Calmest Doodle Breeds: Top 5 Low-Key Pups for Your Home

Let’s face it, Doodles aren’t exactly meant to be calm. After all, the Poodle is one of the most energetic dogs out there, and all Doodles are at least part Poodle! Thankfully, some Doodles are chiller than others. The calmest Doodle breeds still need exercise, but offer more laid-back companionship.

Here are the calmest five Doodles, as well as some tips about which Doodles you really need to avoid if you want a calm pet.

Lets delve into which Doodles are calmest so you can pick your perfect laid back companion.

Here are some other posts that may interest you if you’re looking for calm:

• 9 Calmest Poodle Mixes & How To Choose The Right One For You
• At What Age Do Goldendoodles Calm Down?

Five Calmest Doodle Breeds

1. Cavapoo

Cavapoos, a cross between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Poodle, have been gaining popularity for their unique blend of physical and temperamental traits.

Unlike some other high-energy doodles, Cavapoos often exhibit a more balanced temperament, making them a sought-after choice for families, singles, and seniors alike.

Physical Characteristics of Cavapoos

Physically, Cavapoos are a small to medium-sized hybrid dog, typically weighing between 12 to 25 pounds and standing around 9 to 14 inches tall. Their coat can range from wavy to curly.

Their expressive eyes and adorable face are hard to resist, and their coat colors can vary, including shades like cream, gold, brown, and even multi-colored patterns.

It’s also worth noting that the smaller size of many Cavapoos may contribute to the perception that they are calmer. As with other smaller breeds, their energy can be expended in less obvious and destructive ways, making them appear more laid-back than they actually might be.

Temperamental Traits

When it comes to temperament, Cavapoos are generally known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They are social dogs that love to be around people and are often good with children and other pets.

Unlike some doodles that are bred with high-energy breeds like Golden Retrievers or Boxers, Cavapoos tend to be more laid-back. This is largely because the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is known for its calm and gentle disposition, which often balances out the more energetic traits of the Poodle.

In summary, if you’re looking for a doodle that leans more towards the calm side, a Cavapoo might just be the perfect fit. Their balanced temperament and manageable size make them a versatile and loving companion for various types of households.

2. Maltipoo

Maltipoos, a charming cross between the Maltese and the Poodle, have been capturing hearts with their adorable looks and generally calm demeanor. These hybrid dogs offer a unique combination of physical and temperamental traits that set them apart from other more energetic doodles.

Physical Characteristics of Maltipoos

Maltipoos are typically small dogs, often weighing between 5 to 20 pounds and standing around 8 to 14 inches tall. Their coat is usually soft and can range from wavy to curly, benefiting from the hypoallergenic qualities commonly associated with Poodles.

This makes them a suitable choice for those with allergies. Their coat colors can vary, including shades of white, cream, and even apricot. Their small size and fluffy appearance make them irresistibly cute, and their expressive eyes add to their overall appeal.

Temperamental Traits

When it comes to temperament, Maltipoos are generally known for their affectionate and friendly nature. They are social dogs that enjoy being around people and are often good with children and other pets.

Unlike doodles that are a mix of Poodles and high-energy breeds like Boxers or Golden Retrievers, Maltipoos tend to be more relaxed. This is largely because the Maltese breed is known for its gentle and laid-back disposition, which often complements the more energetic traits of the Poodle.

3. Shoodle

Physical Characteristics of Shoodles

Shoodles, also known as Shih-Poos, are generally small dogs, with weights ranging from 8 to 18 pounds and heights varying between 8 to 13 inches.

Their coat can be a mix of the Shih-Tzu’s long, flowing locks and the Poodle’s curly or wavy fur. This results in a coat that can range from wavy to curly, benefiting from the hypoallergenic qualities commonly associated with Poodles.

This makes them a suitable choice for those with allergies. Coat colors can vary widely, including shades of black, white, brown, and even multi-colored patterns.

Temperamental Traits

When it comes to temperament, Shoodles are generally known for their friendly and social nature. They are usually good with children and other pets, making them excellent family companions.

Shoodles tend to have a more balanced temperament. This is largely due to the Shih-Tzu’s generally calm and friendly nature, which complements the Poodle’s intelligence and activity level.

4. Newfypoo

Physical Characteristics of Newfypoos

Newfypoos are a large hybrid breed, resulting from a mix between a Newfoundland and a Poodle. They typically weigh between 70 to 110 pounds and can stand as tall as 22 to 30 inches.

Their coat is often thick and can range from wavy to curly, sometimes inheriting the hypoallergenic qualities commonly associated with Poodles. Their coat colors can vary, including shades of black, brown, and even gray. Their large size and majestic appearance make them a striking presence, and their expressive eyes add to their overall appeal.

Temperamental Traits

When it comes to temperament, Newfypoos are generally known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They are social dogs that enjoy being around people and are often good with children and other pets.

It’s also worth mentioning that the larger size of Newfypoos may contribute to the perception that they are calmer. Unlike smaller breeds, whose energy can be expended in less obvious and less destructive ways, the calm demeanor of a Newfypoo is often genuine, as they typically require less physical activity to expend their energy.

5. Pyredoodle

Physical Characteristics of Pyredoodles

Pyredoodles are a large to giant hybrid breed, resulting from a mix between a Great Pyrenees and a Poodle. They typically weigh between 85 to 100 pounds and can stand as tall as 25 to 32 inches.

