Doodle Dogs: The Perfect Combination of Cuteness and Companionship
Various crossbreeds of Poodles - an analysis of their suitability as household companions
The endearing name 'doodle' conjures a flurry of adorableness in our minds, signifying a crossbreed between a Poodle and another breed, collectively known as 'doodle dogs.' These delightful creatures are bred with the aim of inheriting the most advantageous attributes from both parents.
Known for their high energy levels and friendly temperaments, doodle dogs make wonderful additions to families, owing to their playful and active nature. Before embarking on the journey to adopt a doodle, it is crucial to carefully consider your breed choice, as the recent surge in popularity has unfortunately led to some poor breeding practices.
To aid you in your decision-making process, we have compiled a list of the most well-known poodle mixes, as well as sought advice from expert veterinarian Dr. Hannah Godfrey. She helped us identify the calmest and friendliest doodles while shedding light on the shedding myth concerning these dogs.
What is a doodle dog?
According to Dr. Godfrey, 'doodle' refers to any poodle crossbreed dog. Popular examples include the Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, Cockapoo, and various other mixes resulting from pairing a Poodle with another breed.
Most Popular Poodle Mixes
With nearly 40 mixes to choose from, selecting a doodle can feel overwhelming. To help you make an informed decision, take a look at some of the most popular poodle crossbreed dogs below:
- Cockapoo
- A cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle, believed to have been the breed that started it all. These dogs range in size and are known for their friendly, affectionate, and cheerful dispositions.
- Goldendoodle
- One of the oldest 'official' doodle dog types, Goldendoodles were initially bred as service dogs resulting from Monica Dickens' innovation in 1969. They are intelligent, affectionate, and highly people-oriented.
- Labradoodle
- Bred by Wally Conron in 1988, Labradoodles are a cross between Labradors and Poodles. They are energetic, intelligent, friendly, and ideal for families but may require significant attention.
- Schnoodle
- Resulting from the union of Miniature Poodles and Miniature Schnauzers, schnoodles are medium-sized dogs with a fluffy coat and melting eyes. They excel at various obedience sports and have proven to be one of the smartest dog breeds.
- Sproodle
- A cross between a Springer Spaniel and a Poodle, sproodles differ in appearance based on the parents' physical characteristics. They tend to be obedient, sociable, and make great 'people dogs.'
- Whoodle
- A charming cross between the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and a Poodle, whoodles have a coat that can come in almost any shade, often favoring a cream or 'wheaten' color similar to their terrier parent. They are gentle, playful, and typically require less exercise compared to other poodle mixes.
- Maltipoo
- A mix between Maltese and Toy or Miniature Poodles, Maltipoos are small-sized dogs more suitable for smaller spaces. Due to their size, they require less exercise but can suffer from separation anxiety.
- Cavapoo
- A cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle, Cavapoos are one of the cutest dog breeds, known for their playful, loyal, and easygoing personalities.
- Bernedoodle
- A Bernese Mountain Dog crossed with a Poodle, Bernedoodles are intelligent, handsome dogs with strong, loyal hearts. They are versatile, quick learners, and make excellent family companions.
- Sheepadoodle
- A cross between the Old English Sheepdog and a Standard Poodle, Sheepadoodles vary in size but have positive dispositions and are friendly family members. They are large, loyal dogs with the potential to be overprotective, necessitating early socialization.
- Yorkiepoo
- A pint-sized cross between the Yorkshire Terrier and a Poodle, Yorkiepoos are energetic, lively, and love being social. Desiring company and an active lifestyle, they are ideal for those looking for a canine companion.
- Aussiedoodle
- An energetic and highly trainable cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle, Aussiedoodles require plenty of outdoor adventures and will thrive in the presence of an active family.
- Jackapoo
- Known as Jackadoodles, these energetic dogs result from crossing a Jack Russell Terrier with a Toy or Miniature Poodle. They inherit a stubborn streak, but also display independence, tenacity, and affability.
- Westiepoo
- Adorable Westiepoos are the product of interbreeding West Highland Terriers and Miniature Poodles, making them popular among families and seniors. They are ideal for apartment living and require games, training, and plenty of attention to keep their minds and bodies busy.
In considering the advantages and disadvantages of adopting a doodle dog, it is important to acknowledge that while they have become popular for their potential hypoallergenic traits and adorable appearance, they may still require significant grooming and attention to keep their coats looking their best. Additionally, as with all crossbreeds, there is no guarantee which genetic traits individual pups will inherit.
Ultimately, whether you decide to go for a doodle dog or a different breed, remember that a dog's temperament and behavior are influenced by both nature and nurture. Choosing a responsible breeder and socializing your dog early on will help ensure a loving, caring, and well-behaved addition to your family.
- Doodle dogs, a cross between a Poodle and another breed, have gained popularity for their adorableness, yet poor breeding practices may occur due to their surge in popularity.
- The Cockapoo, a mix between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle, is known for its friendly, affectionate, and cheerful disposition.
- Goldendoodles, a cross between a Labrador and a Poodle, are intelligent, affectionate, and highly people-oriented.
- Shedding myths surrounding doodle dogs were addressed by Dr. Hannah Godfrey, who explained that doodles can still require grooming to maintain their coats.
- Selecting a doodle dog involves understanding that each pup may inherit different genetic traits, making their temperament and behavior unpredictable.
- A key factor in raising a well-behaved and loving pet is choosing a responsible breeder and socializing the dog from an early age.
- The lifestyle requirements of a doodle dog, including regular grooming and exercise, should be carefully considered before making the decision to adopt one.
