Poodle mix dogs have become popular in recent years mostly thanks to a host of designer breeds that have taken the world by storm. What used to be known as mutts are now seen as cross-breeds or mixed-breeds. These dogs are very intelligent, are typically hypoallergenic and may be healthier than their parent breeds.
It’s common to see Poodle mixes but what you may not know is that many of these mixes are purposefully bred and have many names depending on the two breeds used.
Here is a list of just some of the most popular Poodle mixes along with their parent breeds and other names by which they may be known.
| Name | Parent Breed (+ Poodle) | Other Names |
|---|---|---|
| Cavapoo | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Cavoodle |
| Goldendoodle | Golden Retriever | Groodle |
| Labradoodle | Labrador Retreiver | |
| Sheepadoodle | Old English sheepdog | |
| Bernedoodle | Bernese Mountain Dog | |
| Schnoodle | Schnauzer | |
| Shih Poo | Shih Tzu | Pooshih |
| Yorki Poo | Yorkshire Terrier | Yoodle, Yorkiepoo, Yorkapoo |
| Whoodle | Wheaton Terrior | Wheatendoodle, Wheatenpoo |
| Peekapoo | Pekingese | |
| Pomapoo | Pomeranian | |
| Bichon Poo | Bichon | |
| Newfypoo | Newfoundland | Newfoundlandoodle, Newfydoodle, Newfoundlandpoo, Poofoundland, Newfiedoo |
| Bordoodle | Border Collie | |
| Chipoo | Chihuahua | Chipoodle, Choodle |
| Westiepoo | West Highland White Terrier – Poodle | |
| Cockapoo | Cocker Spaniel | Cockapoodle, Spoodle, Cockerdoodle |
| Boxerdoodle | Boxer | |
| Maltipoo | Maltese | |
| Rottle | Rottweiler | Rottweilerpoo, Rottiepoo, Rottweilerdoodle, Rottiedoodle |
| Shepadoodle | German Shepard |
This is only a short list of the types of Poodle mixes that are purposely bred. However, in reality, a Poodle may be mixed with anything and these are commonly known as Mutts when two breeds mix in such a way.
It has been reported that over half of the crossbred dogs in the United States are Poodle mixes. The combinations are endless and the naming convention can be a bit confusing with some being called doodles and oodles yet others known as poos.
There is one thing for sure; aside from being very cutely named and very cute in physical appearance, they make fantastic pets.
Advantages Of Owning A Poodle Mix Dog
So what exactly makes Poodle mixes so popular?
Let’s take a look!
1. Potential For Less Diseases
Whenever dogs have parents of different breeds their offspring tends to be healthier. This may be well known but it is one of the benefits of a Poodle mix.
Having a crossbreed means your dog will likely be healthier overall than a purebred. They are also likely to live longer which is just a big plus all around.
This doesn’t mean that your dog will not have any health issues. Poodle mixes do have their share of health issues as well and can inherit genetic problems from either parent. However, Poodle mixes are commonly more healthy than purebred dogs.
2. Low Shedding
Poodles do not possess the undercoat of fine fur that most dog breeds do. Many poodle mixes inherit this trait from their Poodle parent.
This means that a Poodle mix will shed far less than other dog breeds making them very popular house pets.
Although poodles do shed, their hair tends to bunch up, so when you brush them, you clean away the excess hair. This makes it easy to stay on top of pet hair in the house.
My mini F1b Goldendoodle has inherited the qualities of the miniature Poodle and sheds very little. Us humans that live in my house seem to lose more hair than she does.
With this type of dog, you won’t have to worry about getting hair all over your clothes and furniture like many other shedding breeds often do.
3. They Are Somewhat Hypoallergenic
Poodle mixes tend to inherit the hypoallergenic qualities of a Poodle. That, combined with low shedding means if you are an allergy sufferer, you can manage to find a furry friend in this type of dog.
Although they are known to be hypoallergenic, no dog is fully hypoallergenic and can still pose a threat to those who suffer from allergies.
