Few dogs combine charm, intelligence, and playfulness quite like the Irish Doodle. Known for its stunning coat, friendly personality, and allergy-friendly qualities, this designer breed is quickly becoming a favorite among pet parents. Whether you’re considering adding an Irish Doodle to your family or already have one of these curly-coated companions at home, understanding their personality, care needs, and quirks can help you provide the best life possible for your furry friend.
If you love learning about dogs and want more eco-friendly pet care and cleaning tips, visit the Good Natured Brand Blog for guides that help you keep both your home and your pet happy.
What Is an Irish Doodle?
An Irish Doodle is a crossbreed between the Irish Setter and the Poodle (most often a Standard or Miniature Poodle). The combination results in a dog that is intelligent, energetic, loyal, and often described as the “best of both worlds.” Irish Doodles inherit the outgoing, affectionate temperament of the Irish Setter and the smarts and low-shedding coat of the Poodle.
Because of this mix, Irish Doodles are loved for being gentle yet energetic — perfect companions for active families or individuals who want a loyal, affectionate dog that can keep up with their lifestyle.
The Origin and History of the Irish Doodle
The Irish Doodle is part of the modern wave of “Doodle” breeds that became popular for their intelligence, beauty, and allergy-friendly coats. The breed likely originated in the U.S. during the late 20th century when breeders began pairing Poodles with other purebreds to create hybrids with low-shedding coats and balanced temperaments.
By mixing the Irish Setter’s hunting instincts and athleticism with the Poodle’s intelligence and trainability, breeders created a versatile, people-oriented dog that’s both affectionate and highly adaptable.
Physical Characteristics of the Irish Doodle
The Irish Doodle comes in various shapes and sizes depending on the Poodle parent’s type — Standard, Miniature, or Toy.
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Standard Irish Doodles typically weigh between 45–75 lbs and stand 22–28 inches tall.
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Mini Irish Doodles, bred from Miniature Poodles, are smaller at 25–35 lbs and about 15–20 inches tall.
Their coats range from soft waves to tight curls and come in warm shades like red, apricot, golden, and cream — often resembling a living teddy bear. Beyond their good looks, their coats are practical too: Irish Doodles tend to shed minimally, making them an excellent choice for people who prefer a cleaner home with fewer allergens.
Still, even low-shedding dogs can leave behind dander or odor on carpets and upholstery. Using Good Natured Brand Carpet Deodorizers keeps pet-friendly spaces fresh without harmful chemicals. The natural formula neutralizes odors and leaves behind a light, clean scent that’s safe for both pets and families.
Irish Doodle Temperament and Personality
The Irish Doodle’s personality is often described as cheerful, affectionate, and loyal. They thrive on human interaction and make wonderful companions for families with children, singles, and even seniors. These dogs adore attention and are happiest when included in daily activities.
Some of their most beloved traits include:
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Friendliness: Irish Doodles are sociable and love meeting new people and other pets.
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Intelligence: Thanks to their Poodle lineage, they are quick learners and eager to please.
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Playfulness: They maintain a youthful energy well into adulthood.
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Gentleness: Their calm, affectionate nature makes them great with children.
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Loyalty: Irish Doodles form strong bonds with their families and often follow their humans from room to room.
However, their love for companionship can also mean they dislike being alone for long periods. Without sufficient interaction or exercise, they might develop separation anxiety or boredom-related behaviors like chewing or barking. Keeping them mentally and physically stimulated is key to a well-balanced, happy dog.
Is the Irish Doodle Hypoallergenic?
While no dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic, the Irish Doodle is among the best options for allergy sufferers. Because they inherit the Poodle’s curly, low-shedding coat, they produce less dander — the main trigger for allergies.
Here are some tips to keep allergens low at home:
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Brush your Irish Doodle regularly to prevent loose fur buildup.
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Bathe them with mild, dog-safe shampoos.
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Vacuum and clean pet areas often using Good Natured Brand All-Purpose Cleaners, which are non-toxic and safe for pets.
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Sprinkle Good Natured Brand Carpet Deodorizers between cleanings to maintain a fresh, allergen-free environment.
These steps help reduce allergens and keep your home feeling fresh while protecting your pet’s skin from harsh chemical residues found in conventional cleaners.
Irish Doodle Size and Growth Stages
Irish Doodles grow quickly during their first year, reaching most of their adult size by 12–15 months.
