Fluffy, friendly, and often hypoallergenic, doodle dogs have captured hearts worldwide with their teddy bear looks and playful personalities.
These poodle-mix pups combine the intelligence of poodles with desirable traits from other breeds. But not all doodles are created equal – while some fit effortlessly into family life, others need special attention and care to truly thrive.
1. Goldendoodle
Imagine a walking teddy bear with a heart of gold! Goldendoodles blend the Poodle’s smarts with the Golden Retriever’s endless affection.
These adaptable furballs thrive in almost any home setting, from apartments to farms. Their patient nature makes them stellar companions for children and seniors alike.
Most Goldendoodles inherit a low-shedding coat, though regular grooming keeps their curls from matting.
2. Labradoodle
From service work to family adventures, Labradoodles excel at whatever job they’re given. Their Labrador heritage brings trainability while their Poodle genes add intelligence and that beloved non-shedding coat.
Athletic and energetic, these dogs need daily exercise but adapt well to most living situations. Their friendly temperament makes them natural therapy dogs.
First-time dog owners often find success with this forgiving breed.
3. Bernedoodle
Cuddle enthusiasts, meet your match! Bernedoodles combine the Bernese Mountain Dog’s sweet nature with the Poodle’s intelligence and hypoallergenic coat.
Despite their size, they’re surprisingly gentle and patient with children. These dogs form deep bonds with their families and prefer being wherever you are.
Though energetic as puppies, adult Bernedoodles typically settle into a moderate activity level that suits many lifestyles.
4. Cavapoo
Small but mighty in personality, Cavapoos pack endless love into a compact, neighbor-friendly package. These Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle mixes rarely exceed 15 pounds.
Naturally sociable, they thrive on human interaction and make friends everywhere they go. Their exercise needs are modest – a daily walk and some playtime will keep them content.
Many apartment dwellers find Cavapoos ideal for city living.
5. Aussiedoodle
Looking for a dog that can keep up with your active lifestyle? Aussiedoodles combine the Australian Shepherd’s work ethic with Poodle intelligence, creating a four-legged Einstein who lives to please.
Mental stimulation is as important as physical exercise for these clever pups. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and agility courses will keep that busy brain engaged.
Their herding instinct often manifests as attentiveness to children.
6. Maltipoo
Big personality comes in this tiny package! Maltipoos rarely grow larger than 10 pounds, making them perfect lap dogs and travel companions. Their expressive eyes seem to communicate every thought.
Despite their diminutive size, these Maltese-Poodle crosses possess surprising sturdiness. They typically maintain puppy-like playfulness well into adulthood.
Seniors particularly appreciate their manageable size and affectionate, undemanding nature.
7. Cockapoo
Before doodles became a phenomenon, the Cockapoo was winning hearts as the original Poodle mix. These Cocker Spaniel hybrids have been beloved family dogs since the 1950s!
Their cheerful disposition makes them natural therapy dogs. Cockapoos typically remain playful throughout their lives but aren’t as high-energy as some other doodle varieties.
Their moderate exercise needs and adaptable nature suit various living situations.
8. Sheepadoodle
Resembling life-sized stuffed animals, Sheepadoodles turn heads with their distinctive black and white coats. These Old English Sheepdog and Poodle crosses often have adorable facial markings resembling panda bears.
Gentle yet protective, they make excellent family guardians without excessive barking. Their playful nature balances with an intuitive sense of when to be calm.
Most inherit the Poodle’s intelligence, making training relatively straightforward.
9. Schnoodle
Alert and spirited, Schnoodles bring together the Schnauzer’s watchdog instincts with Poodle brainpower. These dogs pack personality into a small-to-medium package that fits most homes.
Their natural alertness makes them excellent watchdogs without excessive barking. Many owners appreciate their distinctive bearded faces and expressive eyebrows that communicate every emotion.
Available in three sizes, there’s a Schnoodle for every space constraint.
10. Irish Doodle
Stunning copper coats come with a temperament that requires experienced handling. Irish Setters contribute their gorgeous color and hunting drive, creating a dog that needs both physical and mental challenges daily.
Without proper stimulation, Irish Doodles may develop destructive habits. Their intelligence makes them quick learners but also skilled escape artists when bored.
First-time owners often underestimate their exercise requirements of 1-2 hours daily.
11. Saint Berdoodle
Weighing up to 180 pounds, these massive pups combine Saint Bernard size with Poodle brains. Their sheer strength requires early training and socialization to prevent accidental knocking over of children or elderly family members.
Healthcare costs run significantly higher than average. Their size means medications, surgeries, and even routine care cost more.
Despite their gentle nature, their drooling habits and space requirements make them unsuitable for apartment living.
12. Bordoodle
Born from Border Collie and Poodle parents, these dogs inherit an intense work drive that casual owners find overwhelming. Without a job to do, Bordoodles often create their own work – usually by reorganizing your possessions!
Their intelligence requires daily mental challenges beyond basic exercise. Many excel at competitive dog sports but struggle as simple companion animals.
Experienced owners provide structured routines with varied activities to prevent behavior problems.
13. Newfypoo
Combining Newfoundland size with Poodle intelligence creates a loving giant with specific needs. Their massive frames require specialized equipment – from extra-large crates to heavy-duty leashes that can withstand their strength.
Transportation becomes challenging with dogs often weighing over 100 pounds. Many owners invest in ramps and SUVs to accommodate their size.
Their drooling habits and water-loving nature mean constant cleanup of wet floors and furniture.
14. Aussiedoodle Mini
Don’t let their smaller size fool you – these mini Australian Shepherd and Poodle crosses pack the full-sized version’s energy into a compact body. Their herding instincts often manifest as ankle-nipping and child-herding behaviors that require redirection.
Mental stimulation is even more important than physical exercise. Without proper outlets, they become anxious and destructive.
Many owners underestimate their exercise needs based on their smaller stature.