A doodle dog is a mix of a Poodle with another breed. The aim is to combine the best traits of each breed, especially the Poodle's low-shedding coat.
Doodle mixes come with various names, all containing part of "Poodle". The name starts with part of the other breed's name and ends in doodle, oodle, or poo.
Terms like F1, F1B, F2, or F3 doodles define the type of designer dog breeding. For example, an F1 Labradoodle is a Labrador Retriever mixed with a Poodle.
The first documented Labradoodle was created in 1989. The aim was to create a hypoallergenic dog with the personality or look of other dog breeds.
Not all doodle dogs are hypoallergenic. The genetics of two dog breeds can't be controlled, so the hypoallergenic, curly fur from the Poodle parent isn't guaranteed.
Doodle dogs with curly fur require frequent grooming as their fur easily gets matted. Less curly fur may result in less shedding and less matting.
If you're looking to adopt a doodle, ensure the breeder is reputable. Ask for medical history documentation.