What is a Double Doodle?

Hey there! Elina here. If you've been researching Doodles, you've likely come across the term "Double Doodle" and wondered, "What is a Double Doodle?"

By the end of this article, you'll know all things Double Doodle including their unique traits, ideal home environment and what makes them so popular!

A Double Doodle is a hybrid dog breed made by crossing the Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever and Poodle) and the Goldendoodle (Golden Retriever and Poodle).  

This means that a Double Doodle carries the genes of three popular breeds: Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and Poodle. These breeds are known for their intelligence, friendliness, and low shedding coats.

While the Double Doodle dog is a relatively new breed, their story starts with the parent breeds:

• 1980s-1990s: The Labradoodle and Goldendoodle were first bred to create dogs suitable for allergy sufferers.
• Early 2000s: As demand grew, breeders began crossing Labradoodles and Goldendoodles to enhance their best qualities.
• Present day: The Double Doodle has gained popularity as families search for intelligent, low-shedding, and affectionate dogs.

The Double Doodle comes in a variety of sizes and coat types:

• Standard Double Doodles typically weigh between 50 and 70 pounds, standing around 21-24 inches tall.
• Mini Double Doodles are smaller, weighing between 25 and 35 pounds, with a height of 15-18 inches.

Their coats can be curly like a Poodle, wavy like a perfect Doodle mix, or a bit straighter like their Retriever heritage. Coat colors range from cream, apricot and chocolate to black and even parti-color patterns.

One of the biggest reasons Double Doodles have become so popular is their temperament. In general, they are known to be:

• Friendly and outgoing with people and other dogs
• Intelligent and easy to train - many Double Doodles are even therapy dogs
• Playful and energetic, always up for a game or adventure
• Affectionate and loving, making great family pets

First, it's important to know that "hypoallergenic" does NOT mean allergy-free. Hypoallergenic breeds simply produce fewer allergens and may be more tolerable for allergy sufferers.

So are Double Doodles hypoallergenic? Yes. Are Double Doodles allergen-free? No.

Their Poodle ancestry means they have low-shedding coats, which significantly reduces the amount of dander in your home. This means they can be a good choice for mild allergy sufferers, as long as you keep up with regular grooming and cleaning.

Tips for Managing Allergies:

• Regular grooming to remove loose hair and dander.
  • Here are the Top 10 Grooming Tools for your Double Doodle
• Use a quality air purifier in your home.
• Keep your dog out of allergy-sensitive areas, like bedrooms.

Regular grooming is key to preventing mats and tangles, especially if your dog has a curly or wavy coat.

Grooming Tips for Double Doodles:

• Curly coats: Brush at least 3-4 times a week to prevent matting.
• Wavy/straight coats: Brush 2-3 times a week to maintain smoothness.
• Bathing: Every 4-6 weeks, or as needed.
• Professional grooming: Every 6-8 weeks for a trim and style.

Double Doodles generally live a long and healthy life with an average lifespan of 12-15 years. But like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues, including:

• Elbow and hip dysplasia
• Eye problems like progressive retinal atrophy
• Ear infections
• Skin allergies

The best way to catch any issues is through regular vet check-ups and feeding your Double Doodle a healthy and balanced diet.

Expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 for a Double Doodle puppy, depending on the breeder’s reputation and the dog’s size or coat color. In addition to the initial cost, you should also budget for:

• Monthly food costs: $60-$300 (depending on quality of food)
• Grooming: $100-$200 per session.
• Vet care: $200-$500 annually for routine visits.

Double Doodles can be wonderful dogs and would thrive in homes where they'll get:

• Plenty of exercise and playtime
• Consistent training and socialization
• Regular grooming to maintain that beautiful coat
• Lots of love and attention from their humans

Before becoming a Double Doodle owner, make sure you're prepared for the commitment they require. And if you are, you'll be rewarded with an intelligent, loving, and adorable addition to your family

• High-Quality Puppy Food: Double Doodles thrive on premium puppy food formulated for medium to large breeds with active lifestyles.
• Healthy Treats: Essential for training, choose small, soft treats that are easy to eat quickly during training sessions.
• Stainless Steel Food and Water Bowls: These are durable, easy to clean, and won't harbor bacteria like plastic bowls can.

• Slicker Brush and Steel Comb: These are crucial for preventing mats in your Double Doodle's coat. You can find the detailed instructions on our blog on how to detangle your doodle's hair.
• Nail Clippers: Start nail trimming early to help your puppy get comfortable with the process.
• High-Quality Dog Shampoo: Choose a gentle, natural formula that helps moisturize the sensitive skin of your doodle.

• Comfortable Bed : A washable, durable bed provides comfort and a designated sleeping area for your puppy. You can also find more bed options on our blog “5 Best Dog Beds for Doodles”

With their muppet-like faces, friendly personalities, and low-shedding coats, it's easy to see why Double Doodles are such a popular and growing breed. This hybrid dog breed has the best traits of Labradors, Golden Retrievers and Poodles all in one cute, cuddly package.

If you're looking for an active, affectionate and trainable dog, a Double Doodle is your perfect match. Just be sure you can keep up with their grooming needs and give them the plenty of exercise and attention.