Dogs of OEV – Oodles of Doodles by Shelley Long
Old East Village is home to a lot of “doodles”. Doodles, other- wise known as poodle mixes, are created by crossing a poodle with another purebred or mixed-breed dog. The suffix “doodle” is added to any breed that is crossed with a poodle: Goldendoodle (Golden Retriever), Labradoodle (Labrador), Schnoodle (Schauzer), Bernedoodle (Bernese Mountain Dog), Whoodle (soft coated Wheaton Terrier), Aussiedoodle (Australian Shepherd) or a Sheepadoodle (Old English Sheepdog). Doodles come in all sizes and colours. Most have soft, curly hair and a cheerful personality. They are not recognized as an official dog breed, and there is no breed standard for any of the mixes.
The first official “doodle” appeared in the 1980s when a golden retriever was bred with a poodle in hopes of creating a gentle, smart dog. While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, the low-shedding coat of a poodle is more allergy-friendly. Many doodle dogs were initially bred in hopes of creating a hypoallergenic seeing-eye dog. When I asked some doodle owners about why they love them, the most common reasons are that doodles are friendly and social, high-energy and good family dogs. Because of their high energy level, they require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, so if you get one, be prepared to add several walks and playdates to your schedule. They also require a lot of maintenance – brushing, combing and trips to the groomer. All things to consider if you are thinking of adding a doodle to your life.
Left to right: Penny (Newfoundlandoodle), Reggie (Labradoodle), Remi (Mini Goldendoodle).
Top: Toad (St. Bernardoodle) Above: Podi (Labradoodle) and Cherry (Goldendoodle)
Page 12 Old East Villager September 2025
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