Their coat is often thick and can range from wavy to curly, sometimes benefiting from the hypoallergenic qualities commonly associated with Poodles. Their coat colors can vary, including shades of white, cream, and gray. Their grand size and majestic appearance make them a striking presence, and their expressive eyes add to their overall appeal.

Temperamental Traits

When it comes to temperament, Pyredoodles are generally known for their gentle and protective nature. They are social dogs that enjoy being around people and are often good with children and other pets. The Great Pyrenees breed is known for its calm and watchful disposition, which often complements the more energetic traits of the Poodle.

The Myth of Calm Doodles: Why Finding a Low-Energy Doodle Can Be Challenging

When it comes to doodles, the popular notion that they are inherently calm couldn’t be further from the truth. Doodles are often a mix of Poodles and other dog breeds, and their temperament can vary significantly depending on the traits they inherit from both parents.

The Range of Temperament in Doodle Breeds

One of the key factors that contribute to the temperament of doodles is the breed they are mixed with. For instance, when a Poodle is bred with a calmer dog breed, such as a Shih Tzu or a Newfoundland, the resulting puppies can exhibit a wide range of temperaments.

Some may be very calm, while others could be quite energetic. However, most puppies tend to fall somewhere in the middle of the spectrum, displaying a balanced mix of both calm and energetic traits.

The High-Energy Doodle Dilemma

On the flip side, when you breed a Poodle with another high-energy breed like a Boxer or a Golden Retriever, you’re likely to get a doodle that is anything but calm.

These high-energy doodles are often bursting with enthusiasm and require a lot of physical and mental stimulation to keep them happy. So, if you’re looking for a laid-back, low-energy pet, a Boxerdoodle or a Golden Doodle might not be the best choice for you.

The Illusion of Calmness in Smaller Doodles

It’s also worth mentioning that smaller doodles, such as Toy Poodles mixed with Shih-Tzu (Shih-Poo) or Miniature Schnauzers, may come off as calmer. However, this is often an illusion.

These smaller breeds may simply be less destructive and their energetic behaviors less obvious, not because they are inherently calmer, but because their smaller size allows them to expend their energy in less noticeable ways.

Decidedly NOT Low Energy Doodles

When it comes to doodle dog breeds, not all are created equal in terms of temperament. While some doodles are known for their calm and gentle nature, others are quite the opposite. Here’s a list of some doodles that are generally not considered calm, along with explanations for their energetic dispositions:

Cockapoos (Cocker Spaniel + Poodle)

Cockapoos are a mix of Cocker Spaniel and Poodle, and they often inherit the high energy levels of the Cocker Spaniel.

Irish Setter Mixes (Irish Doodle)

Irish Setters are known for their energetic and playful nature. When mixed with a Poodle, the resulting Irish Doodle often inherits these traits, making them less suitable for those looking for a calm pet.

Sheepadoodles (Old English Sheepdog + Poodle)

Sheepadoodles are a mix of Old English Sheepdog and Poodle. Both parent breeds are known for their high energy levels, making Sheepadoodles one of the most popular doodle breeds that are also quite active.

Bernedoodles (Bernese Mountain Dog + Poodle)

Despite the calm nature of the Bernese Mountain Dog, Bernedoodles can be quite energetic, especially during their younger years. They are often listed among the best doodle breeds for families but require ample exercise.

Aussiedoodles (Australian Shepherd + Poodle)

Aussiedoodles inherit the high energy levels of the Australian Shepherd, making them less than ideal for those looking for a calm dog. They are often used as therapy dogs but require a lot of mental and physical stimulation.

Saint Berdoodles (Saint Bernard + Poodle)

While Saint Bernards are generally calm, the Saint Berdoodle can inherit the Poodle’s energy, making them more active than one might expect.

Double Doodles (Labradoodle + Goldendoodle)

Double Doodles are a mix of two already energetic doodle breeds, making them one of the most active and least calm options available.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the calmest Doodle breeds?

Doodles are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, but some breeds are calmer than others. The Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, and Bernedoodle are all known for being calm and gentle.

Which Doodle breed is known for being the most laid-back?

The Bernedoodle is often considered the most laid-back of all the Doodle breeds. They are known for their calm, gentle temperament and are great with children and other pets.

What is the temperament of a calm Doodle breed?

Calm Doodle breeds are generally friendly, affectionate, and easy-going. They are great family pets and are often good with children and other pets. They tend to be less energetic than other Doodle breeds and are happy to relax and cuddle with their owners.

Are there any Doodle breeds that are particularly good for seniors?

Yes, some Doodle breeds are great for seniors. The Goldendoodle and Labradoodle are both good choices because they are calm, easy to train, and don’t require a lot of exercise. They are also affectionate and make great companions.

Which Doodle breed is the least energetic?

The Bernedoodle is often considered the least energetic of all the Doodle breeds. They are happy to relax and cuddle with their owners and don’t require a lot of exercise. They are also gentle and good with children and other pets.

What are some of the friendliest Doodle breeds?

All Doodle breeds are generally friendly and outgoing, but some are known for being particularly friendly. The Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, and Bernedoodle are all known for being friendly and affectionate. They are great family pets and are often good with children and other pets.

Breed	Calmness Score (out of 10)
Goldendoodle	8
Labradoodle	7
Bernedoodle	9

Note: The calmness score is based on anecdotal evidence and may vary depending on the individual dog.