The Dark Side of Designer Breeding

Sadly, due to the popularity and lucrative prospects of breeding designer dogs, some people have taken to creating designer puppy mills, much like the regular puppy mills that supply pet stores with animals. These cruel places breed a surplus of animals more quickly than they can sell. So as soon as an animal is deemed "too old" or "not cute anymore," they are killed. Perfectly healthy animals die simply because they did not sell fast enough. This is why is it crucial to never buy a pet from a pet store. Doing so keeps the puppy mills in business.

Fortunately, animal rescue teams and shelters have been very successful in shutting down puppy mills and rescuing the animals which are then put up for adoption. This is an extremely good cause if you are in the market for a puppy, and these rescue shelters should be considered as a great source for a new family pet. The adoption fees are significantly cheaper than buying from a certified breeder, although I recommend that latter over buying from a pet store.

Here are a few sites with rescued dogs in need of a home:

http://www.poomixrescue.com/

This site specializes solely on Poodle-mixes.

http://petfinder.com/

You can adopt anything from a horse, a snake, or a Poodle-mix. This Web site compiles information from a variety of shelters and rescue agencies who have pets in need of a home.

Morning Show with Oodles

Top-rated Australian morning television host, Kerri-Anne, talks with Don Burke, an Aussie television personality, author, and expert on dog breeding. This segment ran on "Mornings with Kerri-Anne" on Feb. 13, 2007. About four minutes in, guests bring out a Labradoodle, followed by a Schnoodle, and then finally a Spoodle (which is the Australian name for Cockapoo).

Burke mentions that the Cockapoo, or Cockadoodle/Spoodle, was the first designer dog bred in the United States, and he states that the entire designer dog market took off from there due to buyers' love for the new breed.

Notice how well-behaved, smart, and gentle the Poodle-mixes are on a television set.

Puppy Pundit

As of Nov. 20, Pajamas Media, whose tag-line is "All the news MSN forgot...," has a Labradoodle commenting on the the Presidential Race. Boris, the Labradoodle, writes his opinions and views of the candidates, the debates, and the voters. It lacks in humor but makes up in overall creativity and wit - not surprising of a Poodle-mix. And while it might fail in reliability, it sure breaks up the monotony of all the other commentators. Perfect for dog lovers.

Here is an excerpt from Boris' first post:

"Look, everyone knows politics is a dirty business and covering politics may be dirtier still. I say, bring it on, because I, Boris the Labradoodle, am a connoisseur of dirt! Over the course of this presidential race, I’m going to be sticking my nose where humans squeamishly fear to go and telling you what I smell."

To read on, click here:

http://pajamasmedia.com/2007/11/mans_best_friends_guide_to_the.php

Featured Poo-Mix of the Day: Schnoodle

MEET THE SCHNOODLE

Schnoodle: mix between a miniature Schnauzer and a Poodle (toy or miniature)

Size: These dogs are small, normally weighing between 10-25 pounds.

Temperament: Schnoodles aim to please much like the Lhasapoo. Whether it's playtime or nap time, they are ready for whatever. Schnoodles are very mild-tempered, great with children, and like all poodle-mixes, very smart.

Lifespan: about 12-15 years

Other Name that Could Have Worked: Poozer

Where You've Seen It: Schnoodles are gaining popularity among hybrid dogs, but are no where near as common as its small counterparts, the Cockapoo and the Maltipoo. Because of their small size, Schnoodles thrive in any environment and would do well in both an urban and a rural home.

Mutt Mix-Up

Puppy Refund?

An Australian couple received $5295 from a local pet store after being misinformed as to how large their pet would grow. They bought Lola, a King Charles Cavalier spaniel-Poodle mix, believing it would be a small lapdog. After veterinary testing, they found out Lola who had kept growing and growing had been bred with a standard-sized poodle. Because they had to buy new pet supplies when Lola outgrew all of her original belongings, they decided to go back to the store for retribution, which they eventually got in the form of a handsome sum just north of $5000 - the original cost of the pet plus an additional $3700.

I'd like to point out that this is Lola pictured left. Maybe it's just me, but she is not what I would describe as a big dog. Ridiculous what some people will go through for some cash. Reminds me of that McDonald's customer years ago who burnt herself on the coffee and was outraged at how hot it was. You buy a coffee, it's going to be hot. You buy a dog, it's going to grow. I didn't realize you can get a refund if its growth is not to your liking.

