Oodles — those loveable crossbreeds like Cavoodles, Groodles, Spoodles and Labradoodles — have fast become some of the most popular dogs in Australia. But while their teddy-bear looks and playful personalities are irresistible, oodles are also known for being a little extra when it comes to behaviour.

If you’re an oodle owner, chances are you’ve encountered one (or all!) of these common behaviour quirks. The good news? Most are completely manageable with a little training, patience and the right advice.

Here are 5 of the most common oodle behaviour problems — and how to tackle them.

Separation Anxiety

Oodles are famously people-focused and absolutely hate being left alone. Many develop separation anxiety, which can show up as barking, whining, destructive chewing or toileting accidents when you’re not home.

Solutions:

  • Start with short absences and gradually increase time away.
  • Create a calm, safe space with their bed, toys and enrichment activities like puzzle feeders.
  • Leave them with an item that smells like you.
  • Consider doggy daycare a few days a week (oodles are social butterflies!).

Tip: Check out local dog sitters to give them time with another person and dogs

Excessive Barking

Oodles can be chatty little creatures — whether it’s at the postie, a bird in the backyard, or the sound of your neighbour’s car door. While some barking is natural, excessive barking can become a nuisance.

Solutions:

  • Teach a ‘quiet’ command and reward calm behaviour.
  • Identify triggers and desensitise them gradually.
  • Provide mental stimulation like snuffle mats and treat-dispensing toys to prevent boredom.
  • Make sure your oodle gets plenty of exercise — a tired dog is a quiet dog.

Jumping Up on People

Their excitable, affectionate nature means oodles often jump up on people to say hello. While cute as a puppy, it can be problematic (and even dangerous) as they grow.

Solutions:

  • Teach a solid ‘sit’ or ‘four paws on the floor’ command as an alternative greeting.
  • Ignore jumping behaviour and only reward calm greetings.
  • Ask guests to follow the same rule when visiting.

Pulling on the Lead

Many oodles have boundless energy and enthusiasm on walks, often turning a stroll into a tug-of-war.

Solutions:

  • Use a front-clip harness or head halter for more control.
  • Stop walking the moment they pull, and only move when the lead is loose.
  • Reward good walking manners with treats and praise.
  • Practice in low-distraction areas first, then work up to busier locations.

Resource Guarding

Some oodles can become possessive of toys, food, or even their humans. You might notice growling, stiff body language or guarding behaviour when someone approaches.

Solutions:

  • Don’t punish guarding behaviour — it can make it worse.
  • Teach a ‘drop it’ or ‘leave it’ command with high-value treats.
  • Practice positive trade-offs: swap what they’re guarding for something better.
  • Work with a qualified positive reinforcement trainer if the behaviour escalates.

Oodles are smart, affectionate and endlessly entertaining, but like any dog breed (or crossbreed), they come with their own quirks. The key is understanding why certain behaviours happen and addressing them with consistent, kind training.

Remember — no dog is perfect, but with a little time and love, your oodle will be their best behaved, tail-wagging self in no time!

Have an oodle with a behaviour problem you need help with? Drop us a message or book a one-on-one consult — we’re here to help!