What’s a Doodle Dog? + Photos of 6 Doodle Mixes!

A Doodle is a mix of a Poodle and any other canine breed

Labradoodles and Goldendoodles are some of the most popular Doodle dogs. Oodles and Poos, like Schnoodles, Cockapoos, and Yorkiepoos, are also common Doodle breeds. 

Doodle dog
What’s a Doodle dog? 6 Doodle mixes!

The first Doodle was a Labradoodle that Wally Conron raised in the early 1980s while operating as a puppy-breeding supervisor for the Royal Guide Dog Association of Australia. 

He was aiming to develop an allergy-free guide dog for a blind woman whose husband was sensitive to dog hair. After two years and 33 attempts, Conron successfully bred a Standard Poodle with a Labrador Retriever, giving birth to the Labradoodle.

History of Doodle Dogs

The original Doodles were likely Cockapoos, a mix between a Poodle and another canine breed. Cocker Spaniels and Poodles were the two most popular dog breeds in the United States in the 1940s. Thus, purposeful mating was anticipated, especially because the resulting dogs were regarded as “beautiful and agreeable companions.” 

Cockapoos were first recorded in the 1950s. Yorkipoos (Yorkshire Terriers) and Peekapoos (Pekingese) quickly gained popularity thereafter.

Several decades later, Wally Conron bred the first Labradoodle. He quickly learned that no one was interested in them because the crossbred dogs were not purebreds. So he directed his public relations staff to inform the press that a new dog had been created. 

There is substantial disagreement over the source of the term Labradoodle. However, in his 1955 novel, “Into the Water Barrier,” Donald Campbell is reported to have used the name to describe his dog, a Labrador Poodle cross.

types of cockapoo colors
13 Types of Cockapoo Colors [with photos]

Why are Doodle Dogs Popular?

Doodles are popular due to their low-shedding, typically hypoallergenic coat, as well as their goofy and cute appearance, and their sweet temperament

However, when it comes to a Doodle’s coat, you should be aware that it is hard to foresee how it will turn out. Because Doodles are a mixed breed, coats vary greatly, even within the same litter!

If you have severe allergies, you should spend some time with Doodles before deciding if they are the best choice for you and your family. Many Doodles are put up for adoption because their owners assumed they would not experience an allergic reaction to them, only to discover that they did. 

Labradoodle and a child
A child hugs Labradoodle at the beach!

Does the AKC recognize Doodles?

The American Kennel Club is the country’s purebred dog registry. However, since Doodles are not purebred dogs, the AKC does not recognize even the most popular variety of Doodles.

Most Popular Doodle Dogs

Doodle dog breeds have grown in popularity and the numbers prove it. There was an astounding increase of 160.3 percent in all Poodle crossbreeds, between the years 2013 and 2021. 

Anyone with a Doodle will tell you they are trainable, affectionate, and downright clever. Here are some of the most popular Doodle breeds: 

Goldendoodle

Fondly known as the golden kid, the Goldendoodle is a popular hybrid dog breed with luscious hair and is descended from the Poodle and Golden Retriever breeds. But not all of them inherit the magnificent golden coat. Occasionally, the pup will inherit the Poodle genes and will have white or black, and sometimes even red, coats. 

sitting on the grass
A Goldendoodle sitting on the grass.

The Goldendoodle Association of North America notes that Poodles and Golden Retrievers are among the top five smartest dog breeds, making them easy to train. In addition, the good characters of their retriever ancestors make them excellent family companions for humans and other canine pals.

Aussiedoodle

In more ways than one, the energetic Aussiedoodle keeps breeders on their toes. Since Australian Shepherds and Poodles differ so widely in appearance, the resulting combination can vary greatly in texture, size, and color. So what do Aussiedoodles have in common with their parents?

aussiedoodle at the beach
An Aussiedoodle at the beach!

Aussiedoodles are called Einsteins, as both of its parent breeds have exceptional intelligence. Aussiedoodle owners should provide enough exercise and socializing for their pets since they have superior intelligence and stamina.

