Crossbreeds are always popular, and for good reason – they often combine the best features of both parents. If you’re looking for small poodle mix dogs that are easy to care for and don’t shed, then one of these small poodle breeds might be perfect for you. From maltipoos to schnoodles, there’s a mix out there for everyone. So take a look and see which one is right for you!
What are Mini Poodle Mixes?
A mini poodle mix is simply a cross between a miniature poodle and another purebred dog. These mixes can take on the appearance and personality traits of either parent, so it’s important to do your research before you choose one.
9 Smallest Poodle Mixes
Maltipoo
Average height and weight: 8-14 inches and 4-12 pounds
Coat type: Soft and curly
Temperament: Sweet, loving, and great with kids
Needs: Minimal exercise; can live in an apartment
Description: The Maltipoo is a hybrid breed that combines the best of both the Maltese and the Poodle. They are small dogs that don’t shed, making them a popular choice for people with allergies. These dogs are highly intelligent and very affectionate, making them ideal companions. They are also relatively low-maintenance, as they do not require a lot of grooming. Maltipoos are a popular choice for families with young children, as they are gentle and good-natured.
Maltipoo – Courtesy of Adrian Jimenez via the Creative Common License
Cockapoo
Average height and weight: 13-20 inches and 15-30 pounds
Coat type: Can be straight, wavy, or curly; may be low-shedding or nonshedding
Temperament: Affectionate, intelligent, and playful
Needs: Regular exercise; can live in an apartment
Description: The Cockapoo is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. These dogs are known for being intelligent, affectionate, and easy to train. They are also relatively low-maintenance, as they do not require a lot of grooming. Cockapoos can make great family pets, as they are good with children and other animals. They inherit many Poodle qualities, making them both highly intelligent and also enthusiastic. Because of this, they can have big personalities and occasionally act in a joking manner. But, don’t worry…it’s all good-natured!
Lhasapoo
Average height and weight: 10-16 inches and 10-20 pounds
Coat type: Can be straight, wavy, or curly; may be low-shedding or nonshedding
Temperament: Playful, friendly, and intelligent
Needs: Regular exercise; can live in an apartment
Description: The Lhasapoo is a cross between a Lhasa Apso and a Poodle. These dogs are small but sturdy, making them a good choice for families with children. They are also intelligent and easy to train. Lhasapoos are low-maintenance dogs that do not require a lot of grooming. However, they do need regular exercise, so they are not well-suited for a sedentary lifestyle.
Lhasapoo – Image courtesy of Josh Hinds via the Creative Commons License
Pomapoo
Average height and weight: 8-15 inches and 6-20 pounds
Coat type: Can be straight, wavy, or curly; may be low-shedding or nonshedding
Temperament: Playful, intelligent, and affectionate
Needs: Regular exercise; can live in an apartment
Description: Pomapoos are a mix between Pomeranians and Toy or Miniature Poodles. They typically inherit the best qualities of both breeds, including intelligence, affection, and friendliness. However, if they take after their Pom parent more closely, they may be a bit shyer or reserved around new people. Either way, it’s important to start socializing them early on so that they can adjust well to different situations and become comfortable meeting new people and animals.
Pomapoo – Image courtsey of Andrew Kraker via the Creative Commons License
Peekapoo
Average height and weight: 8-15 inches and 6-20 pounds
Coat type: Can be straight, wavy, or curly; may be low-shedding or nonshedding
Temperament: Playful, intelligent, and affectionate
Needs: Regular exercise; can live in an apartment
Description: Peekapoos are a cross between a Pekingese and a Toy or Miniature Poodle. These dogs tend to be very affectionate and loving, and are highly dedicated to their family. Peekapoos love to be the center of attention and involved in the action, and also love to be treated as a lapdog. They’re gentle, non-aggressive, and are happiest when they get to spend time outdoors.
