Irish Doodle Breed Guide: 5 Generations Explained

The Irish Doodle is a hybrid dog breed, a cross between an Irish Setter and a Poodle, gaining popularity among dog lovers in recent years. The aim of the cross between these two pure breeds was to develop a furry companion that contains the traits of both parents. With their striking red coats, curly fur, and energetic personalities, Irish Doodles (also known as Irishpoos) have become a beloved addition to many households worldwide.

Parent Breed	Poodle & Irish Setter
First Cross Date	1990s
Average Height	13-15 inches
Average Weight	18-31 kg (40-70 lbs)
Life Span	10-13 Years
Colors	Red, Apricot, Golden, Black
Popular Names	Irish Doodle Setter, Irish Setterdoodle, Irish Setterpoo, Irish Poo Setter
Temperament	Energetic, Playful, Friendly, Caring, Prone to Anxiety
Coat Texture	Long, Dense, and Wavy
Temperature Tolerance	Good
Sheading Nature	Year-round (Less)
Energy Level	High
Social/Attention Needs	High
Grooming frequency	Monthly

Whether you’re already a proud owner of an Irish Doodle, are considering adding an Irish Doodle puppy to your family, or are simply curious about this charming breed, this blog post is the ultimate guide. 

In this blog post, we discuss the traits that make this mixed breed canine so special, from their history and breeding to their personality and temperament and what it takes to care for and train an Irish Doodle.

Keep reading to learn more about this wonderful breed!

Irish Doodles Parent Breeds Brief History 

1) Irish Setter

The Irish Setter is a breed of dog that originated in Ireland, and the first Irish Setters were sometimes called red spaniels. The breed is believed to have descended from a mix of English Setters, Spaniels, Pointers, and Gordon Setters.

Irish Setters were originally bred as hunting dogs, specifically for locating and pointing game birds.

The breed was developed in the 18th century and became popular in the mid-19th century when its elegant appearance and sporting ability attracted the attention of hunters. 

In 1875, the United States welcomed its first-ever Irish Setter, a gorgeous pup named Elcho. With his arrival came a wave of enthusiasm for the breed, which was soon evidenced in show circles and the field.

Three years later, in 1878, the American Kennel Club registered its first Irish Setter.

This amazing dog breed ranks 68th among the 155 breeds recognized by the AKC.

Key Characteristics:

• Affectionate With Family
• Affectionate With Children And Pets
• Require Less Grooming
• Easy To Train 
• Friendly Toward Strangers
• Intelligence
• High Energy Level

Vital Stats:

• Average Height: 20-27 Inches
• Average Weight: 25-31 kg (60 – 70 lbs)
• Average Life Span: 11-15 years
• Dog Breed Group: Sporting Dogs

2) Poodle

The Poodle is one of the most ancient dog breeds. Initially developed as a water retriever, the breed’s remarkable intelligence and physical prowess earned it immense popularity among European nobles in the 16th and 17th centuries.

According to historical records, Poodles were first depicted in a painting by the German artist Albrecht Dürer in the 1400s.

Despite its noble beginnings, the Poodle has transformed into a beloved companion animal in modern times and is highly sought after for its versatility, excelling in fields ranging from therapy to dog shows.

Renowned for their elegant appearance and curly fur, Poodles are also renowned for being hypoallergenic, making them an ideal choice for people with allergies.

Vital Stats

• Average Height: 10-22 inches
• Average Weight: 2-30 kg (6-70 lbs)
• Average Life Span: 12-15 Years
• Dog Breed Group: Companion Dogs

Key Characteristics

• Easy to Train
• Low Shedding
• Energetic
• Weather Tolerant
• Active

Irish Doodles History

Maybe you’ve heard of the Whoodle or Yorkipoo. Similarly, the Irish Doodle is a cross between two pure breeds known for hunting and sporting skills.

Irish Doodles are a relatively new breed of designer dogs that have recently gained popularity. They cross between a purebred Irish Setter and a purebred Poodle, specifically a Standard or Miniature Poodle.

