Spoodle Overview
Origin: Australia/USA
Also known as the Cockapoo, the Spoodle is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Miniature Poodle. One of the earliest designer breeds, combining the Cocker's cheerful nature with the Poodle's low-shedding coat.
The Spoodle is an Australian designer crossbreed combining the Cocker Spaniel and Poodle, first developed in Australia during the 1990s. This hybrid was created to produce a low-shedding companion dog with the intelligence and trainability of both parent breeds. Registered with RPBA and MDBA, the Spoodle has become one of Australia’s most popular crossbreeds due to its predictable temperament and adaptability.
In Australia, Spoodles are exceptionally well-suited to diverse lifestyles and climates. They are registered with the Australian breed societies and feature prominently in rescue networks across all states. Their moderate exercise needs (45+ minutes daily) and apartment compatibility make them ideal for urban Australians, though they thrive equally in suburban homes with yards. They require regular grooming every 6–8 weeks to maintain coat health.
Spoodles excel as family companions, therapy dogs, and first-time owner pets. Their affectionate nature, high trainability, and moderate exercise requirements position them as one of the most versatile breeds for the Australian context. While they can develop separation anxiety if left alone, they respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement training.
Spoodle Personality & Temperament
Understanding the Spoodle temperament is the most important step before bringing one home.
Affectionate, playful, intelligent, loyal, eager to please, sociable
Breed Ratings at a Glance
How the Spoodle scores across key traits (1 = Low, 5 = High).
Is a Spoodle Right for You?
❌
First-time owner
Excellent
❌
House with yard
Excellent
Separation Anxiety: Moderate — this breed may struggle if left alone for long periods.
Spoodle Size & Appearance
Size
Small-Medium
Weight M
5–9 kg
Weight F
5–9 kg
Height
28–38 cm
Coat
Wavy to curly
Colours
Red, black, cream
Variations
Toy, Miniature, Standard
Brachycephalic
No
Hypoallergenic
Yes ✓
Spoodle Health & Lifespan
13 years
Average Lifespan
Known Health Conditions
Joint development issue
Est. treatment: 2000–4000
Floppy ears
Est. treatment: 150–400
Kneecap dislocation
Est. treatment: 1500–3500
Eye condition
Est. treatment: 500–1500
Food/environmental
Est. treatment: 200–600
Recommended Health Tests:
PRA DNA test, FN DNA test, ophthalmologist evaluation, regular ear checks
Pet Insurance for Spoodle
Avg Annual Insurance: $750
Monthly Estimate: Estimated 35–55/month
Recommended Insurers:
• Bow Wow Meow
• PD Insurance
• Petinsurance.com.au
• Budget Direct
• Petcover
• NRMA
TIP: Insure before 6 months.
Compare insurance policies for your Spoodle
Given this breed's known health conditions, comprehensive coverage is recommended for Australian owners.
Compare Pet Insurance →
Spoodle Cost of Ownership (AUD)
| Category | Amount (AUD) |
|---|
| PURCHASE |
$2,000 - $4,000 |
| Food |
$1,700 |
| Vet |
$550 |
| Grooming |
$350 |
| Insurance |
$750 |
| TOTAL/yr |
$2,588 |
| Monthly |
$149 |
| LIFETIME (13 yrs) |
$33,644 |
| FIRST-YEAR EXTRAS |
$1,200–$2,200 (desexing, vax, microchip, setup, puppy school) |
$33,644
Estimated lifetime cost (13 years)
All prices in AUD. Costs vary by state, vet, and lifestyle. Sources: PetSure, RSPCA, Animal Medicines Australia.
