Oodles of Doodles: The History of the Breed

Dec 15, 2023

“Doodle” has grown to mean many different Poodle crossbreeds and has become a catch-all term for any such dog.


Just take a look at Chicago Doodles, one of our favorite groups on FB & Instagram, and you’ll find Sheepadoodles, Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, Bernedoodles, and so much more. But where did it all start?


In 1969 Monica Dickens, the great granddaughter of Charles


Dickens, bred the first “doodle” variety by breeding a Golden Retriever with a standard Poodle in hopes of gaining the benefits of each breed. Dickens sought the gentle nature of Goldens and the athletic intelligence of Poodles while bypassing the Goldens tendency to turn your floor into a shag-rug look alike.


In the 90s Goldendoodles took off and became a well known “designer breed.”

Designer breeds may evoke the image of a Gucci dog, but actually denotes intentional cross breeding of two purebreds.

By “design” a Goldendoodle gains many positive attributes of both breeds, but it doesn’t necessarily negate some less desirable traits like the high groom demand or common food allergies of Poodles or the energetic nature of both breeds.


In 1988, before the Goldendoodle exploded, an Australian breeder named Wally Conron was looking for the solution to a dilemma he had. Conron was breeding dogs for the Royal Guide Dog Association of Australia in Victoria when a couple in Hawai’i reached out with a difficult situation. The wife, who was blind, needed an aid dog, but her husband had severe allergies. Conron first tried training the shed free Poodle to aid the woman, but 33 dogs and 3 years later, he was unable to train a Poodle as an aid dog. Conron eventually bred a Labrador and a Poodle, but he had another issue: no one wanted to board and train a non-purebred.


Now, you may know that in the early half of the century, Cockapoos and other smaller Poodle mixes gained a short lived popularity. The lack of their longevity could come from their less memorable name. Afterall, Cockadoodle doesn’t sound quite as catchy as Labradoodle or “doodle” for short. Conron knew this so he “went to [the] PR team and said,

‘Go to the press and tell them we’ve invented a new dog, the labradoodle.’

It was a gimmick, and it went worldwide. No one wanted a crossbreed, but the following day we had hundreds of calls from people wanting these master dogs.” And just like that Conron’s dilemma was solved and the “doodle” joined popular society, but not without cost.


Conron himself has often lamented the success of his breed. For one, not all doodles are hypoallergenic, and many are starting to pop up in the shelter system due to unaware families being sold dogs with empty promises. In fact, of the three puppies born for the couple in Hawai’i, only one was truly hypoallergenic according to lab results. In the next litter of ten, only three had hypoallergenic coats. And yet, despite this fact, many doodles are routinely sold as hypoallergenic without the science to back that claim.


Conron has also stated “For every perfect one, you’re going to find a lot of crazy ones.” Labs and Poodles are both high energy breeds, but once word got out that they had been bred as aid dogs, people seemed to forget that. Afterall, Conron was incapable of training a poodle aid dog due to energy and temperament. Conron laments the popularity of making money off this new breed and ones like them which tend to lead to more breeding, more dogs, and more health problems as more and more people hop on the “breeder” boat especially in states with poor regulatory standards.


But it’s not all bad, and surely even Conron could admit that. By and large doodles are lovable, energetic, and fun dogs to be around. They don’t shed as excessively as the breeds they typically stem from and opening up the gene pool while getting people out of the mindset of “purebred or nothing” could be a positive thing for dog society. The important thing is to do your research when considering adding a doodle to your family. Research your breeder, research your specific cross breed, and understand what gives doodles the desirable traits you want. If understanding breed traits and genetics feels like a lot to learn on your own, stay tuned for our next article F WHAT? where we explore the types of doodle breeds available and how to determine which one is right for you.