To read the rest of the story, click here:

http://www.stuff.co.nz/4283138a10.html

Bad Hair Day

How you cut your dog's hair makes a big difference in the overall cute factor. Now as you will see, I am a firm believer that shaggier is better. If you need proof, look below at three different Poodle-mixes, all of whom look cuter with a shaggier look (the shaved ones look so hungry).

Cockapoo

Schnoodle

Maltipoo

What's in a Name? PART DEUX

GET CREATIVE!

LOOK FOR NAMES THAT ARE...

1. Favorite characters from books/movies... these names will either make you look really intellectual or really funny 

Holden (as in Caufield from Catcher in the Rye)

Godfather (funny for a little dog)

2. Towns and Cities

Vegas

London (so international)

3. Historical figures

King Tut

Napoleon

Boleyn

AVOID NAMES THAT ARE...

1. Adjectives

Fluffy

Cuddly

2. Food

Muffin

Cupcake

3. Weather

Sunny

Snowball

What's in a Name?

Well, America, no one seems to be jumping on the creative bandwagon when it comes to naming a pet. Year after year the same names keep popping up as the most popular for canine friends. Check out the list and see if you know any four-legged creatures with the same name. I know five (Max, Jake, Buddy, Buster, and Sandy).

TOP 10 MOST POPULAR MALE/FEMALE NAMES

1. Max/Maggie

2. Jake/Molly

3. Buddy/Lady

4. Bailey/Sadie

5. Sam/Lucy

6. Rocky/Daisy

7. Buster/Ginger

8. Casey/Abby

9. Cody/Sasha

10. Duke/Sandy

Source: Dogfacts.org

Smarty-pants Labradoodle

I thought Bailey, this Labradoodle, was great, because at four months old, he's still not used to the slippery hardwood floor. But he endures the slipping and shows off all the tricks he's mastered. What a good dog.

Side note: When you type "Labradoodle" into YouTube, nearly 700 results pop up as opposed to the 492 for Goldendoodles and the 446 for a Cockapoo. Someone's Mr. Popular!

Featured Poo-Mix of the Day: Labradoodle

MEET THE LABRADOODLE

Labradoodle: mix between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle (miniature or standard)

Size: These dogs are one the larger Poodle-mixes along with Goldendoodles. They normally weigh more than 40 pounds can grow as large as 90 pounds.

Temperament: Labradoodles are arguably the most popular designer dog in America. With a price tag often reaching $1000, people want (and get) the best features of both the Lab and the Poodle. Labradoodles are sweet-natured, sociable, extremely smart, and loyal companions.

Lifespan: about 12-15 years

Other Names that Could Have Worked: Labrapoo, Poorador

Where You've Seen It: Much like the Goldendoodle, anywhere and everywhere. Labradoodles are extremely popular, but again, I recommend that they are better for homes in the suburbs or rural areas due to their large size.

Puppy Purse?

While browsing online at a pet supply store, I noticed they were selling puppy purses, and I expected to see a type of carrying case in which to place a small pup. You know, six sides and a zipper door? But no. This is what popped up. At first I thought she was carrying a stuffed animal. But again, no. That is a real, living, breathing, has a blood-pumping heart creature being carried around like a Gucci purse. 

I suppose this is a great invention if the animal cannot walk or has no legs, which for all I know, might be the case here, but I see no other need to ever own something like this. You would have to sedate an animal for it to remain calm in this thing. It's ridiculous. I bet that woman who dressed her dog in drag has one of these (see below). I can just sense it.

Designer Dog, Designer Lifestyle

Considering buying a designer dog? Get ready. The bills won't stop after the vaccines. Just like a baby, these new members of the family must be fed, groomed, and given medical attention. And if you have a few extra dollars to spend, throw in some extra chew-toys. 

OR if you're completely crazy, you can pimp out your dog's living quarters entirely! Now I am not sure whatever happened to the "give a dog a bone" theory, but some dogs are living better than half the human population.

CRATE

KING-SIZED BED

THE DOGHOUSE for $140 (still a bit pricey)

 CABANA NIGHTS for $4459.50!  (I think Habitat for Humanity - you know, the volunteer group that builds homes for HUMAN BEINGS - works under a similar budget)

For more puppy ridiculousness, click here:

http://www.pamperedpuppy.com/shopping/index.php

Featured Poo-Mix of the Day: Lhasapoo

MEET THE LHASAPOO

Lhasapoo: mix between a Lhasa Apsa and a Poodle (toy or miniature)

Size: These dogs are on the small-scale of Poodle-mixes along with Maltipoos. They normally don't weigh more than 20 pounds and often weigh as little as 10 pounds.