Spoodle Grooming Guide
Frequency
Every 6–8 weeks
Brushing
N/A
Professional Cost
60–90
Coat
Wavy to curly
Shedding
★☆☆☆☆/5
Tools
Slicker/pin brush, deshedding tool, nail clippers
Nails
Every 4–6 weeks | Ears: Monthly | Teeth: 2–3×/week
Spoodle Exercise Needs
Daily Exercise
45 minutes
Type
Daily walks, play, mental stimulation
Energy
★★★★☆/5
Separation Anxiety
Moderate
Mental Stimulation
Puzzle feeders, sniff walks, 10min training/day
Sports
Agility, flyball, scent work, swimming (breed-dependent)
Training Your Spoodle
Trainability: ★★★★☆/5
First-Time Owner: ★★★★★/5
N/A
Tips: Positive reinforcement only | Puppy school 8–12 weeks
Short 5–10min sessions | Socialise early with dogs, people, sounds
Spoodle Feeding Guide
Annual Food Cost: $1,700
1–2 cups daily
Tips: Premium kibble + 2 meals/day | Monitor weight | Fresh water always
Avoid: grapes, onion, chocolate, xylitol, macadamias
Finding a Reputable Spoodle Breeder
REGISTRIES:
• RPBA
• MDBA
• RightPaw
GREEN FLAGS: Health tests, ANKC/RPBA reg, visits allowed, health guarantee, screens buyers
RED FLAGS: Always available, multiple breeds, no health tests, Gumtree/social media sellers, pet shops
✅ Green Flags
- Registered with ANKC, RPBA, MDBA, or RightPaw
- Invites you to visit and meet the mother (dam)
- Provides health test results for parents
- Includes vet certificate, microchip, and vaccination records
- Has a waiting list (sign of demand, not a puppy farm)
❌ Red Flags
- Multiple breeds always available with no wait
- Won't let you visit or meet the mother
- No health testing mentioned
- Price significantly below market average
- Meets in a public place instead of their property
Trusted Australian Registries:
ANKC (ankc.org.au) · RPBA (rpba.org.au) · RightPaw (rightpaw.com.au) · Dogs Australia · ACF
Adopting a Spoodle in Australia
RESCUE OPTIONS:
• Spoodle Rescue Australia
• PetRescue.com.au
• RSPCA Australia
Adoption Cost: $250–$600 AUD
(includes desexing, microchip, vaccinations)
Search PetRescue.com.au — Australia's largest adoption platform
❤️ Thousands of dogs need homes. Rescue dogs come desexed, vaccinated, and microchipped.
Spoodle — Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Spoodle cost in Australia?
Expect 2000–4000 from a reputable RPBA or MDBA registered breeder. Prices vary by size (Toy, Miniature, Standard) and breeder location. Always verify registration and health screening before purchasing.
Are Spoodles good for apartments?
Yes, Spoodles are excellent apartment dogs. Their moderate exercise needs (45 minutes daily) and generally quiet nature make them well-suited to unit living, provided they receive regular mental stimulation and are not left alone for extended periods.
Do Spoodles shed a lot?
Spoodles are highly low-shedding due to their Poodle heritage. Most shed minimally year-round, though wavy-coated individuals may shed slightly more than curly-coated ones. Regular brushing (2–3 times weekly) prevents matting.
How long do Spoodles live?
Spoodles typically live 12–15 years with proper care. Ensuring regular health screening for hip dysplasia and eye conditions, combined with appropriate exercise and nutrition, supports a long, healthy lifespan.
Are Spoodles good with children?
Absolutely. Spoodles are excellent with children of all ages. Their affectionate and playful nature makes them reliable family companions. They are patient and gentle, though supervision with very young children is always recommended.
How much exercise does a Spoodle need?
Spoodles require 45+ minutes of daily exercise including walks, play, and mental stimulation. Mental enrichment (puzzle toys, training) is as important as physical activity. They thrive with interactive play and may develop anxiety without adequate stimulation.
What health problems do Spoodles have?
Common conditions include hip dysplasia, ear infections (due to floppy ears), patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, and allergies. Responsible breeders screen parents for genetic issues. Pet insurance (35–55/month) is highly recommended.
Where can I find a Spoodle breeder in Australia?
Contact RPBA (Responsible Pet Breeders Australia) or MDBA (Miniature Dog Breeders Association) for registered breeders. Alternatively, check Spoodle Rescue Australia or PetRescue.com.au for rescue options. Always verify breeder credentials and health testing.
Is pet insurance worth it for Spoodles?
Yes, pet insurance is valuable for Spoodles given their predisposition to hip dysplasia and eye conditions. Average costs (35–55/month) are reasonable compared to potential treatment expenses (2000–4000 for surgery). Choose a policy covering genetic conditions.
What makes Spoodles different from Cockapoos?
Spoodles use Cocker Spaniels (larger than English Cocker Spaniels) and are Australian-developed. Cockapoos typically use English Cocker Spaniels. Spoodles generally have slightly higher energy and may be marginally larger, though both make excellent companions.
