive breeds in the world.

During the COVID-19 lockdown, the average price of the cockapoo rose by more than 160%. In the United Kingdom, the price of this breed is around 1,300 pounds.

This breed is not recognized by any major kennel club, and that can be a problem for some. In the United States, a dedicated club called the Cockapoo Club of America was formed to promote the breeding of this breed.

Size Of The Mini Spoodle Breed

The size of the mini spoodle will depend on the selected breeding mates. Nevertheless, they’re generally small and light. In terms of weight, they’ll range from 5 to 14kg. They can be as tall as 38cm. Again, the ultimate size and weight are dependent on the dog’s parents.

Remember that the spoodle breed is available in a variety of sizes, including teacup and mini. If you want the smallest spoodle, you should choose a teacup spoodle.

This offshoot of the breed is created by breeding a small cocker spaniel with a toy poodle. Then, it is common for the breeder to use the runt of the litter to create consistent teacup offspring.

A toy spoodle can weigh up to 5kg or slightly more and grow as tall as 24cm.

A standard spoodle will weigh approximately 7kg and grow as tall as 35cm. Finally, the standard spoodle is the tallest of the bunch. It can weigh 14kg. At the maximum, a standard spoodle may be up to 40cm in height. Despite being called mini, the mini spoodle is actually in the middle of the pack.

Mini Spoodle Breed Personality

Australians love mini spoodle dogs because they’re so affectionate and loving. When properly trained, these dogs are great for families. They can safely live among children without causing any issues. On top of that, they’re versatile, so they can live in large homes or small apartments. They’re adaptable, meaning they’ll eventually settle into your home.

However, it should be noted that mini spoodles require significant exercise. That can be an issue for owners living in small apartments. Be sure to plan for many walks. Otherwise, your mini spoodle will keep you awake at night. These dogs are very intelligent, and they want to please their owners.

The good news is that this makes them easy to train. They love barking, so training them not to bark will be an uphill battle. On the other hand, mini spoodles aren’t aggressive, so they can be housed around other dogs and small children.

Mini Spoodle Health Concerns

The mini spoodle is a crossbreed, so it is less likely to encounter genetic issues. After all, the crossbreeding process aims to minimize the risk of genetic diseases associated with the parent breeds.

Nevertheless, the mini spoodle can still encounter an array of issues. Due to their small stature, these dogs are prone to orthopedic and musculoskeletal issues.

Other potential risks include Cushing’s disease, diabetes, eye disease, and heart disease. These dogs can also experience bleeding disorders. Mini spoodles born with diabetes will require daily injections of insulin. Properly managing the issue ensures that the dog will have a high quality of life.

If you notice that your dog is drinking or urinating more frequently, it may be a good idea to have it tested for diabetes. Regular check-ups with your preferred vet can help diagnose problems sooner so they can be treated before they worsen.

Care Requirements For Mini Spoodle Dogs

Dogs of this breed have lots of energy, and they love to bark. This combination can create problems for certain people, especially older individuals who cannot move around well.

If you’re unable to go for multiple walks each day or you have a small apartment, a mini spoodle may not be a good choice for you. These dogs need space to run so they can burn off energy throughout the day.

These dogs are also great for agility sports despite their small stature. If you live in a small apartment, you will need to train your dog not to bark at everything.

Otherwise, you’ll get complaints from your neighbors. Lots of walks are required as well. With plenty of exercise sessions, your mini spoodle will behave much better.

Feeding Requirements For Mini Spoodle Dogs

As with other dogs, it is pertinent to give your dog a healthy diet. It is best to stick with food specifically made for dogs. Using a combination of dry and wet food can be okay, but you should try to feed the dog dry food more often.

After all, mini spoodle dogs tend to experience tartar build-up easily. If the dog is eating dry food, this will be less likely to happen.

Chewing the food will help remove the tartar from the dog’s teeth. Feeding your mini spoodle won’t be expensive unless you choose dry dog food from a topline brand. However, there will be other expenses to consider.

