Top 15 Poodle Mixes Breeds for UK Owners

Poodle mix breeds—better known as doodle dogs—have exploded in the UK over the last decade. Kennel Club figures show cross-breed registrations, led by Cockapoos and Labradoodles, jumped more than 50 % between 2018 and 2024. This guide drills down into the 15 mixes UK dog owners Google most, so you can pick a beautiful dog that fits your space, allergy limits, and walking shoes.

What Are Doodle Breeds?

Poodle mix breeds—often called doodle dogs—are simply a Poodle parent crossed with another dog breed. That other half might be a Golden Retriever (Goldendoodle), Cocker Spaniel (Cockapoo), or even a Bernese Mountain Dog (Bernedoodle). Because a standard Poodle, miniature Poodle or toy Poodle can be used, size ranges from lap-dog small to farm-dog large.

The Benefits of a Poodle Cross

1. Potentially low-shedding coats – many mixes inherit the Poodle’s tight curls, which can mean fewer stray hairs and, for some families, fewer wheeze triggers.

2. Brainpower – Poodles excel in obedience; that clever streak often shows up in their puppies, making proper training quicker.

3. Choice of size – from the 4 kg small doodle breed like the shih poo (Shih Tzu × toy Poodle) to 40 kg Irish Doodles (Irish Setter × standard Poodle), there is a fit for any home.

4. Versatility – doodles can be agility stars, lap dogs, or protective dogs depending on the other parent.

5. Longevity – a well-bred doodle often enjoys an average lifespan of 12–15 years, similar to a purebred Poodle.

UK Rules Before You Buy

Buying a puppy in Britain isn’t just about cute faces—it’s about law:

• Microchipping is required by eight weeks of age; fail and you risk a £500 fine.

• Anyone selling pets must follow the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018—look for the breeder’s licence number.

• The RSPCA’s “Puppy Contract” urges buyers to meet mum and pup on site to dodge puppy mills.

• Ask for proof of health tests on both parent breeds—hips for large dogs like the Australian Shepherd, eyes for small dogs like the Yorkshire Terrier.

These steps protect you, the puppy, and the many other pets who suffer when illegal sellers cut corners.

Where Can I Get a Poodle Cross?

1. Reputable Breeders

Start with the Kennel Club’s Assured Breeder list. A good breeder lets you see the litter’s living space, offers DNA and hip-score paperwork, and discusses whether a miniature or toy Poodle sire or a large dog dam fits your lifestyle.

2. Breed-Specific Rescues

Charities such as Doodle Trust and Dogs Trust often have adolescent or adult mixed breed dogs—ideal if you’d rather skip the chew-everything puppy stage.

3. Local Shelters & Private Re-homes

Check your RSPCA branch or Pets4Homes listings, but verify the seller’s licence and ask why the dog is being re-homed.

4. Overseas

Import rules have tightened; DEFRA warns of quarantine costs if paperwork is wrong.

The 15 Stand-Out Poodle Mix Breeds

1. Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever × Standard Poodle)

Big smile, big energy. The Labrador adds “let’s play” enthusiasm, while the Poodle’s intelligent dog genes shorten training time. Expect 60 minutes of fetch and swim each day. The water-repellent curly coat drops less dog hair, but still needs a professional groomer every 8 weeks. Ideal for sporty families and walkers with an active lifestyle.

2. Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel × Miniature Poodle)

One of Britain’s most popular poodle mixes. At 6–12 kg it suits flats yet keeps up on hikes. Soft ears and almond eyes melt hearts, making it a hit with first time dog owners. Weekly ear checks stop spaniel infections, and daily brushing keeps that teddy-bear look.

3. Cavapoo (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel × Toy or Miniature Poodle)

A true lap dog that also enjoys garden zoomies. Gentle nature plus compact size = great family dogs for kids or retirees. Watch weight; short daily walks and puzzle feeders curb the greedy Cavalier side.

4. Goldendoodle (Golden Retriever × Standard Poodle)

The Golden Retriever offers loyalty; the Poodle provides brains. Result: a 25–35 kg Velcro shadow who learns tricks fast and thrives on proper training. Needs as much exercise as you can give—two hours is ideal—so best for country life or runners.

5. Maltipoo (Maltese × Toy Poodle)

A small doodle breed that tops out near 4 kg. Perfect for city dwellers wanting a fluffy roommate under 15 inches tall. Light to carry, yet bold enough to warn of visitors. Tear staining around eyes is common; daily face wipes help.

6. Bernedoodle (Bernese Mountain Dog × Standard Poodle)

Think giant teddy. The Bernese brings calm, protective dog instincts; the Poodle cuts heavy shedding. Weight can hit 40 kg, so plan on space and budget for large-breed food. Cooler UK climates suit its thick coat. Average lifespan often outpaces the pure Bernese by two years according to VetCompass data.

7. Sheepadoodle (Old English Sheepdog × Poodle)

The English Sheepdog adds clownish charm and herding drive. Expect a strong instinct to “round up” kids or other pets—redirect with agility games. Coat mats fast; line-brushing and a trim every six weeks keep skin healthy.

