The Scoodle dog breed is a charming and rare designer dog created by crossing a Poodle with a Scottish Terrier. This Scottie Poodle mix combines the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle with the bold, spirited personality of the Scottish Terrier. Whether you're looking for a smart family companion or an affectionate lapdog, the Scottish Terrier Poodle cross delivers loyalty, playfulness, and plenty of character in a compact package.
A Scoodle is a designer dog breed created by crossing a Scottish Terrier with a Poodle. They typically weigh 10 to 20 pounds, stand 10 to 15 inches tall, and are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and low-shedding coats. The Scoodle combines the best traits of both parent breeds, making them excellent companions for families and individuals alike.
Quick Breed Overview
| Breed Type | Designer Dog Breed (Scottish Terrier × Poodle) |
| Size | Small to Medium (10–20 lbs, 10–15 inches) |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Coat Type | Wiry, curly, or wavy; low-shedding |
| Colors | Black, cream, silver, gray, or mixed |
| Temperament | Intelligent, loyal, playful, independent |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate (30–60 minutes daily) |
| Grooming | Regular brushing; professional grooming every 6–8 weeks |
| Good For Families? | Yes, with proper training and socialization |
| Hypoallergenic? | Often low-shedding, better for allergies |
What Does a Scoodle Dog Look Like? Appearance & Coat
The appearance of a Scoodle dog breed can vary depending on which parent breed they take after. Some Scoodles inherit the compact, sturdy build of the Scottish Terrier with a wiry coat, while others lean toward the Poodle's curly, softer fur. Most fall somewhere in between.
Common physical traits include:
- Size: Small to medium, typically weighing 10 to 20 pounds and standing 10 to 15 inches tall
- Coat texture: Can be wiry like a Scottie, curly like a Poodle, or a wavy blend of both
- Coat colors: Black, cream, silver, gray, wheaten, or combinations
- Build: Compact and muscular with a confident stance
- Ears: May be erect like a Scottish Terrier or floppy like some Poodles
- Tail: Often carried high with a slight curl
Their expressive eyes and alert demeanor give them an intelligent, curious look that matches their personality perfectly.
Personality and Temperament of the Scottie Poodle Mix
The Scottish Terrier Poodle mix brings together two distinct personalities, creating a dog that is both clever and confident. Understanding both parent breeds helps explain what makes Scoodles so special:
- Scottish Terrier traits: Bold, independent, determined, and fiercely loyal. Scotties are known for their dignified demeanor and strong-willed nature.
- Poodle traits: Highly intelligent, eager to please, affectionate, and social. Like the Whoodle, Scoodles inherit the Poodle's sharp mind and trainability.
The result? A Scoodle dog breed is typically:
- Intelligent and quick to learn
- Loyal and devoted to their family
- Playful and energetic
- Alert and protective (good watchdogs)
- Independent-minded but affectionate
- Confident and sometimes stubborn
Scoodles bond closely with their families and can be excellent with children when properly socialized. Their terrier side means they may be reserved with strangers initially, but they warm up once they feel comfortable. Early socialization and consistent training are essential to bring out the best in this smart, spirited breed.
Exercise Needs for Scottie Poodle Cross Dogs
Despite their small size, Scoodle dogs have moderate to high energy levels. They need daily physical activity and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
Recommended daily exercise:
- 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity
- Two walks per day (15–30 minutes each)
- Playtime in a fenced yard or dog park
- Interactive games like fetch or tug-of-war
- Mental enrichment through puzzle toys and training sessions
Because of their Poodle heritage, Scoodles excel at learning tricks and commands. Incorporating training into playtime keeps their intelligent minds engaged. Without enough exercise and stimulation, they may become bored and develop unwanted behaviors like excessive barking or chewing.
Grooming Your Scoodle: What to Expect
Grooming requirements for a Scottie Poodle mix depend on which coat type they inherit, but all Scoodles need regular maintenance to keep their coats healthy and tangle-free.