For instance, the dog is going to require many visits to a professional groomer. For a mini spoodle that weighs 3 pounds, it is best to feed it half a cup of dry food each day.

Be careful about giving your dog too many treats because doing so can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other issues. A combination of a healthy diet and plenty of exercise will keep the dog happy and healthy for many years to come.

Mini Spoodle Coat And Grooming

Due to the mini spoodle’s coat, the dog will require a lot of attention from a professional groomer. On the other hand, you’ll be glad to know that spoodles do not shed as much as other dogs.

Even if you’re allergic, you can probably live with one of these dogs without too many issues. Regardless, your mini spoodle’s coat will require significant care to keep it clean, healthy, and shiny. At the very least, your dog should visit a professional groomer every six weeks.

Although it is recommended that the dog be bathed at least once a month, every two weeks is better. If the dog runs through mud, bathe is sooner. Brush your spoodle’s coat every few days. You can also rinse its coat with water.

Furthermore, you’ll need to properly care for the dog’s teeth and ears. Frequent ear cleaning is pertinent for preventing infections. The dog’s teeth should be brushed daily.

Doing so will greatly reduce the likelihood that the dog will develop tartar and gingivitis. Finally, make sure you clean your dog’s eyes daily. If you don’t, the dog will develop tear staining and eye discharge. Be diligent about caring for your dog to avoid potential issues.

Spoodle Children And Other Pets

The spoodle is an extrovert breed. It can safely venture into public areas and events thanks to its sociable, easygoing, and affable personality. When properly trained, the dog demonstrates superior restraint and control around other pets and children.

The downside to the spoodle is its tendency to bark. Some experts refer to the spoodle as a “talkative breed.” A few training sessions will go a long way in teaching a talkative spoodle not to bark at other dogs and people.

When spoodles are raised alongside felines (cats), they tend to get along with cat breeds with an easygoing temperament. The same can be said about even-tempered canine breeds.

People who suffer from allergies and asthma are oftentimes forced to live in pet-free homes. A spoodle routinely groomed generally does not shed, making it a good match with children who have allergies and asthma.

Adopting a Mini Spoodle: Breeders vs. Rescues

The spoodle is a popular breed among families and seniors. The high popularity makes it unlikely to adopt the breed from a shelter. The better option is a breed-specific dog rescue.

There are spoodle-specific rescues throughout Australia. Most of these organizations are willing to ship their spoodle rescues to other states, territories, cities, and countries.

The process requires airfare, which is oftentimes covered by the adoptee.
People looking to adopt a spoodle from a shelter or rescue group will need to be patient. It is best not to make rash decisions when it comes to pet adoption.

Reputable rescue groups put each spoodle through a series of medical and temperament testing. The dog should receive medical and temperament clearance before being put up for adoption.

It is unfortunate, but some spoodle rescues are not suitable for adoption. A reputable rescue group will look for suitable alternatives for aggressive spoodles. Honesty is always the best policy.

In the United States, a dedicated club was formed to promote this unique breed. The Cockapoo Club of America was formed to register breeders and provide potential owners with information about the breed in question.

Individuals looking for a mini spoodle can check with several Australian groups, including the RSPCA, the Dogs Trust, and the Battersea Dogs Home.

• New Beginnings Animal Rescue Inc.
• Cocker Spaniel Rescue Australia (CSRA)
• Poodles In Need of Help and/or Rescue Australia Wide
• Poodle Cross Rescue
• carolinapoodlerescue.org

Conclusion

The spoodle is suitable for homes with children, senior citizens, and people with disabilities. The breed offers two important benefits, including companionship and protection.

People who live alone may find that spoodle helps them sleep at night. The even-tempered, outgoing temperament makes it suitable for outdoor activities and public events.

The spoodle is prone to various conditions, including cataracts, dislocating knee caps (luxating patellas), ear infections, and skin allergies. This information is just a smidgen of what people need to know before adopting a spoodle.