The origin of Irish Setterdoodle needs to be clarified, as the breed is relatively new and not recognized by major kennel clubs. However, it is believed that they were first bred in the United States sometime in the late 19th century, possibly due to the growing popularity of designer dogs.

Likely, this crossbreed was first developed in the United States, as with most hybrid breeds.

When two breeds’ parents are crossed, the resulting Irish Doodle inherits traits from both parents. For example, they may have the intelligence and trainability of the Poodle, as well as the friendly and energetic temperament of the Irish Setter.

They also often inherit the beautiful red coat of the Irish Setter, which can come in various shades ranging from light apricot to dark mahogany.

Vital Stats

• Average Height: 13-15 inches
• Average Weight: 18-31 kg (40-70 lbs)
• Average Life Span: 10-13 years
• Dog Breed Group: Hybrid Dogs

Key Characteristics

• Friendly and energetic temperament
• Intelligent and trainable
• Beautiful red coat in various shades
• Loyalty and affection toward owners
• Medium-sized, weighing between 18-31 kg (40-70 lbs)
• Curly or wavy coat, depending on the Poodle parent (Standard or Miniature)

Irish Doodles Characteristics & Facts

1) Appearance

Irish Doodles have a curly, wavy, or straight coat in various colors, including black, brown, cream, and red. They have long ears, a long tail, and a lean, muscular build.

2) Temperament

These mixed breed canines are friendly, affectionate, intelligent dogs that love being around people.

They are known for their loyalty and eagerness to please their owners. They make excellent family pets and get along well with children and other pets.

3) Trainability

Irish Setterpoo are highly trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. They are quick learners and can easily pick up new commands and tricks.

4) Energy Level

They are energetic dogs that require regular exercise and mental stimulation. They enjoy walking and participating in other physical activities.

5) Health

Like all breeds, Irish Poo Setters can be prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, ear infections, and eye problems.

It is important to purchase a puppy from a reputable breeder who can provide health certificates for both parents.

6) Grooming

Irish Doodles require regular grooming to keep their coats clean and tangle-free. They may need to be brushed daily, depending on their coat type. They also need to have their ears cleaned regularly to prevent infections.

7) Loyal & Devoted

Irish Doodle Setters are known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners. They form strong bonds with their families and will go to great lengths to protect and please them.

8) Quiet

While Irish Doodles can be energetic and playful, they are not typically known to be noisy or bark excessively. They may bark to alert their owners to strangers or threats but are generally quiet dogs.

9) Social

Irish Setterdoodle are social dogs that thrive on human interaction and companionship. They enjoy being around people and other animals and do not do well in isolation.

10) Intelligent

Poodles are known for their intelligence, and mixed breed dog inherit this trait from their Poodle parent. They are quick learners and can easily pick up new commands and tricks.

11) Friendly

Irish Setterpoo are friendly dogs known for their outgoing personalities. They get along well with children and other pets and enjoy meeting new people.

Irish Doodle Generations

On the basis of the parent breed in the cross, there are five generations of Irish Doodles.

1) F1 Generation

This generation develops by breeding an Irish Setter with a Standard Poodle. F1 Irish Doodles are typically 50% Irish Setter and 50% Poodle.

2) F1B Generation

This generation develops from breeding an F1 Irish Doodle with one of the original breeds and is known as First Generation Cross Back.

F1B Irish Doodles are typically 75% Poodle and 25% Irish Setter. This generation is more hypoallergenic and has curlier coats.

3) F2 Generation

This generation develops from breeding two F1 Irish Doodles. F2 Irish Doodles are typically 50% Irish Setter and 50% Poodle but can have more coat type and appearance variation.

4) F2B Generation

Breeding an F1 generation hybrid dog with an F1B variant results in an F2B second-generation cross-back Irish doodle puppy.

5) Multigeneration Irish Doodle

When two F2 generation Irish Doodle are bred, the newborn puppy is categorized as a multigenerational dog.

