Poodle mixes – just saying that name conjures up images of cuteness in our minds! A cross between a poodle and another breed, ‘doodle dogs’ are bred to inherit the most desirable traits of both their parents.
Hugely playful and energetic, poodle mixes tend to have friendly temperaments and make wonderful family companions.
While there are a lot of reasons to adopt a dog, it's important to choose your breed carefully. Poodle crossbreed dogs have soared in popularity in recent years, but that doesn't mean they’re the right pup for everyone. In some cases, this surge in appeal has also led to poor breeding practices, so if you have your heart set on a doodle of some kind, be sure to do your research.
To help you figure out if a poodle crossbreed is right for you (and which one to choose!) we’ve popped some of the most well-known breeds below. Plus, we spoke to expert vet Dr Hannah Godfrey to find out which doodle is the calmest, how friendly they are, and whether they really shed less than other dogs.
What kind of dog is a doodle?
“A ‘doodle’ dog refers to any of the many poodle crossbreed dogs,” explains Godfrey. “Common examples of doodle dogs include goldendoodles, labradoodles, and cockapoos, but any of the poodle mixes can be affectionately called a doodle.”
Most popular poodle mixes
With more than 40 different mixes to choose from, choosing a poodle crossbreed dog can be time-consuming! Here are a few of the most popular:
1. Cockapoo
Cockapoos are believed to be the breed that started it all! In the 1960s, breeders in the US were trying to create the perfect family dog that potentially wouldn’t suffer from the health problems of the parents.
They can come in a variety of sizes but are most commonly medium-sized dogs, the result of a miniature poodle and a cocker spaniel. They’re friendly, affectionate, cheerful dogs whose main fault tends to be an over-active sense of humor!
2. Goldendoodle
Goldendoodles are also apparently one of the oldest ‘official’ doodle dogs. Monica Dickens, great-granddaughter of Charles Dickens, is widely credited with breeding the first goldendoodle in 1969, but they weren’t widely bred until the 1990s.
Originally created as service dogs, they tend to be affectionate, intelligent and very people orientated.
3. Labradoodle
Labradoodles – a cross between Labradors and poodles – were first bred by an Australian, Wally Conron, in 1988. Conron was attempting to create a guide dog that would be more suitable for people with allergies.
They’re sociable, intelligent and very trainable – but they are energetic and need lots of attention. Labradoodles are one of the friendliest dog breeds out there, so don’t bother if you’re looking for a guard dog!
4. Schnoodle
The offspring of miniature poodles and miniature schnauzers, schnoodles are small-to-medium sized dogs with huge hearts and a cute appearance.
They’re the nearest thing to a canine teddy bear you’ve ever seen, with a fluffy coat and melting eyes. As the result of two of the smartest dog breeds out there, schnoodles often excel at obedience sports such as agility and flyball.
5. Sproodle
A cross between a springer spaniel and a poodle, sproodles differ widely in appearance depending on the physical characteristics of the parents.
Mini sproodles are a cross between miniature poodles and smaller spaniels, while standard sproodles are a mix between standard poodles and larger spaniels.
They tend to be obedient (when properly trained), sociable and friendly and make good ‘people dogs’.
6. Whoodle
Doesn’t this breed have the coolest name ever? It’s a cross between the soft-coated wheaten terrier and the poodle. Whoodles can come in almost any coat color but tend to favor the cream or ‘wheaten’ coat of their terrier parent.
They’re playful but gentle, and can require less exercise than other poodle mixes making them great family dogs.
7. Maltipoo
A cross between the Maltese and toy or miniature poodles, Maltipoos tend to be one of the smaller doodle breeds. As such, they’re more suitable for smaller spaces and require less exercise.
They do have a tendency to suffer from separation anxiety, so perhaps not an ideal choice if they have to spend much time on their own.
8. Cavapoo
A cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a poodle, Cavapoos are one of the cutest things on four legs. They’re playful, gentle, loyal and easy going, requiring only moderate exercise.
They’re a great choice for a family pet as long as you’re planning to spend plenty of time with them.
9. Bernedoodle
Gentle, intelligent and highly trainable, the Bernedoodle is a poodle crossed with a Bernese Mountain Dog. Hugely popular, they have the best traits of both their parents, with sharp minds and loyal and devoted hearts.
Quick students who enjoy mental stimulation, they're also kind and affectionate, making them wonderful family companions.
10. Sheepadoodle
This soft and fluffy pooch is the result of breeding an Old English Sheepdog with a standard poodle.
They vary in size, colour and coat type, but personality-wise the Sheepadoodle is and friendly and loving family member. These loyal dogs can be overprotective, though, so early socialization is important.
11. Yorkiepoo
Is this the ultimate companion dog? A mix of a toy or mini poodle and the diminutive Yorkshire Terrier, the Yorkipoo is one of the smallest poodle crossbreed dogs.
