Poodle vs Labradoodle: What Are 8 Key Differences?

While both breeds are lovely and are teddy bear-like, the Poodle and Labradoodle have distinct characteristics. As such, prospective dog owners must understand the breeds they are considering to make the best choice for their family or situation. This post will examine eight significant distinctions between the Poodle and Labradoodle in terms of appearance, traits, and health.

Poodle vs Labradoodle: A Comparison 

Key Differences Between Poodle And Labradoodle

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. Other differences are highlighted below.

Poodle vs Labradoodle: Height

Male Standard Labradoodles should be between 21 and 24 inches tall, and females should be between 21 and 23 inches. Male Medium Labradoodles should be between 18 and 20 inches tall, and females should be between 17 and 19 inches.

Sizes of poodles are classified according to the FCI as follows: Standard Poodles are between 15 and 22 inches tall, and the miniatures are in the 11-15 inch range.

Poodle vs Labradoodle: Weight

Adult Standard Poodles weigh 45-70 lbs., Medium Poodles 33-42 lbs., Miniature Poodles 26-31 lbs., and Toy Poodles 14-17 lbs. Medium Labradoodles weigh 30 to 45 pounds, whereas standard Labradoodles weigh 50 to 65 pounds.

Poodle vs Labradoodle: Coat Type

Poodles have a dense, lengthy coat of curly hair. It grows and sheds like human hair. When a Poodle sheds, the hair often re-enters the coat. So, a Poodle doesn’t shed like other dogs.

Labradoodles have a soft, non-shedding fleece coat. Fleece coats come in straight, loose curl, and curly. This coat does require frequent clipping and grooming.

Poodle vs Labradoodle: Colors

Poodles of all sizes are most frequently found in black or white solid hues, but additional solid colors include blue, apricot, brown, cream, red, silver, silver beige, gray, and cafe au lait. Apricot poodles are the world’s most rare breed. This hue is caused by a recessive gene and appears as a very faint red that borders on cream.

Labradoodles come in various hues, including cream, gold/caramel/apricot, black, chalk white, chocolate, blue/brown, parchment, parti-color, phantom, abstract, and red.

Poodle vs Labradoodle: Temperament

Poodles are well-known for their alert, clever, loyal, trainable, active, and instinctive dispositions. They are exceptionally intelligent canines who quickly pick up on commands and tricks. Poodles are incredibly loyal to their family members and build deep ties. They are natural learners, which contributes to the enjoyment of canine training sessions for both the dogs and their owners.

The Labradoodle is an excellent family dog because of its intellect, calm nature, affection, and superb mobility. Indeed, the Labradoodle’s personality is so friendly and social that it is frequently necessary to train them to rein in their youthful exuberance. Unsurprisingly, Labradoodles are so trainable, given the intelligence of both Poodles and Labradors.

Poodle vs Labradoodle: Guarding Behavior

Although both breeds are naturally watchful, the Poodle is slightly more attentive and aware. They make excellent guard dogs, fiercely guarding their area. Be aware that they are a noisy breed that will let you know when they are distressed.

The Labradoodle is an excellent watchdog and will tell you if they sense danger, but they are not as tenacious in guarding their territory. They are also not as vocal as Poodles.

Poodle vs Labradoodle: Life Expectancy

Labradoodles have a longer lifespan when compared to other large dog breeds, averaging 11 years. The Poodle is a healthy breed that lives an average of 12-15 years. Lady, a Poodle, born in 1908, lived to be 28 years old!

Poodle vs Labradoodle: Energy Levels

Poodles are bright, athletic, and sociable animals. They usually play fetch, swim, and participate in other activities alongside their human friends. On most days, a Poodle requires a daily walk, toy play, and some high-energy fun.

Labradoodles are high-energy dogs. They should engage in 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity per day. Labradoodles are intelligent canines that require both mental and physical activity. If they are not engaged, they can become destructive and difficult to handle. Both breeds are extremely gregarious and affectionate.

Wrapping Up Poodle And Labradoodle

Poodles are purebred dogs, but Labradoodles are mixed breeds. Due to their ancestry and the fact that they are a high-maintenance breed of dog, Poodles are more expensive. Additionally, prospective Labradoodle owners regularly make comparisons to their other parent breed, the Labrador Retriever. While hybrid breeds such as the Labradoodle are prone to inherit their parents’ health problems, they can be quite robust and healthy. Both breeds are devoted companions that generally have healthy lives. Either of these animals would make a fantastic companion.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Jne Valokuvaus/Shutterstock.com