Poodle Mixes (Doodle Breeds)Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, Cavapoos and more
Poodle mixes, often called doodles, are crosses between a Poodle and another breed, usually aimed at combining a friendly temperament with a lower-shedding coat. This page helps families compare the most popular doodle dog breeds and understand what these crossbreeds can and cannot promise.
All Poodle Mixes A to Z
What a doodle actually is
Doodles are crossbreeds, not established breeds. Major kennel clubs such as the AKC and the UK Kennel Club do not recognize them as breeds, so there is no single breed standard for size, coat or temperament. The name usually combines the partner breed with poodle: Goldendoodle (Golden Retriever), Labradoodle (Labrador), Bernedoodle (Bernese Mountain Dog), Cavapoo (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel), Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel) and Maltipoo (Maltese).
The Labradoodle became widely known in the late 1980s when it was bred in Australia as a potential guide dog for people with allergies, and the trend spread from there.
Generations and coat types
Breeders use shorthand to describe generations:
- F1: a purebred Poodle crossed with a purebred partner breed. Coats vary widely.
- F1B: an F1 doodle crossed back to a Poodle, which raises the chance of a curly, lower-shedding coat.
- Multigeneration: doodles bred to other doodles over several generations, aiming for more predictable traits.
Coats range from flat and straight to wavy to tightly curled. Even within one litter, puppies can look and shed quite differently.
The hypoallergenic question
No dog is completely hypoallergenic. Allergens come from skin flakes, saliva and urine, not only hair. A curly, low-shedding doodle coat may release less hair and dander into your home, and some allergy sufferers do better with them, but results vary by individual dog and person. If allergies matter, spend time with the specific puppy's parents before committing.
Choosing the right poodle mix
Size and energy follow the partner breed and the Poodle size used. A Bernedoodle from a Standard Poodle can be a large dog, while a Maltipoo or Cavapoo stays small and suits apartments. Goldendoodles and Labradoodles are usually active, social and need daily exercise and training. Cockapoos are lively, medium-small and often very people-focused.
Look closely at the parents, because they are the best predictor of what your puppy will become. Meet the mother if at all possible, ask about the father's size and temperament, and ask which Poodle size was used. A good breeder will also tell you honestly what kind of coat each puppy is likely to have and will help you choose the one that best matches your household, rather than simply the cutest face in the litter.
Grooming and health
Doodle coats grow continuously and mat easily, especially wavy coats. Expect brushing several times a week and professional grooming every several weeks. A cross does not guarantee better health: puppies can inherit conditions from either parent breed, such as hip dysplasia, eye disease or heart conditions. Choose breeders who health-test both parents for the problems known in each breed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are doodles hypoallergenic?
No dog is fully hypoallergenic. Some low-shedding doodles may suit mild allergy sufferers better, but it depends on the individual dog and person.
Do doodles shed?
It varies. F1 doodles may shed like the partner breed, while F1B and multigeneration doodles with curly coats often shed less.
What is the best doodle for a family?
Goldendoodles and Labradoodles are popular active family dogs, while Cavapoos and Maltipoos suit smaller homes. Temperament depends on the individual dog and the parents.
Are doodles purebred?
No. Doodles are crossbreeds and are not recognized as breeds by major kennel clubs.
How big do poodle mixes get?
Size depends on the parent breeds and whether a Toy, Miniature or Standard Poodle was used, ranging from small lapdogs to large dogs.
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