Schnoodle Doodle

The Teddy Bear Schnoodle Doodle is a cross between a Schnauzer and a Poodle. This puppy is kind, quiet, intelligent, and obedient. Your TBS might be stubborn and naughty sometimes, but this can be readily quelled using reward-based tactics. 

Schnoodle puppy in the grass
Schnoodle puppy lying on the grass.

The Schnoodle is distinguished by its round, fluffy head, short nose, and almond-shaped eyes. They are very devoted to and protective of family, yet not violent or confrontational. 

They show excellent trainability and want to please their owners. They like snuggling and are excellent companions. The size and length of the ears vary depending on the parents.

The TBS is fine-boned and generally modest in size. It does not shed much and is considered hypoallergenic.

Cockapoo

This breed is a cross between the Cocker Spaniel and the Poodle. These adorable puppies are loyal, loving, clever, friendly, and have minimal shedding

cockapoo harness
A Cockapoo dog in a vibrant red harness

Bernedoodles

These peaceful canines, descended from the Poodle and Bernese Mountain dog, join their Doodle brethren as dogs well-suited for homes and are especially good with youngsters. Fortunately for these adoring owners, the Bernedoodle may live up to 18 years, well beyond the seven-year lifetime of the Bernese Mountain dog.

Bernedoodle full grown
When is a Bernedoodle full grown?

Bernedoodles have recently become quite popular. This cross aids in the reduction of some of the intrinsic health difficulties that are frequent in Bernese dogs.

Maltipoo

The Maltipoo is another famous Doodle dog breed that everybody adores. It is a dog that demands both mental and physical stimulus. It is the perfect Doodle for those who want to add a friendly dog to their life.

maltipoo breeders in texas
7 Best Maltipoo Breeders in Texas [2022]

It is a cross between the Maltese and the Poodle.

When you buy a Maltipoo, keep in mind that it sheds. 

As both the Poodle and the Maltese are working dogs, your Maltipoo is by nature excitable and will require enough exercise everyday to get its energy levels to a normal point. 

The Maltipoo is an excellent dog breed and you will enjoy training this Doodle breed. The breed comes in a range of beautiful red and black hues, making you fall in love with this unique Doodle. 

How to Find the Perfect Doodle?

Here are our top tips for finding the Doodle which can fit into your life perfectly:

Consider Which Qualities are Most Important to you

One of the best things about Doodles is that there are numerous distinct sorts of Doodles, each with a unique set of desirable characteristics. The trick is determining which Doodle is most suited to your household.

Whether you desire a certain size dog or specific features, you should consider what is most essential to your family. Do you prefer a dog that is more loving and social? A Goldendoodle will make an excellent choice in this case. 

Do you require a dog who gets along with children and other dogs? Whoodles might be a good fit in this scenario.

When it comes to mixed breed dogs, it is important to remember that while some breeds are known for certain characteristics, breed mixes may not have all of those characteristics of each type. 

For example, if you’re looking for a Doodle mix because one of your family members is allergic to dogs, don’t assume that all Labradoodles are hypoallergenic and don’t shed. 

The way those breed mixtures come together might vary greatly.

Havapoo puppy wearing coat
A Havapoo puppy wearing coat with his owner.

Remember that Each Dog has a Unique Personality

Just like humans, every dog is different.

Although Poodles and other breeds have some common personality features, each particular dog can have a very different personality. This means you shouldn’t expect every Aussiedoodle to be easy to teach. 

Although preliminary research can help you understand typical characteristics, you will not know how a dog will look or behave until you spend time with it. 

black aussiedoodle dog on the grass
A mostly black Goldendoodle in a backyard on the grass

Can Doodles be Trained Easily?

Doodles are often easy to teach because of their high intelligence. However, there are certain disadvantages to training an intelligent dog. 

