Mini Doodle Dogs: Top 13 Miniature Poodle Crossbreeds

Updated 01/28/2022 As a mini doodle owner myself I can honestly say that doodle dogs are the best.

In addition to their soft, wavy coats, and teddy bear looks, doodle dogs tend to inherit the best personalities.

I really love all types and sizes of doodle dogs, or poodle crossbreeds, but standard sized doodles tend to be large.

It’s not uncommon for standard sized doodle puppies to be larger than the parent breeds. Not everyone wants a 100+ pound dog, or has the space for one.

In response to this, doodle breeders started to breed smaller doodle along with the standard sized doodles.

Here well you introduce you to some doodles that are smaller versions of the larger popular doodles, but we have also included some mini doodles that started out small.

What is a Mini Doodle Dog?

Although there are different types of doodle dogs, the one thing that all miniature doodle dogs have in common is that they are a planned crossbreed with a miniature Poodle and one other purebred dog. There are exceptions to this rule. But we will discuss that later in the post.

They are also commonly referred to as a designer dog breed. This is due to the crossbreeding being intentional as opposed to an accidental litter.

However, there are groups like the Goldendoodle Association of North America (GANA) and the Australian Labradoodle Association of America that want to elevate the doodle dog to a recognized dog breed.

The other thing most doodle dogs have in common is their naming convention. All Poodle crossbreeds are called by a name that blends the name of the purebred dog and the Poodle.

An example is the Goldendoodle (a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle) or the Cockapoo (a cross between the Cocker Spaniel and Poodle)

Mini Doodle: Size and Structure

Understanding a miniature doodle’s size and structure is important if you are looking to get one. Let’s look at an example:

The most common miniature doodle is the Miniature Goldendoodle. A Mini Goldendoodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and the Mini Poodle. The size difference between these two dogs is vast.

A female Golden Retriever averages around 21.5 to 22.5 inches tall and 55 to 65 pounds, where a mini poodle is around 10 to 15 inches tall and 10-15 pounds.

Because of this vast difference in size, first generation Goldendoodles can vary greatly in size.

Also due to the size difference you need to be careful to find a breeder that gradually reduces the size of their dogs over many generations. Otherwise you can end up with a miniature doodle puppy that will have structural issues.

Structural Issues

One of these structural issues is a dog that is completely out of proportion. I am sure you have seen doodles with large long bodies and short legs.

On occasion a breeder might choose to use a small standard poodle, which is larger than a mini poodle with a smaller sized purebred. Puppies will be larger, but not as big as a full sized doodle. Small standard poodles are sometimes referred to as a Moyen Poodle, which means a medium sized poodle. 

Mini doodles are supposed to be a small, wavy versions of the parent breeds. Of course there are always exceptions to the rule. One exception is the mini Bernedoodle, since the Bernese Mountain Dog is bred to have a longer body and shorter legs to start with.

How Small is a Miniature Doodle?

Miniature doodles can vary greatly in size depending on the breeding dogs.

The most popular large doodle breed that you can find as a miniature is the Mini Bernedoodle. The mini Bernedoodle falls between 18 to 22 inches at the shoulder and 25 to 50 pounds. At this size, they are more in-line with a medium sized dog than a mini.

But when compared to a standard Bernedoodle, which stands as tall as 29 inches at the shoulder and can weigh as much as 100 pounds. The mini Bernedoodle is small.

On the other end of the spectrum is the Mini Schnoodle which is a Miniature Schnauzer and a mini Poodle crossbreed. The Miniature Schnauzer stands at just 12 to 14 inches at the shoulder and weighs just 12 to 18 pounds.

Take a look at our Miniature Doodle size chart below to see the approximate height and weight of the 13 most popular miniature doodles.

Do Mini Doodles Shed?

How much a miniature doodle sheds depends on the parent breeds and which generation the doodle is. But all mini doodles will shed less than the non-poodle parent breed. So if you are use to living with a Golden Retriever that sheds a lot, your Goldendoodle will shed much less thanks to the one non shedding poodle gene they will inherit.

