Which Doodles Like to Cuddle the Most? 4 Options

If you’re looking for a dog that’s part teddy bear, part best friend, and all heart, a doodle breed might just be your perfect match. Doodles—those adorable mixes of Poodles with other breeds—are known for their intelligence, playful nature, and, yes, their cuddly personalities. But let’s face it: not every doodle is equally snuggly. 

"I think there are lots of factors that go into how cuddly a puppy will be as an adult," says Jenna Stone, founder of JennaLee Designer Doodles.

"Yes, some of it is the puppy's innate temperament, but the bond they have with their person is also a big part of how cuddly the puppy may want to be. Additionally, some dogs are more apt to cuddle at certain times of year due to the weather changing or during either their own or their human's emotional changes. Some can be more cuddly after they're a bit tired, like after exercise."

So, which doodles like to cuddle the most? Let’s dive in and meet some of the friendliest, calmest, and most affectionate doodles out there!

TLDR Summary:

• Goldendoodles top the list of snuggliest doodles, thanks to their affectionate, people-loving nature.

• Bernedoodles are serene and gentle lap-lovers, great for families looking for a patient companion.

• Labradoodles mix playful energy with cuddly charm, especially after playtime and exercise.

• Sheepadoodles are big, fluffy cuddle bugs, but they need regular grooming to keep their coats in shape.

• Early socialization and matchmaker breeders can help ensure your doodle is a relaxed, affectionate cuddle buddy.

The Most Affectionate Doodles: Who Loves a Lap the Most?

1. Goldendoodles: The Ultimate Cuddle Buddies

If we’re talking about the friendliest doodles, Goldendoodles take the cake. These golden retriever-Poodle mixes are gentle, loving, and famously attached to their humans. They enjoy being part of the family—whether that means joining in on adventures or curling up on the couch.

Expert Tip: Because Goldendoodles are so people-oriented, they can sometimes get a little too attached. Socialization when they’re young and regular training can help them feel secure even when you’re not around.

Related info:

What do I need to know before buying a Goldendoodle?

Is a Goldendoodle a good house dog?

37 inisightful facts about Goldendoodles?

2. Bernedoodles: Calm and Lap-Loving

Bernedoodles — part Bernese Mountain Dog, part Poodle—are another breed known for their peaceful, warmhearted personalities. They’re often content to lay their head on your lap and watch the world go by. These doodles are especially popular with families thanks to their gentle and tolerant nature.

Heads-up: Bernedoodles can be a bit clingy and sometimes don’t love being alone for long periods. They thrive in homes where someone’s around most of the time.

3. Labradoodles: Playful and Sweet Cuddlebugs

Labradoodles, a Labrador Retriever-Poodle mix, strike a great balance between playful energy and affectionate snuggling. While they’re a bit more active than Goldendoodles or Bernedoodles, many Labradoodles mellow out after playtime and are more than happy to curl up next to you.

Pro Tip: Labradoodles benefit from a daily routine of exercise followed by quality cuddle time to satisfy their need for both mental stimulation and care.

4. Sheepadoodles: The Big-Hearted Fluffballs

Sheepadoodles—Old English Sheepdog meets Poodle—are big on both size and love. These doodles often act like oversized lap dogs, eager to snuggle with their humans. Their easygoing personalities make them a hit with kids and adults alike.

Just a heads-up: Their coats can get pretty shaggy, so regular grooming is a must to keep them looking (and feeling) their best.

Related info:

Are Sheepadoodles good with kids?

What makes Sheepadoodles great pets?

When do Mini sheepadoodles stop growing?

Early Socialization: Setting the Stage for a Relaxed, Cuddly Doodle

No matter which doodle breed you choose, socialization is a game-changer for raising a friendly, tender companion. By introducing your doodle puppy to a wide variety of people, places, and experiences from a young age, you help them build confidence and learn that the world is a safe, fun place to be.

Here’s why that matters: A well-socialized doodle is more likely to be relaxed and playful, rather than shy or anxious. Socialization also helps your dog understand that being close to people—like cuddling on the couch—is a positive experience.

Pro Tip: Enroll your doodle in a puppy kindergarten class, invite friends over to meet them, and expose them to different sounds, sights, and even gentle handling. The more positive experiences they have when they’re young, the more likely they are to grow into a tranquil, cuddly best friend.

Related articles:

Mini Bernedoodles & kids: The role of early socialization

The first 3 things you should train your puppy to do

Dogs, puppies & babies: Best practice for building relationships

How a Matchmaker Breeder Can Help You Find a Cuddly Doodle

Choosing the right breeder can make a huge difference when it comes to finding a doodle with the caring temperament you’re looking for. Some breeders—especially those who use a “matchmaker” approach—take extra care to match each puppy’s personality with the right family.

Here’s how it works:

Temperament Testing: Good dog breeders often perform temperament testing around 7-8 weeks of age, observing each puppy’s behavior in different situations. This helps them identify puppies that are naturally calm, social, or extra snuggly.

Individualized Matching: A matchmaker breeder will get to know your lifestyle, family, and what you’re looking for in a companion. Then, they’ll match you with a puppy whose temperament and energy level fits your home perfectly.

Early Enrichment: Many responsible breeders also incorporate programs like Puppy Culture or Early Neurological Stimulation. These programs build confidence and resilience—traits that contribute to a friendly, affectionate doodle who’s ready to snuggle.

Working with a matchmaker breeder can take some of the guesswork out of finding the perfect doodle and set you up for a long, loving relationship with a dog who’s as cuddly as they are cute.

Tips for Raising a Calm and Cuddly Dog

No matter which doodle you choose, early socialization, training, and plenty of positive experiences around people can help your pup grow into a calm and friendly companion.

"Early, positive socialization performed by an educated and caring breeder can very much affect the outcome of how cuddly a puppy is," says Stone.

"If their first interactions with people are positive ones, they're more apt to form a positive association with trusting people. With trust, dogs will typically become more cuddly. It's similar to humans - most people won't want to cuddle with someone they don't trust!"

Here are a few quick tips:

• Start young: Introduce your doodle to lots of people and new environments when they’re young to build confidence.

• Stay consistent: A serene household routine can help a doodle feel secure and relaxed.

• Daily exercise: Even the chillest doodles need a good walk or play session to keep their energy balanced.

At the end of the day, doodles are known for being affectionate, friendly, and downright snuggly. While some breeds like Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles may top the list of the friendliest doodles, every dog is an individual.

With love, training, and a little patience, your doodle can grow into the perfect lap buddy—ready to shower you with all the love and cuddles you could ask for.

Jenna and the JLDD Team