Bridoodle

by Mary Simpson

Published: December 29th, 2017

About Bridoodle

Weight

70-80 lb

Height

22-26 inches

Lifespan

11-13 years

Group

Not Applicable

Best Suited For

active families with kids, experienced dog owners, those looking for a low- or non-shedding dog

Temperament

loyal, intelligent, playful, affectionate

Comparable Breeds

Poodle, Briard

Bridoodle Basics

The sweet-natured Bridoodle comes from two highly family-oriented dogs; the smart, fun-loving Poodle and the loyal, independent Briard. This beautiful boy does well with kids and other pets alike while a cautious nature towards strangers makes him a great potential watchdog.

The sweet-natured Bridoodle brings together the fun-loving Poodle and the independent Briard.

Origin

The Bridoodle is a relatively recent mixed breed dog known as a Designer Dog. Introduced back in the 1980’s these dogs are the result of mixing and matching pure-bred dogs to produce puppies that carried the desired traits of both parent breeds – typically a healthier, smaller, hypo-allergenic or gentler form of a popular breed.

Pedigree

The designer dog background of the Bridoodle means he cannot become a member of the prestigious American Kennel Club (AKC) however his parent breeds are both members in good standing. The Briard joined the “herding” group in 1928 while the Poodle was named to the “non-sporting” group in 1887.

Food/Diet

The Bridoodle is a large dog who is quite active so will require a top-quality kibble designed specifically for his age, size and more importantly, activity level. Avoid fillers such as carbs that can cause him to overeat to feel full and potentially result in obesity – joint issues later in life can be a problem so keep him fit and trim. As Poodles can bring digestive issues, choose a low-fat food and plan to schedule meals 2 to 3 times per day versus free-feeding. Poodles are also prone to bloat so ensure exercise is not taken within an hour of him eating.

The Bridoodle’s sweet personality and loving, loyal nature makes him a wonderful dog for any family.

Training

The Bridoodle is the offspring of two highly intelligent breeds and will be quick to pick up commands and follow instruction. His herding instinct may cause him to become distracted and a challenge to keep on point however don’t give up – enlist the services of a professional trainer if necessary. As with most dogs, he will respond best to firm, consistent commands followed by loads of praise and treats of your choosing for a job well done.

Weight

Your Bridoodle will typically weigh in the 70 to 80-pound range when fully grown.

Temperament/Behavior

The Bridoodle’s sweet personality and loving, loyal nature makes him a wonderful dog for any family. He does well with children and other pets however can be cautious around strangers if he inherits the wary, alert characteristics of the Briard. His independent nature means he is okay with being left alone for periods of time but it also means he can also be a handful to train so is ideally suited to an experienced dog owner. This intelligent, playful pooch can be tireless when it comes to chasing a ball or a Frisbee which makes him the perfect choice for an active family.

Common Health Problems

The Bridoodle is unlikely to experience the health issues that plague his pure-bred parents however it’s important to know what he may inherit later in life. This can include joint issues including hip dysplasia as well as digestive issues from the Poodle that includes bloat.

Life Expectancy

The Bridoodle is a relatively healthy dog that will typically live between 11 to 13 years.

Exercise Requirements

The Bridoodle comes from two large, active breeds so exercise will need to be more than a tossed ball in the yard. Daily, lengthy walks will keep him physically fit while periodic visits to an off-leash park where he can run free and interact with other dogs will help ensure this pooch is able to expend some energy and stay mentally stimulated.

The loving Bridoodle is a loyal and playful family member.

Recognized Clubs

The Bridoodle is a designer dog and not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) however he is a member of the Designer Breed Registry (DBR) and the International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR).

Coat

In spite of the Bridoodle being a low- to non-shedding dog and considered to be hypoallergenic, his long, wavy coat will require daily brushing to keep it tangle-free and looking its best. Visits to a groomer will help keep this boy looking his best while weekly inspection and cleaning of his floppy ears will help prevent infection.

Puppies

Bridoodle pups come from two highly intelligent breeds and can begin their socialization and obedience training at a young age. Because the Briard is a herding dog, your new pup can become distracted easily by other animals so patience will be required to bring out the best in this dog. His love of the chase means agility exercise will be a natural energy outlet for him however pace activity to ensure tiny joints aren’t over-exerted.

