Labradoodle

Canis Lupus

Last updated: March 24, 2023
Verified by: AZ Animals Staff
© iStock.com/LSOphoto

Friendly and energetic mix-breed!


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Labradoodle Scientific Classification

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Scientific Name
Canis Lupus

Read our Complete Guide to Classification of Animals.

Labradoodle Conservation Status

Labradoodle Locations

Labradoodle Locations

Labradoodle Facts

Diet
Omnivore
Common Name
Labradoodle
Slogan
Friendly and energetic mix-breed!
Group
Hybrid Dog

Labradoodle Physical Characteristics

Skin Type
Hair
Lifespan
12 years
Weight
34kg (75lbs)

Labradoodle as a Pet:

General Health
Energy Level
Shedability
Trainability
Intelligence
Tendency to Chew
Size
Family and kid friendliness
Yappiness / Barking
Moderate
Hypoallergenic
Yes
Separation Anxiety
Moderate
Preferred Temperature
Average climate
Exercise Needs
High
Friendly With Other Dogs
High
Pure bred cost to own
$500 to $2,500
Dog group
Working
Male weight
50-65 lbs
Female weight
50-65 lbs

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The Complete Guide For Owners

Labradoodles are a “designer breed” of dog that is a cross between a poodle and a Labrador retriever.

They sometimes resemble stuffed animals with their sweet faces and curly coats, and their friendly temperaments make them popular pets.

The breed was created in Australia in 1989 by a man named Wally Conron. He originally crossbred the two dogs to create a service dog for a woman whose husband was allergic to the standard Labrador retrievers that are used as guide dogs. Today, they are highly sought after around the world as family pets.

See all of our expert product reviews.

Owning A Labradoodle: 3 Pros And Cons

Pros!Cons!
Great family dogs
Labradoodles — while recently bred — have rapidly gained popularity. A big reason for their growing popularity is the breed’s incredible temperament. Labradoodles are affectionate with families and generally do very well with kids!
Yet, exuberant!
These dogs can be very excitable! This means they can jump around and generally rough house, which can make them a difficult breed to manage around children.
Less shedding!
Labradoodles were first bred to be hypoallergenic guide dogs. This cross-breeding means that Labradoodles often have less shedding than their retriever lineage. However, this doesn’t mean that shedding isn’t a concern with Labradoodles (see the cons side!).
But… Uneven shedding!
While Labradoodles diminish their retriever lineage, they will still shed. If any house members have allergies to retrievers, you’ll want to ensure that a hypoallergenic dog like a Labradoodle doesn’t still have outsized impacts.
(Generally) easy to train
While all dogs are different, Labradoodles are generally easy to train dogs. However, they are an intelligent breed, so be prepared for independence and some stubbornness while training!
And high-energy!
Labradoodles require a good amount of exercise, with young Labradoodles requiring several walks per day. If you’re looking for a more sedentary breed, a Labradoodle may not be right for you!

Size

Large adult labradoodle on leash, walking in the sand

Labradoodles can weigh anywhere from 50 to 65 pounds.

©lyrandian, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons – License

Standard labradoodles should stand about 24 inches tall for a male and 22 inches tall for a female. Both sexes can weigh anywhere from 50 to 65 pounds.



For medium labradoodles, both males and females should stand from 18 to 20 inches tall and weigh 30 to 45 pounds.

Mini labradoodles should be about 15 inches tall and weigh up to 25 pounds.

Health and Entertainment for your Labradoodle

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Height (male)24 inches
Weigh (male)50-65 pounds
Height (female)22 inches
Weight (female)50-65 pounds
Standard Labradoodles

Common Health Issues

Because they are a crossbreed, these dogs can be susceptible to the most common health issues for both Labrador retrievers and poodles. While buying from a reputable and well-established breeder lowers this risk, it’s still smart to be aware of the potential health problems your dog could have in the future.

In particular, they are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. These are joint disorders that happen when the hip or elbow joint is not formed properly. The bones of the joint do not fit together smoothly, and the joint eventually deteriorates, which causes pain and loss of movement.

