Is a Doodle Mix Right for You? Answering Listener Questions on Choosing the Perfect Pup

Welcome back to The Doodle Pro® Podcast, where we celebrate all things Doodle! In today’s episode, I’m diving into a thoughtful question from listener Matthew K. in Salem, Oregon. He’s considering adopting a 14-month-old Husky Doodle from a rescue and wants advice on what to expect from this unique mix.This isn’t just about one pup—this is your ultimate guide to evaluating whether a Doodle mix is right for you. Whether you're eyeing a Labradoodle, Goldendoodle, or any other Doodle hybrid, this episode will teach you how to evaluate if a specific Doodle blend fits your lifestyle:✨ Know the Breeds: Understand how a Husky's independence and energy balance with a Poodle’s intelligence and sensitivity. ✨ Coat Challenges: Learn about the unique grooming needs of Doodle mixes, especially high-maintenance combinations like the Husky Doodle. ✨ Adolescent Adventures: Dive into why adolescent dogs are often surrendered and how to navigate this high-energy, boundary-testing phase. ✨ Lifestyle Fit: Get tips on determining if you’re ready for the time, energy, and care required to parent a specific Doodle mix.If you’re considering adding a Doodle to your family, this episode will give you the tools to make an informed decision—and help set you and your pup up for success!🎧 Related Episode: If today’s episode piques your interest, don’t miss Episode 15: "Doodle Brain Under Construction: Adolescent Dog Training"! Discover expert tips and strategies for managing the unique challenges of raising an adolescent Doodle. Listen now at thedoodlepro.com/ep-15-doodle-brain-under-construction-adolescent-dog-training.Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Follow me for more tips and adorable Doodles: @thedoodlepro on InstagramReady to calm your Doodle? Explore my course: Relaxation Protocol for Distractable Doodles™Thank you for listening, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast wherever you tune in. Here’s to raising happy, healthy, and well-behaved Doodles! 🐾Send me a text- Corinne, The Doodle Pro®Do you want help keeping track of all the sights, sounds, textures, places, and people that your doodle needs positive, ongoing, and quality exposures to? Don't try to keep track of it all in your mind by using my free Doodle Puppy Socialization Checklist! Download it for free now at https://thedoodlepro.com/socialization. Do you know your doodle's learning style? Take our free quiz to find out and make training together easier and more fun! Visit https://thedoodlepro.com/learning now!Support The Doodle Pro® Podcast and help me book the most fabulous guests out there by... adding a rating an review for our show in your player! THANK YOU!

🎙️ Looking for the perfect holiday treats and gifts for your Doodle? In this episode of The Doodle Pro® Podcast, we’re diving into safe, fun, and festive ideas to spoil your pup this season. Learn how to bake delicious DIY dog treats, discover my favorite safe holiday chews, and avoid common gift pitfalls like those candy cane-shaped rawhides.Whether you’re baking cookies, shopping for the perfect chew, or wrapping up last-minute gifts, I’ve got you covered with tips, recipes, and product recommendations from 🛒my Amazon shop. Let’s make this holiday season magical for your furry friend!What You’ll LearnThe best holiday chews for safety and enjoyment (and what to avoid).Step-by-step DIY dog treat recipes to bake for your pup.Holiday gift ideas for Doodles, from puppies to senior dogs.Why those red-and-white candy cane chews are a no-go!Resources Mentioned🛍️My Amazon Shop for Holiday Dog Supplies--  thedoodlepro.com/amazon🎁Doodle’s Holiday Cookie Mini-Cookbook (free gift!)-- thedoodlepro.com/holidayEpisode 52: 10 Essential Holiday Safety Tips for Your Doodle: Keep Them Calm and HappySend me a text- Corinne, The Doodle Pro®Do you want help keeping track of all the sights, sounds, textures, places, and people that your doodle needs positive, ongoing, and quality exposures to? Don't try to keep track of it all in your mind by using my free Doodle Puppy Socialization Checklist! Download it for free now at https://thedoodlepro.com/socialization. Do you know your doodle's learning style? Take our free quiz to find out and make training together easier and more fun! Visit https://thedoodlepro.com/learning now!Support The Doodle Pro® Podcast and help me book the most fabulous guests out there by... adding a rating an review for our show in your player! THANK YOU!

