Key Points
• RVC-led research analysed behaviour across thousands of UK dogs
• Cockapoos and Cavapoos showed higher levels of some undesirable behaviours
• Findings challenge the idea that doodles are “easy family dogs”
• Behaviour is influenced by environment, training, and expectations — not just breed
New research from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has explored behavioural traits in some of the UK’s most popular designer crossbreeds, including Cockapoos, Cavapoos and Labradoodles.
The findings suggest that, in some areas, these dogs may show higher levels of behaviours often described as undesirable when compared with their purebred parent breeds.
What the study looked at
The study analysed behaviour data from thousands of UK dogs, comparing common doodle crossbreeds with their respective progenitor breeds, including Poodles, Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
Researchers assessed a wide range of behavioural traits, including excitability, fear-related behaviours, and responses to everyday situations.
What researchers found
Cockapoos and Cavapoos were found to show higher levels of several behaviours considered challenging by guardians, including traits linked to excitability, fear and reactivity.
Labradoodles showed more mixed results, with some behavioural traits differing depending on which parent breed they were compared against.
Overall, the findings challenge the widespread perception that doodle crossbreeds are consistently easier to train or more predictable in temperament than purebred dogs.
Related research
RVC Study Finds No Health Advantage in Doodles
A 2024 study led by researchers at the Royal Veterinary College and published in PLOS ONE found no clear overall health advantage in Cockapoos, Cavapoos and Labradoodles compared with their purebred parent breeds.
No clear overall health advantage in Cockapoos, Cavapoos and Labradoodles.
Read the previous study on Doodle health
What it means for dog guardians
The results highlight an important point for prospective dog guardians: breed type alone does not guarantee an “easy” dog.
Behaviour is shaped by a combination of factors, including early life experiences, training, environment, and guardian expectations.
Choosing a dog based on assumptions about temperament — particularly those driven by trends or marketing — may lead to mismatches between dogs and homes.
A wider picture
This study sits alongside other recent research exploring the realities behind designer crossbreeds.
A separate RVC-linked study on physical health found little evidence that doodles are healthier overall than their purebred parent breeds, further challenging common narratives around these dogs.
Together, these findings suggest that decisions about bringing a dog into the home are best based on individual needs, lifestyle compatibility, and responsible breeding practices, rather than assumptions about breed labels.
FAQ’s
Are doodles harder to train than other dogs?
Not necessarily. This study suggests some doodle crossbreeds may show higher levels of certain behaviours, but training, environment and individual differences play a major role.
Does this mean doodles are bad family dogs?
No. Many doodles thrive in family homes. The findings simply challenge the idea that they are automatically easier or more suitable than other breeds.
What affects a dog’s behaviour most?
Behaviour can be influenced by pain/illness, genetics, early experiences, socialisation, training and environment.
Read the Study
RVC Behavioural Study Of Doodle breeds
Having behaviour challenges with your doodle? A specialist trainer can help.
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