Why are poodles the most popular choice for crossbreeding?

Did you know that most of the popular dog breeds are, in fact, a cross between two or more breeds? And did you also know that crossbreeding is designed to pass on the best traits of both the parent breeds and to reduce health risks?

But one thing to remember is that irresponsible crossbreeding may result in many genetic issues in the pups.

When it comes to crossbreeding, experts tend to select breeds with exceptional overall health, intelligence, and temperament. And the poodle is one of the breeds that have excellent health, intelligence, and temperament.

While gathering data for our study about poodles, we found out that there are dozens of poodle crosses, and in fact, they have been crossbred more than any other breed.

Some popular poodle crosses include the Shih Poo (Shi Tzu-Poodle mix), Havapoo (Havanese-Poodle mix), and Bichon Poodle (Bichon Frise-Poodle mix), Bernedoodles (Bernese Mountain Dog-Poodle mix, and Goldendoodles (Golden Retriever-Poodle mix).

Let’s explore poodles to determine why they are considered the best breed for crossbreeding.

Intelligence

Poodles are smart and rank second in terms of intelligence to the Border Collie. On average, they can learn a new command in no more than five attempts.

Because of their intelligence, they do well in tracking and herding. They also are excellent at various sports and as circus animals.

Three sizes

There are three sizes or versions of Poodles — Standard, Miniature, and Tiny. Each has different traits and is used a bit differently for breeding purposes

The Standard Poodle is usually mixed with large-sized breeds such as a Saint Bernard while Miniature and Tiny poodles are crossbred with small-sized breeds such as the Pekingese. 

Low-shedding coat

Raising a dog is not a piece of cake, especially if you are allergic to dog hair and dander. Fortunately, poodles are the best match for families with allergies because they have a low-shedding coat.

Due to their low-shedding coats, they shed very little as compared to other breeds such as a German Shepherd. This trait typically is passed on.

Great playmates and companions

Whatever sport you play, poodles are there to accompany you. They are quick learners and love to tackle new activities from agility to flyball. 

Most poodle crosses inherit this playfulness. 

Excellent temperament

The poodle is a loyal, alert, active, and easy-to-train breed.

The dogs take less time to learn new tricks and commands compared to other breeds.

Poodles also typically are not aggressive or shy. 

They love their owners, especially children. But they also typically get along well with older adults, infants, guests, and other pets. They are protective of their human families and sense threats.

Service dogs

Poodles are among the most popular service dogs, and they are an excellent mate for owners with partial or complete blindness.

The dogs also can be trained to serve people who are deaf or have hearing impairments.

Coat colors

Poodles’ coats come in a variety of colors. And when they are crossed with other breeds, they may develop a different color.

Popular poodle mixes

There are dozens of poodle mixes. Among the most popular are:

Saint Berdoodle (Saint Bernard + Poodle)

Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever + Poodle)

Goldendoodle or Groodle (Golden Retriever + Poodle)

Bernedoodle (Bernese Mountain Dog + Poodle)

Cavapoo (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel + Poodle)

Final words

Although crossbreeds — especially poodle mixes — provide benefits, before you pay a breeder, consider getting your dog from a rescue group or a shelter because there are thousands of affectionate dogs who deserve a forever home. If you choose to buy a dog from a breeder, be sure to do your research and select a reputable one like Central Illinois Doodles.

Is it better to have two dogs? 5 factors to consider first