03 Apr, 2024
You may have had a new addition to the family over the holidays that is starting to explore the world more and you may be wondering when is the right time to start daycare. Well that time is now! Maybe your socialization to this point is limited to dog walks and maybe getting together with some friends here and there but picture this: a pup confidently striding through the dog park, greeting fellow canines with friendly sniffs and playful barks, tail wagging with joy. This scene doesn't happen by chance; it's the result of effective socialization during the early stages of a pup's life. What is Puppy Socialization? Puppy socialization is the process of introducing young dogs to a variety of experiences, environments, people, and other animals in a positive and safe manner. This critical period typically occurs between the ages of 3 weeks to 5 months (so the clock is ticking), during which puppies are most receptive to new encounters and formative experiences. Why is Socialization Essential? Behavioral Development: Proper socialization lays the foundation for a well-adjusted, confident, and friendly dog. Puppies exposed to diverse stimuli during this critical period are less likely to develop fear or aggression towards unfamiliar situations, people, or animals later in life. Prevention of Behavioral Issues: Unsocialized puppies may grow into anxious, fearful, or reactive dogs, leading to behavioral issues such as aggression, excessive barking, or separation anxiety. By proactively socializing your pup, you can mitigate the risk of such problems arising. Building Trust and Confidence: Positive social experiences build your puppy's confidence and trust in the world around them. Each new encounter teaches them that the world is full of exciting possibilities rather than sources of fear or anxiety. Healthy Relationships with Other Dogs: Dogs are inherently social animals, and early socialization fosters healthy interactions with their fellow canines. Well-socialized puppies learn appropriate play behavior, communication signals, and how to navigate social hierarchies, leading to fulfilling and enjoyable interactions with other dogs throughout their lives. Adaptability: Exposure to various environments, sounds, sights, and people helps puppies adapt to different situations with ease. Whether it's a trip to the vet, a visit to the groomer, or a family vacation, a well-socialized dog is more likely to remain calm and composed in unfamiliar settings. How Can Pet Care Plus Resort & Spa Help? We can play a vital role in the socialization process by providing a safe and supervised environment for puppies to interact with other dogs and humans. Here, they can learn valuable social skills, burn off excess energy, and receive positive reinforcement from trained staff members. At Pet Care Plus Resort & Spa, we understand the importance of puppy socialization, which is why we offer specialized puppy daycare programs tailored to meet the unique needs of young dogs. Our experienced team ensures that your puppy receives the necessary socialization experiences in a controlled and supportive setting. Remember, puppy socialization is not just a luxury. It can also be a fundamental aspect of responsible pet ownership. By investing time and effort into socializing your puppy during their formative months, you're laying the groundwork for a happy, confident, and well-adjusted adult dog. Not to mention burning off energy to keep that chewing at home to a minimum! So, let's give our furry friends the best start in life and watch them flourish into paw-some companions! Remember, every wag of their tail and every friendly sniff is a testament to the importance of puppy socialization.
23 Mar, 2024
On National Puppy Day, we celebrate the boundless joy and love that puppies bring into our lives. At Pet Care Plus, we're honored to be a part of your puppy's journey, providing top-notch daycare, boarding, and grooming services tailored to meet their unique needs. From playful romps in our daycare to cozy naps in our boarding suites, we accommodate all puppies with the utmost care and attention. Join us as we celebrate National Puppy Day and highlight the ways we pamper and care for our youngest furry friends. At Pet Care Plus, we believe that every puppy deserves to be treated like royalty. Whether they're a tiny teacup pup or a fluffy giant breed, we welcome puppies of all shapes, sizes, and breeds with open arms. Our experienced staff members are trained to handle puppies with care and sensitivity, ensuring they feel safe, loved, and cherished throughout their stay. The health and well-being of our puppies are our top priorities, which is why we require all puppies to be up-to-date on their vaccinations and spayed/neutered by 6 months of age