Temperament: Lhasapoos make great companions because they will do whatever you want them to, when you want them to whether it's going for a walk, taking a nap, or playing. They also fulfill the role of cuddle-buddy, as they love to snuggle and be held, sometimes even when you don't feel like it. They are very loving, loyal animals.

Lifespan: about 15-16 years

Other Name that Could Have Worked: Lhasadoodle

Where You've Seen It: Probably alongside Maltipoos in Manhattan and other downtown fashion districts, nestled in their owners' purses.

Resident Evil

WARNING: Never allow a cat to enter your home, or else.

As proven in this short documentary, cats are evil and Cockapoos are the opposite: cute, loving, intelligent, the list goes on... 

I believe the creator of this video was confused. "Can this little kitty defend itself?" The "kitty" (AKA evil mongrel) is the one bothering and attacking the harmless Cockapoo. Why there is no one intervening to defend the little Cockapoo is beyond me.

MORE Celebrity Poodle-Mixes

Poodle-mixes are not only popular among us common-folk, the rich and famous love them, as well. And look, Jessica Simpson bought one. Proves she can do something right, even if it is just this one time.

Ashley Tisdale of High School Musical and her Maltipoo, Blondie

Richard Belzer (who?) and his Poodle-Fox Terrier, Bebe

Ricky Lake as in Ricky Lake the 90s talk-show host and her Goldendoodle, Jeffie

The Most Famous Poodle-Mix of Them All? Jessica Simpson's Maltipoo, Daisy, might be in more UsWeekly's than her famous aunt, Ashley.

Celebrity Cockapoo

Buttermilk Judd Says Hello

Given to Ashley Judd by her mother, Naomi Judd, in 1999, Cockapoo Buttermilk is more famous than most people. Buttermilk has not only walked the red carpet but also appeared in magazine spreads and sat alongside Judd on the Today Show. 

Buttermilk is just one of Judd's two Cockapoos; the other's name is Shug. Both furry friends often accompany their owner to interviews, walks around town, and when Judd takes a bubble bath... ew. NOTE: There is such a thing as being TOO close with your pet.

Featured Poo-Mix of the Day: Cockapoo

MEET THE COCKAPOO

Cockapoo: mix between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle (toy or miniature)

Size: Cockapoos range anywhere from 10-30 pounds depending on the size of the parents. It is considered a small dog and rarely goes over 30 pounds.

Temperament: The Cockapoo makes the perfect pet. They are friendly, playful, smart learners, and good with other pets and children.

Lifespan: about 15-18 years

Other Names that Could Have Worked: Cockadoodle, Cockerdoodle, Poospaniel

Where You've Seen It: Cockapoos are increasingly a favorite among families, couples, and individuals. Because of their small size they do well in big homes or smaller apartments, which means you'll see them in rural, suburban, and urban areas. Get ready, a Cockapoo is a probably moving in to a home near you. No worries - it's a good thing! These sweet creatures charm just about everyone they meet.

Laser Speed

I really have no reason to be posting this other than the fact that Teddy Hilton is adorable. But I suppose I can also point out that he is quick, energetic, and astute like all other Goldendoodles. I am kind of surprised the paparazzi don't follow him around more.

Please excuse his owner.

Canine Medium

 The Bichon-Poodle Mix that Sensed Ghosts

Max, the six-year-old Bichon-poodle mix, senses the same spirits his owner, Marlene Woelm, has been sensing for years. Woelm recently wrote "The Ghosts on 87th Lane" describing the accounts of the spirits she claims have been dwelling in her house for over forty years. 

According to an article in ABC Newspapers, "One day Marlene saw a shape of a person standing in the hallway. Max dropped to his belly and started crawling. He barked and growled at it. The shape floated into her office."

Believe Woelm or not, but everyone knows dogs can't tell a lie.

To read the rest of the article, click here:

http://abcnewspapers.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=686&Itemid=38

The New Hybrid

WHAT IS HYBRID VIGOR?

Hybrid Vigor, also known as the heterosis effect, means that a dog from two different purebreds is more immune to genetic deficiencies and other diseases than a dog bred from two of the same breed. In other words, two Poodles will have a weaker pup than a Poodle and a Cocker Spaniel. 