Smart dogs learn orders fast, but they may also put the owner to the test at times. A Doodle can easily become bored and begin to push limits to find their enjoyment. They might require more attention from their owner, which may require more training.

Overall, Doodles are fairly trainable, although training can be challenging. Teaching them basic orders like sit, come, and stay will be simple, and they will learn them after just a few trials. 

Although they may take less effort to learn and follow more intricate orders than other breeds, they may occasionally strain their limits (and your patience).

blue merle labradoodle puppy
Merle Labradoodle puppies are not common

Are Doodle Dogs Effective Guide Dogs?

Surprisingly, the Labradoodle was intended to be a smart dog that sheds less, and be a guide dog for a blind woman. 

Labradoodles and other Doodle breeds have been proven to be excellent guiding dogs. One of the most important aspects of guide dogs is that they are non-aggressive and highly trainable. Doodle dogs fall into this category due to their innate intelligence. 

As a result, these canines are frequently taught to be guide or rescue dogs. The Labradoodle and Goldendoodle are two of the most popular service dogs. They are frequently matched with persons with neurocognitive and physical impairments.

how long to walk a labradoodle puppy
My miniature Labradoodle Max LOVES going for walks.

What is the Price of a Doodle Dog?

Designer dogs, which is the category Doodle dogs fall under, may be quite expensive. For example, Stephen Curry spent $3,800 for a Goldendoodle dog, according to TMZ. 

The price dog owners are ready to spend is another aspect of changing attitudes about pet ownership. On average, you can expect to pay anything between $1000- $3000 for your Doodle dog. 

The irony of designer dog prices is that Doodle mixtures are still a mix. The American Kennel Club’s purebred register does not include any Doodle dogs. As a result, Doodle dogs are not allowed to compete in dog shows. 

Doodle dog price range
How much do Doodle dogs cost?

Are Doodles Hypoallergenic?

No, and don’t be misled: Doodles shed (though some dogs shed less than others) and aren’t completely hypoallergenic. 

There is no actual thing as a hypoallergenic dog (or cat) in reality. The allergens are carried through dander, urine, and saliva and are difficult to escape. It is true that some dogs are less likely to produce allergens than others, but this does not mean that all Doodles won’t cause allergies if you or a close relative suffers from them.

Spend a little time with a few of them before deciding on one.

A Doodle’s coat can be wavy, long, and silky, somewhat wavy and wispy, or tightly coiled with a wooly look and feel, depending on the cross. In addition, some Doodles have fur that has a mixture of all three types. The type of fur plays a big role in how much your Doodle will shed. 

are Labradoodles hypoallergenic? (Labradoodle Allergy Guide)
Are Labradoodles hypoallergenic? (Labradoodle Allergy Guide)

What to Feed a Doodle Dog?

The appropriate dog food is essential for your animal friend’s health. Dogs have various nutritional requirements, so it’s critical to provide them with food that provides high-quality nutrients and tastes good. 

It’s important to know that you don’t require breed-specific dog food to meet the nutritional demands of your best buddy.

Doodle Dogs can differ so much from one mix to another that a single Doodle breed mix would be insufficient for every dog. Instead, base your dog food selection on the following characteristics:

  • Size at full maturity
  • Age
  • Food allergies or other considerations

Based on these considerations, you can pick a dog food mix that best meets the needs of your Doodle

owner pouring dog food
The owner pouring dog food in a bowl.

Conclusion

While Doodle dogs are one of the greatest family pets available, there are a few factors to consider before taking one home. Things might quickly deteriorate if you are unprepared to care for a dog. 

An important point to remember is that the Doodle is a highly-active breed. If you happen to be a couch potato, this dog may not be for you. Be prepared to invest quality time outside and exercise time for your Doodle dog. 

Whilst Doodle dogs are generally also good-natured, low-shedding, laid-back and intelligent, one can never know which dominant gene they can inherit. So be prepared for more than just the Poodle genes coming into play. 

That said, Doodle dogs are one of the most popular breeds and there are tons of good reasons for you to get one.