Top 10 Small Doodles for Families

Introduction: Why Small Doodles Have Taken Over Our Hearts

Have you noticed lately that the dog park feels like a doodle convention? Everywhere you look, Instagram reels, TikTok trends, even your neighbor’s stroller that suspiciously looks like it’s carrying more curls than a baby, small doodles are stealing the spotlight. And for good reason.

Small doodles (those under 30 pounds) are like the Goldilocks dogs of the canine world: not too big, not too tiny, but just right for families who want that sweet mix of cuddly companion and playful sidekick. They’ve got the intelligence of the Poodle and the personality of their other parent breed, which makes them versatile, trainable, and ridiculously photogenic.

But with so many doodle mixes out there, how do you choose? That’s where this guide comes in. I’m diving deep into the top ten small doodles for families, complete with real-life examples, lifestyle tips, and a few laughs along the way.

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Small Doodle Breed Comparison Chart

Doodle Breed	Size (Weight)	Temperament	Energy Level	Grooming Needs	Best Fit For
Cavapoo	8–20 lbs	Gentle, empathetic, affectionate	Low/Moderate	Medium – brushing + pro grooming every 6–8 weeks	Families, therapy roles, apartments
Maltipoo	3–15 lbs	Affectionate, alert, “velcro” dog	Low–Moderate	Medium – fluffy coat, frequent trims	Small households, travel companions
Mini Goldendoodle	20–35 lbs	Social, playful, outgoing	High	High – thick curly/wavy coat	Active families, social households
Poochon	8–18 lbs	Cheerful, mischievous, social	Moderate	Medium–High – curly coat, needs regular cuts	Families wanting a clownish, allergy-friendly doodle
Mini Labradoodle	15–30 lbs	Energetic, trainable, people-pleaser	High	Medium – regular brushing + grooming	Active families, service/therapy roles
Shihpoo	8–18 lbs	Sweet, sassy, adaptable	Low–Moderate	Medium – coat varies from silky to curly	Families wanting a lapdog with personality
Havapoo	10–20 lbs	Loyal, shadow-like, cuddly	Moderate	Medium – regular brushing and trims	Families or singles wanting a constant companion
Yorkipoo	6–15 lbs	Bold, spunky, affectionate	Moderate–High	Medium – silky to curly coat	Apartments, families who love a “big personality” dog
Cockapoo	10–25 lbs	Affectionate, versatile, playful	Moderate	Medium – wavy/curly coat	First-time doodle families, kids + seniors
Mini Bernedoodle	20–45 lbs	Loyal, gentle, calm	Moderate	High – tricolor curly/wavy coat	Families wanting sturdy yet manageable doodle

1. Cavapoo: The Gentle Cuddlebug

If doodles were ice cream flavors, Cavapoos would be vanilla bean, classic, sweet, and universally loved. A mix between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Poodle, Cavapoos bring out the best of both worlds.

They’re known for their gentle and intuitive nature. Families rave about how Cavapoos seem to have a sixth sense for emotions. If your kid is having a bad day, the Cavapoo will be the first to climb into their lap, rest that curly little head, and say, “I’ve got you.”

Cavapoos are also a great size for families, usually between 12 and 20 pounds. Small enough for an apartment, sturdy enough for kids. They don’t need hours of exercise, but they’ll happily trot along to soccer practice or sit through a family movie night with equal enthusiasm.

In 2025, Cavapoos are especially trendy in therapy roles. Schools and libraries are inviting them in as “reading buddies” for kids. Can you imagine a second-grader sounding out words to a Cavapoo with those big, empathetic eyes? Pure magic.

👉 If you want to dive deeper into Cavapoo colors and what they mean, check out my post Cavapoo Colors and What They Mean.

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2. Maltipoo: The Purse-Sized Charmer

Maltipoos are like the carry-on luggage of the doodle world, compact, easy to take along, and surprisingly full of personality. A cross between the Maltese and Poodle, these little fluffballs usually weigh between 5 and 15 pounds.

Don’t be fooled by their small size, though. Maltipoos think they’re running the household. They’ll perch on the back of your couch like royalty, keeping tabs on the whole family. But when it’s time for snuggles, they’re velcro dogs in the best way.

One of the reasons Maltipoos are so popular with families is their adaptability. They’re just as happy living in a Philadelphia apartment as they are roaming a suburban backyard. And since they’re small, they make excellent travel companions. (Yes, you can absolutely find them tucked under airplane seats these days.)

Their coat is usually soft and fluffy rather than tightly curled, which adds to their teddy bear vibe. Families with kids love Maltipoos because they’re affectionate without being overwhelming, and they bring a lot of joy packed into a pint-sized frame.

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3. Mini Goldendoodle: The Social Butterfly

If Cavapoos are vanilla bean, Mini Goldendoodles are cookie dough ice cream, fun, sweet, and with little surprises sprinkled throughout. A smaller version of the classic Goldendoodle, these dogs typically weigh 20–35 pounds.

