F1 Springerdoodle sounds like a pretty odd name and might remind you of Formula One racing. You might not know that it’s a dog crossbreed or, as everyone likes to call it, a designer dog.
An F1 Springerdoodle is a mix between an English Springer Spaniel and a Poodle. The breed is relatively new, originating in Germany in the 1980s, and is now a common breed in the U.S. Often called a Springerpoo or a Sproodle, this pooch inherits the physical and behavioral traits of both species.
If you’re interested in adopting an F1 Springerdoodle, keep reading to learn all about the exciting crossbreed.
Understanding Different Springerdoodle Generations
There’s a lot of confusion and misinformation on the internet regarding the different generations of Springerdoodles (or any other designer breed for that matter). F1, F2, F3, F1b, F2b – this is the accepted nomenclature to distinguish any designer dog breed between different generations.
F1 is the first generation of Springerdoodles, F1b (not F2) is the second generation, and F2 is the third generation. From the third generation onwards, they are known as multi-generation Springerdoodles. A multi-generation Springerdoodle is one whose parents are both Springerdoodles.
But what’s the difference between these generations? How are they bred?
To answer this question in simple terms, here’s a table explaining the different generations of Springerdoodles, how they are bred, and what percent of Springer Spaniel and Poodle they are:
| Generation | Parents | Mixture |
| F1 (first cross-generation) | Springer + Poodle | 50% Springer & 50% Poodle |
| F1b (back cross-generation) | F1 + Poodle | 75% Poodle & 25% Springer |
| F2 | F1 + F1 | Unpredictable |
| F2b | F1 + F1b | 62.5% Poodle & 37.5% Springer |
| F3 | F2 + F2 | Unpredictable |
Appearance of the F1 Springerdoodle
As the F1 Springerdoodle is a hybrid, it exhibits the physical attributes of both the English Springer Spaniel and Poodle. However, not all Springerdoodles look identical, even if they belong to the same litter. Some may look more like one of the parent species than the other.
Color
Springerdoodles commonly have brown, red, white, cream, and black-colored coats. They may also be a combination of two or three of these colors. This wide range comes from the genetics of both the Springer Spaniel and Poodle since both breeds come in a variety of coat colors.
Weight, Size, and Height
Springerdoodles are medium-sized dogs. The females weigh around 28 to 58 pounds (13 to 26 kg) and are 14 to 22 inches (36 to 56 cm) in height. Male F1 Springerdoodles are slightly larger weighing 30 to 60 pounds (14 to 27 kg) and coming in at a height of 16 to 24 inches (41 to 61 cm).
Other Features
Springerdoodles have double-layered medium-to-long coats that are dense and wavy. They also have a muscular and sturdy build. A Springerdoodle’s dark brown eyes are always alert and active. The dog has medium-to-long ears, a long muzzle, and a black nose.
Temperament and Behavior of the Springerdoodle
F1 Springerdoodles are intelligent, active, and affectionate dogs. They make excellent pets because of their friendly nature, so your Springerdoodle is bound to stay happy with your family and kids.
Springerdoodles don’t just mix well with humans, but other animals too. If your household has other pets and you’re worried that a new member may disrupt their environment, a Springerdoodle is ideal for you.
When provided adequate training, dogs thrive in new environments, and the Springerdoodle is not an exception to this rule. Best of all, they are easy to train, so if you’re going to be a first-time pet owner, you should consider getting a Springerdoodle.
Keep in mind that Springerdoodles do not like to stay alone for an extended period. It might lead them to exhibit destructive behavior. Before getting a Springerdoodle, make sure you and your family have the time and energy to keep up with it.
Grooming and Maintenance Requirements
English Springer Spaniels have a wavy double coat with feathering, while Poodles are hypoallergenic, i.e., they have a non-shedding coat. The maintenance required by your Springerdoodle depends on the characteristics it inherits from its parents.
Most people say that the Springerdoodle does not require grooming and clipping to maintain health, but that is not the case. This dog usually has grooming needs equivalent to the combined requirements of both of its parents.
