12 Best Poodle Mixes for Families & Kids [2025 Guide]

Have you been thinking about adding a new furry family member to your household? If you have kiddos, you’re probably taking some extra time to consider what type of dog would fit in best with your lifestyle — and you’re likely focusing on Poodle mix breeds for a reason.

At Mawoo Pets, we’ve helped thousands of families across North America find the perfect Doodle companion. We’ve seen firsthand how choosing the right mix can make all the difference — especially for families with young children, small homes, or allergy concerns.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best Poodle mixes for families and kids, explain what makes them such great family pets, and help you figure out which one is right for your home.

Quick Comparison Table: Popular Poodle Mixes for Families

Do Poodle Mixes Make Good Family Pets?

What makes a good family dog? For most people, it’s a well-mannered, friendly dog that gets along well with kids and other pets. There’s no doubt that growing up with a dog provides a number of benefits, but not every dog will be the right fit for your family.

Sometimes called designer dogs or Poodle crossbreeds, Poodle mixes have a number of qualities that make them good family pets, including relaxed and intelligent personalities. Doodles often inherit the low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat quality of their Poodle parent, which is crucial if someone in your family suffers from allergies or asthma.

Purebred Poodles also tend to be more relaxed and easy-going than other dogs, and are one of the most intelligent dog breeds. When you mix them with a more excitable breed, like an Australian Shepherd, you can get a fluffy, but more energized Aussiedoodle. Doodles enjoy an active lifestyle and are eager to romp in the backyard with the kids, but they’re often more laid back indoors as long as they’re getting regular exercise. Since Poodles come in multiple sizes, you can find Doodles in just about every size, from the tiny Shih-Poo to the giant Bernedoodle.

Regardless of which Doodle breed you choose, it’s important to educate your children about how to properly interact with your new dog. This is especially important for smaller breeds who could be easily injured by rough play. 

Best Poodle Mixes for Families and Kids

Here are some of the most popular Poodle mixes for kids and families, in no particular order.

1. Goldendoodle - The Most Popular Doodle

The Goldendoodle is a popular dog breed for families that want a playful and adventurous companion. It's often regarded as one of the best doodle mixes for families. The offspring of a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, the Goldendoodle is always up for a swim, a game of fetch, or a hike through the woods.

Goldendoodles are great for first time owners and make excellent playmates for kids. They’re extremely smart, highly trainable and very loyal, with coats that range from curly or wavy to straight and silky.

This breed’s extremely friendly nature makes it a great choice for families, but don’t count on it to be a watchdog. Goldendoodles tend to bark most when they’re feeling playful and excited, but with patience, they can be taught to rein in that instinct.

2. Cavapoo - Great for Young Families

The Cavapoo, a small Poodle mix, is a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Miniature Poodle. This mix results in a loving little dog that’s full of personality. Weighing in at around 15 to 20 pounds, they’re one of the smaller Poodle mixes on our list.

This high-energy Doodle breed craves attention and enjoys people of all ages, as well as other animals. However, proper training and socialization in puppyhood are especially important for preventing timidness and social anxiety as your Cavapoo gets older. 

These small dogs are extremely intelligent and energetic. Cavapoos are a great choice for apartment dwellers who enjoy long walks and trips to the park for a game of fetch. At the end of the day, this is one of the best Poodle mixes for families who want a well-rounded companion.

“Our Cavapoo from Mawoo has been super patient and gentle and plays so well with our 6 year old. It's been the absolute best decision !” – Jenna B., Austin, TX

3. Yorkipoo - Tiny but Mighty Personality

The Yorkipoo is a cross between a Toy or Teacup Poodle and a Yorkshire Terrier. This emotive, bold, and alert small Poodle mix weighs 8 to 15 pounds and lives around 15 years. 

Yorkipoos have a temperament that can be described as bold and confident, which they take on from their Yorkie parent. Don't be fooled by their small stature - they have a playful and energetic attitude and are eager to engage in fun activities with their loved ones. 