Peekapoo – Image courtsey of Lindsey B via the Creative Commons License
Poochon
Average height and weight: 8-14 inches and 6-18 pounds
Coat type: Can be straight, wavy, or curly; may be low-shedding or nonshedding
Temperament: Playful, intelligent, and affectionate
Needs: Regular exercise; can live in an apartment
Description: The Poochon is a cross between a Bichon Frise and a Toy or Miniature Poodle. These dogs are known for being intelligent, playful, and affectionate. They are also social dogs and love to be around both people and other animals. Because of this, they do well in households with other pets and children. At the same time, because of their sweet, affectionate nature, they can also do well in single-person households, as long as their owner is prepared to be active with them!
Poochon – Image courtesy of mbtrama via Creative Commons License
Schnoodle
Average height and weight: 15-20 inches and 30-70 pounds
Coat type: Can be straight, wavy, or curly; may be low-shedding or nonshedding
Temperament: Playful, friendly, and intelligent
Needs: Regular exercise; can live in an apartment
Description: The Schnoodle is a cross between a Schnauzer and a Poodle. These dogs are medium to large in size, and they inherit the best qualities of both breeds, including intelligence, playfulness, and friendliness. Their Schnauzer side makes them inherently protective and observant. And their Poodle side makes them extra intelligent and trainable. They are also low-maintenance dogs that do not require a lot of grooming. However, they do need regular exercise, so they are not well-suited for a sedentary lifestyle.
Schnoodle – Image courtesy of seligmanwaite via Creative Commons License
Shihpoo
Average height and weight: 8-14 inches and 6-18 pounds
Coat type: May be straight, wavy, or curly; may be low-shedding or nonshedding
Temperament: Playful, intelligent, and affectionate
Needs: Regular exercise; can live in an apartment
Description: Shihpoos are a cross between Shih Tzus and Toy or Miniature Poodles. In general, they are sociable, friendly, and playful. They enjoy going on walks and playing with their owners or with other dogs, but they also have a moderate energy level, meaning that they can lay on your lap for hours as well.
Shihpoo – Image courtesy of schlossherr helmut via Creative Commons License
Yorkipoo
Average height and weight: 8-12 inches and 5-15 pounds
Coat type: May be straight, wavy, or curly; may be low-shedding or nonshedding
Temperament: Playful, intelligent, and affectionate
Needs: Regular exercise; can live in an apartment
Description: Yorkipoos are a cross between Yorkshire Terriers and Toy or Miniature Poodles. These dogs are small in size, but they have big personalities. They are very playful and loving, but they can also be quite independent. Yorkipoos are also very intelligent dogs that learn quickly. However, they may not be the best choice for first-time dog owners because of their independent streak.
Yorkipoo – Image courtesy of |vv@ldzen via Creative Commons License
How to Care for a Miniature Poodle Mix
As with any dog, it is important to properly care for your miniature poodle mix. This includes providing them with proper nutrition, exercise, and grooming.
1. Proper Nutrition
It is important to feed your miniature poodle mix a high-quality diet that meets their nutritional needs. This may include dry kibble, wet food, or a combination of both. You should also avoid giving them table scraps, as this can lead to obesity and other health problems.
2. Exercise
Miniature poodle mixes are relatively active dogs, so they will need regular exercise. This may include going on walks, playing fetch, or visiting the dog park. It is important to find an activity that your dog enjoys and that you can make a part of your daily routine.
3. Grooming
Miniature poodles have a reputation for being high-maintenance dogs, but this is not necessarily true for all miniature poodle mixes. Some may only require occasional brushing, while others may need to be groomed more frequently. It is important to talk to your vet or breeder to find out how often your particular dog will need to be groomed.
4. Training
Miniature poodle mixes are generally intelligent dogs that learn quickly. However, they may also have a bit of an independent streak. Therefore, it is important to start training your dog as early as possible. This may include basic obedience training, potty training, and socialization.
5. Veterinary Care
As with all dogs, it is important to take your miniature poodle mix to the vet for regular checkups and vaccinations. This will help to ensure that your dog stays healthy and happy for years to come.
Miniature poodle mixes are great dogs for people who are looking for a small, low-maintenance companion. However, it is important to remember that they still require proper care and attention. If you are willing to provide your miniature poodle mix with the love and attention they need, you will be rewarded with a loyal and loving friend for life.