Welcome back to The Doodle Pro™ Podcast! In this follow-up to last week’s episode (#53), we continue our conversation with the authors who literally wrote the book on puppy and dog socialization. Whether you’re bringing home a new puppy or spending extra time with your older Doodle during the holidays, this episode is packed with actionable advice you won’t want to miss.In this episode, you’ll learn:How to build a “bank account” of positive experiences for your DoodleWhy quality socialization is more important than quantityHow to avoid common socialization mistakes that lead to fear or anxietyTechniques to confidently introduce your puppy or older dog to new experiencesPlus, we’ll tackle some of the toughest questions Doodle parents face, like balancing socialization with health risks and what to do if you missed the critical socialization window.Don’t forget to download my free Doodle Socialization Checklist to help you stay on track as you fill your Doodle’s “bank account” with confidence-building experiences! Grab it at thedoodlepro.com/socialization.If you haven’t already, catch up on episode #53 for the first half of this conversation. Let’s help your Doodle become the confident and happy companion they’re meant to be!Mentioned in this Episode:Puppy Socialization: What It Is and How to Do It (Book by today’s guests)PuppySocialization.com – Resources & free articlesFollow me on Instagram: @TheDoodlePro for adorable Doodles and behind-the-scenes peeks!Send me a text- Corinne, The Doodle Pro®Do you want help keeping track of all the sights, sounds, textures, places, and people that your doodle needs positive, ongoing, and quality exposures to? Don't try to keep track of it all in your mind by using my free Doodle Puppy Socialization Checklist! Download it for free now at https://thedoodlepro.com/socialization. Do you know your doodle's learning style? Take our free quiz to find out and make training together easier and more fun! Visit https://thedoodlepro.com/learning now!Support The Doodle Pro® Podcast and help me book the most fabulous guests out there by... adding a rating an review for our show in your player! THANK YOU!

How to Socialize Your Doodle Puppy: Essential Tips, Tricks, and Expert Advice (Part 1) Socializing your puppy is one of the most important steps in raising a confident, happy, and well-adjusted Doodle. In this episode, I sit down with Marge Rogers and Eileen Anderson, co-authors of the highly-rated book Puppy Socialization: What It Is and How to Do It, to guide you through puppy socialization step-by-step. Whether you’re raising a Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, Bernedoodle, or any other Doodle breed, this episode is packed with practical advice tailored to your Doodle’s unique needs.Even if your Doodle is already an adult, you’ll find valuable tips for improving their confidence and comfort with new experiences. Socialization isn’t just for puppies—it’s an ongoing process for dogs of all ages!And to make it even easier for you, I’ve created a free Puppy Socialization Checklist you can download at thedoodlepro.com/socialization. Pair it with the expert advice in this episode to help your Doodle thrive!What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why early puppy socialization is key to raising a confident and happy Doodle.How to recognize and respond to your puppy’s body language during new experiences.Why exposure alone isn’t enough—how to create positive associations with people, sounds, and environments.Practical tips for introducing your Doodle to children, other pets, and loud noises.How to make grooming stress-free and enjoyable for your Doodle from day one.Why socialization isn’t just for puppies—how to apply these principles to adult Doodles, too.Links & Resources Mentioned:Free Puppy Socialization Checklist: thedoodlepro.com/socializationMarge Rogers & Eileen Anderson’s Book: Puppy Socialization: What It Is and How to Do ItInstagram for More Tips: @TheDoodleProDon’t Forget:This is part one of our conversation! Be sure to tune in next week for part two, where we’ll share even more insights to help your Doodle flourish in a busy human world.Send me a text- Corinne, The Doodle Pro®Do you want help keeping track of all the sights, sounds, textures, places, and people that your doodle needs positive, ongoing, and quality exposures to? Don't try to keep track of it all in your mind by using my free Doodle Puppy Socialization Checklist! Download it for free now at https://thedoodlepro.com/socialization. Do you know your doodle's learning style? Take our free quiz to find out and make training together easier and more fun! Visit https://thedoodlepro.com/learning now!Support The Doodle Pro® Podcast and help me book the most fabulous guests out there by... adding a rating an review for our show in your player! THANK YOU!