Growth breakdown:
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0–3 months: Rapid growth, curious and energetic.
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3–6 months: Start teething, increasing appetite and playfulness.
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6–12 months: Most reach adult height; energy levels soar.
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12+ months: Muscles fill out, and behavior starts to stabilize.
Whether you have a mini or standard variety, maintaining proper nutrition and consistent exercise during growth is essential. It ensures strong bones, healthy muscles, and a shiny coat.
Coat Care and Grooming Needs
One of the Irish Doodle’s standout features is its coat — luxurious, low-shedding, and soft to the touch. But that beauty requires upkeep.
Grooming essentials include:
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Brushing: 3–4 times a week to prevent tangles and matting.
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Professional grooming: Every 8–12 weeks for trimming and coat health.
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Bathing: Once a month or as needed using mild, sulfate-free dog shampoo.
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Ear cleaning: Weekly, since doodle breeds are prone to ear infections.
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Nail trimming: Every 3–4 weeks.
After grooming sessions, it’s normal for loose hair or water to get on surfaces. Wipe up effortlessly using Good Natured Brand All-Purpose Cleaners — a plant-powered formula that cuts through grime safely, leaving your home spotless without exposing your dog to toxins.
Exercise and Activity Level
Irish Doodles are high-energy dogs that thrive on physical activity and mental engagement. A bored Irish Doodle can quickly become a mischievous one! Aim for at least 60 minutes of daily exercise, including:
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Walks or runs
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Fetch or tug-of-war
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Agility training
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Hiking or swimming
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Puzzle toys and scent games for mental stimulation
Their playful nature makes them ideal companions for active households. And after those energetic play sessions, they’ll happily curl up beside you for some much-deserved rest.
If your Irish Doodle comes home muddy after a walk, gently clean their paws and any dirty fabrics using Good Natured Brand Laundry Powders. The natural ingredients remove dirt and odors without synthetic fragrances — perfect for washing towels, blankets, and dog bedding.
Nutrition and Diet Recommendations
Feeding your Irish Doodle a balanced, high-quality diet is essential to their well-being. Choose a premium dog food rich in lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber to support their energy and coat health.
Tips for optimal nutrition:
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Feed twice daily, adjusting portions based on weight and activity level.
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Include omega-3 fatty acids for a shiny, soft coat.
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Avoid foods with artificial additives, dyes, or fillers.
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Ensure constant access to fresh water.
Because Irish Doodles can be prone to bloating (especially larger ones), it’s best to avoid vigorous play right after meals. Use slow-feeder bowls to help reduce gulping and improve digestion.
For pet parents who like preparing homemade meals, check with your vet for balanced recipes — and don’t forget to clean your kitchen afterward with Good Natured Brand All-Purpose Cleaners to ensure surfaces remain pet-safe and chemical-free.
Common Health Issues in Irish Doodles
Irish Doodles are generally healthy dogs, especially when bred responsibly. However, like any breed, they can inherit certain health issues from their parent breeds, including:
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Hip dysplasia
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Bloat (gastric dilation-volvulus)
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Progressive retinal atrophy
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Ear infections
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Allergies or sensitive skin
Routine vet visits and preventive care — including proper diet, hygiene, and grooming — can significantly minimize these risks. Keeping their environment clean using Good Natured Brand Carpet Deodorizers and Laundry Powders ensures a safer, healthier home, reducing exposure to irritants that can trigger allergies.
Training and Intelligence
Irish Doodles are known for their high intelligence and eagerness to please, which makes training both enjoyable and effective. They respond best to positive reinforcement methods such as praise, play, and treats.
Start training early with basic commands like sit, stay, and come. Once mastered, you can move on to advanced tricks or agility exercises — they’ll love the challenge!
Key training tips:
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Keep sessions short and fun (10–15 minutes).
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Use consistency and patience.
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Socialize your Irish Doodle early with people and pets.
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Provide daily mental enrichment.
Their desire to be near their humans means they do best in homes where they’re part of the family action, not left alone for extended periods. With regular mental stimulation and exercise, Irish Doodles quickly become well-mannered, confident companions.
Grooming and Maintenance for the Irish Doodle
Grooming your Irish Doodle is essential not only for appearance but also for health and comfort. Their wavy or curly coat can trap dirt, dander, and moisture if not maintained properly, leading to matting or skin irritation.
