Poodles have never been as popular as they are when mixed with another breed of dog. People are buying “Labradoodles” and “Cockapoos” for a variety of reasons; the main reason, though, is allergy related. Poodles shed very little fur, so for people who are allergic to dogs but still want to own one, the poodle is less likely to trigger their allergies. Other reasons the demand of “designer” poodle dogs is so high include their intelligence–which makes them easy to train, need for minimal amounts of exercise, and good-natured disposition.
There is a long list of “designer” poodle dogs, including Pooshihs/Shihpoos (Shih Tzu and Poodle), Poochons (Bichons Frises and Poodle), Bassadoodles (Basset Hounds and Poodles), and Sheltipoo (Shetland Sheepdogs and Poodles); other “designer” breeds are listed below, along with information about their size, color, disposition, and health problems. The size, given in inches, is based on the measurement from the foot to the top of the shoulder. As with all puppies, their size is dependent upon the size of the mother and father dogs. Therefore, the sizes given below are only a general range for the breed; if the parents are smaller or larger than the normal size for their breed, their offspring will also be smaller or larger than the sizes listed below. The same rule applies to the color, which may vary based upon the color of the parents. “Disposition” refers to the temperament of non-poodle breed (the disposition of poodles is discussed in the paragraph above). The life span of all breeds listed below is ten to fifteen years.
Labradoodle = Labrador Retriever + Poodle
- Size: Miniature 12-16 inches; Medium 17-20 inches; Standard 21-24 inches
- Color: Any/All
- Disposition: Responsive, friendly
- Health Issues
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Patella Luxation
- Hip/Elbow Dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
Goldendoodle = Golden Retriever + Poodle
- Size: 21-24 inches or larger
- Color: gold
- Disposition: Responsive, alert
- Health Issues
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Patella Luxation
- Hip/Elbow Dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
Cockapoo = Cocker Spaniel + Poodle
- Size: Teacup Toy under 10 inches, 4 lbs.; Toy 10 inches, 10 lbs.; Miniature 10-14 inches, 10-20 lbs.; Standard 14-17 inches, 20
