Many of us welcomed new four-legged family members over the last few years, as the Kennel Club has seen dog ownership soar to record levels.
There are a head-spinning 221 different breeds of pedigree pooches to choose from – from huge hounds to tiny lapdogs – and, just to confuse matters more, there are numerous crossbreeds to consider.
These ‘designer dogs’ aim to combine positive attributes from two different breeds, and the undisputed champion when it comes to crossing canines is the Poodle.
Combining intelligence, an easy-going nature and, crucially, a hypoallergenic coat, the Poodle has been used to create some of today’s most in-demand dogs.
Love Labradors but can’t cope with the shedding hair? No problem – get a Labradoodle.
These are 10 of the most popular Poodle crossbreeds.
Known for their sociability and loveable goofiness, the Bernedoodle is mix of Poodle and Bernese Mountain Dog. The Standard Poodle is most commonly used, but a Miniature Poodle can be substituted to create a smaller dog. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
One of the larger crossbreeds, the Goldendoodle is a mix of Poodle and Golden Retriever and can be one of three different sizes - depending on whether the parent is a Standard, Miniature or Toy Poodle. Combining two of the most intelligent dog breeds, some Goldendoodles are used as service dogs. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
Created by crossing a Poodle with a Yorkshire Terrier, the Yorkiepoo is a tiny dog with a big personality. Ideal for owners who live in a flat, they don't need much space and rarely bark. Photo: Canva/Getty Images