Poodles are a popular breed of dog in their own right. However, over the last decade, there has been huge growth in the number of breeds they are crossed with to develop the ‘Designer Dog.’ These crosses are often the cutest puppies ever, but it’s important to understand what you’re getting yourself into before you commit to taking one home.
In this guide, we’re going to look at some of the most popular crosses and provide you with the information you need to understand the background and the needs of both sides of Poodle mixes.
The Poodle
Let’s start off with the common factor in crossbreeding, the Poodle. This is a dog that hails from France, where it was used primarily as a retriever of waterfowl during hunts. There are three sizes of the breed: standard, miniature, and toy. It is considered to be one of the most intelligent breeds in the world, with some calling it “the most perfect dog.”
Today, its hypoallergenic coat makes it a popular choice among those who usually have sensitivities towards dogs. Although not all poodle mixes have this fur type, many do inherit their parents’ low-shedding coats which led to them being dubbed “hypoallergenic” mixes. It is, however, important to know that very few of the crosses shed no hair at all.
The Labradoodle
The original cross was a Labrador and a Standard Poodle. The first Labradoodle was bred by Wally Conron from the Royal Guide Dogs Association in Victoria, Australia, back in 1988. He crossbred a standard poodle with a Labrador Retriever to yield an intelligent and highly trainable, hypoallergenic dog.
Although few Labradoodles are now working as guide dogs, this low-shedding canine has become popular among those allergic to dogs.
The Labrador Retriever
Originating from Newfoundland, this breed has been used for a variety of purposes, from those in the armed services who sniff out drugs and explosives to those trained to be assistance dogs. They are most known for their use in waterfowl hunting but can also do well in show competitions and as working dogs.
The Labrador retriever is the most popular dog in America at the moment and has held that honor for many years. A Labradoodle will give you all that we love about Labs today: loyal, intelligent, and great with kids.
The Goldendoodle
This is another mix specifically aimed at reducing allergens while developing a fun-loving and happy breed.
The Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is an all-around great dog. Originally bred as a hunting retriever, this sturdy dog is known for its intelligence and affectionate personality. They are a popular choice with assistance dog charities and are well known for their balanced and steady temperaments.
For those who love the temperament of the Golden Retriever but can’t handle too much shedding and dander, this hypoallergenic mix makes an ideal choice.
These calm, easygoing, and intelligent dogs fit in well with a wide range of families and children. Do remember that they are active dogs who will need training and the opportunity to run free every day.
The Schnoodle
The cutely named Schnoodle is a Schnauzer crossed with a Poodle.
The SchnauzerThe Schnauzer was initially bred as a watchdog, and the larger, standard Schnauzer still retains a strong working ability. The smaller-sized Schnauzers are better known for being friendly dogs that are a great option as a family pet.The Schnauzer’s hair type makes it an excellent choice for those who are looking for a breed with minimal shedding. When crossed with a Poodle, there can be a range of different coats within the same litter, so make sure that the breeder knows your requirements if there are allergies in the family.
CockerPoo
A poodle crossed with a cocker spaniel is affectionately known as a cockerpoo.
The Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is well known for being highly social. They are great with people of all ages, making them perfect family dogs. It’s also one of the more intelligent Poodle mixes, so training shouldn’t be too difficult. But do be aware that these can be high-energy dogs who need a good run every day.
Cocker Spaniels were originally bred to be water dogs capable of hunting. Many dogs still retain a very strong hunting extinct and will happily disappear for several hours following their nose if not trained to come when called.
Cocker Spaniels require regular brushing to keep their coats clean and mat-free. Their love of getting into the undergrowth can mean that their coats quickly become tangled.
The Maltipoo
When a Toy Poodle is crossed with a Maltese, then you end up with a Maltipoo!
The Maltese
The Maltese are one of the oldest known breeds in existence, having originally come from Tibet. A friendly dog with a long lifespan means that this beautiful little breed can fit well into any family. They are also very intelligent and easy to train, making great pets for dedicated owners.
Maltese dogs don’t shed much at all but do bear in mind that their coats need daily brushing, or else mats will quickly form. Their eyes may also become red and irritated if regularly cleaned.
Yorkipoo
Another small breed cross, this time the Yorkshire Terrier crossed with a Toy Poodle to give us the Yorkipoo.
The Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkie is one of the most popular toy breeds in the world. They are smart, and affectionate little dogs that can acclimate well into any family setting.
These active little dogs will need daily exercise or become bored, resulting in behavior problems. Many of the breeds retain a true terrier instinct and can be strongly motivated to hunt. That means that it’s essential to only let your Yorkshire Terrier or your Yorkiepoo off lead in a securely fenced area.
The BerneDoodle
And now, going to the other end of the scale, we have the Poodle cross Bernese Mountain Dog.
Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog was originally bred to herd and drive livestock and pull carts. They retain many of their working instincts and can therefore require a lot of training to become good family pets.
Mature males weigh 50-90 lbs (22-41 kg), while females typically weigh 40-70 lbs (18-32 kg).
As this is one of the larger Poodle mixes, any owner must understand the training requirements for this cross to be a great family dog.
The DalmaDoodle
When you cross the iconic spotted dog with a Poodle, then you end up with a DalmaDoodle!
The Dalmatian
The Dalmatian is a medium-sized dog with a short coat originally bred to be a hunting dog in Croatia. They are well known for being very social family dogs, but they are also high-energy. This breed is perfect if you go out running every day and would like a four-legged companion to join you.
Do be aware that the Dalmatian does shed quite heavily. So, if your aim is for a low-shed dog, this mix will shed less than a purebred Dalmatian, but there will still be some hair around the home.
The Poochon
If you’re looking for a Poodle mix with virtually no shedding, then the Bichon Frise cross could be a possibility!
The Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small dog breed with a lot of energy. These dogs were initially bred to be companion animals, and they retain many of their puppy-like characteristics, even in their adulthood. The Bichon is an alert little dog who will let you know when visitors arrive. However, he’s then likely to welcome them in and cover them with welcome kisses!
You will need to groom a Bichon at least two or three times a week and ensure they have a bath and clip once a month. Most pet owners take their Bichons to a groomer to ensure that the coat stays mat-free and in excellent condition.