to participate in group play. This ensures a safe and healthy environment for all dogs in our care and helps prevent the spread of disease and unwanted pregnancies. We understand that leaving your puppy in someone else's care can be stressful, which is why we offer free webcams in all our playrooms. These webcams make it effortless for you to dial in and check on your pup at any time, so you can stay connected with your beloved pet throughout the day. Rest assured knowing that your puppy is in good hands and enjoying their time at Pet Care Plus. Puppies have different energy levels and require more rest than adult dogs. That's why we ensure they get the downtime they need to stay healthy and happy. Our staff members monitor puppies closely, providing plenty of opportunities for play, socialization, and relaxation throughout the day. Whether it's romping in our puppy playgroups or snuggling up for a nap in our cozy boarding suites, we tailor our care to meet the individual needs of each puppy. On National Puppy Day, let's celebrate the unconditional love, boundless energy, and endless cuddles that puppies bring into our lives. At Pet Care Plus, we're committed to providing the highest standard of care for our youngest furry friends, ensuring they feel safe, loved, and cherished every step of the way. Whether it's daycare, boarding, or grooming services, we're here to pamper your puppy and make their stay with us a tail-wagging success!
20 Mar, 2024
March 20th marks International Day of Happiness, a day dedicated to promoting happiness and well-being around the world. At Pet Care Plus, we believe that our furry friends play a significant role in bringing joy and happiness into our lives each day. As a boarding, daycare, and grooming facility, we're privileged to witness the happiness that dogs bring to our clients and staff alike. Join us as we celebrate International Day of Happiness by spreading joy and highlighting the ways our facility fosters happiness for dogs and their owners. There's no denying the joy that dogs bring into our lives. Their unconditional love, playful antics, and loyal companionship have a profound impact on our happiness and well-being. Whether it's a wagging tail, a slobbery kiss, or a playful bark, dogs have a remarkable ability to lift our spirits and bring a smile to our faces, even on the toughest days. At Pet Care Plus, we're dedicated to creating happy moments for dogs and their owners every day. From our spacious play areas and interactive daycare sessions to our luxurious grooming services and comfortable boarding accommodations, we strive to provide an environment where dogs can thrive and flourish. Whether they're romping with friends in daycare, enjoying a relaxing spa day, or cozying up for a nap in our boarding suites, we're committed to ensuring that every dog leaves our facility with a wagging tail and a happy heart. Our team understands the importance of quality care in promoting happiness and well-being for dogs. That's why we go above and beyond to provide exceptional care and attention to each and every dog entrusted to us. Whether it's a gentle grooming session, a stimulating playtime activity, or a cozy bedtime snuggle, we're dedicated to ensuring that every dog feels loved, safe, and happy during their time with us. Let's celebrate the joy that dogs bring into our lives and the happiness that comes from caring for these wonderful creatures. At Pet Care Plus, we're honored to be a part of the journey, creating happy moments for dogs and their owners every step of the way. Thank you to our furry friends for filling our lives with love, laughter, and boundless joy. Happy International Day of Happiness!
19 Mar, 2024
As the first day of spring dawns upon us, we're thrilled to welcome the season of renewal, growth, and sunshine! At Pet Care Plus, we're excited to announce that our outdoor pool will be opening next month, just in time for the warmer weather ahead. Join us as we celebrate the arrival of spring and prepare for a season filled with outdoor adventures and splashing good times for our furry friends. Spring is a time of rejuvenation and new beginnings, as nature bursts forth with vibrant colors and fresh scents. It's the perfect season for dogs and their owners to explore the great outdoors, bask in the warmth of the sun, and revel in the joys of springtime activities. As the temperatures rise and the days grow longer, there's no better way to beat the heat than with a refreshing dip in our outdoor pool! We're thrilled to announce that our pool will be opening next month, offering dogs the opportunity to splash, swim, and play to their heart's content. Add Pool Access to Your Pup's Daycare or Boarding Stay for $12: Treat your furry friend to a day of aquatic fun by adding pool access to their daycare or boarding stay for just $12. Whether they're a water-loving pup or a first-time swimmer, our pool is the perfect place for dogs to cool off and make a splash. 