8. Aussiedoodle (Australian Shepherd × Standard or Miniature Poodle)

High voltage! Both smartest dog breeds need brain work: scent trails, fly-ball, or heelwork. Merle patterns draw compliments, but merle-to-merle litters risk hearing issues.

9. Bordoodle (Border Collie × Poodle)

A brainy blend for owners who love training. Excel in obedience, rally, and trick titles. Can turn anxious without daily jobs, so schedule 60 minutes of learning games plus 60 minutes of off-lead sprints.

10. Schnoodle (Miniature Schnauzer × Poodle)

Feisty yet loyal. The Schnauzer beard traps food; wipe after meals. Makes a handy watchdog in towns—barks at new noises. Regular hand-stripping or clipping tames the wiry-curly hybrid coat.

11. Whoodle (Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier × Poodle)

Cheerful and allergy-friendly thanks to both breeds’ single coats. Terriers add “what’s that?” curiosity, so recall training is key. Groomers call it a “cotton coat”—easy to mat, easy to scissor into stylish trims.

12. Shih Poo (Shih Tzu × Toy Poodle)

Under 6 kg but brimming with confidence. Great for seniors seeking an excellent family companion that prefers cuddles over marathons. Eye checks catch Shih Tzu tear-duct issues early.

13. Pomapoo (Pomeranian × Toy Poodle)

A fox-faced fluffball. Suits small dogs fans who want perky ears and circus tricks. Double coat needs weekly slicker-brushing to control seasonal sheds and avoid mats near harness straps.

14. Poochon (Bichon Frise × Miniature Poodle)

Often marketed as “teddy bears”. Cloud-white coat plus social butterfly personality makes them stars at dog-friendly cafés. Monitor weight; treat-driven training is easy, but extra calories pile on fast.

15. Yorkie Poo (Yorkshire Terrier × Toy Poodle)

Spirited yet portable. Good for apartment living but can turn vocal without chew toys and early socialising. Patellar luxation screening on both parents keeps tiny knees working into old age.

How to Pick the Right Doodle for Your Life

Match daily exercise to your pace

• High-energy: Aussiedoodle or Bordoodle need 90–120 min of play and brain work—perfect for runners or a very active lifestyle.

• Medium: Cockapoo or Goldendoodle enjoy one good hour plus garden zoomies.

• Low-key: Cavapoo or shih poo suit shorter strolls and plenty of sofa time.

Check your space

• Flats under 60 m² → choose small dogs such as a toy Poodle cross or yorkie poo for easy apartment living.

• Suburban gardens → miniature Poodle mixes like the cocker spaniel Cockapoo thrive.

• Acreage → large dog crosses (Labradoodle, Bernedoodle) have room to romp.

Plan for coat care

• All doodles inherit some curly coat from the poodle parent; mats form fast.

• Budget £50–£80 every 6–8 weeks for a professional groomer and brush at home to cut dog hair tumbleweeds.

Screen for allergies

• Meet the litter first—no dog is 100 % allergy-proof, says Allergy UK.

• Test dander with a T-shirt left in the whelping box to avoid a late allergic reaction.

Confirm health and legality

• Ask for DNA, hip, and eye tests on both parent breeds; walk away from sellers who refuse.

• UK law demands microchipping by 8 weeks or owners face a £500 fine.

• Use the RSPCA Puppy Contract to dodge puppy mills.

Match temperament to family needs

• Great family pets: Labradoodle, Goldendoodle—friendly, trainable, protective dogs with kids.

• First-time dog owners: Cavapoo, Maltipoo—easygoing, smaller, eager to please.

• Other pets at home? A well-socialised standard Poodle mix slots in with cats and other dogs when introduced early.

Count long-term costs and time

• Food: larger doodle dogs eat twice the kibble of a small poodle cross.

• Training: even the smartest dog breeds need classes; set aside £100–£150 for a six-week course to polish that intelligent dog brain.

Follow these points and you’ll match the wide world of poodle mix breeds to your lifestyle—ensuring a furry friend who fits your space, budget, and walking boots for years to come.

FAQs

What is the best mix with a Poodle?

For a do-it-all family companion, trainers often suggest the Labradoodle—a blend of the easy-going labrador retriever and the intelligent dog qualities of the standard Poodle.

What is the calmest Poodle mix dog?

Many owners vote for the Bernedoodle; the laid-back genes of the bernese mountain dog produce a relaxed yet protective dog that suits households with children.

What is the best Poodle mix for seniors?

Choose a small doodle breed like the shih poo or yorkie poo. They are light to lift, need moderate walks and stay affectionate dogs well into old age.

What are the 4 types of Poodles?

In the UK we recognise standard, miniature, toy, and the emerging “medium” (between miniature and standard) sizes.

Conclusion

Choosing among these 15 cross breeds is simpler when you match a mix to your space, time, and grooming budget. Active hikers might favour the Aussiedoodle or Bordoodle; sofa snugglers may lean toward the Cavapoo or shih poo. Whatever you pick, dodge puppy mills by seeing mum, verifying health screens, and checking microchip paperwork on transfer. With that due diligence—and regular coat care—your new furry friend can enjoy a 12- to 15-year average lifespan of UK walks, pub gardens, and Sunday cuddles.