Purebred dogs often carry genetic deficiencies, which continually get passed down from generation to generation. For example, Poodles suffer a host of problems ranging from juvenile cataracts to hypothyroidism. The prevalence of imbreeding among purebreds only adds to the health problems. All poodle-mixes bred directly from a Poodle and another breed maintain the hybrid vigor. However, once poodle-mixes are bred Cockapoo with a Cockapoo or Labradoodle with a Labradoodle, these mixes eventually develop purebred deficiencies of their own. So while the first or second generation of these poodle-mix "purebreds" still maintain most of the qualities of hybrid vigor, later generations begin to suffer more from new health defects.

Fortunately, poodle-mixes have not been bred for nearly as long as other purebreds, so the genetic deficiencies are less prevalent. Still, to ensure a healthier animal, it is wiser to choose a puppy bred from a Poodle and another breed.

Featured Poo-Mix of the Day: Eskipoo

MEET THE ESKIPOO

Eskipoo: mix between a American Eskimo Dog and a Poodle (toy, miniature, or standard)

Size: Both American Eskimo Dogs and Poodle come in toy, miniature, and standard sizes. As a result, any combination can be bred with one another so long as the female is the larger dog. However, for breeding purposes, it makes more sense to breed across one size difference. In other words, toy and standard breeding is not common. Eskipoos range from 8 to 45 pounds.

Temperament: The American Eskimo Dog is known for its intelligence, gentleness, and loyalty toward their owners. Combine these qualities with those of a Poodle, and you get one energetic and smart pet.

Lifespan: about 15-16 years

Other Names that Could Have Worked: Eskidoodle

Where You've Seen It: You probably haven't. Eskipoos are a rare breed despite the face that they make the perfect house pet.

What NOT to do to your poodle-mix

POODLE-MIX FORCED TO DRESS IN DRAG THANKS TO CRUEL OWNER

To all those out there reading, PLEASE, never do this to your dog, poodle-mix or not. Some woman thought it would be a good idea to dress her male Maltipoo, Zephyr, up in drag - AKA tutu, green bonnet, ruffles, well, you get the picture. Ugh the agony. I ask myself, what did this creature ever do to deserve this? And the answer is nothing. Nothing warrants this kind of treatment.

As if canine clothing was not bad enough. These don't even look like dog clothes. They appear to have come from a baby doll. Some little girl down the street must be sad because her doll no longer has its pretty outfit. Give the girl the clothes back, woman! And please, little Zephyr, try and find forgiveness. You are in our prayers.

To read more about this mean lady, click here: http://www.coloradoan.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071101/LIFESTYLE/711010330

Designer Label, Designer Dog

Much like designer clothing, watches, perfumes, etc., designer dogs (which include all poodle-mixes) come at a lofty price. While you can sometimes find these dogs for cheaper prices from rescues or adoption agencies, breeders will charge top dollar for their champion litters. Females always cost more than males of the same litter (anywhere from a $100-500 difference). Price also varies on size, color, health, and superiority among the litter; runts always cost the cheapest because they are typically at a greater risk for having health problems. Here is just an average range of what you can expect to pay for some of the most popular poodle-mixes. And look who tops out as the most expensive: our poo-mix of the day, the Goldendoodle!

Labradoodle $450-700

Cockapoo $400-700

Schnoodle $350-750

Pekepoo $300-700

Maltipoo $500-900

Yorkipoo $450-950

Cavapoo $400-1200

Aussiedoodle $1200

Goldendoodle $500-2200

Skateboarding Goldendoodle

This Goldendoodle can skateboard. I can't even skateboard. Damn these dogs are smart.

Famous Goldendoodle: Teddy Hilton

No worries... It is not another Chihuahua hanging onto Paris.

It is Perez Hilton's new Goldendoodle, Teddy! This fellow blogger recently bought Teddy after learning of the breed on Google. He typed in the words “cute,” “small,” and “smart” and links to pages about Goldendoodles popped up. So here is a short clip of Perez and Teddy. It basically just emphasizes the sweet-hearted nature of the animal.

NOTE: Perez mentions the dog will be about 20 lbs. He is WRONG. Miniature Goldendoodles are never this small because neither parent dog weighs that little. The dog will probably be 30 pounds at least.