10-Day Pool Package for $100: For those pups who just can't get enough of the water, we're offering a special 10-day pool package for $100. With this package, your dog can enjoy unlimited access to our pool throughout the spring season, ensuring plenty of splashing good times ahead! As we bid farewell to winter and embrace the beauty of spring, let's make a splash with our furry friends at Pet Care Plus! With our outdoor pool opening next month and special pool access options available for daycare and boarding stays, there's no better way to celebrate the arrival of spring than with a refreshing dip in the water. Get ready for a season of fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories with your pup – see you at the pool!
17 Mar, 2024
As the luck of the Irish fills the air and shamrocks adorn every corner, there's no better time to treat your furry friend to a little luck of their own! Introducing our Shamrock Spa Package, available all March long at Pet Care Plus. Step into the Irish spirit and pamper your pup with a special treat that will leave them feeling as lucky as a leprechaun. Here's everything you need to know about our exclusive Shamrock Spa Package. A Taste of Ireland for Your Pup Our Shamrock Spa Package is designed to delight and indulge your furry companion with a touch of Irish charm. From refreshing baths to festive accessories, this package is the perfect way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in style. Treat your pup to a little luck of the Irish and watch their tail wag with joy! Our Shamrock Spa Package includes: Treat your pup's coat to a refreshing wash with our green apple shampoo. Not only will it leave them squeaky clean, but they'll also smell as fresh as a spring breeze! St. Patrick's Day Accessory: Get into the festive groove with a fun St. Patrick's Day accessory for your dog. Whether it's a shamrock bandana or a leprechaun hat, your pup will be the most stylish canine on the block! Pup Cup: Spoil your furry friend with a tasty pup cup, the perfect way to reward them for being the best companion ever! Filled with delicious treats, this indulgent snack will have your pup begging for more. Ready to treat your pup to a little luck of the Irish? Booking your Shamrock Spa Package is easy! Simply contact Pet Care Plus and ask about our Shamrock Spa Package for Baths & Grooms. Our experienced groomers will pamper your pup with care and attention, ensuring they leave looking and feeling their best. This St. Patrick's Day, make your pup feel extra special with our Shamrock Spa Package. From refreshing baths to festive accessories, this exclusive package is the perfect way to celebrate the luck of the Irish with your furry friend. Don't miss out – schedule your Shamrock Spa experience today and give your pup a St. Patrick's Day to remember!
14 Mar, 2024
On Dog Theft Awareness Day, we're reminded of the importance of safeguarding our beloved pets from the threat of theft. As pet owners, it's our responsibility to take proactive measures to keep our furry friends safe and secure. At Pet Care Plus, we understand the concerns surrounding pet theft, which is why we go above and beyond to ensure the safety and well-being of every dog entrusted to our care – even when their owners are out of town. Join us as we raise awareness about dog theft and highlight the steps we take to keep dogs safe while they're away from home. Dog theft is a distressing reality that pet owners face, with thieves targeting dogs of all breeds and sizes for various reasons, including resale, breeding, and ransom. The emotional toll of losing a beloved pet to theft can be devastating, making it essential for pet owners to be vigilant and proactive in protecting their furry companions. At Pet Care Plus, the safety and well-being of every dog in our care are our top priorities. Whether they're staying with us for daycare, boarding, or grooming, we take numerous precautions to ensure their security and comfort. Here's how we keep dogs safe while they're out of town: Secure Facilities: Our facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art security measures, including surveillance cameras, secure entry points, and trained staff members who monitor the premises at all times. Personalized Care: Each dog receives personalized attention and supervision from our experienced team members, ensuring they feel safe, comfortable, and loved throughout their stay. Secure Outdoor Areas: Dogs have access to secure outdoor play areas where they can stretch their legs, socialize with other dogs, and enjoy supervised playtime