What is a Mini Doodle vs Teacup Doodle?

A mini doodle is a purebred dog that is crossed with a mini poodle. Mini doodles range in size between 12 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder and 13 to 50 pounds.

Teacup Doodles are smaller than their mini counterparts. Depending on the breeding they can be as small as 7 pounds and 6 to 10 inches at the shoulder.

They are bred using a toy poodle in place of the mini poodle. They tend to be multigenerational doodles since breeding a toy poodle to a large full sized purebred would not be a good match. Teacup doodles are also called Toy, Micro or Petite.

Top 13 Popular Mini Doodle Dogs

1. Mini Bernedoodle

The first doodle on our list is the Mini Bernedoodle. The mini Bernedoodle is a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Mini Poodle. This pup is the largest and one of the newest doodles on the list.

Size

They are smaller than a standard sized Bernedooodle, which can get up to 100 pounds or more, but as you can see from the Mini Doodle Size chart above they are larger than other popular miniature doodle breeds.

Breeding

Due to the big size difference between the Bernese and the miniature poodle, this is one doodle that you want to make sure the breeder took their time in developing to ensure there are no structural issues with the dog. Some breeders have chosen to use a mini Australian Labradoodle in place of the mini poodle since the size difference is not as great. But this will also increase the size of the mini Bernedoodle.

Temperament

One of the reasons the mini Bernedoodle is becoming popular is due to their temperament. The Bernese Mountain dog is very laid back and easy going, unlike some of the other purebreds used in poodle mixes. They are also very family oriented. Plus they require less exercise than a Labradoodle or Aussiedoodle, making them a better choice for busy families.

But no breed is perfect and the mini Berniedoodle has some traits that might make you think twice before getting one. To learn more about them check out our post on the Mini Bernedoodle – 16 Little Known Facts.

Where to find a Mini Bernedoodle?

If you are looking for a Bernedoodle puppy then a reputable breeder is the best place to find one. When looking for a reputable breeder you should deal with the breeder directly and check the Better Business Bureau for any complaints about them or their kennel. The cost of a mini Bernedoodle can vary greatly. Make sure you do your research before buying. You should also consider looking for a Bernedoodle Rescue at a Doodle rescue group or Poodle rescue group.

2. Mini Golden Mountain Doodle

The next pup on our list is the Mini Golden Mountain Doodle. This pup is also a new type of doodle. Mini Golden Mountain Doodles are part Golden Retriever, part Poodle and part Bernese Mountain dog.

Size

As you can see from the chart the Miniature Golden Mountain Doodle is about the same size as the Miniature Bernedoodle. They are a medium sized dog, not really a mini, but smaller than a full sized Golden Mountain Doodle.

Breeding

Some breeders chose to use a mini Goldendoodle and a mini Bernedoodle to breed the Mini Golden Mountain Doodle. This makes them a double doodle meaning they may inherit poodle genes from both parents. Make sure to ask your breeder about the parents so you know exactly what you are getting.

Temperament

Both the Goldendoodle and Bernedoodle have wonderful traits, but they also have a few less than desirable ones. The Goldendoodle is affectionate, easy to train and playful, but is also energetic. The Bernedoodle is more mellow than the Goldendoodle, but they are also more stubborn and distant. The two were paired with the belief that they would find a middle ground. Most people who have a Miniature Golden Mountain Doodle believe they have.

Where to find a Mini Golden Mountain Doodle?

Finding a miniature Golden Mountain Doodle is going to be hard. There are only a handful of reputable breeders that breed these dogs in the U.S. and Canada. Because they are so new, finding one in need of a home is rare.

3. Mini Goldendoodle

The next pup on our list is also one of the most popular mini doodles. Thanks to their friendly personality and easy going nature, the Mini Goldendoodle has been a favorite for many years. The mini Goldendoodle is part Golden Retriever and part mini poodle.

