Schnoodle

Schnoodles have won a lot of families over with their mix of brains and affection. Here's what actually sets them apart:

• Low-shedding coat from the Poodle side. Schnoodles inherit a coat that sheds very little and produces less of the dander that triggers most allergies. No dog is completely hypoallergenic, but this is one of the breeds that people with mild allergies can often live with comfortably.
• Very clever and trainable. Both Schnauzers and Poodles are highly intelligent, so Schnoodles tend to learn quickly and enjoy having their minds kept busy. That makes training rewarding, though it also means they like to stay occupied.
• Affectionate and loyal. Schnoodles bond closely with their family and are known for being devoted, playful companions. They're good with children and love being involved in what everyone's doing.
• Flexible size for different homes. Because Schnoodles come in several sizes, there's often one to suit most households, from a small dog for apartment living to a larger, more robust family dog.

What to Ask a Schnoodle Breeder Before You Buy

There are plenty of breeders around, but picking the right one can be tricky. Some breeders interbreed their dogs to the point where the puppies are no longer healthy. Here are some questions to ask a Schnoodle breeder before you buy a puppy:

• Do they health-test the parents? Because Schnoodles come from Schnauzers and Poodles, they can inherit conditions such as eye problems or hip issues from either side, so a responsible breeder screens the parent dogs before breeding them.
• Do they vaccinate the puppies? Many breeders will vaccinate their puppies before they sell them to you. We will give the puppy's vaccination card to you.
• How long have they been breeding Schnoodles? When you buy a puppy, you want one from an experienced breeder. Ask how long they've been in business, as this gives you an idea of how well they know dogs.
• Do they socialise the puppies? Your puppy's temperament depends a lot on how well they're socialised from a young age. We raise our puppies according to the Victorian Code of Practice, and they run regular audits on our facilities and welfare.