Types of Doodle Dogs: A Complete Guide to Popular Poodle Mixes

If you've spent any time scrolling through dog adoption pages or breeder websites, you've likely noticed the explosion of "doodle" dogs — Poodle crosses that promise the intelligence of a Poodle wrapped in a softer, often lower-shedding package. But the term "doodle" covers a massive range of dogs, from 6-pound Yorkiepoos to 90-pound Saint Berdoodles, each with wildly different care needs, temperaments, and health profiles.

This guide breaks down the most popular types of doodle dogs so you can make an informed decision — whether you're comparing breeds, budgeting for a puppy, or trying to understand what you've already brought home.

The Parent Breed: Why the Poodle Is Half the Equation

Every doodle shares one common parent: the Poodle. Understanding what the Poodle brings to the table helps explain why these crosses became so popular — and what traits you can reasonably expect.

Generation Explained: F1, F1B, F2, and Multigen Doodles

Before comparing specific doodle types, you need to understand generation terminology. This is the single biggest factor affecting coat type, shedding level, and trait predictability in any doodle.

Responsible breeders of multigen doodles should be able to show you at least three generations of health testing and temperament records. The AKC's responsible breeder guidelines apply equally to anyone breeding designer crosses — health testing of parent dogs is non-negotiable.

The 10 Most Popular Types of Doodle Dogs

Below is a breakdown of the doodle mixes you're most likely to encounter, with realistic expectations about size, coat, temperament, and health.

1. Goldendoodle (Golden Retriever × Poodle)

The Goldendoodle remains the most recognized doodle type, originally developed in the late 1960s as a hypoallergenic guide dog candidate. They combine the Golden Retriever's famously friendly disposition with the Poodle's intelligence and lower-shedding coat.

Health considerations: Golden Retrievers have high rates of hip dysplasia (estimated 20% prevalence per OFA data), certain cancers (hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma), and heart conditions. Poodles contribute risks for Addison's disease, sebaceous adenitis, and bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus). Goldendoodles can inherit from either side.

Price range (2026): $2,000–$5,000 from a health-testing breeder. Multigen "mini" Goldendoodles (bred with Miniature Poodles) often command $3,500–$6,000. Rescue availability is moderate — Goldendoodles are common enough that breed-specific rescues like Doodle Rescue Collective exist.

2. Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever × Poodle)

The original designer doodle, created by Australian breeder Wally Conron in 1989 for a blind woman whose husband was allergic to dogs. Labradoodles tend to be slightly more energetic and driven than Goldendoodles, reflecting the Labrador's working-dog heritage.

Size: Standard Labradoodles typically weigh 50–75 lb (23–34 kg) and stand 21–24 inches (53–61 cm) tall. Miniature versions using Miniature Poodles weigh 15–30 lb (7–14 kg).

Temperament range: Best case — an outgoing, biddable, eager-to-please companion that excels in therapy and service work. Challenging scenario — a high-energy, mouthy dog that needs 60–90 minutes of daily exercise and mental stimulation, with adolescent jumping and counter-surfing that can persist without consistent training.

Health: Labradors contribute risks for hip and elbow dysplasia, exercise-induced collapse (EIC), and obesity predisposition. Always ask breeders for OFA hip/elbow scores and EIC genetic test results on parent dogs.

Price range: $1,500–$4,000 from reputable breeders. Australian Labradoodle lines (which include Cocker Spaniel in the ancestry) can reach $3,000–$5,500.

3. Bernedoodle (Bernese Mountain Dog × Poodle)

Bernedoodles appeal to owners who want the Bernese Mountain Dog's striking tri-color appearance and gentle temperament with potentially longer lifespan and lower shedding. They come in a wide size range depending on which Poodle variety is used.

Health reality check: Bernese Mountain Dogs have one of the shortest lifespans of any breed — 6–8 years on average — with extremely high cancer rates (nearly 50% die from cancer, per Merck Veterinary Manual). While crossing with a longer-lived Poodle may improve lifespan, there is no guarantee. Bernedoodles can still inherit histiocytic sarcoma, hip dysplasia, and degenerative myelopathy from the Bernese side.

Price range: $3,000–$6,000+. Tri-color Bernedoodles with health-tested parents are at the top of this range. They are rarely available through rescue.

4. Cavapoo / Cavoodle (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel × Poodle)

One of the smaller doodle types, the Cavapoo typically weighs 9–25 lb (4–11 kg) and stands 9–14 inches (23–36 cm) tall. They're popular with apartment dwellers and seniors seeking a low-impact companion.

Temperament: Generally affectionate, gentle, and people-oriented. They tend to bond closely with one person and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. Early socialization is critical to prevent timidity.

Health: Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have devastatingly high rates of mitral valve disease (MVD) — over 50% develop it by age 5, and virtually all by age 10. They also carry risks for syringomyelia (a neurological condition) and hip dysplasia. Any Cavapoo breeder should provide cardiac clearance from a veterinary cardiologist for the Cavalier parent, not just a general vet exam.