Yorkipoos are affectionate and form close bonds with their families. They are low-shedding toy dogs that make excellent companions for families of all kinds, including those with children.

4. Shih-Poo - Calm, Cuddly, Apartment-Perfect

The Shih-Poo is a cross between a Teacup or Toy Poodle and a Shih Tzu.This clever, quiet, and affectionate breed weighs around eight to 15 pounds and comes in a variety of coat colors. Shih-Poos are family-oriented and easily adaptable to many lifestyles.

Shih-Poos require only moderate exercise and they get along well with children and other pets, making them a popular Poodle mix dog for families. They can be eager to please (like their Shih Tzu parent), easy to train and small enough for apartment living. 

This breed loves to sit on your lap, lounge on the couch, or sleep nearby. But it’s also playful and energetic enough for the occasional game of fetch and daily walks in the park. Regular grooming is required to maintain this small dog's abundant coat, but shedding is minimal.

5. Bernedoodle - Big, Cuddly, and Calm

If you’re looking for a calm, fluffy cuddle buddy, this Poodle mix should be at the top of your list. Standard Bernedoodles are gentle giants, while Mini Bernedoodles offer the same traits in a smaller package, so there’s a size to suit every family and living situation.

This gentle breed is a cross between the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle. It’s loving and affectionate, always up for a good snuggle, and also happy to tackle a hike through the woods with equal enthusiasm. In fact, Bernedoodles tackle everything in life with a joyful abandon that often gets them labelled as goofy. In actuality, they’re extremely smart! 

Though one of the calmest poodle mixes, Bernedoodles prefer not to be left alone for too long. They’re also fiercely loyal and protective while remaining calm and gentle with family members. This breed is a great choice for families who want a Poodle mix that can serve as a guard dog and a companion.

6. Labradoodle - Loyal and Energetic

The Labradoodle is one of the most popular Poodle mix breeds for families, and it’s easy to see why. The combination of the  Labrador Retriever’s loyalty and playfulness, plus the easy manageability of a Standard Poodle makes this breed the ideal poodle mix for kids.

This mix produces a teddy bear-like pooch with boundless energy and affection for its human family. Known to be playful and smart, Labradoodles need daily mental and physical stimulation. Long daily walks and plenty of room to romp are a must for this active dog —  and they make excellent running partners.

That being said, Labradoodles come in different sizes, and there’s a size that’s suitable for every lifestyle. While a large Labradoodle can weigh as much as 65 pounds or more, the Mini Labradoodle comes in at about 15 pounds, so it doesn’t need nearly as much space for exercise.

Depending on the coloring of the Labrador Retriever and Poodle parents, Labradoodles can be almost any color or combination of two colors. Their excellent social skills extend to everyone, from beloved family members to total strangers. They’re also ideal service and therapy dogs for children with special needs.

This breed is gentle and sturdy, making it a great choice for families with babies and toddlers. They have enough energy to keep up with children and adults of all ages, but they’re happy to snuggle up for an afternoon nap on the couch, too.

7. Cockapoo - Easygoing and Fun

Weighing in at around 15 to 20 pounds, the Cockapoo is sturdy enough to keep up with the kids, but still small enough to be a lap dog. This Cocker Spaniel and Poodle mix is happy to cuddle, loves attention, and is smart enough to pick up on its training quickly and effectively.

If you have older kids who want to help train their new puppy, the Cockapoo is a great choice. This breed has a moderate energy level, so a long walk or romp in the yard every day will keep it content and healthy. 

As an added bonus, Cockapoos tend to do very well in apartments and smaller homes. They’re also easy to potty train, which is something any busy parent can appreciate.

8. Maltipoo - Low Maintenance Doodle

Weighing in at around five to 10 pounds, the little Maltipoo is an adorable cross between a Maltese and a Toy or Miniature Poodle. This breed is friendly, gentle and loving, as well as playful and mild-mannered. Maltipoos go with the flow and simply enjoy being with their human family.

This breed only requires moderate exercise, so it’s a great choice for families who want a dog that’s easy to care for. Regular haircuts and consistent brushing are required to keep the coat looking its best, but a shorter hairstyle will keep things fairly low maintenance.