However, the shedding and dander of a Poodle mix will be far less than what you would see from other breeds who have double coats and shed regularly.
As a long-time allergy sufferer, I can tell you firsthand that this type of dog is perfect for those who might have allergic reactions.
I grew up with pets and was always allergic to cats as well as dogs that shed a lot. I would sneeze and get a runny nose and itchy eyes every time I was around these types of pets.
It wasn’t until I owned these more hypoallergenic type of dogs that I learned to appreciate this quality. My mini Goldendoodle does not have any effect on me at all as far as allergies go.
It’s great to have a furry friend to cuddle and play with while not having to worry about any type of allergic reaction.
4. You Can Pick Your Size
With Poodle mixes, you have the advantage of deciding on the size of your pup. This is a big plus for potential owners who have a preference in the size of the dog they wish to adopt.
This may be particularly good for owners with children in the home.
Since Poodles come in different sizes, the crossbred puppies that they have can also come in different sizes. The three sizes are recognized as standard, miniature, and toy.
If you would like a larger dog, you may be interested in choosing a standard-sized dog such as a Goldendoodle, Sheepadoodle or Labradoodle. These can get quite big and have a lot of energy to expend.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smaller dog, you will be better off with a Mini Goldendoodle or a Cockapoo, Maltipoo or Yorkie Poo.
These are considered lap-sized and make perfect pets for those seeking a smaller dog with fewer energy needs than that of a larger one.
5. Temperate Personalities
Poodle mixes tend to become rather docile compared to their parent breeds. This is great when you want to avoid a high energy dog and the responsibilities of care that come with them.
They are also social dogs, so they will likely be friendly to guests and outside family members. They are generally curious, loyal and smart and want nothing more than to please their owners.
6. They Are Very Smart
Poodles are known for their intelligence, and mixes tend to inherit the big brains of their parents. They can be wonderful therapy dogs for this reason and tend to be aware of their owner’s feelings and conditions.
They are super easy to train and will learn nearly anything you can throw at them. Of course, each dog will be different and will learn at different rates than others but for the most part, their intelligence will make it a pleasure for training.
7. They Are Great With Kids
Poodle mixes are notoriously good with children which can be a huge plus in deciding on what breed to own. Having a dog get along with everyone in the household is a big part of it becoming a member of the family.
As a bonus, they are also known to do well with other animals. This could include other dogs in the household, cats or nearly any other pet imaginable.
8. They Are SUPER CUTE
This may seem like a purely visual detail but the mixes of two adorable breeds produce an even more adorable offspring.
Although I think all dogs are cute and I love them all, Poodle mixes have played a special part in my life and I have been around them for much of my life.
I’m always drawn to their fluffy faces and their kind, loving and gentle temperament.
So as you can see, many positives come with a Poodle mix dog. It’s hard to see why they wouldn’t be popular.
However like any dog, there can be issues and it is important to understand that even this type of mix, there can be some downsides.
Disadvantages Of Owning A Poodle Mix Dog
1. Mixes Can Be Very Expensive
It is not uncommon for the cost of a Poodle mix to hit around 2,500 dollars if you intend to purchase from a breeder. They are very sought after which continues to drive the price up.
There are also other costs to consider, such as the yearly vet visits which can reach up to 500 dollars. If you are going to be feeding a high-quality food, you can expect to pay upwards of 40 dollars every couple of weeks.
Then there are grooming costs since this type of dog will require regular grooming. Expect to have this done every 8 – 12 weeks or so or be prepared to learn to do it yourself.
It is important to understand the cost of ownership as well as the purchase cost before choosing a dog. After a dog comes home it is as much a responsibility as it is a joy.
2. Some Dogs May Come Without Genetic Testing
It is important to work with an established breeder and be sure there is genetic testing done on your poodle mix. While they generally are very healthy, certain breeders can forgo genetic testing which can mean unexpected health issues later in life.
Genetic testing may help you to understand the health of your dog as well as disease risks and other genetic health problems they may develop in their lifetime.