Price range: $1,800–$4,500. Rescue availability is low.

5. Aussiedoodle (Australian Shepherd × Poodle)

The Aussiedoodle is not a beginner's dog. Australian Shepherds bring intense herding drive, high intelligence, and a need for jobs. Combined with Poodle brains, you get a dog that needs serious mental and physical engagement — think 60–90 minutes of structured activity daily, plus puzzle toys and training sessions.

Size: 25–70 lb (11–32 kg) depending on whether a Miniature or Standard Poodle was used. Most Aussiedoodles fall in the 30–50 lb (14–23 kg) range.

Coat: Australian Shepherds shed heavily, and F1 Aussiedoodles often inherit significant shedding despite the Poodle parent. If low shedding is your priority, look for F1B or multigen Aussiedoodles.

Health: Australian Shepherds carry the MDR1 gene mutation (affects drug sensitivity — critical for your vet to know before prescribing medications like ivermectin), hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and several eye conditions including progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and hereditary cataracts.

Price range: $1,500–$4,000. Merle-patterned Aussiedoodles sometimes command higher prices, but be aware that breeding two merle dogs together produces "double merle" puppies with severe health issues including deafness and blindness. Always confirm neither parent is merle-to-merle bred.

6. Sheepadoodle (Old English Sheepdog × Poodle)

Known for their shaggy, teddy-bear appearance, Sheepadoodles typically weigh 45–80 lb (20–36 kg). They tend to be calmer than Aussiedoodles but still need daily exercise and regular grooming every 6–8 weeks.

Health: Old English Sheepdogs contribute risks for hip dysplasia, autoimmune thyroiditis, cerebellar degeneration, and bloat. Their thick double coat means F1 Sheepadoodles can be heavy shedders.

Price range: $2,000–$4,500.

7. Schnoodle (Schnauzer × Poodle)

Schnoodles come in a dramatic size range because Schnauzers themselves come in three sizes: Miniature (11–20 lb / 5–9 kg), Standard (30–50 lb / 14–23 kg), and Giant (55–90+ lb / 25–41+ kg). The resulting Schnoodle size depends entirely on which Schnauzer and Poodle varieties were crossed.

Temperament: Schnauzers are alert, sometimes suspicious of strangers, and can be vocal. Schnoodles may inherit this wariness, making early and ongoing socialization essential. They are not typically "everyone's best friend" dogs the way Goldendoodles tend to be.

Health: Miniature Schnauzers have high rates of pancreatitis and urinary stones. Giant Schnauzers are predisposed to bloat and certain cancers. Both sizes can carry risks for PRA.

Price range: $1,200–$3,500 depending on size variety.

8. Maltipoo (Maltese × Poodle)

One of the smallest doodle types, Maltipoos typically weigh 5–15 lb (2.3–7 kg) and stand 8–14 inches (20–36 cm). They're popular as lap dogs and apartment companions.

Coat: Both Maltese and Toy Poodles have low-shedding coats, so Maltipoos are among the most consistently low-shedding doodle types — though individual variation still exists. Expect professional grooming every 4–6 weeks.

Health: Maltese contribute risks for luxating patellas (kneecap dislocation), dental disease (small mouths crowd teeth), white dog shaker syndrome, and hypoglycemia in puppies under 4 months.

Price range: $1,500–$4,000. Maltipoos appear in rescue more frequently than some other doodle types, often surrendered by owners unprepared for grooming costs or separation anxiety.

9. Yorkipoo (Yorkshire Terrier × Poodle)

Weighing just 4–14 lb (1.8–6.4 kg), Yorkipoos are among the tiniest doodle dogs. They inherit the Yorkie's bold personality — these are not fragile lap-only dogs despite their size. Many Yorkipoos are confident, vocal, and surprisingly scrappy.

Health: Yorkshire Terriers are prone to tracheal collapse, portosystemic shunts (liver condition), luxating patellas, and dental disease. Use a harness rather than a collar to protect the trachea.

Price range: $1,000–$3,500.

10. Saint Berdoodle (Saint Bernard × Poodle)

The largest commonly seen doodle type, Saint Berdoodles can weigh 60–120+ lb (27–54+ kg) and stand 24–30 inches (61–76 cm). They need significant space, large-breed veterinary care (medication dosages cost more for giant dogs), and owners prepared for a short lifespan — typically 8–12 years.

Health: Saint Bernards have high rates of hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, dilated cardiomyopathy, and osteosarcoma. Giant-breed puppies need carefully controlled growth diets to minimize joint stress — consult your veterinarian about large-breed puppy food formulations.

Price range: $1,500–$3,500.

The "Hypoallergenic" Myth: What Doodle Coats Actually Do

No dog is truly hypoallergenic. Dog allergies in humans are triggered by proteins in dander (dead skin flakes), saliva, and urine — not just hair. While low-shedding coats release less dander-laden hair into the environment, a doodle that inherits a shedding coat from the non-Poodle parent will produce just as many allergens as a purebred Retriever.

