Labradoodle
Updated August 11, 2025
Labradoodle
Updated August 11, 2025
Labradoodles are intelligent, sociable, and joyful dogs, originally bred to be hypoallergenic guide dogs. They excel as family companions due to their gentle nature and trainability, but also require significant exercise and grooming. Their versatility makes them suitable as therapy dogs, assistance dogs, and all-around loving pets.
Intelligent, Friendly, Sociable, Gentle, Energetic
50-65 pounds
21-24 inches
12-15 years
Chalk, Cream, Apricot, Gold, Red, Black, Blue, Silver, Chocolate, Caramel
At a Glance
Maintenance Level
Friendliness
Energy Level
Good with Kids
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About Labradoodle
Labradoodles are intelligent, sociable, and joyful dogs, originally bred to be hypoallergenic guide dogs. They excel as family companions due to their gentle nature and trainability, but also require significant exercise and grooming. Their versatility makes them suitable as therapy dogs, assistance dogs, and all-around loving pets.
What Makes Labradoodles Special
The Labradoodle combines the best of two of the world's most popular breeds: the friendly, easy-going nature of the Labrador and the sharp intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle.
They are known for being sociable, affectionate, and playful, making them an ideal choice for active families, first-time dog owners, and those in need of a therapy or assistance dog. Their loving nature and trainability have made them one of the most popular hybrid breeds.
Labradoodle History & Origin
The Labradoodle was first intentionally bred in the 1980s by Wally Conron of the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia. The goal was to create a guide dog with a hypoallergenic coat for a vision-impaired woman whose husband was allergic to dogs.
The first successful cross was between a Labrador Retriever and a Standard Poodle, resulting in a litter of puppies in 1989.
The breed's popularity grew rapidly, leading to further development by breeders in Australia and beyond.
To achieve more consistent traits, some breeders began multi-generational breeding and introduced other breeds, such as the English and American Cocker Spaniel, into some lines, creating what is known as the Australian Labradoodle.
Despite their immense popularity, Labradoodles are not recognized as a standardized breed by major kennel clubs like the AKC.
The cost for a Labradoodle puppy from a breeder can range from $1,500 to $3,500, depending on the breeder, lineage, and location.
Labradoodle Characteristics
Individual Variation
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Labradoodle Appearance
A Labradoodle's appearance can vary widely, but they are generally athletic and graceful with a joyful expression. Their shaggy, friendly look is a key part of their charm.
Their coat is their most famous feature, coming in a range of colors and textures, from soft waves to tight curls. They carry their tails happily, adding to their cheerful demeanor.
Physical Features
Ears
Floppy ears are set fairly high on the head and hang beside their face, requiring regular checks to prevent infections.
Eyes
Large, expressive eyes convey their intelligence and gentle nature. Eye color is typically brown or hazel.
Nose
The nose is large and can be black or brown, depending on the dog's coat color.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
Labradoodles have a single coat of medium length. The texture can be a hair coat (straighter), a fleece coat (wavy), or a wool coat (curly).
Coat Color
They come in a wide array of colors, including but not limited to cream, gold, red, black, chocolate, silver, and blue.
Tail
The tail is typically long and saber-shaped, carried high when the dog is active or excited.
Labradoodle Temperament
Labradoodles are renowned for their friendly, affectionate, and sociable nature, making them exceptional family pets. They blend the keen intelligence of the Poodle with the outgoing and gentle demeanor of the Labrador Retriever. This makes them highly trainable and eager to please.
Their inherent patience and gentle nature make them wonderful companions for children of all ages. They thrive on human interaction and form strong bonds with their families, often displaying an intuitive and empathetic side.
However, their intelligence also means they require mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Puzzle toys, interactive games, and regular training sessions are essential to keep their minds engaged. A bored Labradoodle can sometimes develop unwanted behaviors.
They are generally outgoing and friendly towards strangers and other pets, especially when socialized from a young age. Their playful and sometimes goofy antics bring a lot of joy and laughter to a household, making them a beloved member of any family.
It is important to remember that as a crossbreed, temperaments can vary. Some may be more reserved like a Poodle, while others are more boisterously friendly like a Labrador.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Labradoodles have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Being a hybrid, they can inherit health problems from both the Labrador Retriever and Poodle parent breeds. Responsible breeders will screen for common genetic conditions.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular vet check-ups, genetic screening through the breeder, proper diet, consistent exercise, and regular ear cleaning.
How to Care for a Labradoodle
Labradoodles are active and intelligent dogs that require consistent exercise, regular grooming to prevent matting, and ongoing training to be happy and well-behaved family members. While they are adaptable, their needs are not low-maintenance.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
Best with a fenced yard but can adapt to an apartment if exercise needs are met.
Climate Adaptability
Adaptable to various climates but should be monitored in extreme heat.
Apartment Living
Miniature Labradoodles are better suited for apartment living than standard ones.
Best Suited For
Perfect for active families or individuals who can provide plenty of attention, exercise, and training.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Requires early socialization, consistent puppy training, and a diet formulated for growth.
Senior Care
May need joint supplements, a less strenuous exercise routine, and more frequent vet check-ups.
First-Time Owner Tips
An excellent choice for novice owners due to their high trainability and forgiving nature.