The holidays are here! While this season is full of joy for us, it can be overwhelming for our Doodles. In this episode of The Doodle Pro® Podcast, I’m sharing 10 essential tips to keep your Doodle safe, calm, and happy during the festive season. From managing holiday stress for dogs to preventing common hazards like toxic plants, these science-backed strategies will help you create a stress-free holiday for both you and your furry friend.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:How to create a safe retreat for your Doodle during gatheringsWhy exercise tips for hyper dogs can reduce excitement before guests arriveTips for keeping dogs calm during holidays, especially with unfamiliar visitorsHow my Relaxation Protocol for Distractable Doodles™ helps calm an excited dogHow to avoid holiday dog hazards like counter-surfing and open doorsFeatured Tip: Relaxation Protocol for Distractable Doodles™Is your Doodle more chaotic than calm during the festive season? Discover how this step-by-step program can help manage holiday stress for dogs and teach them to settle, even around distractions. In just 5–10 minutes a day, you can transform your Doodle’s behavior. It’s the perfect gift for yourself or the Doodle lover in your life. Check the link in the show notes to start today!Resources Mentioned:Relaxation Protocol for Distractable Doodles™A guide to toxic plants for dogsDIY enrichment ideas (e.g., frozen Kongs, puzzle feeders)Training tips to help calm an excited dogThe holidays can be full of joy and fun for you and your pup when you follow these holiday safety tips for dogs. By planning ahead, managing holiday dog hazards, and focusing on keeping your Doodle calm during holidays, you’ll create a festive season to remember.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the podcast—it helps more Doodle parents discover these Doodle training tips for holidays and beyond.🎄🐾 Happy Holidays!Corinne, YOUR Doodle ProSend me a text- Corinne, The Doodle Pro®Do you want help keeping track of all the sights, sounds, textures, places, and people that your doodle needs positive, ongoing, and quality exposures to? Don't try to keep track of it all in your mind by using my free Doodle Puppy Socialization Checklist! Download it for free now at https://thedoodlepro.com/socialization. Do you know your doodle's learning style? Take our free quiz to find out and make training together easier and more fun! Visit https://thedoodlepro.com/learning now!Support The Doodle Pro® Podcast and help me book the most fabulous guests out there by... adding a rating an review for our show in your player! THANK YOU!

Are you curious about Cockapoos and what makes them such lovable and unique companions? 🐾 In this episode of The Doodle Pro® Podcast, we’re diving deep into everything you need to know about raising a happy, healthy Cockapoo. From Cockapoo temperament to training tips, grooming essentials, and addressing behavioral challenges, this episode is your ultimate guide!Discover the unique traits that Cockapoos inherit from their Cocker Spaniel and Miniature or Toy Poodle parents, including their playful energy, intelligence, and occasional quirks. Learn how to manage common Cockapoo behavioral challenges, like resource guarding, separation anxiety, and barking, using positive reinforcement techniques designed specifically for this breed.I’ll also explain why red Cockapoos are often more energetic and how to exercise and enrich these lively pups. Plus, we’ll discuss grooming tips for Cockapoos, including how to prevent matting in their coat and the importance of ear cleaning to avoid infections.If you’re torn between a Cockapoo and a Cavapoo, I’ll briefly highlight the differences in their temperament, energy levels, and grooming needs to help you decide which Doodle mix is the best fit for your lifestyle.What you’ll learn in this episode:✅ How the Cockapoo’s parent breeds—Cocker Spaniels and Miniature Poodles—shape their temperament and behavior✅ Why resource guarding is common in Cockapoos and how to prevent it with positive practices like games of trade and adding to their food dish✅ Grooming essentials for Cockapoos, including brushing routines and ear cleaning tips✅ How to handle separation anxiety in Cockapoos and help them feel secure when left alone✅ Why some Cockapoos, especially red-coated ones, might have higher energy levels✅ Key differences between Cockapoos and Cavapoos to help you choose the right breed✅ Enrichment and training tips to channel your Cockapoo’s energy productivelyWhether you’re already a proud Cockapoo parent or you’re researching which Doodle is best for your family, this episode is packed with actionable tips and insights to help your dog thrive.Tune in now to learn everything you need to know about Cockapoo temperament, training, grooming, and more!Want a detailed comparison of Cockapoos vs Cavapoos? Check out my blog post where I break it all down here. Send me a text- Corinne, The Doodle Pro®Do you want help keeping track of all the sights, sounds, textures, places, and people that your doodle needs positive, ongoing, and quality exposures to? Don't try to keep track of it all in your mind by using my free Doodle Puppy Socialization Checklist! Download it for free now at https://thedoodlepro.com/socialization. Do you know your doodle's learning style? Take our free quiz to find out and make training together easier and more fun! Visit https://thedoodlepro.com/learning now!Support The Doodle Pro® Podcast and help me book the most fabulous guests out there by... adding a rating an review for our show in your player! THANK YOU!

