Doodles aren’t just cute; they’re a perfect storm of charm, brains, and hypoallergenic coats. These dogs have taken over the pet world, with breeds combining some of the most beloved characteristics of their parent breeds. Whether you’re chasing a running partner or a cuddly companion, there’s a Doodle for every need.
With 15 different types to choose from, these dogs pack more than just adorable looks. From the high-energy Aussiedoodle to the calm Saint Berdoodle, there’s a match for every personality and lifestyle.
1. Labradoodle
- Labrador Retriever + Poodle
Labradoodles are known for their friendly, intelligent nature and boundless energy, making them ideal family pets in active households. Their trainable disposition and compatibility with children make them a favorite, especially in homes with allergy sufferers due to their low-shedding coats.
Available in Standard, Miniature, and Toy sizes, Labradoodles fit a range of living situations. While their social nature makes them poor guard dogs, they excel as therapy animals, offering both companionship and emotional support.
2. Goldendoodle
- Golden Retriever + Poodle
A blend of Golden Retriever and Poodle, Goldendoodles are known for their friendly nature and sharp intelligence. Their adaptable demeanor makes them excellent therapy and assistance dogs, with coats that range from straight to curly, often displaying their signature golden hue.
Patient and protective, they’re perfect for families with children, offering both loyalty and bursts of playful energy. Regular exercise helps keep them content, channeling their lively spirit in a healthy way.
3. Cockapoo
- Cocker Spaniel + Poodle
The Cockapoo, one of the oldest hybrid breeds, mixes the Cocker Spaniel and Poodle for a smaller, low-shedding companion. Its affectionate and adaptable nature makes it perfect for apartment living or larger homes, with the added benefit of longer lifespans thanks to hybrid vigor.
These intelligent, emotionally in-tune dogs are great for those seeking emotional support. Their eagerness to please makes them easy to train, but they thrive on attention and may struggle with separation anxiety if left alone too long.
4. Bernedoodle
- Bernese Mountain Dog + Poodle
With the Bernese Mountain Dog’s calm nature and the Poodle’s intelligence, Bernedoodles are both relaxed companions and active participants in family life. Their loyalty and strong family bonds, combined with a robust build and low-shedding coat, make them ideal pets for those with allergies.
Patient and protective, they’re perfect for families with children and thrive on both outdoor adventures and cozy moments at home. Their playful spirit and adaptability to various lifestyles make them an all-around great choice.
5. Aussiedoodle
- Australian Shepherd + Poodle
Aussiedoodles are the ultimate high-energy, intelligent companions, perfect for active individuals. Known for their agility and love for dog sports, their soft, wavy coats come in a stunning mix of colors and patterns.
Quick learners who thrive on mental challenges, they are fiercely loyal and protective of their families. However, their high energy demands require plenty of exercise, making them best suited for those who can match their pace.
6. Schnoodle
- Schnauzer + Poodle
These dogs are highly adaptable, thriving in both apartments and larger homes, with sizes ranging from small to large. Affectionate yet protective, they make great lap dogs and reliable watchdogs.
Valued for their health and longevity, they are playful and intelligent, requiring regular mental and physical stimulation. Strongly bonded to their owners, they can be reserved with strangers, so early socialization is essential.
7. Whoodle
- Wheaten Terrier + Poodle
Medium-sized and versatile, these dogs make excellent family pets, especially with children. Their low-shedding coat, which comes in warm shades, is easy on allergy sufferers.
Playful and resilient, they adapt well to both city life and the countryside. Regular grooming and plenty of exercise are essential to keep them happy and healthy, as they have a lot of energy to burn.
8. Yorkipoo
- Yorkshire Terrier + Poodle
Small in size but big in personality, these lap dogs are perfect for apartment living. Known for their affectionate loyalty, Yorkipoos have a soft, low-shedding coat that comes in a variety of colors, often reflecting the Yorkshire Terrier’s rich tones.
Spirited and lively, they often act much larger than they are. While intelligent and trainable, their stubborn streak requires consistent, positive reinforcement, and they need plenty of interaction and activity to avoid boredom.
