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Are you thinking of adding a poodle mix at home, but confused about which type to get?
I get it. There are literally over a hundred of them!
And they're not just designer dogs, poodle mixes are one of the most intelligent breeds in the doggyverse, too.
As Jeffrey Powers, DVM of Veterinary Clinics North claims:
“All ‘doodle' breeds are highly intelligent, seeing as the poodle itself is one of the more intelligent dog breeds.”
I hate to keep you waiting.
So, here are the 10 most popular breeds of poodle mixes we could ever find.
The 10 Best Poodle Mixes
1. Labradoodle Poodle Mix
A mix between: Poodle and Labrador Retriever
Grooming Difficulty: Manageable
Life Span: 12-14 years
Weight: 50-90 lbs
Taking the first spot, Labradoodle proves to swoon in the hearts of many dog owners out there.
But did you know?
Labradoodles were discovered by Wally Conron in the late 80s due to the request of a blind lady from Hawaii.
The blind lady specifically needed a guide dog that was also suitable for her allergic husband.
Hence, the partnership between Australia's Guide Dogs Victoria and Hawaii's Eye of the Pacific (an organization for the visually impaired) was born.
Despite the popularity that Labradoodles had amassed at the time, Conron regretted breeding them.
He was worried that breeders might take advantage of the dog's popularity and sell them for a hefty price amidst breeding anomalies.
“I find that the biggest majority are either crazy or have a hereditary problem.”
Conron adds, “I do see some damn nice labradoodles but they're few and far between.”
Unfortunately, incorrect breeding procedures are still rampant to this day.
But in a positive light, Conron's experiment led to a lot of successful crossbreeding in the world.
And the majority of poodle mixes came from the line of Sultan — Conron's first-bred — and its siblings.
Labradoodles aren't only popular because of their unique origins.
With their Labrador Retriever roots, Labradoodles are well-loved by families across the globe because of their hypoallergenic fur.
Their energy, intelligence, and loyalty add up to their charisma, too!
2. Goldendoodle Poodle Mix
A mix between: Poodle and Golden Retriever
Grooming Difficulty: Manageable
Life Span: 10-15 years
Weight: 15-100 lbs
Goldendoodles are born adventurers.
With their curiosity and socializing skills, Goldendoodles love to interact with hoomans and pets.
Plus, they have hypoallergenic fur, which makes them suitable for most people.
Affectionately nicknamed Goodle, they populated in the 1990s as another alternative to the Labradoodle.
Trivia: Monica Dickens — the great-granddaughter of writer Charles Dickens — is one of the most active breeders of Goldendoodles.
Primarily bred and trained as guide dogs, Goldendoodles are perfect companions for people with dander allergies.
Like the Labradoodle, Goldendoodles must also consume a diet that's high in protein and fat.
3. Aussiedoodle Poodle Mix
A mix between: Poodle and Australian Shepherd
Grooming Difficulty: Manageable
Life Span: 10-12 years
Weight: 25-70 lbs
If you're into soft furry dogs with a knack for adventure, then Aussiedoodles are perfect for you.
Their sizes vary from standard to miniature, but that does not hinder them from being naturally curious and playful.
Despite their Australian roots, Aussiedoodles are more common in the United States.
Note: Aussiedoodles are also called Aussiepoo and Aussiepoodle.
Like the previous breeds, their fur is highly influenced by their Poodle side while their two to three-toned fur colors vary from their Australian Shepherd gene.
Aussiedoodles have medium to high energy levels, too.
A morning walk or play can help to reduce their hyperactiveness throughout the day.
Their diet must also consist of high protein and fat for energy, muscle growth, and strength.
4. Cockapoo Poodle Mix
A mix between: Poodle and Cocker Spaniel
Grooming Difficulty: Challenging
Life Span: 7-18 years
Weight: 6-19 lbs
Cockapoos have a great sense of humor, making people laugh at anything that they do.
Trivia: Bred in the 60s, the Cockapoo is the oldest of designer breeds.
Even though they are considered indoor dogs, Cockapoos must have plenty of activities to alleviate their boredom.
With their intelligence and cheerful temperament, it's best to train them with positive reinforcement and optimism.
Not to mention, their parent breeds are both in the hunting and working classes, too.
Furthermore, Cockapoos are incredibly affectionate. They especially like cuddling because of their nature as companion pets.
This breed is also neither high nor low in maintenance.
But, grooming them in the hands of professionals will help keep your Cockapoos' coats mat-free and healthy.
5. Pyredoodle Poodle Mix
A mix between: Poodle and Great Pyrenees
Grooming Difficulty: Manageable
Life Span: 10-12 years
Weight: 90-100 lbs
Pyredoodles are also called Pyreneespoo, Pyrepoo, and Pyreneesdoodle.
With the doodle hype in the 80s, Pyredoodles paved its way as one of the most sought-after mixes in the world.
As watchdogs, their bark is worse than their bite despite their friendly demeanor.
They're not called gentle giants for no reason, are they?
Well, these Fidos can weigh as much as 100 pounds.