Hi Doodle lovers! I’m Corinne Gearhart, also known as The Doodle Pro™, and in this bonus episode of The Doodle Pro® Podcast, we’re diving deep into the world of Aussiedoodles—also known as Aussie Poos or Aussie Poodles. Whether you already share your home with an Aussiedoodle or you’re thinking about adding one to your family, I’ll be answering your top questions and sharing insights to help you understand this unique mix.In this episode, I’m exploring everything that makes Aussiedoodles special, from their intelligence and loyalty to their stunning Merle coats and eye colors. We’ll go over how Australian Shepherd and Poodle traits shape their personality, what to expect for their health and grooming needs, and even how they compare to other popular Doodles, like Goldendoodles and Labradoodles. With these tips, you’ll be better prepared to meet your Aussiedoodle’s unique needs and enjoy the fulfilling bond they bring.What We’ll Cover in This Episode:   •   Aussiedoodle Temperament and behavior: why they’re so energetic, loyal, and smart   •   How Poodle and Australian Shepherd Traits influence Aussiedoodles   •   What you should know about Merle coats and eye colors in Aussiedoodles   •   Health and Grooming for Aussiedoodles: what’s unique to this breed   •   Comparison of Aussiedoodles vs. Goldendoodles and Labradoodles: What makes them different?   •   Are Mini Aussiedoodles right for your family?If you love learning about these wonderful Doodles or are considering adding an Aussiedoodle to your family, this episode is packed with tips, insights, and all the details you’ll want to know!Shop My Custom Aussiedoodle MerchIf you’re as crazy about Aussiedoodles as I am, check out my exclusive, custom-designed merch at The Doodle Pro® Shop. I’ve created tees, sweatshirts, and totes with Aussiedoodle faces that look just like your own pup, so you can celebrate your love for your Doodle wherever you go! Each design was created with Aussiedoodle lovers in mind, perfect for treating yourself or as a thoughtful gift for a fellow Doodle parent.For a limited time... Take 15% off with code: AUSSIEDOODLEPODFollow Me on InstagramFor more Doodle tips, adorable photos, and behind-the-scenes looks, follow me on Instagram @thedoodlepro. And if you love the show, please rate and review The Doodle Pro® Podcast—it helps me reach more Doodle parents just like you!Send me a text- Corinne, The Doodle Pro®Do you want help keeping track of all the sights, sounds, textures, places, and people that your doodle needs positive, ongoing, and quality exposures to? Don't try to keep track of it all in your mind by using my free Doodle Puppy Socialization Checklist! Download it for free now at https://thedoodlepro.com/socialization. Do you know your doodle's learning style? Take our free quiz to find out and make training together easier and more fun! Visit https://thedoodlepro.com/learning now!Support The Doodle Pro® Podcast and help me book the most fabulous guests out there by... adding a rating an review for our show in your player! THANK YOU!

In this episode, join me, Corinne Gearhart, for the second half of my interview with the incredible Laura Monaco Torelli, founder and training director who has been transforming the lives of pets and their people in Chicago since 2004. With a background that began in 1991 in the zoo and aquarium world, Laura brings the same science-based, compassionate techniques used to train marine mammals and other exotic animals to pet and companion animal training.In part one (our most popular episode to date!), Laura and I explored how a foundation of empathy and positive reinforcement can make grooming and handling stress-free. If you missed it, check out Episode 47 for valuable insights.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:- How to make grooming enjoyable for your Doodle—yes, your pup can actually get excited to see the brush and clippers!- Techniques for creating positive associations with grooming tools, like breaking down sessions and offering high-value rewards- Why choice and consent in training matter, and how they can build trust and reduce anxiety in your Doodle- Tips for managing grooming timelines to keep your Doodle’s coat healthy before the holidaysLaura’s wealth of experience working with both exotic animals and companion animals offers a unique perspective that’s perfect for Doodle parents looking for practical, humane solutions to grooming challenges. This episode is a must-listen for those wanting to make grooming less stressful and more rewarding for both you and your Doodle.Ready to Dive Deeper?If you’re ready to take your Doodle’s behavior to the next level, sign up for my FREE Doodle Parent Motivation Challenge! Learn new, Doodle-specific training techniques to build a calm and motivated Doodle—just in time for the holidays. Last time, over 500 Doodle parents joined, and this round, I've raised the giveaways to over $500! Click here to save your spot!Links Mentioned:- Episode 47: First Half of My Interview with Laura Monaco Torelli- Laura’s Website: https://lauramonacotorelli.com- Follow Laura on Instagram: @LauraMonacoTorelli**Keywords:**Doodle grooming tips, stress-free dog grooming, Doodle behavior training, positive reinforcement for dogs, dog care for Doodles, Doodle coat maintenance, Laura Monaco Torelli, Doodle Pro PodcastSend me a text- Corinne, The Doodle Pro®Do you want help keeping track of all the sights, sounds, textures, places, and people that your doodle needs positive, ongoing, and quality exposures to? Don't try to keep track of it all in your mind by using my free Doodle Puppy Socialization Checklist! Download it for free now at https://thedoodlepro.com/socialization. Do you know your doodle's learning style? Take our free quiz to find out and make training together easier and more fun! Visit https://thedoodlepro.com/learning now!Support The Doodle Pro® Podcast and help me book the most fabulous guests out there by... adding a rating an review for our show in your player! THANK YOU!

