Information on Poodle Mixes

Poodle mixes are a popular new set of dog breeds that have some of the attributes of poodles, such as their signature curly fur that doesn't shed and their high intelligence. Unlike purebred poodles, they don't have as many health concerns and come in a variety of colors and sizes and other attributes and qualities they inherit from other breeds. They are often considered a designer dog breed, because they come from two purebred parent dogs and are crossbred deliberately.

  1. Popularity

    • There has been a dramatic spike in the demand for poodles mixed with other breeds of dogs. These mixes, called "designer dogs" mix the attributes of breeds known to be great family pets with the hypoallergenic attributes of poodles. Purebred poodles often have health complications with their hips and eyes and breeding them with other types of dogs lessen health concerns.

    Cockapoo

    • Cockapoos are mixes of poodles and cocker spaniels and are also sometimes called "spoodles." They are popular because of their playful, intelligent personalities.
      Breeders consider this mix to be one that doesn't breed true, meaning that with every set of puppies, some will resemble the father more and others will resemble the mother more. This is true for their appearances and personalities.
      Cockapoos need regular trimming, daily exercise and training at an early age.

    Maltipoo

    • Maltipoos are mixes between a Maltese dogs and toy poodles and have become a popular choice by celebrities. They weight between 5 and 12 lbs and come in a variety of colors, depending on the poodle's coloring. Their coats are normally wavy that requires monthly haircuts and weekly baths.
      Maltipoos do well as therapy dogs, but do not do well as watch dogs or guard dogs.
      They are energetic, playful and easily trained.

    Labradoodle

    • Labradoodles are dogs that are half Labrador, half poodle and are one of the most popular hybrid dog breeds in the United States. They are good family pets and easy to train. The hybrid mix combines to create a family dog that is good for those with allergies. Labradoodles retain many personality traits of Labradors--outgoing and playful with a need to run and exercise.

    Other Hybrid Breeds

    • Poodle mixes aren't limited to the popular poodle hybrid mixes. They can be bred with all types of dogs because of the variety of sizes of poodles. These breeds are normally named by taking the first part of the other type of dog and adding "poo" or "oodle" to the end. For example, a boxer and poodle mix is called a boxerdoodle, a collie and poodle mix is called a cadoodle and a dachshund and poodle mix is called a doxiepoo.