9. Saint Berdoodle
- Saint Bernard + Poodle
Combining the gentle nature of the Saint Bernard with the Poodle’s intelligence, Saint Berdoodles make perfect family pets, especially in homes with children. Their low-shedding coats, which range from straight to curly, often feature the Saint Bernard’s iconic white and red markings.
Despite their size, they are calm, easygoing, and less energetic than other Doodle breeds, making them ideal for more relaxed households. Regular grooming and moderate exercise are key to keeping them happy and healthy, as they thrive on affection and companionship.
10. Cadoodle
- Collie + Poodle
Loyal and alert, Cadoodles make excellent watchdogs, always ready to protect their homes. Their dense, curly coats are hypoallergenic, making them ideal for allergy sufferers.
Active and social, they thrive in environments where they can interact with people and other pets. With sharp minds and a strong bond to their owners, they excel as both companions and working dogs.
11. Sheepadoodle
- Old English Sheepdog + Poodle
With the Poodle’s intelligence and the Old English Sheepdog’s calm, protective nature, Sheepadoodles are loving, playful family companions. Their soft, curly, low-shedding coats make them a great choice for allergy sufferers.
Large and affectionate, they are ideal cuddle buddies and quick learners. While they need regular exercise, they also enjoy quiet moments with their family, and their coats require consistent grooming to stay in top condition.
12. Maltipoo
Maltese + Poodle
The Maltipoo is a charming, small-sized Doodle that combines the playful nature of the Maltese with the intelligence and hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle. These dogs are ideal for apartment living, as they’re compact and thrive on companionship, making them excellent lap dogs.
Their affectionate, friendly demeanor and low-shedding coats make them a favorite among allergy sufferers and those looking for a cuddly, easy-to-train companion.
13. Cavapoo
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel + Poodle
Cavapoos are another delightful hybrid, known for their sweet, calm demeanor and affectionate nature. They blend the gentle, loving personality of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with the Poodle’s hypoallergenic traits and intelligence. These dogs excel as family pets, getting along well with children and other animals.
They are low-shedding and adapt well to both apartment living and homes with yards, making them highly versatile.
14. Pyredoodle
Great Pyrenees + Poodle
The Pyredoodle is a large, intelligent hybrid that combines the gentle, protective instincts of the Great Pyrenees with the cleverness and hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle. These dogs are ideal for families looking for a calm, patient, and loyal companion.
Although their size might not make them perfect for apartments, they do well in homes with plenty of space and love outdoor activities. Their low-shedding coat also makes them suitable for allergy-prone households.
15. Bordoodle
Border Collie + Poodle
If you’re an active individual or family, the Bordoodle could be your perfect match. Combining the Border Collie’s herding instinct and high intelligence with the Poodle’s low-shedding coat, Bordoodles are energetic and thrive in homes with ample exercise and mental stimulation. Their keen intelligence makes them highly trainable, but their energy levels can be overwhelming for less active families.
With a well-exercised Bordoodle, you’ll find a loyal, loving companion who excels in both family settings and dog sports.
The Origins & Genetic Foundations of Doodle Dogs
Doodle dogs began in the late 1980s when Wally Conron, a breeding manager at the Royal Guide Dog Association of Australia, crossed a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle to create a hypoallergenic guide dog. The Labradoodle was born, sparking the Doodle trend. (ref)
This approach, based on hybrid vigor, aims to combine the best traits of both breeds. However, genetics are unpredictable, so each Doodle inherits a unique mix of characteristics, making every one distinct.
Ethical Considerations & Breeding Practices
As Doodle dogs gained popularity, concerns about ethical breeding grew. The high demand often leads to breeding for profit, risking health issues and unpredictable traits. (ref)
Responsible breeders use genetic testing to ensure healthy dogs, while others may prioritize appearance, contributing to overbreeding and shelter overcrowding. Adopting a Doodle from a shelter can help address these issues while offering a dog in need a loving home.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.