There’s a reason Poodles and doodle breeds have become some of the UK’s most popular dogs. Whether you share your home with a Toy Poodle, Standard Poodle, Cockapoo, Cavapoo, Labradoodle or another Doodle, these intelligent, affectionate companions have a wonderful way of becoming part of every aspect of family life.
The poodle traits are highly specific & really do require special consideration to give - and get - the best for your dog.
They’re extremely quick learners, deeply loyal and often happiest when they’re by your side. That makes them wonderful companion animals, but it also means they truly thrive on routine, mental stimulation and lots of quality time with the people they love.
A thoughtful daily routine helps your poodle or cockapoo feel settled, confident and content, while making life together that little bit easier too.
Start the day with a proper walk
Many Poodle breeds and crosses wake up ready for the day, even if you’re not quite yet.
Their intelligence means they’re often looking for both physical exercise and something interesting to do. Even a gentle morning walk gives them the opportunity to explore new scents, practise some lead training and burn off some early energy before settling down at home.
The exact amount of exercise depends on your specific dog’s age, health and breed. A Toy Poodle has very different needs from a Labradoodle, but most healthy adult Poodles and Poodle mixes benefit from regular daily walks alongside opportunities to play and explore - and are generally considered a high energy breed (at least in our household)!
A comfortable, well-fitting dog harness will make those everyday walks more enjoyable for both of you, particularly if your dog is still learning not to pull on the lead.
Keep their clever minds busy
One of the things owners love most about Poodles is their intelligence.
They’re fast learners and usually enjoy having a job to do or something new to learn - and you will hear stories of understimulated but intelligent dogs getting into mischief if they’re not suitably occupied.
Training sessions don’t need to be long - they just need to be positive & fun! Five or ten minutes practising cues, playing scent games or using a puzzle feeder or other enrichment toy can provide valuable mental stimulation.
Many Cockapoos, Cavapoos and other Doodle breeds are incredibly people-focused, so learning alongside you is often just as rewarding as the treats themselves. You’ll soon see that your poodle pup is a very fast and keen learner.
Don’t underestimate the importance of routine
Poodles often form exceptionally close bonds with their families.
Many owners describe them as affectionate, sensitive or even a little clingy (hey Velcro dogs!)
While every dog is an individual, this close attachment can mean some Poodle mixes find it harder to cope with long periods alone or sudden changes to their daily routine.
Whilst most dogs thrive with a good routine, this is especially true of poodles & their mixed breed siblings. They are intelligent enough to know when their walk or breakfast are due & will probably give you a gentle reminder if you’re running late 😆
Predictable meal times, regular walks, enrichment and plenty of opportunities to rest all help build confidence and security.
A settled routine doesn’t just benefit your dog, it usually makes life much calmer for everyone at home.
Caring for that beautiful curly coat
One of the defining features of Poodles and many Poodle crosses is their soft, curly or wavy coat.
While every coat is different, many benefit from regular brushing to help prevent tangles and matting, particularly around the chest, legs, ears and harness area.
Scheduling regular grooming appointments and getting your dog comfortable with brushing from an early age helps keep coat care stress-free. If you’re lucky enough to have a curly haired poodle, budgeting enough for regular grooming is going to be a must. The benefit is that curly haired pups don’t moult, so you won’t find hair everywhere at home BUT it does keep growing and growing and will need regular grooming for comfort (especially in summer).
If your dog wears a harness every day, it’s worth checking the fit regularly, especially after a groom, as coat length can make a surprising difference. Be sure to chose a harness or collar that has soft, quality materials as well to protect their coat.
If you’re unsure which style or colour will suit your dog’s coat, we’ve also put together a guide to choosing the perfect harness colour for your dog.
Everyday walks become everyday rituals
For many owners, dog walks are one of the best parts of the day.
They’re a chance to switch off, enjoy some fresh air and spend uninterrupted time together.
Having everything ready to go—a comfortable harness, matching lead and a dog walking bag stocked with treats, poo bags and your keys—makes it much easier to head out the door without feeling rushed.
It’s often those familiar walks close to home that become your favourite memories.
A routine that grows with your dog
No two Poodles are exactly alike. And that’s the joy!
Some are energetic adventurers who’ll happily walk for miles, while others are perfectly content with shorter strolls and plenty of time sniffing every hedge along the way.
The best routine is one that suits your dog’s personality and evolves as they grow.
At Bew Dogs, we believe the everyday moments are often the most special. That’s why our adjustable dog harnesses and dog collars, matching dog leads, dog walking bags and coordinated accessories are designed for real life… comfortable enough for every walk, and beautiful enough to be enjoyed using every single day.
Because life with a Poodle, cockapoo or cavapoo isn’t just about the big adventures. It’s about making every ordinary day together a little more beautiful.