Sign up now to access this private episode—a story that’s personal, powerful, and just for you. Download at thedoodlepro.com/privateWhere Has The Doodle Pro® Been?After May 2, 2023, life changed in ways I never expected…For the first time, I’m ready to open up and share this journey with the Doodle community that’s been by my side. In this exclusive private podcast episode, I’ll take you through the ups and downs of the past year, from heartbreak to personal victories, with my Doodle as my steadfast companion. This story is raw, real, and only for those who truly understand the bond that helps us through life’s toughest times.Why Download This Private Episode?🐾 Get the Inside Story: Discover what happened after the last episode and why it took me a year to come back.❤️ My Untold Journey: Hear firsthand about the most difficult challenges I’ve faced and the resilience that carried me through.🐶 The Doodle Connection: Feel the power of the Doodle bond as I share how my pup was my rock through it all.Sign up now to access this private episode—a story that’s personal, powerful, and just for you. Download at thedoodlepro.com/privateSend me a text- Corinne, The Doodle Pro®Do you want help keeping track of all the sights, sounds, textures, places, and people that your doodle needs positive, ongoing, and quality exposures to? Don't try to keep track of it all in your mind by using my free Doodle Puppy Socialization Checklist! Download it for free now at https://thedoodlepro.com/socialization. Do you know your doodle's learning style? Take our free quiz to find out and make training together easier and more fun! Visit https://thedoodlepro.com/learning now!Support The Doodle Pro® Podcast and help me book the most fabulous guests out there by... adding a rating an review for our show in your player! THANK YOU!

Join me in the first of my two-part interview with expert animal trainer Laura Monaco Torelli about making veterinary visits and grooming sessions less stressful for your furry friends. Laura and I dive into understanding dog body language, creating positive experiences, and the vital role of communication between pet parents, vets, and groomers.Show Notes:In this episode, I'm thrilled to introduce you to Laura Monaco Torelli, an expert animal trainer, who shares her wisdom on understanding your Doodle's needs and stress signals.We discuss how to help your Doodle enjoy a positive experience at the vet by observing their body language and using positive reinforcement techniques.Laura emphasizes the importance of trust between pet owners, veterinarians, and groomers to ensure successful and stress-free visits.We talk about not rushing through the process and staying mindful of your Doodle's stress levels during grooming or vet visits.Laura shares insights on identifying potential stressors for your Doodle and implementing strategies to address them.We highlight the value of visual illustrations and handouts in educating pet owners about their Doodle's body language and stress signals.Laura and I explore the concept of "get it done" and how to balance the needs and wants of your Doodle during grooming or vet visits.We discuss the importance of collaborating with your Doodle's groomer and vet to create a plan that supports your dog's wellbeing and reduces stress.Lastly, we delve into alternative approaches, such as requesting outdoor exams or video snippets, to minimize stress for both you and your Doodle.Catch part two of our conversation on episode #48.Learn more from Laura at https://www.lauramonacotorelli.com/Send me a text- Corinne, The Doodle Pro®Do you want help keeping track of all the sights, sounds, textures, places, and people that your doodle needs positive, ongoing, and quality exposures to? Don't try to keep track of it all in your mind by using my free Doodle Puppy Socialization Checklist! Download it for free now at https://thedoodlepro.com/socialization. Do you know your doodle's learning style? Take our free quiz to find out and make training together easier and more fun! Visit https://thedoodlepro.com/learning now!Support The Doodle Pro® Podcast and help me book the most fabulous guests out there by... adding a rating an review for our show in your player! THANK YOU!