in a safe and controlled environment. Strict Check-In and Check-Out Procedures: We have strict check-in and check-out procedures in place to ensure that dogs are only released to authorized individuals, providing an extra layer of security and peace of mind for pet owners. When pet owners entrust their dogs to our care, they can rest assured knowing that we take every precaution to keep their furry friends safe and secure. Whether they're away for a day or an extended period, we treat each dog as if they were our own, providing them with the love, attention, and security they deserve. On Dog Theft Awareness Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to protecting our furry friends from the threat of theft. At Pet Care Plus, we're dedicated to providing a safe and secure environment for every dog in our care, ensuring they can enjoy their time away from home with peace of mind. Together, let's continue to raise awareness about dog theft and take proactive steps to keep our beloved pets safe and secure.
13 Mar, 2024
As we commemorate K-9 Veterans Day, we honor the brave and selfless service of our canine heroes who have served alongside military personnel. At Pet Care Plus, we understand the importance of providing specialized care for these extraordinary dogs. That's why we're proud to introduce our Special Care Suites, designed to offer comfort, attention, and support for our K-9 veterans and other dogs in need of extra care. K-9 veterans have dedicated their lives to protecting and serving our country, often facing challenging and dangerous situations in the line of duty. Many of these heroic dogs may require additional support and attention due to age-related issues, medical conditions, or behavioral challenges. Our Special Care Suites provide a safe and nurturing environment where these special dogs can relax and receive the personalized care they deserve. Our Special Care Suites are thoughtfully designed to meet the unique needs of K-9 veterans and other dogs requiring specialized care. Each suite includes: Elevated Kuranda bed: Provides orthopedic support and comfort for dogs with joint issues or mobility concerns. Additional staff observation throughout their stay: Our dedicated staff members monitor the well-being of each dog closely, ensuring they receive the attention and assistance they need. Daily email or phone call to the client with a status update: We understand how important it is for pet owners to stay informed about their dog's condition and well-being. That's why we provide daily updates to keep clients informed and reassured. Administration of medication included: Our trained staff members are experienced in administering medications, ensuring that each dog receives their prescribed treatments safely and on time. If you have a K-9 veteran or a dog in need of specialized care, booking a Special Care Suite at Pet Care Plus is simple. Just let us know your dog's specific needs and preferences, and we'll take care of the rest. Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing the highest level of care and support for your furry friend, allowing you to have peace of mind while you're away. On this K-9 Veterans Day, let's honor the remarkable contributions of our canine heroes by providing them with the care and respect they deserve. With our Special Care Suites at Pet Care Plus, we're committed to ensuring that our K-9 veterans and other dogs in need receive the specialized attention and support they require. Book a Special Care Suite for your furry friend today and show them the love and appreciation they've earned through their service and sacrifice.
08 Mar, 2024
As the luck of the Irish fills the air and shamrocks adorn every corner, there's no better time to treat your furry friend to a little luck of their own! Introducing our Shamrock Spa Package, available all March long at Pet Care Plus. Step into the Irish spirit and pamper your pup with a special treat that will leave them feeling as lucky as a leprechaun. Here's everything you need to know about our exclusive Shamrock Spa Package. Our Shamrock Spa Package is designed to delight and indulge your furry companion with a touch of Irish charm. From refreshing baths to festive accessories, this package is the perfect way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in style. Treat your pup to a little luck of the Irish and watch their tail wag with joy! Our Shamrock Spa Package includes: Green Apple Shampoo: Treat your pup's coat to a refreshing wash with our green apple shampoo. Not only will it leave them squeaky clean, but they'll also smell as fresh as a spring breeze! St. Patrick's Day Accessory: Get into the festive groove with a fun St. Patrick's Day accessory for your dog. Whether it's a shamrock bandana or a leprechaun