Brushing and Coat Care
Irish Doodles benefit from brushing three to four times per week. Use a slicker brush or comb designed for doodle coats to prevent tangles. Start brushing from the base of the fur and work your way outward — especially around the ears, chest, and underbelly, where matting occurs most often.
For a quick refresh between full grooming sessions, sprinkle a small amount of Good Natured Brand Carpet Deodorizers near your dog’s resting areas. This helps neutralize pet odors and maintain a fresh, inviting home environment — naturally and safely.
Bathing Routine
Bath your Irish Doodle once every 4–6 weeks, or as needed. Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo that nourishes their coat without stripping its natural oils. After bath time, it’s common for dogs to shake off water and leave a trail of pawprints or fur on floors and walls.
Clean up easily using Good Natured Brand All-Purpose Cleaners — a plant-based, non-toxic cleaner that lifts dirt and eliminates pet messes without exposing your dog to harmful chemicals.
Trimming and Professional Grooming
Regular professional grooming every 8–12 weeks keeps your Irish Doodle’s coat neat and healthy. Groomers can also trim around their face, feet, and sanitary areas to prevent matting. Don’t forget to clean ears weekly and trim nails monthly to prevent discomfort or injury.
Laundry and Fabric Care
After brushing or bathing, you may have towels, bedding, or grooming cloths to wash. Avoid detergents with artificial fragrances or harsh chemicals. Instead, use Good Natured Brand Laundry Powders to naturally clean fabrics. It’s pet-safe, eco-friendly, and highly effective at removing fur, dirt, and odor.
Training and Socialization Tips for an Intelligent Companion
Irish Doodles are naturally intelligent, curious, and eager to please — traits inherited from their Poodle lineage. This makes them highly trainable when handled with patience and consistency.
Start Early
Begin obedience training as soon as your Irish Doodle comes home. Use positive reinforcement methods — such as treats, praise, and play — to encourage good behavior. Avoid harsh corrections or punishment; these sensitive dogs respond best to kindness and structure.
Socialization Essentials
Expose your Irish Doodle to different environments, people, and other animals from an early age. Socialization helps prevent shyness or anxiety later in life. Arrange playdates with other dogs, take them for walks in busy parks, and reward calm behavior during new experiences.
Managing Separation Anxiety
Irish Doodles form deep attachments to their humans and can experience separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. Combat this by:
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Establishing a predictable daily routine.
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Providing interactive toys and enrichment puzzles.
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Gradually increasing alone time to build confidence.
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Using a comfortable crate or safe zone with familiar scents.
After play or training, your Irish Doodle may come home muddy or dusty. Keep your home spotless with Good Natured Brand All-Purpose Cleaners — perfect for wiping pawprints off floors and surfaces safely.
Living with an Irish Doodle in Different Environments
Irish Doodles are adaptable and thrive in various living spaces, from city apartments to suburban homes. The key is ensuring they get enough exercise and mental stimulation daily.
Apartment Living
If you live in an apartment, make time for daily walks, play sessions, and interactive toys to burn off energy. A bored Irish Doodle might resort to chewing or digging behaviors, so consistent engagement is crucial.
Keep your indoor space odor-free with Good Natured Brand Carpet Deodorizers — especially in high-traffic areas where your dog lounges or plays.
Home with a Yard
Irish Doodles love the outdoors! A fenced yard is ideal for safe, off-leash playtime. Just remember to clean any outdoor toys or mats regularly with Good Natured Brand Laundry Powders to prevent bacteria buildup and keep your pet’s belongings fresh.
Irish Doodle Health and Wellness
Overall, Irish Doodles are healthy dogs with an average lifespan of 10–15 years, but they can inherit certain conditions from their parent breeds.
Common Health Concerns
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Hip Dysplasia – Regular exercise and a healthy weight can reduce joint stress.
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Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) – Regular vet eye exams help with early detection.
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Bloat (GDV) – Feed smaller meals throughout the day instead of one large portion.
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Ear Infections – Keep ears clean and dry after swimming or baths.
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Allergies – Use natural cleaners like Good Natured Brand All-Purpose Cleaners to reduce allergens in your home.
Preventive Health Tips
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Schedule regular vet checkups for vaccinations and dental care.
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Brush their teeth 2–3 times per week.
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Maintain a balanced diet rich in protein, fiber, and omega-3s.