To avoid the formation of mats in your Springerdoodle’s coat, make sure you groom it occasionally. The longer the coat, the higher the chances of matting. Frequent brushing can save you from seasonal shedding. You will also need to keep the Springerdoodle’s nails clean and healthy by trimming them regularly. I recommend using the Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush (available on Amazon.com) to help comb your Springerdoodle’s coat and brush out any mats they may have.
Since the Springerdoodle has long ears covered by heavy hair, the occurrence of moisture buildup in their ear canals is highly likely. Make sure you trim the hair around their ears frequently to improve airflow and avoid ear health issues.
You’ll also need to brush your dog’s teeth regularly to take care of its oral health.
This article teaches you how to groom your dog at home!
Training Needs of the Springerdoodle
Luckily, both parents of the F1 Springerdoodle are intelligent, making their hybrid offspring an easy dog to train. They quickly catch onto cues and tricks, especially if you start teaching them early. Their obedient nature added to the mix also makes training more trouble-free.
The F1 Springerdoodle reacts well to positive reinforcement, just like its parents. Although, you’ll need to be creative and diverse with the training routine to keep up with your dog’s quick learning skills and eagerness. A popular training treat my dogs love are the salmon flavored Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Treats Wild Bits (available on Amazon.com).
Socialization is also a significant step in your Springerdoodle’s upbringing. The dog might become a barker if you don’t keep up with its training.
I highly recommend Brain Training For Dogs if you need help training your Springerdoodle. I purchased this for less than $50 and learned exact steps to keep Lily (my dog) from jumping on everyone when they walked into our house. The training can help with so much more. Click on the link to check it out.
Exercise and Activities
Since both English Springer Spaniels and Poodles are active breeds, their hybrid is likely to inherit this characteristic. It would be best to incorporate regular exercise into your F1 Springerdoodle’s schedule. These activities include walking, fetching, and swimming.
Fortunately, this breed remains unaffected by the weather, so it plays the same in winters or summers. Although, you should take care not to tire out the dog too much when it’s scorching outside.
F1 Springerdoodles enjoy outdoor activities thoroughly, so they don’t do well in restricted spaces. Try to keep plenty of toys at home to keep the dog occupied and content.
You can play fetch using this ChuckIt! Ball Launcher (available on Amazon.com). This will get your Springerdoodle running fast and far, which can help control their energy levels.
Diet and Feeding Guidelines
Like other pets, a healthy, well-balanced, nutritional diet works out the best for Springerdoodle. These feeding guidelines will surely enlighten you about a good diet for dogs.
The amount of food your dog requires depends on its age, height, and weight. You can also choose between homemade and commercial food for your dog, as long as both provide sufficient nutrients to your dog.
It’s crucial that you keep a check on your dog’s weight to determine if you’re feeding it the right amount. This is why it’s an excellent idea to consult with a vet to decide on a perfect diet for your dog.
I have always fed my dogs Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free. This high-protein food helps support bones, joints and strong muscles; which is perfect for your active Springerdoodle. It is nutrient-rich, filled with vitamins, minerals and omega fatty acids that helps your dog’s coat and skin.
Possible Health Issues
The Springerdoodle is generally a healthy breed. But you can’t really tell what diseases or conditions your dog may or may not have inherited from its parents. Here are some major and minor health issues your F1 Springerdoodle may face:
Major Health Issues:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Bloat
- PFK deficiency
- Autoimmune diseases
- von Willebrand’s disease
Minor Health Issues:
- Sebaceous adenitis
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Male vs Female F1 Springerdoodle
Deciding between getting a male or female F1 Springerdoodle is also crucial. Here are some key differences between the two:
- Male Springerdoodles are larger.
- Even though Springerdoodles are attached to their owner, the male one tends to be more independent. On the other hand, the females cling more to the owner.
- With females, you’ll have to deal with their heat cycles every six months. Alternatively, males tend to present a marking behavior. Although, it is to be noted that spaying or neutering can resolve these issues.
Conclusion
Combining two excellent breeds, English Springer Spaniel and Poodle, makes the F1 Springerdoodle an outstanding designer dog. These dogs are medium-sized, family friendly, smart, and easy to train, making them the perfect household pet.
I sincerely hope this detailed breakdown of the hybrid was enlightening!