Size

The mini Goldendoodle is smaller than the first two doodles on the list but still a small to medium sized dog.

Breeding

When choosing a mini goldendoodle you also need to decide which generation you want to get. First generation Goldendoodles are a cross between a Poodle and a Golden Retriever. They are commonly referred to as a F1 Mini Goldendoodle. Because they are 50% Golden and 50% poodle they will inherit genes from both parents that control whether they will have the furnishings (the fluffy face associated with the doodle) and how much they shed. The non-shedding and furnishing genes come only from the poodle.

Later generation doodles, meaning doodles that are bred using some combination of doodles and purebreds have different F codes as can be seen on the chart below.

It’s important to remember that nature is not that predictable. You will not really know which genes are passed down from a doodle unless the breeder does genetic testing.

What Colors do mini Goldendoodles come in?

Goldendoodles can inherit any of the colors from either the Golden Retriever or Poodle. While the common colors are cream, apricot and red, you can also find Goldendoodles in black, chocolate (dark brown), silver and gray coloring.

Mini Goldendoodle Temperament

There is a reason why the Goldendoodle and mini Goldendoodle are family favorites and that has to do with their temperament. Golden Retrievers have to be one of the most friendly dog breeds around and despite the poodle’s reputation they also love to be around people.

We can’t forget to mention that poodles and Goldens are very intelligent. Both are born people pleasers which make them easier to train and good for first time dog owners.

However the mini Goldendoodle does require a fair amount of exercise and mental stimulation. This can be taken care of with a couple of long walks a day and play time in the yard or dog park.

Where to find a Mini Goldendoodle?

When looking for a mini Goldendoodle puppy a good place to start your search for a breeder is the Goldendoodle Association of North America (GANA). GANA has a ribbon certification for breeders that follow strict breeding standards. You can find a list of breeders with their ribbon status on the GANA site.

When looking at breeders you will find that there is a wide range in how much a Goldendoodle cost. Breeders that conduct health testing and carefully breed their dogs will cost more than ones that don’t.

Another option is to adopt a Mini Goldendoodle, here is a list of rescue organizations that specialize in Goldendoodle rescues.

4. Mini Sheepadoodle

Another large doodle that comes in a miniature size is the Sheepadoodle. The mini Sheepadoodle is part Old English Sheepdog (OES) and part mini poodle. There are rumors that the first Sheepadoodle was bred back in the 1960’s by the US Army as an experimental military dog due to their intuitive nature, loyalty and bravery. However due to their playfulness it did not work out.

Size and color

Old English Sheep dogs are considered a large dog so the miniature Sheepadoodle can lean towards the bigger end of the miniature doodle range.

They are often portrayed in the OES’s signature gray and white coat, but can come in any of the poodle colors too.

Breeding

Much like with the mini Bernedoodle listed above, you want to find a breeder that bred down the mini over a few generations, or at least started with smaller sized Old English Sheepdogs to avoid structural issues with the dogs.

Temperament

Mini Sheepadoodles are often referred to as being goofy, social and lovable by those that live with them. If well bred they can have a remarkable sense of humor and enjoy the reactions from people when they are being a clown. They are also highly intelligent and energetic which comes from both sides of the parentage. Sheepadoodles act like puppies for a long time and need a lot of exercise. They don’t settle down until 18 to 24 months old.

While they love children and are playful, they can also be stubborn. They will benefit from an experienced dog owner that will guide them to the proper behaviors.

Where to Find a Mini Sheepadoodle?

As with all puppies, finding a good breeder is essential. Remember all those good traits we just mentioned come from being carefully bred and raised in a loving environment. Dogs that are born in poor environments with little attention will have a very different personality. Always look for a breeder that does genetic health testing to try to prevent unhealthy dogs.

You may also be able to find Mini Sheepadoodles at a rescue that rescues poodle crossbreeds.

5. Mini Labradoodle

The next pup on our list started the whole doodle craze back in the 1980’s. The mini Labradoodle is part Labrador Retriever and part mini poodle.

