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Dog lover, trainer and behavior therapist Jody Rosengarten has made dogs her life's work since 1980, when she opened her practice, The Bark Stops Here.
People have gone Oodle/Poo crazy. This week alone I worked with five Labradoodles, three Cockapoos (still don't get why they're not "Cockadoodles"), two Goldendoodles, a Schnoodle, Cavapoo and even one Bichon-Poo. That last one is downright redundant. "Hypo-allergic" is the hook these (alleged) non-shedding hybrids promise. The problem is, some Oodle/Poos are first generation and there is no medical or behavioral history behind them to justify the claim. And many molt, making them pricey -- albeit adorable -- mutts.
Don't get me wrong, I'm a mutt person. (Actually, I prefer the term, "multiple pedigree person.") In fact, my four dogs represent some 20-30 breeds. With the average Oodle/Poo fetching $1200, my brood should be worth a small fortune. Among the most exotic are Monty, my Dobuki (Doberman/Saluki mix) and Hodge Podge, the Catahoula Cuddler (an extremely affectionate Leopard Dog cross.)
Our specialty? Excessive shedding. My dogs' hair can be either woven or stirred into stews, and it adds texture to the most monochromatic of outfits. Priceless!
The Starbucksization of man's best friend is out of control. What's next, a half-caf Newfypoo? How about a low-fat Dachsydoodle? Which begs the question, what's wrong with a good old All-American French PooOodle?
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