Photo credit: LittleDogKorat/Shutterstock

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and a feline who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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Should I Use an Online Pet Pharmacy to Save on Medication?

Being a pet parent is a rewarding experience, but it can also be a costly one. From buying necessities like food to annual vet visits and vaccinations, it adds up quickly.One area where pet parents often try to save money is on medication. Online pet pharmacies have been growing in popularity as a convenient and potentially cost-saving solution. However, before you jump to make the switch, you must weigh the pros and cons. Why are many pet professionals cautioning against these websites?To help you make an educated decision for your best friend, I will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of buying a pet’s medication online. Plus, I’ll share some key factors to consider when deciding where to fill your pet’s next subscription.What are Online Pet Pharmacies?Before we start talking about the finer details of why you should (or shouldn’t) consider using an online pet pharmacy, let’s take a step back to start at the beginning. What are they and what do they offer to pet parents?Online pet pharmacies are online retailers that sell medications and other pet care products. They operate as an online alternative to traditional brick-and-mortar pet stores and veterinary clinics, allowing pet parents to purchase medications and supplies from home to be delivered to their door. These pharmacies often carry a wide range of pet-related products, including prescription medications, flea and tick treatments, heartworm preventatives, and nutritional supplements.One of the reasons that online pet pharmacies are gaining so much attention is the potential for cost savings. However, it’s important to note that not all these websites are trustworthy. Some have even been found to sell counterfeit or expired products! This is why it’s so important to have this discussion.Benefits of Using Online Pet PharmaciesOnline pet pharmacies offer a convenient and efficient way to manage your pet’s needs and stay on top of their healthcare. By allowing you to shop online, they help streamline your pet’s medication routine while providing access to a wide range of products at the click of a button.Here are a few reasons why you may want to consider picking up your pet’s medications online:Cost SavingsOne of the most significant benefits of using online pet pharmacies is the potential to save a little money. Times are hard and people are struggling – I get it! These pharmacies often offer lower prices on a wide range of medications compared to traditional brick-and-mortar locations.First, online pharmacies typical have lower overhead costs than traditional pharmacies and vet clinics. They don’t have to maintain a physical location, which means they don’t have to worry about rent, utilities, and staffing. This cost savings can be passed onto you in the form of lower prices.Second, online pharmacies often buy the medications from the manufacturers in bulk, allowing them to negotiate lower prices. By buying larger quantities, they can score better deals. These savings allow them to offer the medications at lower prices.ConvenienceOnline pet pharmacies are more convenient than traditional brick-and-mortar options. With just a few clicks, you can easily order your pet’s medication from the comfort of your own home. This eliminates the need to take a trip to your vet clinic or local pharmacy, with the medications instead being delivered right to your front door.Another convenient feature is the option for autofill. Most online pharmacies allow you to set up autofill, ensuring your pet’s medication is automatically shipped to your door before they run out. This eliminates the hassle of reordering prescriptions and ensures you’re never in a position where you don’t have their needed dose available.Wide SelectionThese online pharmacies offer a wider selection of mediations than traditional brick-and-mortar options. This is because they can tap into a larger network of suppliers, allowing them to source products from around the world.This selection can be particularly helpful for pet owners with specific needs, such as those with rare conditions or allergies. In addition to a wider variety of common medications, may of these online pharmacies also offer specialty and hard-to-find medications that are not readily available in most brick-and-mortar locations.

How Do I Eliminate Cat Litter Box Messes Once and For All?