However, Pyredoodles' massive weight can take a toll on their health — obesity.
So, their diet must be rich in protein instead of carbohydrates.
6. Schnoodle Poodle Mix
A mix between: Miniature Poodle and Miniature Schnauzer
Grooming Difficulty: Manageable
Life Span: 13-17 years
Weight: 60-70 lbs
Another popular mixed poodle breed is called the Schnoodles.
Their natural charm and intelligence add up to their overall popularity.
And due to the curious and attentive traits of both parent species, Schnoodles make excellent watchdogs, too.
Health-wise, their diet intake must include ¾ to 1 cup of dry food a day for standard-sized Schnoodles.
Tip: Feed them less if they weigh less and more if they weigh more.
Although they are healthier than their parent breeds, they are still susceptible to many diseases, such as:
- Epilepsy
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
7. Bernedoodle Poodle Mix
A mix between: Poodle and Bernese Mountain Dog
Grooming Difficulty: Challenging
Life Span: 12-18 years
Weight: 10-90 lbs
Stealing the 7th spot is the Bernedoodle.
Owners often describe this fluffball as a loyal, hardworking, and happy-go-lucky dog.
Bred in 2003 by Sherry Rupke, the Bernedoodle played a vital role in her life — keeping her mom from allergies.
Personality-wise, Bernedoodles got their placid loyalty from the Bernese Mountain dogs and their clever goofiness from the Poodle, which makes them great home companions.
That said, this poodle mix is one of the calmest mixes of poodle origin.
And due to this characteristic, Bernedoodles are also great therapy dogs.
8. Yorkipoo Poodle Mix
A mix between: Miniature Poodle and Yorkshire Terrier
Grooming Difficulty: Challenging
Life Span: 10-15 years
Weight: 3-14 lbs
Now, this isn't just your typical designer dog.
Yorkipoos thrive and join in any human interaction.
And yes, they're the type to take part in conversations — whenever they please — just to get your attention.
Although loud and constant barkers, these dogs are highly affectionate and gentle. They are intelligent, too.
Unlike its other doodle breed counterparts, Yorkipoos are adaptable in apartment living because of their relatively small size.
Moving on, most vets recommend this breed to eat poultry and meat as their base.
You can also feed them high-quality dry dog food for the best results, which is similar to their Yorkie parents.
9. Shih-poo Poodle Mix
A mix between: Miniature Poodle and Shih-Tzu
Grooming Difficulty: Challenging
Life Span: 10-15 years
Weight: 9-31 lbs
The Shih-poo is also known as Shoodle and Pooshi.
This poodle mix was crossbred with the same objective as the others — to produce a hypoallergenic canine version.
What's more, these cute pups are ideal companion dogs, especially for seniors.
Like Yorkipoos, Shih-poos are highly adaptable to living within an apartment.
This small breed is easy to maintain and take care of, as long as you look out for them.
Although they can be extremely stubborn, they can also be friendly and welcoming.
Shih-poos are also attentive, charming, intelligent, and most of all, irresistibly cute.
Due to their potential dental problems, a Shipoos diet should center on high-quality dry kibble to prevent tooth loss.
10. Eskipoo Poodle Mix
A mix between: European Poodle and the American Eskimo
Grooming Difficulty: Challenging
Life Span: 10-15 years
Weight: 9-31 lbs
Eskipoos are very cheerful and affectionate dogs.
One look at these sweet dogs, and you'll think about how happy life is.
No fluff.
Talking about their origins, theories claim that Eskipoos came into existence before the late 20th century.
Meanwhile, some suggest that this poodle mix originated from the Ancient Greek and Egyptian era.
Regardless, Eskipoos are intelligent, friendly, and cheerful.
Although showing their stubborn trait at times, you can train and expect them to excel well in what you teach them.
Because of their cheerful personality, Eskipoo needs to have more exercise compared to their other poodle companions.
Note: An Eskipoo's coat is very dense and can do better in cooler climates like their Eskimo parent than in warm temperatures.
Also prone to obesity, you must monitor your Eskipoo during meals to prevent them from over-eating.
They have a sensitive digestive system. So, they'll need to consume gut-friendly nutrients, especially fiber.
Before You Go…
Haven't picked your doodle pup yet?
Sometimes, it's a matter of preference.
…or love at first sight.
But most importantly, dog parents like you should prepare yourselves mentally, physically, and emotionally.
That's because owning one won't be easy, especially for puppies.
And as pet guardians, you only want the best for them.
Yup, that would mean regular trips to the vet, too.
As for poodle mixes, they tend to be healthier and stronger because of their overlapping genes from their parent breeds.
Besides their hypoallergenic features, another good thing about Poodle Mixes is that you can pick a size suitable for your lifestyle.
Especially if you live with family members or in an apartment.
Compared to their parent counterparts, these mixes are more behaved and obedient. They are more social and trainable, too!
READ NEXT:
- 35 Non-Shedding Dog Breeds
- 25 Best Mixed Breed Dogs to Adopt
- Hypoallergenic Dog Food: What It Is, Does It Really Work, and Why?