Grooming routine:
- Brushing: 3 to 4 times per week to prevent matting (daily for curlier coats)
- Professional grooming: Every 6 to 8 weeks for trimming and shaping
- Bathing: Once a month or as needed
- Nail trimming: Every 3 to 4 weeks
- Ear cleaning: Weekly checks and cleaning to prevent infections
- Dental care: Daily teeth brushing recommended (small dogs are prone to dental issues)
Scoodles often have low-shedding coats thanks to their Poodle genes, making them easier to manage for people with mild allergies. However, their coats can mat easily if not brushed regularly, so consistency is key.
Are Scoodle Dogs Hypoallergenic?
Many people search for "scoodle dog breed" specifically because they're looking for a hypoallergenic option. While no dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic, Scoodles are often low-shedding thanks to their Poodle genetics.
The Poodle's curly coat traps dander rather than releasing it into the air, which can reduce allergic reactions. However, individual Scoodles vary—some may shed more if they inherit more Scottish Terrier traits. If allergies are a concern, spend time with the specific puppy before committing, and maintain a regular grooming schedule to minimize dander.
Training Your Scottish Terrier Poodle Cross
Scoodles are highly intelligent but can inherit the Scottish Terrier's independent streak, which means training requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement.
Training tips for Scoodles:
- Start early: Begin training and socialization as soon as you bring your puppy home
- Use positive reinforcement: Treats, praise, and play work better than punishment
- Be consistent: Set clear rules and stick to them
- Keep sessions short: 10 to 15 minutes of focused training prevents boredom
- Socialize extensively: Expose them to different people, animals, and environments
- Address barking early: Terriers can be vocal, so teach "quiet" commands early on
With proper training, Scoodles can learn a wide variety of commands and tricks. Their intelligence makes them quick learners, but their stubborn side means you'll need to stay patient and persistent.
Health and Lifespan of the Scoodle Dog Breed
Scoodles are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. However, like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues inherited from their parent breeds.
Common health concerns:
- Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation that can cause pain and mobility issues
- Eye problems: Cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Patellar luxation: Kneecap dislocation common in small dogs
- Skin allergies: Can affect both Scotties and Poodles
- Dental disease: Small breeds are prone to tooth decay and gum disease
- Von Willebrand's disease: A blood clotting disorder
Keeping your Scoodle healthy:
- Schedule regular veterinary checkups (at least annually)
- Feed high-quality dog food appropriate for their size and age
- Maintain a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise
- Keep up with vaccinations and preventative care
- Brush teeth daily to prevent dental disease
- Ask breeders about health testing for parent dogs
Scoodle vs Other Poodle Mixes: How Do They Compare?
If you're considering a Scoodle, you might also be researching other Poodle mixes. Here's how the Scottie Poodle cross compares:
- Size: Scoodles are smaller than Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, and even most Cockapoos
- Energy level: Higher energy than Cavapoos, similar to Whoodles
- Temperament: More independent and terrier-like than most Poodle mixes
- Grooming: Similar maintenance to Whoodles and Cockapoos
- Shedding: Generally low-shedding like most Poodle crosses
- Trainability: Smart but potentially more stubborn than retrievers or spaniels mixed with Poodles
The Scoodle is ideal for those who want a smaller, spirited companion with a big personality packed into a compact body.
Finding Scoodle Puppies and Adopting a Scoodle Dog
Scoodles are a rare designer breed, so finding Scoodle puppies may take patience and research. Whether you're looking for a Scottie Poodle cross puppy or considering adoption, here's what you need to know.
Finding a responsible Scoodle breeder:
- Look for breeders who health-test both parent dogs
- Ask to meet the puppy's parents if possible
- Visit the breeding facility to ensure dogs are well-cared for
- Request health clearances for hips, eyes, and genetic conditions
- Avoid puppy mills and pet stores
- Expect to pay $800 to $2,000 for a Scoodle puppy from a reputable breeder
Adoption options:
- Check breed-specific rescues for Poodles and Scottish Terriers
- Search Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet for Poodle mixes
- Contact local animal shelters and rescue organizations
- Join Scoodle or Poodle mix groups on social media for leads
Adopting a Scoodle can be rewarding and more affordable than buying from a breeder. Many wonderful mixed-breed dogs need loving homes.