Health Requirements

1. It is important to take your Irish Doodle to the vet for regular check-ups to ensure they are healthy and catch any potential health issues early on.
2. Like all dogs, Irish Poo Setter require regular vaccinations to protect against common illnesses and diseases. Your vet can provide you with a vaccination schedule for your puppy.
3. Irish Doodles require regular exercise to maintain their physical health and mental well-being. They should be taken for daily walks and given plenty of opportunities to run and play.
4. A balanced and nutritious food is essential for your pet’s overall health. You should choose a high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs and avoid feeding them human food or treats high in fat and sugar.
5. Regular grooming is important for maintaining your pooch’s health. They should be brushed regularly to prevent matting and tangling of their fur.
6. Irish Doodles have long, floppy ears that can trap moisture and debris, making them more susceptible to ear infections. You should clean your puppy’s ears regularly and watch for signs of infection, such as redness, discharge, and scratching.
7. Dental care is important to your Irish Doodle’s overall health. Regular teeth cleaning and monitoring for signs of dental problems, such as bad breath or gum disease, can help prevent more serious health issues.
8. Irish Doodles can be at risk for parasites, such as fleas, ticks, and heartworms. Regular preventive care, such as flea and tick medication and heartworm prevention, can help keep your Irish Doodle healthy and free from these pests.
9. Like many dogs, they can be prone to allergies. Allergies can manifest in various ways, such as skin irritation, watery eyes, runny nose, or respiratory problems. If you suspect your Irish Doodle has allergies, consult your vet for proper diagnosis and treatment.
10. They can be at risk for obesity if they are not given enough exercise and a proper diet. Obesity can lead to various health problems, including joint pain, diabetes, and heart disease. Monitoring your Irish Doodle’s weight and providing proper exercise and nutrition can help prevent obesity.

Grooming Requirements

1) Brushing

Irish Doodles have thick, wavy coats that require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. It’s best to brush your Irish Doodle at least once a week, but more frequent brushing may be necessary during shedding seasons.

2) Bathing

Irish Setterpoo should be bathed every 5-8 weeks to keep their coats clean and healthy. Be sure to use a dog-specific shampoo and conditioner to avoid drying out their skin. It’s also important to thoroughly rinse all shampoo and conditioner to avoid skin irritation.

3) Haircuts

Irish Poo Setter require regular haircuts to keep their coats at a manageable length. The frequency of haircuts depends on the length and thickness of their coat. Many Irish Doodle owners prefer a shorter cut to make grooming easier.

4) Nail Trimming

Irish Doodle’s nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent them from becoming too long and causing discomfort or difficulty walking. You can use dog-specific nail clippers or a nail grinder to trim your nails.

5) Ear Cleaning

These hybrid canines have long, floppy ears that can trap moisture and debris, leading to ear infections. Regular ear cleaning can help prevent these issues. Use a dog-specific ear-cleaning solution and gently wipe out the ear with a cotton ball or pad.

6) Teeth Cleaning

Dental care is important to your Irish Doodle’s overall health. Regular teeth cleaning can help prevent gum disease and other dental issues. You can use a dog-specific toothbrush, toothpaste, or dental chews to clean your teeth.

7) Grooming Tools

Some additional grooming tools that may be helpful for dog owners include de-matting combs, thinning shears, and detangling sprays. Using high-quality tools and products is important to avoid damaging their coat or skin.

Diet Requirements

1) Protein

Irish Doodles require a diet high in protein to support their growth and development. Look for high-quality dog food that lists meat as the first ingredient. Chicken, beef, lamb, and fish are good protein sources.

2) Carbohydrates

Irish Doodles also need a source of carbohydrates for energy. Whole grains, such as brown rice and oats, are good choices. Avoid dog foods that contain toxic ingredients, which can be difficult for dogs to digest.

3) Fruits & Vegetables

Safe Fruits and vegetables provide important vitamins and minerals that Irish Doodles need for overall health. Look for dog foods that include a variety of fruits and vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, carrots, apples, and blueberries.

4) Healthy Fat

Dogs require moderate fat in their diet for energy and to support healthy skin and coats. Look for dog foods that contain healthy fat sources, such as chicken fat, fish oil, or flaxseed oil.

