It's very hard to know exactly what you're going to get with a mix breed.
Your best bet is to take a look at the two parent breeds. So first, let's find out everything you need to know about the Poodle!
The Poodle
You can't get much more regal than the Poodle! These beautiful dogs are extremely intelligent and loyal, though they do have an independent streak too.
Physical characteristics of the Poodle
Poodles come in three different sizes (the Poodle parent's size will be a factor in your mix's). Measuring to the withers, the Toy Poodle is generally 9 to 10 inches, the Miniature Poodle should be between 13 and 15 inches, and the Standard Poodle is usually between 22 and 27 inches.
Poodle character and training
The Poodle is considered to be very intelligent, which is often inherited by any crossbreed. They learn quickly so are generally easy to train. However, make sure you get started early - a Poodle will pick up bad habits just as quickly as good ones.
Poodles are great family dogs. They’re good with children and make life-long companions with their owners. However, due to their loyal natures, they can suffer from separation anxiety.
Poodles are energetic and playful, so it's important to keep them both mentally and physically active. They're an excellent choice for people with active, outdoor lifestyles and who are dedicated to caring for such a smart, high-energy breed.
Grooming a Poodle
Poodles are a non-shedding breed (a trait often inherited in mixes). This makes them ideal for people with allergies. Their coats are curly, wiry, and dense, giving them a unique texture, which can be styled in many different ways. In fact, their coats need a lot of close attention - because they don't shed, their hair just grows continually! If you don't want your dog looking like a sheep, it'll need grooming once every 3-6 weeks. Owners will need to do this themselves or be mindful of the costs of regular grooming.
Poodles struggle with weepy eyes, which because their thick fur can lead to staining and even infection. Use a warm washcloth or alcohol-free pet wipes to help keep them clean.
Poodles are also susceptible to ear infections. This is because with their floppy ears, the ear canals stay warm and moist, so make sure you wipe them out each week. Hair also grows inside the ears; this needs to be trimmed on a regular basis.
Poodle health
Like all breeds, Poodles are susceptible to certain health issues. These include Addison’s disease, epilepsy, and Cushing’s disease. However, on the whole, they are a healthy breed. They have an average life expectancy of between 12-15 years, the smaller varieties living even longer than the larger ones.
Popular Poodle cross breeds
Poodle mixes are probably the most popular type of designer dogs because of their coats. Indeed, the Poodle's coat is hypoallergenic. So mix a Poodle with a friendly, even-tempered breed, and you've got yourself a perfect family dog for kids or parents who suffer from allergies! Depending on the type of crossbreed, well-bred puppies can cost anywhere between £400-950.
The Cockapoo: Poodle + Cocker Spaniel
The Cockapoo is a small, playful dog. The first cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle took place in the 1960s. Cockapoos are intelligent, affectionate and respond quickly to training. Due to its size, the Cockapoo makes a perfect therapy dog.
The Maltipoodle or Maltipoo: Poodle + Maltese
A cute little toy dog, the Maltipoo is a cross between the Maltese and the Poodle. Maltipoos suit families with smaller homes and young children. It's also a very active dog with a loving and affectionate personality.
The Labradoodle: Poodle + Labrador
As it doesn't shed its fur, the Labradoodle is a good guide dog for people with dog allergies. This Poodle crossbreed is affectionate, sociable and very intelligent, much like their Labrador and Poodle parents.
The Goldendoodle: Poodle + Golden Retriever
Depending on the parent, a Goldendoodle will either be small or large. Indeed, it can grow to up to 2 feet and weigh around 40 pounds. Sharing many of the same traits as the Labradoodle, it can also work as a guide dog, service dog, or a therapy dog. Due to their highly affectionate and loyal dispositions inherited from their Golden Retriever parent, Goldendoodles are particularly susceptible to separation anxiety.
The Schnoodle: Poodle + Schnauzer
Unlike other lap dogs, the Schnauzer has a sturdy and robust frame. A Schnauzer - Poodle mix can grow to around about 1 foot 2 inches and can weigh up to 20 pounds. Loyal, affectionate, and also a bit stubborn, Schnoodles are a high-energy cross breed who love digging and playing catch.
The Bernedoodle: Bernese Mountain + Poodle
The Bernedoodle is a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog, also known as the 'gentle giants' of the dog world, and a Poodle. With their playful demeanor and friendly disposition, Bernedoodles are especially good with children and other pets. Their size can vary significantly, depending on whether the Poodle parent was standard, miniature, or toy, but generally, they are medium to large-sized dogs, who could reach up to 100 pounds. Bernedoodles are also known for their gentle temperament and are often used as therapy dogs.
The Doxiepoo: Dachshund + Poodle
The Doxiepoo is a cross between a Dachshund and a Poodle. Doxiepoos are typically small dogs, making them well-suited for apartment living. Their coats can also vary, ranging from curly coats to wavy or straight, and come in a wide array of colours. They are known for their affectionate and playful personalities, making them excellent companions for families and individuals alike. However, they can be a bit stubborn, so early training and socialisation are recommended.
The Shih Poo: Shih Tzu + Poodle
The Shih Poo is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle. Their playful yet gentle nature makes them excellent companions for children, seniors, and singles alike. Shih Poos are intelligent and eager to please, which generally makes them easy to train, though they may occasionally have a bit of a stubborn streak. They thrive on human interaction and are best suited to homes where they can receive plenty of attention and affection.