Is a Scoodle Dog Right for You?
A Scoodle is a wonderful companion, but they're not the right fit for everyone. Consider whether this breed matches your lifestyle:
Scoodle dogs are great for:
- Active individuals or families who can provide daily exercise
- People looking for a small, intelligent dog
- Those who enjoy grooming and maintaining a dog's coat
- Families with older, respectful children
- People with mild allergies seeking a low-shedding breed
- Experienced dog owners who appreciate independent-minded breeds
Scoodles may not be ideal for:
- First-time dog owners who want an extremely easy-to-train breed
- People who can't commit to regular grooming
- Those seeking a couch-potato companion (Scoodles need activity!)
- Families with very young children who may not respect boundaries
- Anyone unable to provide consistent training and socialization
Final Thoughts on the Scoodle Dog Breed
The Scoodle—whether you call them a Scottie Poodle mix, Scottish Terrier Poodle cross, or simply a Scoodle dog—is a delightful blend of intelligence, loyalty, and spunk. These small but mighty companions bring together the best qualities of two beloved breeds, resulting in a dog that's both smart and spirited.
With proper training, socialization, regular exercise, and consistent grooming, a Scoodle can be a loving and entertaining companion for 12 to 15 years. If you're ready for a dog with personality, charm, and plenty of energy packed into a compact frame, the Scoodle might be your perfect match.
If you love Poodle mixes, you might also enjoy:
Frequently Asked Questions About Scoodle Dogs
What is a Scoodle dog breed?
A Scoodle is a designer dog breed created by crossing a Scottish Terrier with a Poodle (typically a Miniature or Toy Poodle). They are small, intelligent dogs known for their loyalty, playfulness, and often low-shedding coats.
Are Scoodle dogs good family pets?
Yes, Scoodles make excellent family companions when properly trained and socialized. They are affectionate and playful with children, though they do best with older kids who understand how to interact respectfully with dogs.
How big do Scoodle dogs get?
Most Scoodles weigh between 10 and 20 pounds and stand 10 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder. They are considered small to medium-sized dogs, with exact size depending on the size of the Poodle parent.
Do Scoodle dogs bark a lot?
Scoodles can be alert and vocal due to their Scottish Terrier heritage. They make good watchdogs but may bark at strangers or unfamiliar sounds. Proper training from an early age helps manage excessive barking behavior.
Are Scoodle dogs hypoallergenic?
While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, Scoodles are often low-shedding thanks to their Poodle genetics. This makes them a better choice for people with mild dog allergies, though individual reactions vary.
What's the difference between a Scoodle and Scoodles?
"Scoodle" (singular) refers to one dog, while "Scoodles" (plural) refers to more than one. Both terms describe the same breed—the Scottish Terrier and Poodle mix.
Is a Scottie Poodle cross the same as a Scoodle?
Yes, "Scottie Poodle cross," "Scottish Terrier Poodle mix," and "Scoodle" all refer to the same designer breed. These are simply different names for the same hybrid dog.
How much does a Scoodle puppy cost?
Scoodle puppies from reputable breeders typically cost between $800 and $2,000, depending on location, breeder reputation, and parent dog lineage. Adoption fees from rescues are usually much lower, ranging from $100 to $400.
What is the lifespan of a Scoodle dog?
Scoodles typically live between 12 and 15 years with proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary checkups. Some may live even longer with excellent health and genetics.
Are Scoodle dogs easy to train?
Scoodles are intelligent and capable of learning quickly, but they can be independent and sometimes stubborn due to their Scottish Terrier heritage. Consistent, positive reinforcement training works best with this breed.