Featured Poo-Mix of the Day: Goldendoodle

MEET THE GOLDENDOODLE

Goldendoodle: mix between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle (normally miniature or standard)

Size: Goldendoodles are on the large scale of poodle-mix dogs because of the larger size of a Golden Retriever and a standard Poodle. They typically weigh between 45-85 pounds. However, these dogs can be bred with a miniature Poodle, thereby making what is known as a miniature Goldendoodle. These smaller versions of the breed typically weigh between 25-45 pounds. They look like a bigger version of the Cockapoo.

Temperament: Well let’s think: America’s number one family dog (the Golden) combined with the intelligence and non-shedding factors of a Poodle. Sounds too good to be true.

Lifespan: about 14-16 years

Other Names that Could NOT Have Worked: Goldenpoo, Poo Retriever, Poodle Retriever – it’s a good thing they went with Goldendoodle.

Where You've Seen It: Anywhere and everywhere. This is the new and improved version of America’s favorite dog. Goldendoodles are perfect for families, young couples, and make the perfect companion to those living alone. However, it’s better to keep dogs of this size where they have open space to run and play. The hustle and bustle of a city can be claustrophobic to an animal this big.

Labradoodle to the Rescue

DOG SUFFERS RATTLE-SNAKE BITES TO SAVE OWNER

Just last month in Sierra Vista, Ariz., a Labradoodle named Phillip (pictured left) saved his new owner, Linda Reynolds (also pictured left), and her other dog, a Labradachshund, from a rattlesnake that invaded Reynolds' sun porch. According to an article in the Sierra Vista Herald, "The 11-month-old chocolate Labradoodle placed himself in harm’s way as he nudged Reynolds and Jake [Labradachshund] clear of an armoire, underneath which the poisonous snake had taken up residency."

Phillip suffered two bites to the head, two to his legs, and one to his chest. Reynolds failed to notice the dog was injured until later in the evening at which point Phillip's body swelled, he was drooling, and he was having difficult breathing. She called a vet only to learn that the treatment would cost $2000 and would not necessarily work. So instead of getting Phillip help, she laid with him all night, expecting the worse. Unusual decision when you consider the selfless, protective action the animal had just done for her.

Amazingly, Phillip made it through the night, and Reynolds began calling friends eventually taking the recommendation from one to try a topical treatment, DMSO, or dimethyl sulfoxide. The treatment worked; Phillip's swelling has diminished significantly and there is no sign of infection.

Needless to say I am not surprised at the cowardly behavior of the Labradachshund in regard to the rattlesnake. Leave it to a poodle-mix to step up and save the day.

To read the entire article, click here:
http://www.azstarnet.com/sn/hourlyupdate/207437.php

High-Five to Maltipoos!

Now I don't know about you, but I have seen a lot of dumb dogs in my day.

Whether they are lazy, hard of hearing, or just stupid, many dogs struggle to

accomplish "sit" or "paw." Not only has this Maltipoo mastered the basic

commands, but she shocks viewers with her admirable "high five" and "roll

over." And at such a young age, too. I think we can call this video exhibit A:

proof that the Maltipoo is not only adorable, but intelligent, as well.

Featured Poo-Mix of the Day: Maltipoo

MEET THE MALTIPOO

Maltipoo: mix between a Maltese and a Poodle

Size: Maltipoos are a tiny dog, normally ranging in size from 5-12 pounds (almost always bred with a Toy Poodle)

Temperament: varies - sweet and hyper like a maltese, but intelligent and perky like a Poodle

Lifespan: average 12-15 years

Other Names that Could Have Worked: Poomalt, Pootese, Maltoodle

Where You've Seen It: Strutting their stuff in the purse of some rich lady or celebrity on Fifth Avenue or Rodeo Drive. These tiny, friendly creatures are the new desire among the socialites on both the East and West Coasts.

Poodify Your Life

GREETINGS FELLOW POODLE-MIX OWNERS, POTENTIAL BUYERS, AND FRIENDS

As a new owner of a Cockapoo puppy, Tucker, I recognize the brilliance that is the Poodle-mix. Their intelligence, demeanor, cuteness, and non-shedding quality makes them the perfect companion for families and individuals anywhere.

Poodlemix.blogspot.com highlights the amazingness of all breeds mixed with a Poodle. Through video, images, and witty banter, this blog will analyze the history, current development, and future that is the poodle-mix.

If you are not already in love with these God-sent creatures, be prepared. You're about to fall.

Welcome to Poodlemix. Where we poodify your life.

Woof!

Alaina (and Tucker)