Doodles 101: Poodle mixed-breed dogs have exploded in popularity. What to know.
Chances are you or someone you know owns a doodle.
While the poodle mixes have been around for nearly 100 years, they exploded onto the pet scene in the 1990s and early 2000s, and continue to skyrocket in popularity.
And the dogs continue to stir passion among pet owners, animal advocates, groomers and breeders.
What are doodles?
Doodles are mixed-breed dogs, with a poodle as one parent and some other type of dog as the other parent.
The term applies even if the word “doodle” isn’t in the name. Think “Yorkipoo,” a Yorkshire terrier-toy or miniature poodle mix, or Cockapoo, a cocker spaniel-typically miniature poodle mix.
Why are they so popular?
Let’s be honest. They’re cute. They have almost teddy-bear like faces and human-looking eyes.
People are drawn to their wavy coats and the belief they are better for owners worried about shedding or allergies. People also say they have excellent temperaments and make good family dogs.
“For a mixed breed dog, people are attracted to them for their looks, their size,” said Jennifer Federico, the director of the Wake County Animal Center. “That makes them popular, but they are a mixed breed dog.”
The Goldendoodle Association of North Carolina points to the golden retriever-poodle mix’s temperament and health.
“Like many other intentionally bred poodle mixes, Goldendoodles are known for having an extended puppyhood and will need structured obedience training to be successful family members,” according to the association’s website. “While many people choose a Goldendoodle for the companionship they offer, they are a very versatile breed suitable for many activities such as service and therapy work, barn hunt, agility, obedience training, scent work, and so much more!”
Are there more or fewer health risks with doodle breeds?
It more likely depends most on the individual dog and its parents.
One 2024 study found that three “designer-crossbreeds” did not have improved health over their purebred breed.
“Given that perceived enhanced health is a major motivator of the acquisition of designer crossbreeds, communicating this message to prospective owners is of importance to align their expectations for future potential health issues and veterinary costs with reality and to ensure that any acquisition decisions are based on good evidence rather than marketing hype or social anecdote,” according to the study.
Federico said people who want a particular mix should consider the purebred breeds it comes from instead.
“There’s no consistency in behavior,” she said. “There’s no consistency in genetics. There’s no consistency because they’re not a legitimate purebred dog.”
There are purebred dogs available for adoption at shelters, she said. People considering buying a purebred dog should make sure to look for quality breeders.
What’s a designer dog?
A designer dog is a dog “mixed” intentionally from purebred dogs in an attempt to optimize “the best characteristics of each parent,” according to VCA Animal Hospitals. While this includes doodles, it’s not limited to poodle mixes.
For example, there’s the puggle (pug and beagle mix) and the chiweenie (a mix of chihuahua and dachshund.)
Why are poodles so often bred with other dog breeds?
Poodles rarely shed, so people mate them with other breeds to create a hypoallergenic pet. But scientific studies haven’t found evidence that any dog or dog breed will be allergen free. The American Kennel Club also says there are no hypoallergenic dog breeds, but there are less-allergenic dog breeds like poodles. Poodles are also known for their intelligence.
Did the labradoodle creator say he regrets breeding the dog?
Yes. Wally Conron is credited with breeding the first Labrador and poodle to create the labradoodle.
The idea came after he received a letter from a blind woman seeking a guide dog whose husband was allergic to long-haired dogs. In a 2019 podcast, he said he regretted it almost immediately.
“I opened a Pandora’s box and released a Frankenstein’s monster,” he is quoted as saying.
This story was originally published January 17, 2025 at 9:08 AM.