Most genetic issues will be out of your control but at least you’ll know from the beginning instead of getting a surprise later on if something was to develop.
3. They Can Inherit Their Parents Problems As Well As Their Benefits
A crossbreed can inherit the problems of both parental dogs. It is important to know the well-being of the parents before choosing a dog to take home.
Some of the health problems that a dog may inherit from a Poodle could be Hip Dysplasia, Addison’s Disease, and Progressive Retinal Atrophy.
Of course, depending on the other type of dog that they are bred with, there could be a large number of issues that your dog could inherit.
Any dog could have health problems of any kind so this is not only limited to these types of crossbreeds.
As an owner, you should be sure to do your homework and help your dog to live a healthy lifestyle by exercising him or her, feeding healthy and nutritious meals and doing anything else you can to give them the best life possible.
It is also important that you visit your vet regularly for checkups to detect potential problems in their early stages.
4. Puppy Mills Or Backyard Breeders Can Flood The Market
It is important to know that your dog has had a healthy puppy stage of his or her life, otherwise, it can have personality issues when you bring them home and be difficult to manage as they grow into adulthood.
Fast track breeders like puppy mills can put off important aspects of care in order to have a higher turnaround. Don’t be hypnotized by the fantastic price because you most likely will pay for it later on, either in sanity or vet expenses.
Overall you can avoid a lot of the issues with Poodle mixes if you are financially prepared and have a good breeder in mind.
Like all dogs, their well-being is dependent on its origins. Having knowledge about the parents, and the breeder, as well as post-birth genetic testing, will ensure that you have a loving healthy pet joining your household.
Please Consider Adopting A Poodle Mix From An Animal Shelter
The lure of owning a puppy that you hand-picked may be compelling but consider this: there are many Poodle mix dogs in shelters that need adoption.
Many of these types of dogs were purchased from breeders and then didn’t live up to the expectations of the owners and have been surrendered.
It’s sad but some people do not have the time, patience or maturity level to work with a dog and will give up when times get hard or when the cute little puppy turns into more work than they expected.
Then you have those who are just bad people and their neglected or abused dogs end up in shelters and are in much need of a loving home.
I would suggest always starting your search for a dog at your local animal shelter. There is no reason to shop for a dog when there is probably one waiting for you in a cage just down the road.
You may also look at online sources to find your new best friend. Some of the websites below may help you to find the dog you have been looking for.
Poodle Mix Rescue
Doodle Rescue Collective
IDog Rescue
Doodle Dandy Rescue
Pet Finder
Doodle Rock Rescue
Adopting a dog that needs a home can be a very rewarding experience for both you and the dog. It may be difficult work because these dogs often come with baggage that needs to be gently addressed.
However, a rescued dog will make one of the best friends you’ve ever had and he or she will be grateful that you opened your heart and your home to them.
What Poodle Mix Is Best?
This would be a difficult question to answer since different Poodle mixes bring something different to the table.
One thing is for sure: every dog deserves a good home and to be loved. None is better or worse than the other.
The real question to ask is what kind of dog would be best for you?
The best Poodle mix for you will be the one that you have a strong bond with. It’s the one that you will love unconditionally and will enjoy his or her companionship.
There is no one size fits all for dogs. Everyone has a different personality and this affects what type of dog they are best suited for.
You should not be looking for a dog simply because you think it is the best one. All dogs are the best so be sure and know what you are looking for in a dog and narrow it down to those mixes that may have those traits.
Conclusion
A Poodle mix dog can make a great pet and loyal companion for you and your family. I have been lucky to have shared this life with my mini Goldendoodle for the past 13 years and they have been the best years of my life.
She has been my best friend and has brought so much joy into my life. Each day brings something different with her and she makes life better in so many ways.
She’s playful, energetic, intelligent, loyal and so much fun!
If you are interested in bringing this type of dog into your life, you may also be blessed with a dog of the same qualities.
Poodle mixes are popular for a good reason; they are great dogs and fit in well with families and will be a loving companion for many years.