Mini Goldendoodles are extroverts. They thrive in social situations, whether that’s a bustling park or a backyard barbecue. They’re the doodle that trots around greeting everyone like the host of the party. Families love them because they’re gentle with kids, playful with teens, and welcoming to strangers (your delivery driver will probably know them by name).

They’re also highly trainable. Many Mini Goldendoodles are now stars of agility courses, therapy programs, and yes, even TikTok dance challenges. In 2025, you’ll often see them featured in family lifestyle accounts because they look adorable in matching holiday pajamas.

The tradeoff? They do need regular exercise and mental stimulation. If you’ve got an active family, this doodle will keep up and then some.

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4. Poochon: The Curly Comedian

If you’re looking for a doodle that brings equal parts joy and mischief, meet the Poochon, a cross between the Bichon Frise and the Poodle. Think of them as the stand-up comedians of the doodle world, they’re always ready to make you laugh with their silly antics, head tilts, and playful zoomies around the living room.

Poochons usually weigh between 8 and 18 pounds, making them ideal for families who want a smaller doodle that can still keep up with daily life. They’re affectionate, clever, and oh-so-social. In fact, they often act like they’ve never met a stranger. At the dog park, they’ll happily make friends with every pup and person in sight.

One of the best things about Poochons is their coat. It’s soft, curly, and low-shedding, which makes them a solid option for families with mild allergies. Regular grooming is a must, but many families actually enjoy the fun of choosing a “look” for their doodle, from teddy bear cuts to a fluffier natural style.

Temperament-wise, Poochons are adaptable. They’re just as happy curling up for story time with the kids as they are bouncing around for a game of fetch. Their intelligence means they thrive on training games, and their cheerful personality makes them a delight in households of all sizes.

👉 At Storytail Dogs, we love helping families discover which doodle is the best fit for their lifestyle. While we specialize in red Toy Poodles, Cavapoos, and Maltipoos, we’re always excited to share knowledge about the broader doodle family.

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5. Mini Labradoodle: The Energetic All-Rounder

Think of the Mini Labradoodle as your sporty best friend. A mix of Labrador Retriever and Miniature Poodle, these dogs usually weigh between 15 and 30 pounds.

They’re energetic, playful, and love being part of every family adventure. Whether it’s camping, hiking, or playing frisbee in the backyard, the Mini Labradoodle will be right there with you, tail wagging.

But here’s the kicker, they’re also highly trainable. Labs are people-pleasers, and Poodles are thinkers, so together, you get a dog who’s quick to learn and eager to make you happy. This makes them a favorite for families who want to invest time in training.

Mini Labradoodles are also popular as service and therapy dogs in 2025. Their size makes them easy to manage, but their personalities are big enough to handle real responsibilities. Families love them because they bring both energy and stability to the table.

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6. Shihpoo: The Sweet Lapdog with Spunk

If doodles had a diva of the group, it might be the Shihpoo. A mix between the Shih Tzu and Poodle, these little ones are full of charm and just enough sass to keep things interesting.

Shihpoos usually weigh 8–18 pounds, making them a great option for families who want a smaller companion dog. They’re affectionate and love being part of the family action. But they’re not pushovers, they’ve got a playful streak that makes them fun to have around.

One of the best things about Shihpoos is their adaptability. They can be perfectly content as lap dogs, but they’ll also join in on short walks and playtime with kids. Families who want a low-maintenance but still engaging dog often gravitate toward this mix.

Their coats can vary from silky to curly, and grooming needs depend on which parent they take after. Either way, regular brushing is a must.

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7. Havapoo: The Velcro Dog

The Havapoo, a mix of Havanese and Poodle, is sometimes nicknamed the “velcro dog” because of how much they love to be with their people. And I mean really love it.

These dogs usually weigh 10–20 pounds and thrive on companionship. If you’ve ever wanted a dog who follows you from room to room like a shadow, the Havapoo might be your match.

They’re also wonderfully adaptable. Havapoos are cheerful, playful, and great with kids, but they’re equally suited to quiet homes where they can soak up attention from adults. Their people-pleasing personalities make them relatively easy to train, though they do best with positive reinforcement.

In 2025, Havapoos are gaining traction as emotional support animals. Their calming presence and loyalty make them perfect for individuals or families looking for that extra emotional anchor.

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8. Yorkipoo: Tiny Dog, Big Personality

Don’t let their small size fool you, the Yorkipoo (Yorkshire Terrier + Poodle) is packed with confidence. Usually under 15 pounds, they’re spunky, alert, and always ready for action.

Yorkipoos are often described as “big dogs in small bodies.” They’ll protect your family from the mailman (or at least think they are), bark at squirrels, and strut around the house like they own it. But they’re also affectionate and deeply bonded with their families.

Families love Yorkipoos because they bring a lot of personality without taking up much space. They’re especially great for apartment living, though they’ll need daily walks to burn off energy.