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Provide plenty of hydration and fresh air daily.
Cleanliness plays a vital role in preventing illness. A fresh, toxin-free home environment supports your dog’s immune system and reduces exposure to irritants.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Irish Doodles are an active, athletic breed that loves to run, play, and explore. Regular exercise helps prevent obesity and keeps them mentally sharp.
Daily Activity Goals
Aim for at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise each day. Activities can include:
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Brisk walks or jogs
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Hiking or swimming
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Fetch, frisbee, or tug-of-war
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Dog sports like agility or rally obedience
Mental Enrichment
Irish Doodles are thinkers! Rotate their toys, introduce puzzle feeders, and practice short obedience drills daily. Interactive games, hide-and-seek, and treat-dispensing toys keep them engaged and content.
After outdoor adventures, muddy pawprints are almost inevitable. Wipe them away easily with Good Natured Brand All-Purpose Cleaners to keep floors and furniture spotless.
Irish Doodle Puppy Care
Puppyhood is one of the most rewarding — and messiest — stages of Irish Doodle ownership. Establishing good habits early helps shape a well-behaved adult dog.
Puppy-Proofing Your Home
Before bringing your puppy home:
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Secure electrical cords and household cleaners.
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Remove small objects they could swallow.
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Designate a comfortable sleeping area.
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Use baby gates to block restricted zones.
Potty Training
Irish Doodles are quick learners, but consistency is key. Take your puppy outside frequently — after meals, naps, and play sessions. Reward them with praise and treats for good behavior.
Accidents are normal in the early days. Clean them up safely with Good Natured Brand All-Purpose Cleaners to eliminate stains and odors without harsh chemicals. For carpets and rugs, sprinkle Good Natured Brand Carpet Deodorizers to keep the area fresh and odor-free.
Socialization and Early Learning
Expose your puppy to various environments, people, and sounds during the first 3–6 months. This helps them grow into a confident, well-adjusted adult. Puppy classes or short socialization walks are a great start.
Senior Irish Doodle Care
As Irish Doodles age, their energy may wane, but their love for family never fades. Senior care focuses on maintaining comfort and mobility.
Senior Health Tips
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Switch to a senior dog food with joint support nutrients.
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Provide shorter, more frequent walks.
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Add soft bedding for joint relief.
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Schedule vet checkups twice a year.
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Keep nails trimmed to prevent mobility issues.
Senior dogs may have occasional accidents due to bladder weakness. Wash affected items using Good Natured Brand Laundry Powders for gentle, effective odor removal. For carpets, deodorize naturally using Good Natured Brand Carpet Deodorizers to maintain freshness without irritating your pet’s senses.
Pros and Cons of Owning an Irish Doodle
Pros
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Low-shedding, allergy-friendly coat
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Intelligent and trainable
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Loyal, family-oriented nature
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Active and adaptable to various lifestyles
Cons
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Requires consistent grooming
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Can develop separation anxiety
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High energy levels demand regular exercise
Despite their few challenges, Irish Doodles are among the most loving and rewarding breeds you can welcome into your life. Their companionship and charm more than make up for the extra grooming and cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions About Irish Doodles
Are Irish Doodles good family dogs?
Absolutely! They’re friendly, gentle, and great with children and other pets.
Do Irish Doodles bark a lot?
Not excessively, but they may bark when excited or seeking attention.
How often should an Irish Doodle be groomed?
Brush several times a week and schedule professional grooming every 8–12 weeks.
Are Irish Doodles easy to train?
Yes — they’re intelligent and eager to please, making them responsive to positive training.
How long do Irish Doodles live?
Typically between 10–15 years with proper care and a balanced lifestyle.
Final Thoughts: Is an Irish Doodle Right for You?
The Irish Doodle is more than a pet — it’s a lifelong companion full of affection, intelligence, and joyful energy. They thrive in active, loving homes where they can participate in daily life and adventures.
To keep your home as clean and vibrant as your dog’s spirit, turn to Good Natured Brand’s eco-friendly solutions:
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Freshen up with Carpet Deodorizers
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Wash gently with Laundry Powders
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Wipe surfaces safely using All-Purpose Cleaners
For more natural living and pet care tips, visit the Good Natured Brand Main Page and explore the Blog. Because a clean, chemical-free home means a healthier, happier life — for both you and your Irish Doodle.
