Welcome to the Curly Universe
Whether you're considering getting a poodle-mix, or already have one - you can find all the information you need here.
Everything you need to know about the charming, curly crossbreeds
Doodles and poos - such as Labradoodles, Goldendoodles, Cavapoos, Havapoos, Cockapoos and Maltipoos - have become hugely popular, and it’s easy to see why. Bursting with charm, their curly coats are almost impossible to resist. But like any dog, they come with specific needs. To help you prepare for life with a doodle or poo, here’s everything you need to know about these much-loved curly companions.
Doodles and poos, what's the difference?
You might hear dogs described as Labradoodles or Cockapoos, but what's the difference between a 'doodle' and a 'poo'?
In reality, not much at all
'Doodles' and 'poos' are both Poodle crosses - one parent is a Poodle and the other is a different breed, such as a Labrador or Cocker Spaniel. The name is designed around the breed the Poodle is crossed with, and there is no strict rule on what makes a poo and what makes a doodle, however there is a trend:
Doodle
Tends to be used when the other breed is larger, for example Labradoodle or Goldendoodle.
Whether they're a doodle or poo, they all share similar traits; intelligent, social, and full of personality - and they're all part of the Curly Universe!
Life with a poodle mix
What is it like to live with a doodle?
We asked doodle owners what life is really like with these adorable animals, here's what they had to say.
Useful guides
From barking to separation anxiety - here are some useful guides to living with a poodle-mix's behaviours and quirks.
Why is my dog so clingy?
Find out why doodles and poos follow you everywhere and how to help them feel calm when left alone.
How can I enrich my dogs life?
How to keep your poodle-mix happy and healthy with our guide to supporting their natural behaviours.
How can I stop my dog barking?
If your dog barks a lot it can be a sign of stress; here are some top tips on dealing with barking from the root of the problem.
Dog can't be left home alone?
Our customer feedback showed that separation anxiety can be common with poodle-mixes. Here's how to help.
Grooming that curly coat
Doodles and poos are famous for their curly coats, which give them that irresistible teddy-bear look. Unfortunately, it’s also the coat that can cause owners the most challenges - and it requires care from day one.
Want your doodle or poo to enjoy grooming?
Discover how to make brushing, bathing and clipping a calm, stress-free bonding time.
Coat types – what can you expect?
Learn about the different coat types and what they really mean for life with your doodle or poo.
How to care for your doodle or poo’s coat
Learn how to care for your doodle or poo’s curly coat to keep them healthy, comfortable and looking their best.
Are doodles and poos hypoallergenic?
Poodle-mixes are often described as hypoallergenic, but there’s no such thing as a completely allergy-free dog. It all depends on what triggers your reactions.
If you’re dreaming of a doodle, poo, or another dog, a good idea is to offer to dog-sit for someone who already owns that type of dog. This way, you can see whether your nose runs or your eyes itch - or whether you cope just fine. It’s not fair on either you or a new puppy to use it as a test case.
“It often comes as a surprise to dog owners how quickly a poodle cross’s coat can mat. These coat types require consistent and targeted care for the dog to thrive and avoid discomfort. It’s essential to start early, teaching your dog to feel comfortable with touch and brushing – this gives a much smoother start at the salon and reduces stress for the dog.”
Nina Wæhrens – Owner, Rødovre Hundesalon
So, who does the grooming?
Do owners groom their own poodle mixes, or use a professional groomer? Results are based on a survey of 266 doodle and poo owners in 2025.
55%
Owners groom / trim their dog
20%
Use a professional dog groomer
20%
Do a mixture of at home and professional grooming
5%
Do something else
Breeders and breed types
Finding a good doodle or poo breeder
There are many popular poodle crosses, such as the Labradoodle, Goldendoodle, Havapoo, Cavapoo, Maltipoo, Cockapoo, and more. What they all have in common is that they’re crossbreeds, so you can’t simply look for a breeder registered with a kennel club.
So how do you find the right breeder? There are plenty of good doodle and poo breeders out there, but it’s important to know what to look for so you don’t end up buying a puppy blindly.
Does a crossbreed guarantee good health?
It was once thought that crossbreeds - dogs with parents from two different breeds - were generally healthier than pedigree dogs, but all dogs can inherit health issues. Crossing a relatively healthy breed with one prone to certain conditions doesn’t guarantee healthy puppies, which is why it’s essential to choose a responsible breeder who ensures both parents are healthy and free from hereditary diseases, and to consider health carefully when choosing a doodle or poo.
Many responsible breeders in the UK are members of breeder organisations such as the Agria Breeder Club, which promotes best practice in health, welfare and breeding standards.
F-Types: What does that mean?
Some breeders put a lot of thought into their doodle and poo breeding, and you may see references to “F-types.” These describe the generation of the cross, which can affect a dog’s genetics, appearance, and coat.
Understanding these generations helps breeders predict things like coat type, size, and temperament, making it easier to match a dog to your needs and lifestyle.
Want to learn more about curly dogs?
We’ve put together a list of the most popular curly crosses so you can learn about their needs, strengths, and challenges - and maybe even find your perfect four-legged friend.
Cavapoo
Sociable and charming, you’re sure to fall in love with a curly Cavapoo.
Cockapoo
The curly Cockapoo is a fluffy pal that’s guaranteed to make you smile.
Goldendoodle
So much more than a designer dog, Goldendoodles have a lot of love to give.
Labradoodle
Social and happy, a curly surprise, you’ll have oodles of love for a Labradoodle.
Maltipoo
Maltipoos are cheerful and charming, and they’re sure to win your heart.
You can also read about the parent breeds your future curly companion comes from, so you know what to expect.
What types of doodles and poos are there?
Because doodles and poos are poodle crosses, they come in a huge variety. Some common ones include:
Airedoodle
Aussiedoodle
Bernedoodle
Bichpoo/Poochon
Bordoodle
Boxerdoodle
Cavapoo/Cavoodle
Chipoo
Corgipoo
Dalmadoodle
Doxiepoo
Huskydoodle
Irish Doodle
Newfypoo
Pomapoo
Pugapoo
Pyredoodle
Rottle/Rottiepoo
Saint Berdoodle
Schnoodle
Sheepadoodle
Shih-poo
Springerdoodle
Whoodle
Yorkipoo
Insurance for your Doodle or Poo with Agria
With Agria, it's lifetime, every time
At Agria, we insure all dogs, including your beloved doodle, poo, or other poodle crosses.
With Agria dog insurance, you can focus on enjoying life with your curly companion, knowing you’re covered if they fall ill or get injured. Our policies include vet fee cover, life insurance, and a range of optional extras to suit your needs.
Which? policy score ratings are based on an analysis of policy cover levels conducted in November 2025. Best Buy providers have a high policy score and a good track record for paying claims. Read the Which? article.
Agria Pet Insurance has been awarded 'best pet insurance overall' from The Telegraph.
Up to £20,000 towards vet bills every year
So your dog can get the care they need.
We pay 98% of claims*
And we can pay your vet directly, so you can focus on your dog.
No increase in your premiums when you claim
So you don’t have to worry about the cost of insurance when you go to the vet.
Free vet video calls, 24/7
Which means help is always on hand if you’re worried.
Dotty about dogs? Get a 5% multi-pet discount when you insure more than one pet with us.
* Based on claims received by Agria Forsakring UK between May 2025 and October 2025.
Want to know about our insurance policies? From multi-pet coverage to pre-existing conditions, we have lifetime insurance options for cats, rabbits, horses, and dogs, including older dogs.