Size

Mini Labradoodles are smaller than the previous doodles on our list. Falling more into the range of a small dog, they can make good apartment dogs if given enough exercise outside and mental stimulation.

Colors

Common colors for this mix are Golden, Chocolate and Black Labradoodles. But they can also come in any of the colors of poodles.

Breeding

Like the Goldendoodle, the Labradoodle often has a generation code attached to its breeding. However it is best to go with a breeder that does genetic testing to get the traits that you want rather than rely on the generation classifications.

Temperament

The first Labradoodle may have been bred to be a hypoallergenic guide dog, but their temperament also makes them a great companion dog. The Mini Labradoodle is known to be friendly, loyal and playful. They make great family pets, but due to their friendliness they don’t make good guard dogs.  

Mini Labradoodles are high energy dogs that need to be around people. They make great companions for people or families that are active and can bring their dog with them. They are neither content to lie around the house all day or be alone for long stretches of time. Not enough exercise and too much alone time is a recipe for destruction.

Where to Find a Mini Labradoodle?

A reputable breeder is your best bet for getting a healthy mini labradoodle puppy. A good place to start your search for a breeder is the Australian Labradoodle Association of America (ALAA). ALAA has a “Paw Program” that recognizes Labradoodle and Australian Labradoodle breeders for health testing. You can also look for a Labradoodle Rescue at one of the many rescues set up to help these dogs.

Can’t decide between a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle? Let us help with our Goldendoodle vs Labradoodle comparison

6. Mini Australian Labradoodle

The mini Australian Labradoodle is a different breed than the American Labradoodle. The Australian Labradoodle is a cross between the Poodle, English or American Cocker Spaniel, Irish Water Spaniel and Labrador Retriever. This breed was developed in Australia to create a more consistent look and temperament than the American Labradoodle.

Breeding

Because of the multiple breeds in the Australian Labradoodle you can only get multi-generation puppies.

Temperament

The Australian Labradoodle has a reputation of “knowing” how a family member feels. This has led them to become popular as therapy and service dogs. They are also known to be playful, intelligent, loyal, calm and sociable. If properly bred and trained are good with children.

Where to find a Australian Labradoodle

As with all puppies, finding a reputable breeder is a must if you want a healthy mini Australian Labradoodle. The Australian Labradoodle Association of America (ALAA) works with breeders to help educate them and the public on responsible breeding. One way they do this is with their “Paw Program” that recognizes Australian Labradoodle breeders for health testing. You can also look for a Australian Labradoodle Rescue at one of the many rescues set up to help these dogs.

7. Mini Aussiedoodle

Next up is the mini Aussiedoodle. Don’t confuse this pup with the mini Australian Labradoodle. Although they both get their start in Australia they have very different temperaments. The mini Aussiedoodle is part mini poodle and part Australian Shepherd.

Temperament

The Mini Aussiedoodle is bred from two active breeds so you can count on them to be very active. They are also highly intelligent and love to have a task. These dogs are not for first time dog owners, but make excellent companions for active people who can take their dog along with them. They want to be by your side all the time.

If you are looking for a dog that can compete in agility or other dog sport this is the dog for you. They are very loyal and easy to train. They also make great additions to an active family with older children as they are very family oriented and love to cuddle after an active day.

They may not be the best choice for young families since they need a lot of attention and also may inherit the desire to herd young children.

Where to find a Aussiedoodle?

A reputable Aussiedoodle breeder is the best place to find a puppy, but the Aussiedoodle’s price has increased in recent year. You can also look for a Aussiedoodle Rescue at one of the many rescues set up to help these dogs.

8. Mini Irish Doodle

The Irish Doodle is another relatively new doodle type. This pup is part Irish Setter and part mini Poodle.

Temperament

The Miniature Irish Doodle is not as popular as some of the other doodles on this list, but their people love them. Both the poodle and Irish setter originated as hunter/retriever dogs so you know that Irish doodles will have a lot of energy. It also means that they will be intelligent, sensitive and want to be around people.