hat, your pup will be the most stylish canine on the block! Pup Cup: Spoil your furry friend with a tasty pup cup, the perfect way to reward them for being the best companion ever! Filled with delicious treats, this indulgent snack will have your pup begging for more. Ready to treat your pup to a little luck of the Irish? Booking your Shamrock Spa Package is easy! Simply contact Pet Care Plus and ask about our Shamrock Spa Package for Baths & Grooms. Our experienced groomers will pamper your pup with care and attention, ensuring they leave looking and feeling their best. This St. Patrick's Day, make your pup feel extra special with our Shamrock Spa Package. From refreshing baths to festive accessories, this exclusive package is the perfect way to celebrate the luck of the Irish with your furry friend. Don't miss out – schedule your Shamrock Spa experience today and give your pup a St. Patrick's Day to remember!
06 Mar, 2024
As the days grow longer and warmer, spring break beckons with promises of adventure and relaxation. But before you jet off on your well-deserved getaway, don't forget about your furry friend! At Pet Care Plus, we're rolling out the red carpet for your pup with our exclusive Spring Break Boarding Special. From March 25th to March 29th, treat your pet to a luxurious stay filled with pampering and fun. And with our limited-time offer, booking your pup's spring break getaway has never been sweeter! Spring break is the perfect time to unwind, explore new destinations, and create lasting memories. Whether you're hitting the beach, embarking on a road trip, or enjoying a staycation, make sure your furry companion is taken care of with our premier boarding services. From now until March 12th, take advantage of our Lucky24 promo code when booking your pet's spring break stay. With this exclusive offer, you'll receive: Free Turn Down Service: After a day filled with fun, let your pup unwind in style with our complimentary bedtime treat – choose between a delicious biscuit or a peanut butter kong. They'll sleep like royalty, dreaming of their adventures to come! Pup Cup: Treat your pup to a delicious pup cup, the perfect way to keep their tail wagging during their stay. It's a special treat they won't soon forget! Don't miss out on this special offer – reserve your spot today and give your furry friend the spring break they deserve! With our attentive staff, comfortable accommodations, and exclusive treats, you can relax knowing that your pet will have their own memorable spring break adventure at Pet Care Plus.
04 Mar, 2024
As we embrace the festive spirit of St. Patrick's Day, there's no better time to celebrate our Breed of the Month: the charming and versatile Wheaten Terrier! With their Irish heritage and playful personalities, Wheaten Terriers steal hearts wherever they go. Join us as we shine a spotlight on these delightful dogs and unveil exclusive promotions tailored just for them. Originating from the Emerald Isle, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, affectionately known as the Wheaten Terrier, boasts a rich heritage steeped in Irish tradition. Originally bred as farm dogs, they excelled at herding livestock, guarding property, and hunting vermin. Today, they are beloved companions cherished for their affectionate nature and spirited personality. The Wheaten Terrier's distinctive coat, ranging in shades of wheaten from pale beige to golden, is one of their most defining features. With a soft and silky texture, their coat is non-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them a popular choice for allergy sufferers. Their playful and spirited demeanor, coupled with their love for socializing, makes them wonderful family pets and loyal companions. To make this month extra special for our Wheaten Terrier friends, we're thrilled to announce exclusive promotions tailored just for them: FREE Paw Balm Upgrade: Treat your Wheaten Terrier to a pampering paw balm treatment to keep their paws moisturized and protected, especially after outdoor adventures. BOGO Chew Toys: Indulge their playful nature with buy one, get one free chew toys, perfect for engaging in interactive playtime and keeping them entertained. 1/2 Off Park Walk: Give your Wheaten Terrier the gift of outdoor exploration with a half-price park walk, allowing them to stretch their legs and enjoy the great outdoors to the fullest. Don't miss out on these exclusive offers designed to pamper and spoil your Wheaten Terrier this month! Whether it's a soothing paw balm treatment, new chew toys for endless play, or an invigorating park walk, there's something special waiting for your furry friend at Pet Care Plus. Schedule your appointment today and let the celebrations begin!
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