A Balanced Look at Their Differences

 

Poodles and Doodles have both captured hearts with their intelligence, charm, and often, their eye-catching curls. But while these dogs share some similarities, they also have significant differences—especially when it comes to coat quality, predictability, and structure. Whether you're considering a purebred Poodle or a popular Doodle mix, understanding their distinctions can help you make a more informed choice.

What Is a Doodle?

“Doodle” is a general term used for Poodle mixes, most commonly Goldendoodles (Golden Retriever x Poodle), Labradoodles (Labrador Retriever x Poodle), Bernedoodles (Bernese Mountain Dog x Poodle), and Aussiedoodles (Australian Shepherd x Poodle), among others.

While the idea is to blend the Poodle’s low-shedding coat and intelligence with the temperament or look of another breed, the results can be unpredictable—especially in first-generation crosses (F1s).​​

Coat Types: The Genetics Behind the Curls

One of the biggest misconceptions about Doodles is that they’re all "hypoallergenic." In truth, their coats can vary greatly—even within the same litter!

Another common myth? That you need a Doodle to get that signature Doodle haircut. Not true! You can absolutely give a Poodle a Doodle-style cut—and yes, you can also style a Doodle in a traditional Poodle trim. It all comes down to preference and personality!​​

The Poodle Coat

Poodles have a single, curly coat that is low-shedding and more likely to be tolerated by allergy sufferers. Their coat requires regular maintenance to prevent matting but does not produce the same level of dander or loose fur as many double-coated breeds.​

The Double Coat

A double coat consists of two layers: a soft, dense undercoat that insulates, and a harsher outer coat that repels dirt and moisture. Breeds like Australian Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, and Bernese Mountain Dogs have this type of coat, which naturally sheds to regulate temperature and remove old fur. While effective for outdoor working dogs, double coats release large amounts of fur and dander, which can aggravate allergies and contribute to heavy seasonal shedding.

Australian Shepherds, in particular, have a weather-resistant double coat designed for ranch work in varying climates. Their undercoat sheds heavily—especially during seasonal changes—leading to fur accumulation and potential skin irritation if not regularly brushed.​

The Doodle Coat

Doodles inherit a mix of coat genes—some from the Poodle, and some from the other parent breed, which often has a shedding double coat. This genetic mix results in three common coat types:

• Straight or flat coat – Resembles the non-Poodle parent; tends to shed heavily and is not hypoallergenic.

• Wavy coat – A blend of both coat types; may shed less than a typical double coat, but often traps dirt, oils, and dander.

• Curly coat – Closer to a Poodle coat; lower shedding but typically higher maintenance due to increased matting risk.

Two key genes influence these outcomes:

• Furnishings gene (RSPO2) – Controls facial and body hair texture.

• Curl gene (KRT71) – Determines the degree of wave or curl in the coat.

If a Doodle inherits one or no copies of the furnishings gene, they are likely to have a shedding, double-type coat. First-generation Doodles (F1) often have a 50% chance of inheriting furnishings in a way that results in a lower-shedding coat, but without DNA testing, coat outcome is unpredictable. Further generations beyond F1 (such as F1B, F2, or multigenerational Doodles) can significantly increase the likelihood of a more predictable, hypoallergenic coat, depending on the DNA and coat traits of the parents used in the cross. See our article about Doodle generations to learn more.​

Mixed Coat Textures – Know What to Expect

It’s important to understand that mixed coat types are very real and possible, especially in Doodles. For example, a dog may inherit a curly topcoat from the Poodle and a shedding undercoat from the other parent breed. This combination can be particularly challenging to manage.

These coats often trap shed hair, moisture, and dander close to the skin, leading to severe matting if not properly maintained. Left unchecked, this can cause odor, skin irritation, and even painful hot spots. Dogs with this kind of coat require routine professional level grooming and consistent at-home brushing to stay healthy and comfortable.

Because coat type is influenced by multiple genes and their expression, it’s crucial to understand the potential outcomes. Clear, honest communication with your breeder—and ideally, genetic testing—is key to selecting a puppy whose grooming needs match what you’re realistically able to provide.

Structure and Conformation:

Predictability vs. Variation

Poodles have been bred for generations with conformation and function in mind. Their structure is consistent and balanced, with square proportions, tight feet, and elegant movement.

Doodles, particularly in early generations, may inherit a wide mix of traits from both parents. This means body shape, bone structure, ear set, tail carriage, and even size can vary significantly. You might have puppies in the same litter that look like entirely different breeds.

In early crosses, it’s unlikely that a puppy will receive only the “best” features from both breeds. Most often, it’s a blend of both, and in rare cases, a pup may inherit more challenging traits from both sides (e.g., a double coat that mats, plus a tendency toward joint problems or anxiety).

This is why reputable Doodle breeders aim to stabilize traits over multiple generations (F1B, F2, multigen) and use health and coat testing to guide their breeding programs.​

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