Just be prepared for their boldness, they may try to boss around bigger dogs at the park. (It’s funny until the German Shepherd looks at them like, “Seriously?”)

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9. Cockapoo: The Original Doodle

Before doodles were trendy, there was the Cockapoo. A mix of Cocker Spaniel and Poodle, Cockapoos have been charming families since the 1960s.

Cockapoos are affectionate, playful, and versatile. They usually weigh between 10 and 25 pounds, which puts them right in the sweet spot for many families. Their coats can range from wavy to curly, and their personalities are equally varied, some lean more playful, others more laid-back.

Families love Cockapoos because they’re easy to live with. They adapt well to different lifestyles, get along with kids and other pets, and bring just the right amount of energy. If you want a doodle with a proven track record, the Cockapoo is it.

👉 Curious how Cockapoos compare with Cavapoos? Check out my post on Cavapoo vs Cockapoo.

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10. Mini Bernedoodle: The Gentle Teddy Bear

Last but not least, the Mini Bernedoodle. Picture a living teddy bear with soulful eyes and you’ve got this doodle. A cross between the Bernese Mountain Dog and Miniature Poodle, these dogs usually weigh between 20 and 45 pounds.

Mini Bernedoodles are known for their sweet, loyal personalities. They’re gentle with kids, affectionate with families, and have just enough playfulness to keep things lively.

Their tricolor coats (black, white, and brown) are showstoppers. You’ll get stopped on walks with, “What kind of dog is that?” at least twice a day. Families love them because they’re big enough to feel sturdy but small enough to manage easily.

In 2025, Mini Bernedoodles are trending in therapy work. Their calm, loyal nature makes them a favorite in schools and hospitals, where they bring comfort just by being present.

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Small Doodles at Storytail Dogs

At Storytail Dogs, we’re more than just breeders, we’re matchmakers. Based in Pennsylvania, we specialize in ethical red Toy Poodles with temperaments perfect for therapy, emotional support, or simply being the most lovable companion you’ve ever met.

Our puppies are raised in our home, surrounded by kids and everyday life. From Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) to crate desensitization and socialization, we make sure they get the best start possible. We also temperament-test every litter so we can help families find the right match, not just the cutest face. Because let’s be honest, they’re all cute.

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Conclusion: Which Small Doodles Are Right for You?

So, which doodle will it be? The gentle Cavapoo, the portable Maltipoo, the social Goldendoodle, or maybe the shadow-like Havapoo? There’s no one “best” small doodle breed, it all comes down to your family’s lifestyle, energy level, and what you’re hoping for in a companion.

The beauty of small doodles is that there really is one for everyone. They’re adaptable, loving, and bring so much joy to family life.

👉 If you’re ready to take the next step, check out our current and upcoming litters here: Storytail Dogs Puppies Available.

Because at the end of the day, adding a doodle to your family isn’t just about getting a dog, it’s about writing a new chapter in your family’s story.

Small Doodles Resources

When you’re researching small doodles, it helps to dig into trusted resources beyond breeder sites. The American Kennel Club breed standards are a great place to start if you want to understand where doodles get their Poodle smarts and style. Curious about grooming needs? PetMD’s guide to dog grooming basics breaks down coat care in plain language. And if your heart’s leaning toward a doodle as a therapy or emotional support companion, the Pet Partners Therapy Animal Program is a fascinating look at how these curly-coated charmers are making a difference in schools, hospitals, and communities.

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Best Brushes for Keeping Small Doodles Looking Flawless

If you’ve ever greeted your small doodle only to discover they resemble a tumbleweed after a nap, you know brushing isn’t an optional chore, it’s a mini spa moment. Small doodles come in all kinds of coat textures, wavy, curly, fluffy, and keeping those tangles at bay takes the right tools and a gentle touch.

The other day, I was combing through a Cavapoo’s curls, and honestly, it felt like loitering in a cloud of cotton candy. That’s the vibe we’re going for. A slicker brush helps remove knots, while a comb smoothly finishes and distributes those natural oils. If you’d like to learn which brush works best for your doodle’s unique fur, I dove into all my favorites in this post on the best brush for doodles. Give it a peek, it’s practically a doodle grooming cheat sheet.

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Keeping Small Doodles Coats Gleaming

Let’s be real: small doodle coats are gorgeous, but they can go from dreamy to dreadlock in about 0.3 seconds if you skip the grooming. Cavapoos, in particular, have those soft, wavy curls that basically exist to be touched. Brushing not only keeps them from matting but also fills your lap with the fluffiest fuzz imaginable.

When life’s rushing by and your Cavapoo needs that “just fluffed” look, having a grooming routine you actually enjoy makes all the difference. Want the full lowdown, from brush types to trim tips, for keeping your Cavapoo (or similar small doodle) looking and feeling fabulous? Check out my deep dive in the Cavapoo Grooming Complete Guide. It’s basically a spa day in paragraph form.