They may also be at risk for progressive retinal atrophy, which is a degenerative eye disease that ultimately leads to blindness in the dog.

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Progressive retinal atrophy
  • Skin allergies

Temperament And Behavior

Cream Australian Labradoodle puppy playing in the garden with a football in the mouth on the green grass

The Labradoodle does best with plenty of mental stimulation and engagement.

©Angeline Dobber/Shutterstock.com

These dogs are extremely intelligent, incredibly friendly, and full of personality. They are deeply intuitive and social dogs, and these traits mean that they typically do best in active environments with plenty of mental stimulation and engagement.

They have naturally curious and energetic personalities, so they often make great companions for children or adults with active lifestyles. They require a considerable amount of exercise, and they should be given plenty of toys and puzzles when at home so that they do not become bored or restless.

Labradoodles are easy to train and can learn behavior modifications and tricks very quickly. They are also able to adapt well to various types of environments, but it is important to socialize them well as puppies so that they begin using this adaptive trait at a young age.

Check out some incredible facts about Labradoodles.

How To Take Care Of Labradoodles

Food And Diet

As with most dogs, many pet owners say that their labradoodles thrive when fed an all-natural raw diet that is a healthy mix of fats, proteins, and veggies.

If you don’t have the time or inclination to follow a raw diet, you can still find good kibble options that will keep your labradoodle healthy and happy. It’s important to buy food that has a healthy amount of carbohydrates for energy, protein for muscle support, veggies for fiber, and supplements like fish oil and calcium for bone health.

Puppies should be fed on a regular schedule to ensure that they get enough calories and nutrients for healthy growth. Foods that are rich in calcium are especially important for both puppies and mini breeds because they need plenty of bone health support.

To find the most appropriate food for your labradoodle, it’s recommended to work with your vet to formulate a feeding plan that keeps your dog healthy and happy.

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Order food for your labradoodle now here.

Maintenance And Grooming

Adult labradoodle dog sitting by the door

Labradoodles do not shed but they still require maintenance and should be regularly groomed.

©Derek Ramsey (Ram-Man) / CC BY-SA 2.5, Wikimedia Commons – License

These dogs are one of the few furry breeds that specifically do not shed, which means that people with allergies are often able to tolerate them much better than other dogs.

Despite the fact that they do not shed, they do require semi-regular maintenance. They should be groomed regularly so that they stay comfortable. This includes fur trimming, nail trimming, brushing, and an occasional bath.

A-Z-Animals recommends this grooming kit for labradoodles.

Best Overall
oneisall Dog Shaver Clippers

•Sturdy, cordless clippers for dog grooming

•Rechargeable even during use

•Low noise

•Stainless steel blades

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Though for many owners, it is best to take them to an experienced professional groomer so that he or she can properly shape the fur and shave delicate areas.

Training

As mentioned before, this is a highly intelligent breed. They learn quickly, and they have the perfect personality for complex trick training if you desire.

The labradoodle’s inquisitive nature and energetic disposition make these dogs easy and fun to train.

Exercise

white mini labradoodle

Labradoodles are a high-energy breed and should get a good amount of exercise or else they can become bored or restless.

©Lynxs Photography/Shutterstock.com

These dogs are a fairly high-energy breed, so it is important that they get an appropriate amount of exercise. They can become bored or restless somewhat easily, and this can lead to unwanted behaviors such as excessive barking, chewing, or digging.

On average, they do best when they get at least an hour of exercise every day. This includes walking, playing games, and learning tricks. They like active environments, and they do well in situations that have plenty of open space in which to run around and play.

A-Z-Animals recommended the ChuckIt! Sport Ball Launcher for keeping your labradoodle well exercised.

Best Outdoor Ball Launcher
Chuckit! Sport 14S Launcher Tennis Ball Bundle Dog Toy, Small
  • Comes with an ergonomic handle
  • Can throw ball 3 times further
  • Comes with a brightly colored ball
  • Can also use in the pool on warm days
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Puppies

These puppies are often laid-back, playful, and eager to please. The best adult labradoodles are ones that were consistently well-trained from puppyhood, so it’s important for potential owners to understand that raising a labradoodle puppy will require a serious time commitment.

