If your heart is telling you “doodle” but you want a more responsibly produced purebred dog, you have come to the right place.
There is no question that doodles are appreciated today by countless people around the world. These appealing mixes have grown in popularity thanks to their countless cleverly named and mass-marketed varieties. Cavadoodles, Shepadoodles, Labradoodles, Goldendoodles, and Bernedoodles are just a handful of the mixed-breeds that have become so in demand these days.
Despite all the popularity, however, it is important to consider that a doodle can come with a variety of undiagnosed health and behavior issues due to their largely unregulated and unorganized breeding. This means that unexpected concerns may “crop up” among puppies sold by uneducated or uncaring backyard breeders.
Because of this possibility, it would be wise to consider an established breed instead that looks somewhat like a doodle—and you might be shocked by how many of these are already in existence.
Here’s a look into three more doodle alternatives that you can begin looking for a reputable breeder to partner with today:
Barbet
One doodle alternative is the Barbet, a rustic water dog. Finding its origins in France, this breed appears in artwork dating from as early as the 16th century. The breed has been utilized for hunting waterfowl as well as for locating, flushing, and retrieving birds.
Some Barbets are still used for this very purpose and many more excel in a number of dog sports, including Dock Diving, on top of being a standout companion dog.
Much like many doodles, the Barbet possesses a shaggy coat texture and comes in a variety of different color options, including Black, Brown, Gray, Fawn, and sometimes any one of these colors with white markings. Primarily white dogs are referred to as having a “pied” color.
According to the AKC Breed Standard, male and female Barbets typically stand between 19 and 24.5 inches tall and weigh from 35 to 65 pounds.
The Standard refers to the Barbet’s character as “a responsive, loving member of the family.”
“(The Barbet is) joyful, bright, and kindly natured, he is a versatile sporting dog and willing participant in many activities,” the Standard notes. “The sensitive Barbet responds to positive interaction and training, and displays an even temperament.” This sounds like the perfect doodle alternative if ever there was one!
Otterhound
The Otterhound dates back to medieval England where it was used by country squires and kings to control fish-loving populations of otters. The hounds’ association with the nobility protected a valuable food source that was essential for sustaining all of the people in the area.
Unfortunately, Otterhound packs did their job just a little too well, causing the river otter to border on extinction. Because of this, the hunting of otters was ultimately outlawed. In the present day, the Otterhound is primarily kept as a companion, although some remain members of a pack.
Bearing an uncanny resemblance to some doodles due to the breed’s coat texture and overall appearance, the ancient Otterhound is a remarkably colorful dog. The AKC Breed Standard says, “Any color or combination of colors is acceptable.” This breed can come in a range of different colors and hues, including Black, Blue & Cream, Gray, Liver & Tan, and Tan & Wheaten. Otterhounds have also been seen in Blue, Lemon, and White, Black & Tan.
Male Otterhounds stand approximately 27 inches tall at the withers, weighing around 115 pounds, while females measure about 24 inches tall and weigh in at roughly 80 pounds.
The demeanor and personality of the Otterhound is described as “amiable, boisterous and even-tempered.” Just be prepared for a little slobber from this doodle doppelganger from time to time.
Portuguese Water Dog
A favorite companion of former United States President Barack Obama, the Portuguese Water Dog (PWD) may more closely resemble a doodle than just about any of the other look-alikes. The “Portie,” as the breed is sometimes called, is rooted in the history of, you guessed it, Portugal’s seaside culture.
The PWD was originally used for retrieving lost tackle, herding fish into nets, and serving as a messenger between ships and shore. Due to the rise in technology, however, the breed no longer plays much of a role in that type of work. Thankfully, it still makes a great companion on top of the breed’s natural inclination for lifeguarding as a water rescue dog.
Per the AKC Breed Standard, PWD males range from 20 to 23 inches tall at the shoulder, weighing between 42 and 60 pounds. Females stay at roughly 17 to 21 inches tall, coming in at between 35 and 50 pounds on the scale.
The Standard describes the breed’s temperament as follows:
“An animal of spirited disposition, self-willed, brave, and very resistant to fatigue. A dog of exceptional intelligence and a loyal companion, it obeys its master with facility and apparent pleasure. It is obedient with those who look after it or with those for whom it works.”
PWDs are available in multiple colors, including Black, Brown, and White. These water-loving athletes can also be Black or Brown with various and interesting white markings. Traditionally, the breed was trimmed in a “lion clip” to make it easier for the dogs to navigate rough seas. Today, the typical Portie at home is trimmed in a “retriever clip,” giving it an uncanny similarity to the average doodle. Well, actually, it’s the other way around!
