The Calmest Doodle Breeds: A Guide for Families

Introduction

Doodle dogs, or “doodles,” are poodle mix breeds that have skyrocketed in popularity. According to the American Kennel Club’s 2023 Hybrid Breed Report, doodles rank among the top 10 most searched hybrid breeds today. These fluffy, curly-haired pups blend poodles with breeds like golden retrievers, terriers, or even bloodhounds. “Doodles appeal to families because they often combine the poodle’s hypoallergenic coat with the playful nature of other breeds,” says Dr. Emily Carter, a veterinarian specializing in hybrid dogs. While doodle puppies are undeniably adorable, their personalities can vary widely. If you’re searching for a calm, easygoing pet, this guide will help you discover the best doodle breed for your home.

What Is a Doodle?

A doodle is any dog crossed with a poodle. Breeders mix poodles with other breeds to create hybrids like the Goldendoodle (golden retriever + poodle) or Saint Berdoodle (Saint Bernard + poodle). These dogs inherit the poodle’s low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat and traits from the other parent breed. Doodles come in all sizes—from tiny Maltipoos (Maltese + poodle) to giant Sheepadoodles (Old English Sheepdog + poodle)—and are loved for their intelligence, loyalty, and adaptability.
Read more about Why own a Goldendoodle puppy

Why Are Doodles So Popular?

Doodles have become a favorite for families, singles, and seniors thanks to their:

• Hypoallergenic coats: Great for allergy sufferers.
• Friendly personalities: Playful yet gentle.
• Versatility: Fit for apartments, suburbs, or farms.

Their popularity also stems from their reputation as “designer dogs” that combine the best traits of two breeds.

Read more about Are Goldendoodles good family pets?

What Makes a Doodle Calm?

Three key factors shape a doodle’s temperament:

1. Genetics: Mixing a poodle with a calm breed (e.g., Bernese Mountain Dog) often results in a laid-back pup.
2. Upbringing: Puppies raised in loving homes with routines tend to be calmer.
3. Training & Socialization: Early exposure to people, pets, and places builds confidence.

Top 13 Calmest Doodle Breeds

Picking the best Doodle breed for your family? Focus on what makes each one different. Some breeds are extra calm. The Goldendoodle is one of the best picks. People love Goldendoodles because they’re super calm and fit into any home. They’re perfect for a quiet, happy family.

These dogs help make your home peaceful because they’re easygoing and loving. Learn what makes these dogs special to pick the best one for your family. This way, everyone stays happy and relaxed.

Goldendoodles are #1 on our list of calmest Doodles, but other breeds are also gentle and sweet. Let’s explore the top 13 calmest Doodle breeds and find your perfect match!

1. Goldendoodle (Golden Retriever + Poodle)

Goldendoodles are one of the calmest Doodle breeds, even though they mix Golden Retrievers and Poodles (both very energetic dogs). With good training and care, Goldendoodles stay calm, relaxed, and loving. They need lots of exercise every day and fun games to keep their minds busy. This stops them from chewing or barking too much.

Goldendoodles can be playful and hyper, but if you train them early and let them meet new people and pets, they grow up gentle and calm. Their sweet personality makes them great family dogs!

• Temperament: Friendly, loyal, and gentle.
• Size: 15–90 lbs.
• Care: Daily walks + brushing 2–3x/week.
  Why They’re Calm: Combines the golden retriever’s steadiness with the poodle’s smarts.

2. Labradoodle (Labrador + Poodle)

Labradoodles have a friendly, calm personality and love being around people. They can be playful but usually don’t get too wild. They do well in homes if they get daily walks and fun games to keep their minds busy.

Because they are a mix of Labradors and Poodles, they learn tricks and rules easily. Teach them early and let them meet new people and pets. This helps them grow into well-behaved dogs.

Studies show Labradoodles have less energy than Goldendoodles. This makes them great family pets, therapy dogs, or service dogs.

• Temperament: Cheerful, easygoing, and kid-friendly.
• Size: 15–65 lbs.
• Care: Playtime + grooming every 6–8 weeks.

3. Bernedoodles (Bernese Mountain Dog + Poodle)

Berne doodles mix Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles. Families love them because they’re calm, loyal, and snuggle-loving. They come in small, medium, or huge sizes, fit any home, and enjoy walks, hikes, or swimming—even if they’re a little shy at first.

• Temperament: Quiet, patient, and loyal.
• Size: 25–100 lbs.
• Care: Weekly brushing + moderate exercise.

4. Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel + Poodle)

Cockapoos are cheerful, friendly dogs perfect for families. They love cuddling, playing, and fit well in apartments—especially with kids. They learn tricks fast and love to make you happy, making them great pets!

• Temperament: Affectionate and adaptable.
• Size: 10–25 lbs.
• Care: Short walks + frequent brushing.

5. Schnoodle (Schnauzer + Poodle)

Schnoodles are calm, smart dogs that fit into apartments or houses. They love families, learn fast with early training, and stay playful without getting too wild. Perfect for active homes wanting a fun, cuddly buddy!

• Temperament: Smart, calm, and watchful.
• Size: 10–20 lbs.
• Care: Mental stimulation + regular trims.

6. Sheepadoodle (Old English Sheepdog + Poodle)

Sheepadoodles are calm, patient dogs. They love families, come in big/small sizes, and fit any home with daily play. Train them early—they’re smart but need extra care due to size.

• Temperament: Fluffy, friendly, and laid-back.
• Size: 50–80 lbs.
• Care: Space to roam + daily brushing.

7. Whoodle (Wheaten Terrier + Poodle)

Whoodles are playful but calm, perfect for gentle owners. They fit apartments/houses, love families, and stay cuddly and friendly. Train them early with praise—they learn fast and make happy, well-behaved pets!

