How to Train a Spoodle: Behaviour Tips Backed by Experts

Spoodles are affectionate, clever, and full of bounce. 

A cross between a Poodle and a Cocker Spaniel, they’ve got the brains, the energy, and the soft heart to match. Pet parents often describe them as “velcro dogs” always close, curious, and never far from the action.

Training a Spoodle can be hugely rewarding, but it’s not always simple. Their quick minds mean they pick things up fast (good and bad). Add in their people-loving nature, and it’s easy for them to become overly attached or overstimulated. A Spoodle who hasn’t had clear, consistent guidance can become jumpy, noisy, or hard to settle, especially in exciting environments.

Still, their eagerness to please makes them incredibly trainable once you understand how they tick. Whether you're working with a brand new pup or fine-tuning habits in an older dog, these vet-backed tips are built to match the Spoodle’s personality: playful, sensitive, and always keen to connect.

Spoodles aren’t just energetic, they’re emotionally dialled in. They form strong attachments to their people, often following them from room to room and getting unsettled if they’re left out or left alone. It’s a sweet trait, but without boundaries, it can lead to clinginess or anxiety in busy homes where routines shift.

They also have sharp brains and big feelings. That mix can be delightful in the right hands, but tricky if they’re left to make their own decisions. A Spoodle who feels overstimulated, uncertain, or bored may show it through barking, jumping, or simply tuning out. These dogs crave connection and thrive on clarity.

Separation anxiety

Spoodles struggle with alone time. Their strong social bond means they often find solo hours stressful, especially if they’ve never been gently taught how to be on their own. Look out for signs like pacing, whining, barking, or toileting accidents when left.

Start small. Practice calm, short separations with plenty of low-key returns. Use enrichment toys and predictable routines to help them feel safe and occupied when you're not around.

Barking and alertness

Spoodles are naturally alert and eager to communicate. But that can turn into over-vocalising—especially if they’re bored, anxious, or reacting to every little noise outside.

Teach a “quiet” cue early and make sure they’re getting enough mental stimulation. Barking often reduces when their emotional and physical needs are met.

Jumping and excitability

A classic Spoodle hello often comes with full-body wiggles and two paws in the air. While enthusiastic, this can become overwhelming, especially around guests or kids.

Reward calm greetings. Ask for a “sit” before saying hello and keep your own arrival low-key so your dog learns that calm behaviour gets the best response.

Toilet training hiccups

Spoodles usually pick up toilet training quickly, but some can be a little slower to signal their needs—especially if they’re anxious or distracted.

Stick to a consistent routine and celebrate small wins. If progress stalls, revisit the basics: regular outdoor breaks, praise for success, and gentle redirection after accidents.

Recall and distraction outdoors

Once a Spoodle catches a scent or sees a bird, it’s game on. Their mix of Cocker Spaniel enthusiasm and Poodle smarts makes them curious and quick on their feet.

Use high-value treats and reward-based recall games in low-distraction areas before testing their skills at the park. A long lead can also help bridge the gap while you build reliability.

Clinginess and velcro behaviour

Many Spoodles want constant company. While endearing, this can lead to stress when they’re suddenly asked to be alone.

Gradually teach independence. Encourage solo play with enrichment toys and give them space throughout the day. A confident dog is a calmer, more relaxed companion.

The first few months with a Spoodle puppy are full of energy, learning, and a few chewed shoelaces. Between 8 and 16 weeks, puppies go through a key socialisation window. This is when they’re most open to new experiences—and the perfect time to build confidence, reduce future anxiety, and set the tone for lifelong behaviour.

Spoodles respond best to positive reinforcement. They’re people-pleasers at heart, and thrive when praised for doing the right thing. Keep treats small, sessions short, and your tone upbeat. Harsh corrections or confusing commands can make them anxious or disengaged.

Start with the essentials:

• Crate training gives them a calm, safe place to rest.
• Toilet training should follow a consistent routine, with outdoor breaks after meals, naps, and play.
• Bite inhibition (teaching soft mouth habits) happens naturally through play, but gentle redirection is key when puppy teeth get too enthusiastic.

Expose your pup to a variety of safe people, places, and sounds. Keep it positive. A Spoodle who’s had good early social experiences is much less likely to react fearfully or anxiously later on.

Once your Spoodle has the basics, it’s time to layer in obedience and everyday life skills. These dogs are smart, but their attention spans can be short—especially when the environment is exciting. Keep sessions fun and focused, with plenty of breaks and rewards.

Teach simple cues like sit, stay, come, and leave it using clear, consistent language. Practice indoors first, then slowly add distractions. For leash manners, reward calm walking beside you and pause when they pull. Over time, they’ll learn that polite walking keeps the adventure going.

Spoodles need more than just physical exercise—they need to think. Mental stimulation is essential for keeping boredom (and problem behaviours) at bay. Puzzle toys, scent games, and interactive feeders are great options, especially on rainy days or when you’re short on time.

Training doesn’t stop once your Spoodle is out of the puppy phase. In fact, for many adult dogs, it’s where the real progress happens. Positive training can help deepen your bond and build better behaviour over time.

Adult Spoodles often come with set routines—and sometimes, a few stubborn quirks. Start by looking at their day-to-day structure. Are they getting enough mental stimulation? Do they have predictable rest periods and time to decompress? Small changes to their routine can make a big difference in how well they respond to training.

Use training as a shared activity. Teach new tricks, revisit loose-leash walking, or try low-pressure games like scent work. It’s not about perfection—it’s about engagement. When training is framed as fun and rewarding, adult Spoodles are just as enthusiastic to learn as puppies.

What’s the ideal age to begin training a Spoodle puppy?

Training can start the day your puppy comes home—usually around 8 weeks old. Focus on gentle socialisation, name recognition, toilet habits, and simple cues like "sit" or "come."

Are Spoodles more sensitive to tone or discipline than other breeds?

Yes. Spoodles are emotionally tuned in and can easily shut down with harsh tones or inconsistent feedback. Calm, clear communication and positive reinforcement work best.

How can I stop my Spoodle from getting distracted during training?

Start in low-distraction environments and build up slowly. Use high-value rewards and short, focused sessions to hold their attention. Gradual exposure helps increase their ability to focus in busier settings.

What kind of daily routine helps Spoodles stay calm and focused?

A mix of physical exercise, mental enrichment, downtime, and regular mealtimes. Predictability helps Spoodles feel secure, which leads to more settled behaviour overall.

Is crate training effective for Spoodles, or does it increase their anxiety?

When introduced properly, crate training is a great tool. It gives Spoodles a safe place to rest and reduces overexcitement or separation-related stress. Always pair the crate with positive associations like treats or toys.

Spoodles are smart, sweet, and full of heart. With the right approach, training becomes more than just a routine—it’s a way to connect and build trust. Use calm consistency, reward the behaviours you want, and don’t rush the process.

Every Spoodle is a little different. Some take longer to learn recall; others might need extra help staying calm when you leave the room. That’s okay. What matters most is your ongoing commitment to kindness, structure, and clear communication.

Because when a Spoodle feels secure, supported, and seen, they are an extraordinary companion.

This article was written by Dr. Jack Ayerbe