It’s important to note that the Maltipoo is more vulnerable to injury from rough handling due to its smaller doodle size. Young children should be supervised and taught to interact properly with this breed right from day one.

9. Aussiedoodle - High Energy & Intelligence

Aussiedoodles are a cross between two of the world’s smartest breeds–the Standard Poodle and the Australian Shepherd. This breed averages around 45 pounds, but there are Mini Aussiedoodles available that can be as small as 18 pounds.

This Doodle breed thrives on an active lifestyle with plenty of physical activity, so it’s a great fit for families with older children who need an energetic playmate. They also make for great hiking companions. That said, Aussiedoodles tend to be relaxed indoors, as long as they’re getting regular exercise and mental stimulation each day.

Aussiedoodles usually have a dense coat of wavy to curly hair and can come in a range of colors. Shedding is typically minimal, especially with regular brushing and occasional haircuts. Overall, this breed makes for an affectionate, even-tempered companion for families with kids.

10. Sheepadoodle - Fun-Loving Giants

If you’re looking for a large Poodle crossbreed that is big-hearted, goofy and also intelligent and easy to train, consider a Sheepadoodle. This Old English Sheepdog and Standard Poodle Mix is known to be very well behaved with a mild, calm nature. They’re rarely agitated, especially if they’re getting enough exercise.

Sheepadoodles are large size dogs, typically weighing around 60-80 pounds. They have fluffy, curly fur and an endearing, teddy bear-like appearance. This larger dog combines the low shedding and friendly disposition of a Poodle with the intelligence and active nature of a Sheepdog.

11. Havapoo - Easy-Going Companion

Sometimes called a Havadoodle, the Havapoo is a cross between a Miniature Poodle and a Havanese. These adorable little Doodle dogs are full of playful personality, but they’re also extremely smart, making them a versatile Poodle mix for families and kids. 

The Havapoo is a gentle and affectionate designer dog that boasts the best characteristics of both parent breeds. They love a good cuddle, but they’re also very alert and likely to bark when something is amiss. They do well with other animals, children and people in general.

The Havapoo is the perfect Poodle mix for apartment dwellers since it’s fairly easy to meet their exercise needs. They come in a variety of colors and color combinations, with curly, wavy or silky coats that require regular grooming. 

12. Newfypoo - Snuggly Gentle Giant

Newfypoos are incredibly cuddly, both inside and out. This is why, like their Newfound parents, they are often called "Gentle Giants". Newfypoos (or Newfydoodles) have a very fluffy coat and are typically a mixture of Newfoundland Dogs with Standard Poodles -- though sometimes a Toy Poodle is used which can lead to a smaller size. 

The Newfypoo patience is unmatched, making them exceptional companions and especially for young children. You can trust that your Newfypoo won't show aggression towards his or her loved ones, never baring their teeth or unleashing intimidating growls. They are perfect for families with children of all ages. 

Newfypoos thrive in moderate climates, as their thick fur provides insulation during cold weather but can pose a risk during hot weather.

What Other Poodle Mixes Are There? 

While we have listed some of the best Poodle cross breeds for families, there are other hybrid breeds worth mentioning who make loving and affectionate family dogs. 

Irish Doodle - Combination  of Irish Setter and Poodle, this mixed breed is very intelligent and active, and a perfect match for families wanting a hunting companion. 

Poochon - Mix of the Bichon Frise with Poodle, this small breed is a good fit for first time owners looking for a loving and affectionate furry friend. 

Bossi-Poo - This hybrid of Boston Terrier and Poodle is a toy breed that is smart, family-friendly, and perfect for small apartments.  

Schnoodle - This mix of Miniature Schnauzer and Poodle makes for an excellent family dog with plenty of love, loyalty, and affection.

The Importance of Choosing an Ethical Breeder

There’s a lot of controversy around designer dogs and crossbreeding, so educating yourself and working with an ethical breeder is a must. The first thing you need to know is that crossbreeding has been practiced for centuries. 