Since they are bred from hunting breeds they don’t do well around other smaller animals. Irish doodles need to be provided with enough physical and mental stimulation otherwise they will become bored and destructive.

Where to find an Irish Doodle?

Finding an Irish Doodle will be hard as there are not that many reputable breeders that specialize in these dogs. You can also try to look for a rescue.

9. Mini Schnoodle

The mini Schnoodle is the only pup on our list that is part of the Terrier Group and the only one that is bred using two miniature parent breeds. The mini Schnoodle is part Miniature Schnauzer and part mini poodle. Since both of these breeds are considered to be low shed and hypoallergenic, there is less chance of them shedding.

Temperament

Schnauzers like most dogs in the terrier group are farm dogs bred to hunt rats and protect the farm. This makes the mini Schnoodle a very loyal, and alert dog. But it also means that they may bark a lot so they may not be good apartment dogs. They may also have a greater prey drive than other mini doodles.

Overall mini schnoodles are characterized as being intelligent, fun loving, active, friendly, fearless, and spirited. You will never have a dull day with one around.

10. Mini Cavapoo

The Cavapoo (also commonly known as a Cavoodle) is a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a mini or toy Poodle. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is part of the toy breed and is considered a companion dog. But don’t let their small size mislead you. These athletic pups are always up for a romp in the yard.

Both the Poodle and Cavalier were originally used for hunting, though the Cavalier was changed dramatically in the late 17th due to crossbreeding with flat nosed breeds. The mini and toy poodles were also bred to be smaller companion dogs.

Mini Cavapoo Temperament

Because both breeds are meant to be companions these dogs are friendly, outgoing and playful. But as companion dogs they don’t like to be left alone too much. They are also known to like to bark especially when left alone.

Size and Colors

Cavapoos bred using a toy poodle will be on the smaller end of the size range. When a mini poodle is used the Cavapoo will be on the higher end. Of course these are only estimates. The actual size of your Cavapoo will depend on the parent dogs so you should ask about the parents and also the grandparents of the pups.

Check out our post on Cavapoo Full-Grown to learn more about the Cavapoo sizes and how you can estimate the size of your future pup.

The Cavapoo comes in any of the standard colors of the Cavalier including Blenheim (chestnut and white), tri-colour (black/white/tan), black and tan, and ruby. They can also be any of the poodle colors including, black, brown and apricot.

Where to find a Mini Cavapoo?

If you are looking for a Cavapoo puppy, then a good breeder is a must. Unfortunately, the Cavapoo does not have a breeders club here in the USA. Your best bet is to look for a breeder that has a lot of experience in breeding Cavaliers or poodles and poodle mixes. Another option is to look for a Cavapoo rescue. There are a few rescues that specialist in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels that will also rehome Cavapoos.

11. Mini Cockapoo

The Cockapoo , which also goes by the names; Spoodle and Cockerdoodle, is a Cocker Spaniel and poodle cross breed. The poodle can be either a mini or toy sized based on what size the breeder is looking for. The Cockapoo comes in three sizes, but unlike other doodle naming conventions their names are based on their size not the type of poodle they are bred with.

Size and Colors

The three sizes Cockapoos come are toy, mini and standard. The toy Cockapoo weighs less than 12 pounds; Minis are between 13 and 18 pounds and dogs weighing over 19 pounds are called standard Cockapoos.

Mini Cockapoo Temperament

Cockapoos are friendly, active pups that like to be around people, but they can have behavioral issues. Before committing to a Cockapoo make sure to do your research on the breed and the breeder.

Where to find a Cockapoo?

Due to health and behavioral issues in the Cocker Spaniel it is very important that you find a quality breeder that carefully breeds their Cockapoos. There is an American Cockapoo Club that maintains a Breeder Code of Ethics that members must abide to. Another option is to look for a  Cockapoo rescue.

Mini Doodle Dogs Resources

• Australian Labradoodle Association of America
• Goldendoodle Association of North America