Irish Doodle (Irish Setter & Poodle Mix)
The Irish Doodle is a striking cross between the elegant, mahogany-red Irish Setter and the Standard or Miniature Poodle. This medium to large designer dog is celebrated for its gorgeous red or golden wavy coat, exuberant energy, and sweet, playful personality. Irish Doodles make outstanding family dogs for active households that can keep up with their considerable exercise needs.
Quick Facts
Weight
25–70 lbs
Height
13–24 in
Lifespan
10–13 years
Shedding
Low
Energy Level
Very High
Trainability
Easy
Good With
Appearance
Irish Doodles are typically medium to large dogs (25–70 lbs) with a wavy to loosely curly coat in rich shades of red, apricot, gold, or cream. They have a long, elegant head, floppy ears, and the athletic build of the Irish Setter combined with a softer, thicker coat from the Poodle. Their flowing red coat and expressive eyes make them one of the most visually distinctive doodle breeds.
Temperament
Irish Doodles are playful, affectionate, and sociable. The Irish Setter contributes a fun-loving, energetic personality, while the Poodle adds intelligence and a willingness to please. They are excellent with children and other dogs. Irish Doodles are active and need daily vigorous exercise. They can be exuberant and may knock over small children in play, so supervision with toddlers is recommended.
Grooming Needs
Irish Doodles need brushing 3–4 times per week to prevent their wavy coats from matting. Professional grooming every 8 weeks keeps the coat at a manageable length. The red color can show debris easily, so regular brushing also helps maintain appearance. Ear cleaning weekly is recommended, and their active outdoor lifestyle may require more frequent bathing.
Health Considerations
Irish Doodles may inherit progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and bloat (GDV) from the Irish Setter, as well as Addison's disease and sebaceous adenitis from the Poodle. Irish Setters have above-average rates of certain cancers. Bloat prevention (avoiding exercise 1 hour before and after meals, avoiding rapid eating) is important for larger individuals.
Always consult a licensed veterinarian for medical advice. This information is educational and does not replace professional veterinary care.
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Find the Perfect Name — FreeFrequently Asked Questions
What color do Irish Doodles come in?
Most Irish Doodles are some shade of red, apricot, or golden, reflecting the Irish Setter's signature mahogany coloring. Some can be cream or white if more Poodle genes are expressed. Parti and phantom colorings occasionally occur.
Are Irish Doodles good with families?
Excellent family dogs. They are playful, gentle, and sociable. Their high energy makes them best suited to active families. They may inadvertently knock over toddlers in play, so supervision with very young children is advisable.
How much exercise does an Irish Doodle need?
Irish Doodles need 60–90 minutes of vigorous exercise daily. They thrive with running, swimming, hiking, and fetch. An under-exercised Irish Doodle can become hyperactive and may develop destructive behaviors.
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