In fact, it’s how most of our beloved purebreds came into existence. Crossbreeding offers a way for breeders to bring out certain traits in dogs while moving away from others. When done responsibly, it can be a wonderful way to create new breeds with specific desirable traits.

For example, hunting breeds have been bred throughout history for speed, agility and their ability to detect specific scents. Working dogs have been bred for endurance and strength, and herding dogs have been bred for intelligence, independence and bravery.

It takes many generations of consistent breeding to produce what we consider a purebred dog. The Doodle breeds on our list are not mutts. They’re crossbreeds that come from two purebred parents, and they can even be registered with AKC’s Canine Partners Program.

Ethical Doodle breeders are working hard to produce hybrid Poodle mixes that are healthy and have a combination of positive traits from both parent breeds. Their puppies are well socialized, receive proper health care, and are consistently trained using positive reinforcement methods. 

If you’re concerned about the ethics of purchasing a mixed-breed dog, consider getting your Doodle puppy online through Mawoo. We are dedicated to upholding the best practices in the pet industry and are conscientious of our responsibilities to animals and customers at every step. We only work with caring breeders who have been vetted to ensure responsible breeding practices. 

How to Choose the Right Poodle Mix for Your Family

There are close to 40 different types of Poodle mixes to choose from, and each one has its own unique set of characteristics to love. With so many adorable and affectionate Poodle mixes to choose from, how do you pick the one that’s best for your home?

Here are a few things to consider:

• Your Living Space: Smaller Doodles like the Cavapoo or Yorkipoo are perfect for apartments, while larger breeds like Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles need more room to run.

• Energy Level: Got a busy household or kids who love to play? A Labradoodle or Aussiedoodle might be perfect. Prefer a more relaxed pup? Try a Shih-Poo or Maltipoo.

• Allergy Concerns: Many Poodle mixes inherit low-shedding coats, but some are more hypoallergenic than others. Ask the breeder about coat type and grooming needs.

• Age of Your Children: Smaller dogs may be more prone to injury from rough play, so families with toddlers may prefer a sturdier breed like a Cockapoo or Labradoodle.

🔍 Still unsure? Take our 1-Minute Puppy Match Quiz for a personalized recommendation based on your lifestyle and preferences.

“We were overwhelmed by all the Doodle breeds. The quiz helped us choose a Goldendoodle, and we couldn’t be happier!” – Tyler G., San Diego, CA

FAQs

Which Poodle mix breeds are recommended for first-time dog owners?

If it’s your first time owning a dog, consider a breed like the Goldendoodle, Cavapoo, or Maltipoo who are excellent choices for novice dog owners. These Poodle mix breeds are known for their gentle nature, openness to strangers, and lower maintenance requirements, making them easier to handle for families.

You can review our doodle comparison guide for a more detailed review of what doodle breed may be best for your lifestyle.  

Are large Poodle mixes suitable for children?

Yes! Large Doodles like the Standard Goldendoodle, Bernedoodle, and Labradoodle are typically gentle, affectionate, and incredibly patient — all great qualities for a family dog. Their size can be a bonus for active households with older children.

That said, if you have very young kids or toddlers, it’s best to supervise playtime to prevent accidental bumps or knock-overs. These gentle giants love to be around their people and tend to bond closely with kids.

Which Poodle mix breeds are low-maintenance?

Some of the most low-maintenance Poodle mixes include the Cavapoo, Maltipoo, and Shih-Poo. These breeds tend to need less exercise, have smaller grooming needs, and are easier to train than some of the higher-energy Doodles like the Aussiedoodle.

Keep in mind, “low-maintenance” still means regular walks, playtime, and coat brushing — but these breeds are great for families looking for a more manageable pet.

Are there any small Poodle crossbreeds suited for apartment living?

Great small Poodle crossbreeds well-suited for apartment living include the Cavapoo, Yorkipoo, Maltipoo, and Havapoo. These Doodles tend to have moderate energy levels, adapt well to smaller spaces, and are happy with daily walks and indoor play.