| Moodle |
Other names:
| Moodle |
Origin
The moodle is a hybrid of a maltese and a poodle (toy or miniature). They have become increasingly popular over the last 10 years. The aim of crossbreeding is to minimise the genetic diseases that can be present in purebred dogs. First-cross moodles will have the maximum genetic benefits associated with a hybrid dog – in other words, a moodle with one parent purebred maltese and one parent purebred poodle will have less genetic diseases than second or third cross moodles.
Description
The moodle is a small dog with a coat that can be thick, fine, wavy or frizzy. The muzzle can be short or medium length. Being a crossbreed, their appearance can vary significantly from dog to dog.
| Size | Small |
| Colour | Apricot, white, cream, silver, black, brown - with or without markings in these colours. |
| Coat Length | Long |
| Weight/Height Range | 3-8kg and 25- 30cm depending on the breed of the parents. |
| Ailments | Luxating patellas (dislocating knee caps), allergic skin disease, cataracts, epilepsy, liver disease. |
| Breed Classification | Known as a group of crossbred dogs called ‘oodles’ or poodle-crosses. |
Feeding & Ownership
It is best to feed the moodle dry food as this breed is prone to tartar build up on their teeth.
| Food Cost | $5 to $10 |
| Other Expenses | Whilst feeding is not expensive, it must be remembered, that this breed will need visits to a professional groomer every six weeks, thereby incurring more expense. |
Personality
The moodle is a lively and very affectionate companion. They enjoy being part of the family unit and love to participate in the activities of the day. They can adapt to living in a small home or apartment as long as they receive adequate daily exercise. Moodles can be good guard dogs as they may bark when visitors arrive, however are not aggressive. Moodles can be prone to Separation Anxiety so early socialisation and routine is a mustt.
| Intelligence | The moodle is an intelligent dog that enjoys regular training and constant human companionship. |
| Energy | High |
| Suitability for Children | Medium |
| Tendency to Bark | High |
| Overall Exercise Requirement | Daily walks and regular trips to the dog park will keep help keep a moodle’s energy levels under control. They often enjoy socialising with other dogs and can be trained to retrieve a ball. |
| Suitability as a Guard Dog | Medium |
| Ease of Transportation | High |
| Level of Aggression | Low |
| Other Animal Compatibility | High |
Grooming
Moodles usually do not shed and are often tolerated by allergic people. Their coats do take a great deal of care though, generally requiring professional grooming, as well as regular combing and brushing at home. The moodle should be taken to a groomer about every six weeks for a clip of your choice. The moodle’s ears need frequent cleaning or they may become infected and, daily teeth brushing is recommended or tartar will build up rapidly and lead to gingivitis. The eyes should be cleaned daily to prevent a build-up eye discharge and tear staining.
| Grooming Requirements | More than once a week |
| Amount of Hair Shed | None |
Discover Other Dog Breeds
Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)