5) Feeding Schedule

It’s recommended to feed your canine friend twice a day rather than one large meal. This can help prevent digestive issues, such as bloat. It’s important to feed your Irish Doodle the appropriate amount of food based on their age, weight, and activity level.

6) Treats

Canine Treats should be given in moderation and should not make up more than 10% of your pet’s daily caloric intake. Look for healthy, low-calorie treats, such as carrots, apples, or small chicken or turkey pieces.

7) Water

Always ensure your pet can access fresh, clean water. This is especially important during hot weather or periods of increased activity.

Training Requirements

1) Socialization

Irish Doodles should be socialized from a young age to ensure they are comfortable around people and other animals. This can include exposing them to new experiences, people, and animals in a controlled and positive way.

2) Basic Obedience

Irish Doodles mixed breed dogs are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them easy to train. Basic obedience training, such as sit, stay, come, and heel, should be taught early to establish good behavior habits.

3) Positive Reinforcement

Irish Doodle Setter respond best to positive reinforcement training methods, such as treats and praise, rather than punishment or negative reinforcement.

4) Consistency

Consistency is key when training a canine. Everyone in the household should use the same commands and training methods to avoid confusion and ensure your Irish Doodle understands their expectations.

5) Exercise

Irish Doodles are energetic and require regular exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Daily walks, playtime, and outdoor activities can help keep them physically and mentally stimulated.

6) Crate Training

Crate training can be useful for dog owners, providing a safe and comfortable space to rest and relax. Crate training should be done gradually and positively to avoid creating negative associations with the crate.

7) Professional Training

Professional training can benefit Irish Setterdoodle who may need extra help with behavior issues or specialized training, such as therapy or service dog training.

 Irish Doodles Pros & Cons

Pros

• Loyal and devoted companions
• Friendly and sociable with people and other animals
• Intelligent and easy to train
• Hypoallergenic coat (which makes them a good choice for allergy sufferers)
• Active and playful, making them great exercise partners
• Gentle and patient temperament, making them good with children and other pets
• Low shedding coat that requires minimal grooming

Cons

• Require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviour
• Can be prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and eye problems
• May have a strong prey drive and chase small animals, such as squirrels or rabbits
• Can be sensitive to extreme temperatures, particularly heat
• Can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods
• May be stubborn at times, requiring consistent training and patience from their owner 

Cost

The cost of an Irish Doodle can vary depending on various factors, such as the breeder’s location, the puppy’s age, the breeding stock’s quality, and the breed’s demand. An Irish Doodle can cost anywhere between $1,200 to $3,000.

However, it’s important to note that some breeders may charge significantly more for a top-quality puppy.

It’s important to factor in the ongoing costs of owning an Irish Doodle, such as food, grooming, training, veterinary care, and supplies. These costs can add up over time, so it’s important to budget accordingly and ensure you can provide your pet with the care and attention they need.

What To Look For Before Adopting Or Buying Irish Doodle?

Consider adopting an Irish Doodle from a shelter or rescue organization instead of buying from a breeder. This can be a more cost-effective and rewarding option and provide a loving home to a dog in need.

If you’re considering adopting or buying an Irish Doodle, here are some important factors to consider and look for:

• Ensure that the breeder you’re considering is reputable and has a good track record of producing healthy and well-socialized Irish Doodles. Do some research and read reviews from previous customers.
• Ensure that the breeder has performed health testing on the puppy’s parents to ensure that they are free of genetic health issues such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, and heart issues.
• Observe the temperament of the Irish Doodle puppies and their parents, and make sure they are friendly, pleasant, and have a good temperament.
• Ask the breeder about the socialization and training of the puppies and ensure that they have been exposed to different people, animals, and environments in a positive and controlled way.
• Ensure that the breeder provides a contract and health guarantee covering any health issues that may arise.
• Consider your lifestyle and whether an Irish Doodle is a good match for you. They require regular exercise and attention, so ensure you have the time and resources to meet their needs.

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