The Poodle Half of Your Doodle
Every doodle is genetically half Poodle. Coat color, merle risk, and shade intensity in a Goldendoodle, Cavapoo, or Bernedoodle trace back to the same loci as purebred Poodles.
For breeders, owners, and enthusiasts. Evidence-based genetics, practical breeding tools, and continuously updated scientific resources, all referenced against the current peer-reviewed literature.
Trusted by breeders and owners. Research-backed, referenced to the peer-reviewed literature.
Poodle Genetics Lab was founded on a simple but profound conviction: every breeder deserves access to the same depth of genetic understanding that research scientists possess. For too long, the science of coat color inheritance has been locked behind dense academic papers and fragmented forum posts, leaving breeders to navigate complex decisions with incomplete information.
We synthesize peer-reviewed research on canine genetics, from the TYRP1 gene’s role in brown pigmentation to the nuanced interactions between the E, K, and A loci, and translate it into practical, actionable knowledge, clearly labeling the handful of traits (like progressive greying) where the science is still incomplete. Whether you’re predicting the probability of producing a silver parti poodle or understanding why two “black” dogs can produce a brown puppy, our guides give you the molecular context to make truly informed choices.
Our commitment extends beyond coat color education. We believe responsible breeding includes understanding the health implications embedded in the genome, particularly the serious risks associated with certain genotype combinations like double merle. The same science that produces breathtaking colors can, in the wrong hands, produce preventable suffering. We take that responsibility seriously.
Traced to the literature
Every genetics claim points to a peer-reviewed source, cited on the page.
Rated by strength of evidence
Findings carry an evidence rating, so settled science is never dressed up as an open question, or the reverse.
Corrected in the open
When the science moves or we get something wrong, the page says so, with a date.
No invented numbers
If a statistic cannot be sourced, it does not appear here, however convenient it would be.
Enter the genotypes of both parents and our calculator computes the probability of each coat color outcome, with health risk warnings built in.
An illustrative single-gene example. The full calculator works across every locus at once.
Free to use, no account required
Every doodle is genetically half Poodle. Coat color, merle risk, and shade intensity in a Goldendoodle, Cavapoo, or Bernedoodle trace back to the same loci as purebred Poodles.
Every recognized poodle coat color and pattern, explained by the genetics behind it: 10 solid colors, 9 patterns and markings, and which ones can compete in conformation.
A three-volume reference on poodle genetics: color inheritance, merle and dilution, and inherited health and structure. What's in each book, and which one to start with.
The entire Poodle Genetics series as PDF eBooks, delivered together at checkout — color genetics, merle and dilution, and health and structure. Buying all three direct normally runs $134.97; the bundle is $99.00.
The Poodle Genetics Lab Facebook group is an active, free community for poodle breeders and owners. Share breeding records, ask genotype questions, get feedback from experienced breeders, and stay current with new tools and guides. It’s completely free to join.
Active discussions with breeders and PGL staff
Share litter photos and verify coat color predictions
Weekly Q&A threads on specific loci and phenotypes
First access to new calculator features and guides
Monthly deep-dives into poodle genetics research, new tool updates, reader-submitted breeding questions, and exclusive content for subscribers.