9 Common Oodle Myths Debunked
Chances are you googled what to expect when buying an oodle, or perhaps you were sold a non-shedding dog but wait... what’s this?!
We are here to debunk the myths around the infamous oodle breeds! Strap in!!
1. I should wait 6-12months to get my dog's first groom.
If you own a dog that needs grooming, then getting a groom within its first few weeks of being with you is vital. Oodles have a lifetime of grooming ahead of them. Starting early with trips to the groomer for a bath or a tidy up helps ensure positive associations. BONUS TIP: Help desensitise your puppy before that first visit. Expose them to water, the sound of a hair dryer, clippers, and lots of touches to the ears, muzzle, paws and tail.
2. Crossing a poodle with a different breed is bad for the dog's health
Breeding is like a science, and that is why it is so important to find reputable breeders. Reputable breeders do DNA and genetic health testing of their parents. This aside, the myth is that it can cause more issues. In many instances it does the opposite. For example, many love Bernese Mountain Dogs, however with a short life span and a range of health risks they cause a lot of heartbreak, mixing with a poodle can increase their life expectancy with fewer health risks. Or Cavaliers, who are very prone to heart conditions can be less likely to inherit these disorders when mixed with a poodle. If you have any questions about a breed's inherited disorders you should always ask your breeder or vet.
3. Grooming is my groomer’s responsibility.
Right? Wrong! You are the one that needs to advocate for your dog. Whether that is desensitising them, ensuring they are brushed regularly or booking regular grooming appointments. Grooming is your responsibility as an owner!
4. Oodles have separation anxiety.
Cavoodles can be prone to anxieties however any dog can be born with anxious tendencies or develop separation anxiety, and there are factors that can contribute to this. Desensitising early and finding a trainer can help you set your puppy up for success, as all dogs are different.
5. I should take off a week when I bring my puppy home.
Look, we’re not saying not to do this. We’re just saying don’t spend every waking moment with your puppy in that week. Otherwise, when you do need to go back to work we could start to see some of the aforementioned separation anxiety. Try to leave your puppy for a few hours here or there, and get them use to some of your usual routines. We suggest setting up a puppy cam, and keeping your pup in a smaller more confined area with some mental stimulation.
6. Oodles don't shed
The holy grail! This is why people buy oodles! Well don’t be fooled. The way an oodle’s coat works is that the coat does shed... it just gets caught up in the curls. This is why regular brushing and regular grooming appointments are vital.
7. Oodles are hypoallergenic
We think the no-shedding myth led to the hypoallergenic myth, but the thing is no breeder can guarantee a completely hypoallergenic dog to a potential owner with allergies. However, if you are looking for a lower allergen dog than an F1B generation would be better suited. This means pup’s parents were a Poodle X F1. (F1 being a poodle x original breed)
8. Oodles are low maintenance
If we’ve gotten all the way down here then it’s pretty clear that this is one of the BIGGEST myths out there. And sometimes when I think everyone knows this, I hear someone say “oh and they are so easy because they don’t shed!” Shudder. Oodles are a high maintenance breed (dw they pay you back in cuddles and endless love). But the reality is, you will be brushing daily and you’ll need to be besties with your local groomer because you’re going to be there every few weeks.
9.Their fur is too long, I can't maintain it!
Often when we see oodles running around at the beach and dog park they have long locks that whip around in the wind! But no one is making you keep their coats long. If you prefer it short and you find it easier to maintain than this is totally fine, or perhaps your dog is senior or has alignments and its easier to keep them short. There is no pressure to keep those locks long if you can't maintain it!