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Here are some reasons why buying a doodle is considered to be unethical:
1. **Unpredictable Traits:** Doodles are a mix of Poodle and another breed, typically a Labrador Retriever or a Golden Retriever or just about any other breed. While this mix can result in desirable traits, the odds are equally in favour of producing undesirable traits. The unpredictability of mixing genetics from very differing breeds makes it challenging to predict the exact characteristics of an individual doodle.
2. **Health Concerns:** Like all dogs, doodles can be prone to health issues, and the risk may be higher due to their mixed-breed status. Health testing can mitigate some of these risks, but combining different breeds can turn up genetic surprises even when health testing of both parent dogs are done. It is important to note that all doodles are back yard bred or from puppy mills and most often little to no health testing is ever done.
3. **Grooming Needs:** Most doodles have curly or wavy coats that are high maintenance due to mixing very different fur types and require regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain overall health. This grooming can be time-consuming and will incur additional costs if done by professional groomers. Some groomers are now charging an extra "doodle fee" and grooming a doodle can be as much as $200.
4. **High Energy Levels:** Doodles are generally active and often reactive dogs that require regular exercise, mental stimulation and proper training. Without adequate physical and mental activity, they may become bored and potentially destructive. It is impossible to predict the temperaments when mixing two breeds so being prepared for major behavioral challenges is reccomended.
5. **Size Variability:** Doodles can vary widely in size, even within the same litter. This can make it challenging for individuals or families looking for a dog of a specific size. Two 30 pound parents can produce offspring that is 50 pounds due to mixing different breeds. The unpredictability of size can be a issue if someone with physical limitations or a senior is expecting a more manageable size.
6. **Overbreeding and Exploitation:** The popularity of doodles has led to overbreeding and exploitation by unethical backyard breeders and puppy mills looking to profit from the demand. This can result in health and temperament issues and less desirable genetics and inbreeding with a focus solely on mass producing puppies.
7. **Allergies:** While some doodles may or may not have non-shedding coats, there's no guarantee that they are hypoallergenic. Individuals with allergies should spend time with the specific dog before bringing it home to assess any potential allergic reactions.
8. **Marketing Hype:** Some breeders engage in misleading marketing practices, making exaggerated claims about the hypoallergenic qualities or temperament of doodles. It is impossible to predict the outcome when crossing two breeds. Some breeders also claim to have CKC registered dogs to mislead the buyer to think that the dog they are buying is a purebred dog. The Canadian Kennel Club registers only purebred dogs. The Continental Kennel Club however will register any mixed breed.
It's important to note that individual experiences with doodles can vary widely, and many people may be happy with their choice of this crossbred dog. However, ethics must be considered as some are "great dogs" and some are "genetic disasters" is not a good breeding practice. When a dog is not what the puppy buyer was expecting, they are often dumped in shelters. You cannot research before you buy a doodle because it is impossible to know what type of dog you are going to get. It is best to adopt a doodle or any other mixed breed dog from a shelter or support an ethical breeder if you are wanting a specific breed.