• Temperament: Playful yet calm.
• Size: 20–50 lbs.
• Care: Moderate exercise + grooming.

8. Cavapoo (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel + Poodle)

Cavapoos are loving, friendly pets for kids and adults. They fit quiet homes or busy ones and learn fast because they love making you happy. Training is easy—they just want to be your buddy!

• Temperament: Sweet lap dog.
• Size: 10–25 lbs.
• Care: Light exercise + brushing.

9. Aussiepoo (Australian Shepherd + Poodle)

Aussiepoos mix smarts and energy but stay easy if they get enough play. They need fun games and exercise to stay happy. They love learning tricks, making training fun for everyone!

• Temperament: Energetic outdoors, calm indoors.
• Size: 25–60 lbs.
• Care: Active play + mental challenges.

10. Bordoodle (Border Collie + Poodle)

Bordoodles are smart, loyal dogs that families love. They adapt to most homes but need room to run and play. They learn tricks fast because they love making you proud!

• Temperament: Smart and trainable.
• Size: 30–60 lbs.
• Care: Daily exercise + structured training.

11. Saint Berdoodle (Saint Bernard + Poodle)

Saint Berdoodles are calm, gentle giants and great family pets. They mix Saint Bernard’s patience with Poodle’s smarts, making them loving and easygoing. They love snuggling but also enjoy walks—perfect for relaxed or active homes!

• Temperament: Gentle giant.
• Size: 60–150 lbs.
• Care: Large space + daily brushing.

12. Irish Doodle (Irish Setter + Poodle)

Irish Doodles mix Poodles and Irish Setters. They’re smart, easy to train, and fit into families who play inside or outside. Gentle but loyal and playful, they’re great buddies for fun times!

• Temperament: Social but not hyper.
• Size: 40–70 lbs.
• Care: Regular exercise + grooming.

13. Maltipoo (Maltese + Poodle)

Maltipoos are calm, loving dogs perfect for singles, families, or anyone wanting a cuddly buddy. They mix Maltese and Poodles, stay small and fluffy, and look super cute. Train them early to stop barking, play games to keep them happy, and enjoy lots of snuggles!

• Temperament: Tiny and quiet.
• Size: 5–15 lbs.
• Care: Minimal exercise + frequent brushing.

Why Temperament Matters

A dog’s temperament is critical when choosing a pet. Calm doodles are easier to train, gentler with kids, and less likely to bark excessively or jump on guests. Let’s explore which doodle breeds are known for their relaxed personalities.

Why Goldendoodles Top the List

Goldendoodles are #1 for calmness because they blend the golden retriever’s friendly nature with the poodle’s intelligence. A 2022 University of Pennsylvania study found Labradoodles have 15% lower energy than Goldendoodles. Their balanced temperament makes them:

• Family-friendly: Gentle with kids and pets.
• Adaptable: Thrive in apartments or houses.
• Trainable: Quick learners with positive reinforcement.

Dr. Sarah Thompson, Veterinarian:
“Goldendoodles often inherit the golden retriever’s steady personality. When socialized early, they grow into confident, calm adults—ideal for first-time owners.”

When looking for the best Doodle breeds for you personally, here are some things to consider

Finding the right Doodle depends on your home, lifestyle, and experience. Big breeds like Saint Berdoodles need space to roam, while small Maltipoos fit apartments. Families with young kids should avoid giant or tiny pups—opt for medium-sized Labradoodles. New owners? Start with easy, calm breeds like Cavapoos. Allergies? Choose low-shedding mixes (e.g., Sheepadoodles). Grooming takes time and money, so pick wisely if you’re busy!

Look for puppies that nap after playtime—they’ll be calmer adults,” says Jane Doe (Sunshine Doodles).

Comparing Calm Doodle Breeds

Choosing the Right Doodle

• Small Spaces: Cavapoo, Maltipoo.
• Families: Goldendoodle, Labradoodle.
• Seniors: Cockapoo, Bordoodle.
• Allergy Sufferers: Sheepadoodle, Aussiepoo.

Budget Tips: Doodles cost 

$1,500–$5,000 upfront. Plan for grooming ($50–$100/month) and vet care.

Training & Socialization Tips

• Start early with commands like “sit” and “stay.”
• Use treats and praise—never harsh methods.
• Socialize puppies with parks, pets, and people.

Early socialization reduces anxiety by 40% (Applied Animal Behavior Science, 2021)

Pro Tip: A tired doodle is a calm doodle! Daily walks or playtime help burn energy.

Health & Wellness

• Common Issues: Ear infections (clean weekly!), allergies.
• Diet: High-quality food with protein.
• Vet Care: Annual checkups and vaccines.

25% of Doodles develop ear issues (Veterinary Journal, 2023).

Dr. Thompson Adds:
“Doodles with floppy ears need regular cleaning. Check for redness and odors to prevent infections.

Real Owner Stories

• Goldendoodle: “Our Goldendoodle, Luna, plays with the kids but naps when we work. She’s perfect!” – Jen, Ohio.
• Cavapoo: “My Cavapoo, Bella, is my retirement buddy. She’s happy with short walks and cuddles.” – Harold, Florida.
• Saint Berdoodle: “Duke lounges in our backyard all day. He’s a gentle giant!” – Maya, Texas.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose a playful Labradoodle or a mellow Maltipoo, doodles offer endless love and companionship. Match the breed to your lifestyle, and you’ll gain a loyal, low-stress family member. As Whoodle owner Rachel says: “Milo is my best friend—up for hikes or couch snuggles!”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)