Whether it’s litter tracked all over the floor, smelly odors, or urine outside the box, litter box issues can quickly turn a peaceful home into a chaotic one. But fear not! It is possible to be a proud cat parent and still enjoy a clean and tidy home. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can eliminate cat litter box messes once and for all.The key to a clean and odor-free box starts with understanding your cat’s behavior and preferences. Cats are creators of habit, and the smallest detail may cause your cat to turn their nose up at their box setup.In this guide, we’ll discuss the common causes of litter box messes and provide practical solutions to address them. This includes the importance of box placement, the ideal litter box size and type, the best litter options, and products that can help address any issues. Plus, I’ll share my tried and tested cleaning techniques from a lifetime of sharing my home with cats.Why Do Some Cats Eliminate Outside the Litter Box? While not all messes related to the litter box are related to accidents outside the box, this is the cause of much of the frustration cat parents experience. But what could cause a cat to choose to do their business somewhere besides the litter box, especially if they were previously doing great in this department? There are several explanations for why a cat may start to have accidents outside the litterbox, ranging from the setup/location to possible medical causes. Let’s take a look at the most common reasons to help you narrow it down: Medical Issues Anytime a new behavior develops or a behavior changes, you should take a moment to consider whether there could be a medical explanation. This means setting up an appointment with your veterinarian so they can run the tests necessary to rule out these issues or begin treating the problem. When it comes to litter box issues, the most common medical problems your cat may experience include: Urinary tract infections Bladder stones Kidney disease Hyperthyroidism Urinary incontinenceArthritis (can make it hard to get into the litter box) Cognitive dysfunction (forgetting where the box is/to use the box)Stress & Anxiety Physical medical conditions aren’t the only potential causes. It’s also possible that your cat’s bathroom accidents are a sign that they are currently experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety. Take a moment to consider whether any significant life changes recently could trigger a stress reaction. This could include a move to a new house, renovations within the home, a change to the people or pets in the house (adding a new pet, someone leaving for college, a death in the family, etc.), or even a change to your usual schedule and routine. Litterbox Setup/Location There are several common mistakes that cat parents make when setting up a litter box in their home. Just like people have preferences, so do our cats – including preferences regarding where they go about their business. This includes their preferred type of litter, the size/shape of their box, or the location in the home. One error I hear about a lot is setting up the box in a less-than-ideal location in the home. This could be because the area is too busy, making it uncomfortable for your cat (would you want to conduct business with everyone moving around you all the time?) or that there is an unpleasant smell or sound in that area. Or your cat’s litterbox could simply be too out of the way, making it inconvenient to have to make the trip to the box when they need to go. Too Few Litterboxes Contrary to common belief, setting up a single box in a central area of your home may not be enough to meet your cat’s needs, especially if there are multiple cats in your home. You may also need additional boxes if you live in a large or multi-story home. Cleanliness The most straightforward problem to address, yet a common issue faced in cat-loving homes, is that you simply aren’t cleaning the box frequently enough. We don’t enjoy the smell of a dirty box, so why should they? Especially if it means they have to literally climb right into the center of all that odor. You may have to clean your cat’s box multiple times daily, depending on how many cats you have, the box size, litter type, and your cat’s preferences. How Litterbox Size and Set-Up Affect SmellI just mentioned that your choice of litterbox and where it is set up in the home might cause bathroom accidents, but did you know those choices can also directly impact how much the box smells? If your cat’s box is tucked into a corner or a small room, like a closet, the confined space may keep the odors out of your home in general – but it is trapping them in that area which can absorb into the walls over time. It may also discourage your cat from entering the space to go to the bathroom, leading to more accidents in other areas of the home. Instead, it would be best if you chose a well-ventilated area. A box in a high-traffic or central area of the home could also contribute more to the noticeable odors. This isn’t to say the box actually smells more, but that the constant movement around it can stir up the unpleasant odors in a location where you’re more likely to notice them. Asking your cat to use a box that is too small or shallow may prevent your cat from being able to cover their waste. While one may not think a layer of litter could effectively trap odors, you would be surprised! Providing a litterbox with enough litter for your cat to dig down and bury their waste will help decrease odors until you clean it each day.

Meet Finn, the Giant Cat Who is The Size of a 9-Year-Old Child!

The world of domestic cats is about to get a whole lot bigger if this cat has anything to say about it! Although wild cats are pretty big, I’m not talking about lions or tigers. Instead, I’m referring to a loved member of a California family. Finn the cat was adopted by his loving owner, Natalie Bowman, in 2017 at just three and a half months old. Bowman knew he was going to be a little larger than most domestic cats being a Maine Coon, but she had no idea exactly what she was in for… Maine Coons are well known for their large, impressive size, standing approximately 10-16 inches tall when full-grown. Their long, busy coat and tufted feet are well-insulated and water-resistant, allowing them to survive even in harsh winter climates. After bringing the young kitten home, he started to grow quickly. It wasn’t long until Finn reached then surpassed the typical Maine Coon size. By the time he reached his full-grown adult size, he measured a shocking 51 inches long and weighed 22 pounds.

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