As ever with little dogs, big things can come in small packages; you can expect a bright and lively pup who loves company and to be kept busy. They’re no wallflowers, either – you can expect a Yorkipoo to make sure his voice is heard!
12. Aussiedoodle
The active and highly-trainable Aussiedoodle is a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a poodle. Their size depends on whether the poodle parent is a miniature or standard.
With a high exercise requirement, caring for an Aussiedoodle will mean spending plenty of time in the great outdoors having adventures.
13. Jackapoo
Sometimes called a Jackadoodle, Jackapoos are a cross between a Jack Russell Terrier and a toy or miniature poodle.
They tend to inherit the tenacity associated with terrier breeds, which can give them a independent or stubborn streak. That said, they also make loyal and fun-loving family members who seem determined to make you smile.
14. Westiepoo
Cross a West Highland Terrier and a mini poodle and you get the adorable Westiepoo.
Great for apartment living, families and seniors alike, this bright little dog will keep their owners entertained and feeling the love. They'll benefit from games and training to keep their busy brains occupied.
Pros of poodle crossbreeds
The main reason that poodle crossbreed dogs have become so popular is that poodles themselves are frequently named as one of the best hypoallergenic dog breeds, thanks to their low-shedding, water-resistant coats. This makes them potentially more suitable for owners who are allergic to dogs.
Add to that the fact that most of these crossbreeds look adorable, with cute button eyes and fluffy coats, and most people are sold immediately!
As poodles themselves come in three sizes (toy, miniature and standard), you can find a doodle to suit you whether you want a small, medium or large dog.
Cons of poodle crossbreed dogs
There are some disadvantages, though. As with all crossbreeds, you can never tell which genetic traits the pups are going to inherit. Out of a litter, only one or two might have true hypoallergenic coats, so if that’s your main motivator you might be better considering a purebred poodle.
Also, ‘low shedding’ doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve found yourself a ‘low maintenance’ breed. Poodle mixes often require a lot of grooming as they can grow a long, dense coat.
As crossbreeds, no doodle dog breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club but they can be registered with the AKC Canine Partners program.
Poodles were originally bred to be working dogs and are energetic. If your pup has a poodle for one parent and another working breed, such as a springer spaniel, for the other, you’re going to end up with a very high-energy dog!
Make sure you have the time and commitment to provide sufficient exercise and entertainment before you commit.
If you’d prefer a pup with a laidback personality, be sure to visit our guide to calm dog breeds, but be aware that there are many factors that influence a dog's personality and behavior, not just ‘nature’. The ‘nurture’ side of things from the owner – good handling, plenty of exercise and training – is key.
Which poodle crossbreed is the calmest?
“Poodle crossbreed dogs tend to be quite lively and playful, so they can be a lot to handle if you don’t have the time or ability to give them the exercise and mental stimulation that they need,” explains Godfrey.
“Many popular poodle mixes are crossbreeds of poodles with other energetic breeds, such as springer and cocker spaniels, but choosing a poodle crossed with a more laid-back breed, like a schnauzer or Cavalier King Charles Spaniel might be best if you’re looking for a calmer doodle dog.
“Of course, it’s not all about breeds and genetics, so it’s best to be prepared for your doodle to be pretty active.”
Don't worry though, because these clever ways to have more fun with your dog on walks will ensure things never get boring when you're out and about!
Are poodle crossbreeds friendly?
“Poodle crossbreeds tend to be friendly; however, aggressive behavior (due to fear, pain, or behavioral issues) is possible.
The cockapoo, in particular, has increased in popularity as a pet in recent years, and the demand for pups may have led to less responsible breeding and dogs being bred despite having less-than-ideal traits and temperaments.
Combined with the lack of socialization of dogs during the COVID-19 pandemic, I’m noticing some behavior challenges with cockapoos, so definitely choose a responsible breeder if you're looking to adopt one,” Godfrey advises.
Do poodle crossbreeds shed?
"Poodles are a low-shedding breed, so combining their genes with other breeds can create a dog who sheds less fur," Godfrey explains. "Doodle dogs generally shed less, but it’s certainly not guaranteed. Therefore, while owning a doodle dog might be better for people with allergies, they might still notice allergy symptoms."
Looking for more great canine content? Get your doodle started off on the right paw with these practical tips for training your dog on your own.
Dr Hannah Godfrey studied Veterinary Medicine at the Royal Veterinary College London. After graduating in 2011, Dr Godfrey went on to become a vet surgeon, conducting surgery consultations on a range of animals at a small independent practice in Cardiff, South Wales, UK. Dr Godfrey has a strong interest in soft tissue surgery. When she’s not helping animals back on their feet, Dr Godfrey writes a number of veterinary and animal-focused articles.
Bethany is an experienced writer who has been writing across the pets and equestrian sector for eight years.
Edited by Georgia Guerin.
Recent updates
This feature was last updated on March 17, 2025 by Bethany Stone.