New owners should do plenty of research and consider enrolling their puppies in training classes early on so that they can get the most enjoyment out of their new furry companion.

Labradoodles And Children

Labradoodles are excellent with children. They are a very people-focused breed, and they are both playful and easygoing. Their high-energy nature often pairs well with younger children, and they are extremely sweet and loyal companions throughout their lives. Learn more about the best dog breeds for families with children here.

Dogs Similar To Labradoodles

  • Golden retrievers – They share a similar appearance and temperament. They’re sweet, intelligent, trainable, and well-suited to family life.
  • Labrador retrievers – These dogs also share a very similar temperament and energy level. They’re highly intelligent, trainable, and great with kids. They shed more than labradoodles.
  • Standard poodles – Like labradoodles, poodles are a low-shedding breed. They are extremely smart and obedient. They take time to warm up to new people, but they are friendly and loyal to their families.
  • Frida
  • Wynnie
  • Zane
  • Oz
  • Lila
  • Cooper
  • Pumpkin
  • Basil
  • Ollie
  • Fern

Famous Labradoodles

Labradoodles are a relatively recent breed, but that hasn’t stopped celebrities from shopping up these incredible canines!

  • Jennifer Aniston has a Labradoodle!
  • Tiger Woods is the proud owner of not one… But two labradoodles named Riley and Yogi!
  • And finally, Christie Brinkley has discovered the joy of Labradoodles! Her dog, named Maple Sugar, has graced the cover of several magazines!

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What's the right dog for you?

Dogs are our best friends but which breed is your perfect match?

X-Small
Small
Medium
Large
Xtra-Large

If you have kids or existing dogs select:

Kids
Other Dogs

Should they be Hypoallergenic?

Yes
No
How important is health?
Which dog groups do you like?
How much exercise should your dog require?
What climate?
How much seperation anxiety?
How much yappiness/barking?

How much energy should they have?

The lower energy the better.
I want a cuddle buddy!
About average energy.
I want a dog that I have to chase after constantly!
All energy levels are great -- I just love dogs!
How much should they shed?
How trainable/obedient does the dog need to be?
How intelligent does the dog need to be?
How much chewing will allow?
About the Author

Melissa Bauernfeind was born in NYC and got her degree in Journalism from Boston University. She lived in San Diego for 10 years and is now back in NYC. She loves adventure and traveling the world with her husband but always misses her favorite little man, "P", half Chihuahua/half Jack Russell, all trouble. She got dive-certified so she could dive with the Great White Sharks someday and is hoping to swim with the Orcas as well.

Labradoodle FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

How much does it cost to own a labradoodle?

To purchase a labradoodle puppy from a reputable breeder, it’s common to pay anywhere from $1,200 to $3,000. If you find a labradoodle puppy at a price that is much lower than this, chances are good that it is coming from a puppy mill or an irresponsible breeder.

Most dog owners say that having a dog is more expensive than they initially expected, so it’s important to take ongoing costs of care into consideration. While the exact number may vary, it’s normal to expect to pay as much as $3,000 per year to own a labradoodle.

Are labradoodles good with kids?

Labradoodles are great with kids. They have a playful, energetic and friendly disposition that makes them excellent family pets.

How long do labradoodles live?

The average life expectancy of a labradoodle is about 12 years, but some may live up to 15 years.

What's wrong with labradoodles?

The man who first created the breed in 1989 has expressed regret over his decision. He believes that he opened a “Pandora’s box” in creating designer breeds, and he says there are many “unscrupulous breeders” who intentionally breed these dogs to have undesirable traits or hereditary health issues.

In general, labradoodles are considered to be overall healthy dogs and excellent pets.

Are labradoodles good pets?

Labradoodles were originally bred to serve as guide dogs, which means that they have a sweet, gentle temperament. They are friendly, good with other animals, great with children and highly intelligent. All of these traits make them well-suited to be pets.

