How Long Do Irish Doodles Live? Average Lifespan, Data & Care
By Hanh Duong
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The Irish Doodle is a designer dog that’s a crossbreed of two fantastic dogs: The Irish Setter and a standard or miniature Poodle. Both were historically bred for hunting and retrieving, and have become known for their intelligence and loyalty, making them popular as family dogs. So, it’s clear why the Irish Doodle is also a loving, intelligent and active family pet.
The great thing is that Irish Doodles have an impressive lifespan of up to 13 years, which is impressive for a dog of their size. However, even though they are generally healthy, they can still be susceptible to some health issues that are common in both Poodles and Irish Setters.
Irish Doodle Average Lifespan
Irish Doodles usually live for about 10 to 13 years. Just like other dogs, they may inherit certain health problems that depend on their parents’ genes. But you can make sure your furry friend stays healthy by taking them for regular checkups with a vet. Finding out about possible health issues early on will help you take good care of your Irish Doodle and give them the best life they deserve.
How to Care for Your Irish Doodle for a Long Lifespan?
1. Feeding & Diet
You may already know how important it is to feed your furry friend the right food. To keep your pup healthy and happy, choose a quality dog food that suits their size, age, and activity level. Look for brands that list meat as the primary protein source, such as chicken or turkey. In addition, it’s essential to know the protein source your dog has previously been exposed to, as it can help your veterinarian recommend a novel-protein diet if they have allergies.
Fresh water is also a must, and a water fountain can be a great way to make sure your dog stays hydrated. The Irish Doodle can be a messy drinker, however, so you might want to consider a splash-free water bowl.
2. Environment
Irish Doodles’ lifespan can be affected by various factors, including their living conditions and surroundings. So, paying attention to their environment is essential to ensure your dog enjoys a long and healthy life. Try and avoid exposing them to toxins, extreme temperatures, or dangerous circumstances. Instead, provide them with plenty of fresh air, exercise, and clean drinking water.
3. Genetics
Genetics is one of the most crucial elements to consider when estimating the lifespan of an Irish Doodle. Genetic factors can affect your pup’s overall health. Thankfully, with genetic testing, breeders can identify specific genetic variants that may shorten an Irish Doodle’s lifespan and breed the dogs accordingly. This is why it is vital to purchase your pooch from a reputable breeder.
Although these conditions are not overly prevalent in the Irish Doodle, they are diseases that are known to affect either the Irish Setter, Poodle, or both.
- Hip Dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
- von Willebrand’s Disease
- Patella luxation
4. Dental Hygiene
Taking care of your dog’s teeth is crucial for their overall health. Start early by brushing their teeth every other day for a few weeks, gradually increasing it to daily brushing. Regular brushing can help prevent periodontal disease, but a professional cleaning may still be necessary. By maintaining your Irish Doodle’s oral hygiene, you’ll be contributing to their overall well-being.
5. Exercise
Have you ever wondered how physical and mental activity affects your Irish Doodle? Well, getting your furry friend to go on swims, hikes, and runs can do wonders for their health and happiness. Among these activities, swimming is a particularly great way to keep your Irish Doodle in top shape. Not only does it provide an excellent workout, but it’s also a fun way for you and your pet to bond and spend quality time together.
The Life Stages of an Irish Doodle
Puppyhood (0–8 months)
Puppies grow up very fast. And if you’ve got an Irish Doodle pup, you’ll want to ensure they’re learning all the social and behavioral skills they need from their littermates, mom, and even you. To help them feel more at ease around people, places, and other animals as they get older, try to introduce them to new experiences safely and gradually. Remember to start their training early on so they can get into a good routine.
Adolescence (8 months–18 months)
As your Irish Doodle reaches 6-8 months old, you’ll notice some significant changes in their appearance. Their growth rate slows down, and they’ll begin to look more like adult dogs. However, don’t be surprised if they go through a skinny phase before they start packing on the pounds.
During this time, your furry friend will have bursts of energy, and their curiosity will be at an all-time high. So, be consistent with their training and keep them engaged. Plus, prepare for some teenage-like behavior, as your dog might start testing your limits.
Adulthood (2–7 years)
Typically, these dogs reach their full adult size at around 18–24 months old. At this point, they’ll be full of energy, so you’ll want to ensure they’re eating right, getting plenty of exercise, and seeing the vet regularly for check-ups.
Senior Years (7+ years)
Once your Irish Doodle hits about 7 years old, they’re officially considered seniors. You might notice that they’re slowing down in both body and mind. That’s when you’ll need to tweak their diet and exercise routine to match their lower energy levels and keep an eye out for any potential health problems that come with aging.
And, of course, it’s always a good idea to schedule regular check-ups with the vet to keep your furry friend feeling their best.
How to Tell Your Irish Doodle’s Age
If you want to know how old your Irish Doodle is, the best way is to take them to a vet. Vets can estimate how old your dog is by looking at their teeth, eyes, coat, and overall health. Once a dog is an adult it can be difficult to accurately tell their age, but we can usually be quite accurate when they’re 6 months or younger, tell if they’re between 6 months and 2 years, or over 8 years old.
Conclusion
On average, an Irish Doodle lives for 10 to 13 years. To help your dog live life to its fullest, ensure you keep them at an ideal weight by providing healthy and nutritious meals and make sure they get plenty of exercise. Because their dietary and exercise needs change as they age, it is important to adjust accordingly over time. Keep a close eye on your dog for any differences, and let your vet know if you notice anything concerning.
By following these simple steps, you can help your Irish Doodle live a longer life.
Featured Image Credit: Tanya Consaul Photography, Shutterstock
