Spoodle

Spoodles are one of the most popular family crosses in Australia, and their easygoing nature is a big part of why. Here's what actually sets them apart:

• Low-shedding coat from the Poodle side. Spoodles 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.
• Genuinely affectionate. From the Cocker Spaniel, Spoodles get that "merry," people-loving temperament. They bond closely with their family, are patient with young children, and are happiest when they're near their people.
• Bright and easy to train. The Poodle side makes Spoodles clever and eager to please, so they tend to pick up house training and commands quickly, which makes them a forgiving choice for first-time owners.
• A manageable size. Sitting at the small to medium end, Spoodles fit comfortably into apartments and smaller homes as well as houses with yards. They're up for a walk and a play, but they don't need a lot of space to be happy.
  

What to Ask a Spoodle 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 Spoodle breeder before you buy a puppy:

• Do they health-test the parents? Because Spoodles come from Cocker Spaniels 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? 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.