What is the difference between a labradoodle and a goldendoodle?

A labradoodle is a cross between a Labrador retriever and a poodle, and a goldendoodle is a cross between a golden retriever and a poodle.

These dogs share many similar traits, but one big difference is in their coats. Labradoodles tend to have thicker, glossier fur and come in a wide variety of coat colors. Goldendoodles tend to have fluffier, wavier curls and typically come in shades of cream, gold and caramel.

Otherwise, their temperaments, grooming needs, life expectancy and overall cost are very similar.

What is an Australian labradoodle?

Australian Labradoodles differ from other labradoodles in that they are a cross between two of the following six approved breeds:

  • Poodle
  • Labrador retriever
  • Irish water spaniel
  • Curly coat retriever
  • American cocker spaniel
  • English cocker spaniel

Australian labradoodles also come in three sizes, including standard, medium and mini. Their average size is similar to other variations of labradoodle.

Are Labradoodles herbivores, carnivores, or omnivores?

Labradoodles are Omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and other animals.

What Kingdom do Labradoodles belong to?

Labradoodles belong to the Kingdom Animalia.

What class do Labradoodles belong to?

Labradoodles belong to the class Mammalia.

What phylum to Labradoodles belong to?

Labradoodles belong to the phylum Chordata.

What family do Labradoodles belong to?

Labradoodles belong to the family Canidae.

What order do Labradoodles belong to?

Labradoodles belong to the order Carnivora.

What type of covering do Labradoodles have?

Labradoodles are covered in Hair.

What genus do Labradoodles belong to?

Labradoodles belong to the genus Canis.

What is an interesting fact about Labradoodles?

Labradoodles are a friendly and energetic mix-breed!

What is the scientific name for the Labradoodle?

The scientific name for the Labradoodle is Canis Lupus.

What's the difference between poodles and labradoodles?

The main difference between a Poodle and a Labradoodle is their parents.

Unlike Poodles, Labradoodles are mixed breeds. They are products of crossing between Labradors and Poodles. For this reason, Poodles are expensive and require a lot of time and attention.

Read about other differences here.

 

What are the key differences between Australian Labradoodles and Labradoodles?

The key differences between Australian Labradoodles and Labradoodles are appearance, characteristics, and health factors.

What is the difference between Aussiedoodle and Labradoodle?

The notable differences are the parent breed, size, life span, and adaptability.

The Aussiedoodle comes from an Australian Shepherd breeding with a poodle, while the Labradoodle comes from a Labrador Retriever and poodle.

What's the difference between a Labradoodle and a Cockapoo?

Labradoodles differ from Cockapoos in their breeding, as Labradoodles are a cross between Labrador retrievers and poodles, while Cockapoos are a cross between poodles and Cocker Spaniels.

What are the differences between Irish Doodles and Labradoodles?

The differences between Irish Doodles and Labradoodles include size, appearance, temperament, trainability, and health issues.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.

Sources
  1. David Burnie, Dorling Kindersley (2011) Animal, The Definitive Visual Guide To The World's Wildlife
  2. Tom Jackson, Lorenz Books (2007) The World Encyclopedia Of Animals
  3. David Burnie, Kingfisher (2011) The Kingfisher Animal Encyclopedia
  4. Richard Mackay, University of California Press (2009) The Atlas Of Endangered Species
  5. David Burnie, Dorling Kindersley (2008) Illustrated Encyclopedia Of Animals
  6. Dorling Kindersley (2006) Dorling Kindersley Encyclopedia Of Animals
  7. Today.com, Available here: https://www.today.com/pets/why-labradoodle-creator-regrets-breeding-frankenstein-monster-t163427
  8. Embrace Pet Insurance, Available here: https://www.embracepetinsurance.com/dog-breeds/labradoodle#:~:text=Labradoodles%20may%20develop%20health%20conditions,Willebrand's%20disease%2C%20a%20bleeding%20disorder.
  9. Vcahospitals.com, Available here: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/progressive-retinal-atrophy-in-dogs

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