Here's what coat inheritance actually looks like in F1 doodles:

If you have allergies and are considering a doodle, an F1B or multigen generation with a proven curly coat is your safest bet — but always spend time with the specific dog before committing. Allergists recommend a minimum 2-hour exposure to assess your reaction.

Health Considerations: The Hybrid Vigor Reality

Many doodle breeders market "hybrid vigor" — the idea that crossbreeding automatically produces healthier dogs. The science is more nuanced than that.

What hybrid vigor actually does: It reduces the risk of recessive genetic conditions that are common within a single breed, because the offspring is less likely to inherit two copies of the same harmful gene. For example, an F1 Goldendoodle is less likely to develop the specific form of ichthyosis common in Golden Retrievers because the Poodle parent doesn't carry that gene.

What hybrid vigor does NOT do: It does not eliminate conditions that both parent breeds share. Hip dysplasia, for instance, affects Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Standard Poodles, and Bernese Mountain Dogs — so Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, and Bernedoodles all remain at risk. It also does not protect against structural issues like bloat, which is related to deep-chested body conformation rather than genetics alone.

Who Are Doodle Dogs Best Suited For?

Doodle dogs are not a uniform group, so "suitability" depends on the specific cross. However, some general patterns emerge:

Doodle types tend to suit:

• Households with mild dog allergies (when a low-shedding coat is confirmed)
• Active families who can commit to daily exercise and training
• Owners prepared for ongoing grooming expenses ($50–$120 per professional session, every 4–8 weeks)
• People who want an intelligent, trainable companion and enjoy teaching tricks and games

Doodle types tend NOT to suit:

• Owners away from home 10+ hours daily (separation anxiety is common in many doodle crosses)
• First-time owners who want a low-maintenance dog (doodles require grooming, training, and exercise commitment)
• Anyone expecting a guaranteed hypoallergenic dog (individual variation makes this impossible to promise)
• Budget-conscious owners who cannot absorb $800–$2,000+ annual grooming costs plus routine veterinary care

Cost Breakdown: What Doodle Dogs Actually Cost

Annual ongoing costs after the first year typically run $1,500–$4,000 depending on size, grooming frequency, and any emerging health conditions. Pet insurance premiums for doodles average $40–$80/month in 2026 and are worth considering given the orthopedic and cancer risks many doodle parent breeds carry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What two breeds make up a doodle dog?

Every doodle dog has a Poodle as one parent. The other parent varies — Golden Retriever (Goldendoodle), Labrador (Labradoodle), Bernese Mountain Dog (Bernedoodle), Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (Cavapoo), Australian Shepherd (Aussiedoodle), and many others. The specific non-Poodle parent determines the mix's name, typical size range, and inherited health risks.

How big will my doodle dog get?

Size depends on both the non-Poodle parent breed AND which Poodle variety was used (Toy, Miniature, or Standard). A Goldendoodle bred from a Standard Poodle and Golden Retriever might reach 70 lb, while a "mini" Goldendoodle from a Miniature Poodle might top out at 30 lb. Always ask the breeder for the exact weights of both parent dogs — the puppy will typically fall between them, with some variability.

Are doodle dogs hypoallergenic?

No dog is truly hypoallergenic. Doodles with curly, Poodle-type coats shed less hair and dander, which reduces allergen exposure for many people. However, F1 doodles have roughly a 25% chance of inheriting a straight, shedding coat from the non-Poodle parent. If allergies are a concern, seek an F1B or multigen doodle with a confirmed curly coat and spend extended time with the dog before committing.

What health issues might a doodle inherit?

Doodles can inherit any condition common to either parent breed. Shared risks across many doodle types include hip dysplasia, bloat (in large/deep-chested crosses), eye diseases (PRA, cataracts), and certain cancers. Breed-specific risks vary — for example, Bernedoodles face elevated cancer risk from the Bernese side, while Cavapoos face heart disease risk from the Cavalier side. Always verify health testing on both parent dogs.

How much does a doodle dog cost?

Puppy prices range from $1,000 to $6,000+ depending on the specific cross, generation, size, and breeder reputation. First-year total ownership costs (including vet care, grooming, food, and supplies) typically fall between $3,300 and $11,500 depending on the dog's size. Adoption through doodle-specific rescues like Doodle Rescue Collective or general breed rescues may cost $300–$800.

Which doodle type is best for families with children?

Goldendoodles and Labradoodles tend to be the most reliably patient and playful with children, inheriting the Retriever/Labrador tolerance for handling. However, any dog-child interaction requires supervision, and children must be taught appropriate behavior around dogs. Smaller doodle types like Maltipoos and Yorkipoos can be fragile and may not tolerate rough handling from toddlers.

This article provides general breed information. Individual dogs vary significantly, especially in mixed breeds. Always consult your veterinarian for health decisions specific to your dog, and work with a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA or equivalent) using positive reinforcement methods for behavioral guidance.