The Poodle
Smart, smart, smart. Even if you’re only considering a doodle you may want to know that all doodles range from 50%-75% poodle or more! Take a look at the majority of traits you’d be considering… What puts the ‘oodle’ in doodle? A Poodle of course! There is a reason that the Poodle’s popularity is the singular choice and chosen dog for doodle breeding. It is not just that they have hair, unlike all other breeds that grow fur. Yes, hair, like you and me! But also because, well, can you say ‘Emotional Intelligence’? Want a dog that seems to always understand you and what you need or want? Always at the ready to snuggle, the mentally intelligent and joyful companion dog, the Poodle can be trained to a high degree and is very willing and happy to please. They are comical and clever and are often used as circus dogs, but what may come as surprise to some is that the Poodle was originally bred for hunting and is a supreme choice for hunters the world over and throughout time. It cannot be overstated that Poodles are a highly intelligent breed; they rate 2nd behind the Border Collie. The more intelligent a dog is, the more it needs its mind occupied and needs its owner to be a firm pack leader to avoid unwanted behaviors and to stay mentally stimulated. Poodles need to be part of the family and not left to be outside dogs. Perhaps you’ve given poodles a bad rap because you’ve seen or heard of them being ‘yappy’. This is simply about poor, smothering ownership; it’s important to not allow the miniature or teacup Poodle to develop ‘Small Dog Syndrome’ (when the dog is led to believe it is alpha over humans). This typically occurs with all small breeds when they are held at eye level, allowed to sit at shoulder level, or picked up/whisked away from other dogs or people. As with any breed, Poodles may start to bark a lot without a proper human to canine communication, rules to follow, and limits to what they are allowed to do. As smart as Poodles are, their ability to comprehend and behave much as a small child is one of their most endearing qualities. Poodles are very good watchdogs and are preferential for and one of the most friendly dogs particularly with other canines and non-canine pets hands down.

The Sheepadoodle
Loving, loving, loving. Say ‘sheepadoodle’ and a highly intelligent, calm, and playful panda bear comes to mind. Have you ever heard of a sheepdog playing a game of ‘herding’ their human family members or other household pets into a corner? The reason is likely due to their inherently bred herding capability. It’s not unheard of that one could herd children and watch over them. These lovable goofballs are down for sloppy kisses and lap-sitting (even if they are as large as you). Regardless, they are known for being watchful, courageous, incredibly loyal to their owners, and therefore make fabulous family pets! Sheepadoodle puppies are described as calm tempered, playful, and intelligent. Their friendly nature makes them popular in families and some have even been successful service and guide dogs. Sheepadoodles also get along with other dogs and pets too as they’re not overbearing or domineering. With properly implemented training and expectations in place, their silliness can easily be reigned in. Sheepadoodles are incredibly expressive, especially when they greet their family upon returning home. It’s important to note that though being a wonderful family dog and people-pleasers, this breed (as with many intelligent doodle breeds) can develop destructive behaviors and barking if left alone or not properly stimulated. Not surprisingly, they frequently inherit the sheepdog’s herding genes and the poodle’s fowl hunting genes! Sheepadoodles love to herd and swim based on those same familial characteristics! Just keep in mind that frequent swimming for any doodle can cause coat/ear issues.

The Goldendoodle
Happy, happy, happy. Goldendoodles are gentle, affectionate, and easy-going. They are extremely intelligent and, according to the Goldendoodle Association of North America, they score in the top 4 of the 150 smartest breeds. They have an extremely social personality and love to be with their owner. As a watchdog, a Goldendoodle may not be the best choice as they are simply friendly to everyone and usually don’t bark at people they don’t recognize. The loving and social Goldendoodle personality makes them great family pets as they get along with kids and other pets. Keep in mind, because a Goldendoodle is a mix of two different breeds, sometimes you will get more of a Poodle’s personality, and sometimes you will get more of a Golden Retriever’s personality. Their overall temperament relies heavily on good breeding from parents of impeccable temperament and care and attention to proper socialization. Because they are so intelligent, Goldendoodles are easy to train and are often recommended for first-time or timid pet owners. Some even call Goldendoodles people pleasers because they always want to make their owners happy. If your Goldendoodle is a people pleaser, training will be a breeze. Good Goldendoodle behavior should be rewarded with positive reinforcements. Goldendoodles, since they are amongst the highest energy of doodles, require 20-30 minutes of exercise each day to prevent them from getting bored and keep them in good health. If possible, take your Goldendoodle swimming! Both Golden Retrievers and Poodles are water dogs, making the Goldendoodle a swimming fanatic. It is recommended that you do not adopt a Goldendoodle if you live in an apartment because Goldendoodles need plenty of room to roam around and play.

​The Bernedoodle
Adventure, adventure, adventure. The Bernedoodle is a companion dog through and through. The breed inherits the intelligence of its Poodle parents and the charming, goofy, happy-go-lucky temperament of the Bernese Mountain Dog. These dogs are always on the lookout for new people to meet, new things to experience, and new scents to smell. Bernedoodles are happiest when they’re spending time with their families, children included, and are willing participants in playtime and cuddle fests alike. Sometimes they get more Poodle traits and other times they more closely resemble the Bernese. As with any doodle, Bernedoodle temperaments rely heavily on good breeding from parents of impeccable temperament and care and attention to proper socialization. Bernedoodles are adored for their friendliness, playfulness, intelligence, and affection. They are equally happy playing outside as they are cuddling up with their favorite humans. Bernedoodles crave attention and are best suited to a home where they are not left alone for long periods of time. Bernedoodles are fairly adaptable and go with the flow. Smaller sized Bernedoodles make better apartment pets than Standard Bernedoodles, who do best with a yard to burn off energy. This breed has moderate exercise needs that are usually met with at least one long daily walk.

​The Australian Labradoodle
Loyal. Loyal. Loyal. Easy to train and great with kids, Australian Labradoodles are very family-friendly, active and fun dogs. As completely devoted companions, they can quickly learn and enjoy doing tasks for their hoomans. Australian Labradoodles are comical and goofy dogs and can outsmart and outwit their owners. As such, a calming and firm guidance is needed to keep these puppers in line. The most generationally developed of all doodle breeds, an Australian Labradoodle crosses a Cocker Spaniel, Poodle, and Labrador Retriever. It takes years to accomplish the desired traits of this breed. Originally started in Australia, people may mistake this breed for an Australian cattle dog mix which it is not. These are a compilation of their ancestral breeds in intelligence, personality and hypoallergenic coats. They were created to better consistently isolate one of the variations of the coat type and color found in Labradoodles (a separate breed entirely). The Australian Labradoodle coat is fluffy, non-shedding and achieved over generations. In short, if you’re wanting an assertive, friendly and loyal hypoallergenic dog, this may be the breed you’re looking for.