The Labradoodle is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle—two of the most intelligent and people-friendly dogs out there. Originally developed in Australia to be a hypoallergenic guide dog, this designer breed has taken the world by storm thanks to its friendly nature, trainability, and low-shedding coat.
Looking for a dog that’s part cuddle-buddy, part workout partner? The Labradoodle just might be the mix you didn’t know you needed.
Breed Overview
| Trait | Details |
| Breed Purpose | Companion dog |
| Size | Medium to large |
| Height | 21 to 24 inches (53 to 61 cm) |
| Weight | 50 to 75 pounds (23 to 34 kg) |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Coat Type | Wavy or curly, fleece or woolly texture |
| Colors | Cream, apricot, black, chocolate, red, silver, or mixed |
| Temperament | Social, smart, energetic |
| Energy Level | High |
| Exercise Needs | At least 60 to 90 minutes daily |
| Shedding | Low to moderate |
| Trainability | Excellent |
| Average Price | $1,000 to $3,500 |
| Best For | Active homes, allergy-sensitive families, first-time dog owners |
Where Labradoodles Come From
Labradoodles were first bred in the 1980s by Wally Conron in Australia. His goal was to create a guide dog for a visually impaired woman whose husband had dog allergies. By mixing a Standard Poodle with a Labrador, he created a dog that could work—and shed less.
The breed caught on quickly, and today Labradoodles are bred in three sizes (standard, medium, miniature) depending on the Poodle parent. While not officially recognized by the AKC, they are widely loved and bred under ethical guidelines by many breeders.
Appearance
Because they’re a mixed breed, Labradoodles can vary in how they look. Some resemble curly-coated Poodles, others take after the Lab with a shaggier, more relaxed coat. Most fall somewhere in between with soft, wavy fur and an athletic frame.
They tend to have expressive eyes, a slightly broad head, and floppy ears. Their tails are usually long and wag-friendly. Coat colors can include cream, chocolate, apricot, black, and even multi-colored patterns. To learn more about the variety of colors Labradoodles can have, visit our guide on Labradoodle Colors.
Personality and Behavior
These dogs are known for being outgoing and loving. They’re smart and eager to please, which makes them easy to train. Labradoodles love being part of the action, whether it’s a long hike or a chill afternoon on the couch.
They’re typically gentle with kids and can get along well with other dogs and cats if raised with them. But because they crave human interaction, they may struggle with separation anxiety if left alone for too long.
Family Compatibility
Labradoodles make great family pets. They’re patient with children, playful without being too hyper, and adaptable to both house and apartment living—as long as they get enough exercise.
If you’re looking for a family dog that won’t shed like crazy, and that loves to be social, this mix is an excellent choice. If you’re comparing Labradoodles to other popular breeds, check out our detailed guide on Labradoodle vs Goldendoodle.
Training and Activity Needs
Labradoodles thrive on training and mental challenges. Start early, use positive reinforcement, and be consistent. They learn fast and love the structure of obedience classes, agility, and games.
They need at least 60 to 90 minutes of exercise each day. Daily walks, off-leash playtime, swimming, or games like fetch help keep them calm indoors. A bored Labradoodle will find its own entertainment—and you may not like it.
Grooming and Coat Care
Their coat type affects how much grooming they need. Wavy and curly coats are lower in shedding but require more brushing and professional grooming.
- Brushing: 3–4 times per week
- Grooming: Every 6–8 weeks for curly coats
- Ears: Clean regularly to prevent infections
- Nails: Trim monthly
- Teeth: Brush several times a week
Not all Labradoodles are allergy-friendly. F1 (first-gen) crosses may shed more than F1B or multigenerational types. For more tips on how to style your Labradoodle’s coat, check out our guide on Labradoodle Haircuts.
Common Health Issues
Labradoodles are usually healthy, but can inherit conditions from either parent. Watch out for:
- Hip dysplasia
- Ear infections
- Bloat (gastric torsion)
- Allergies or food sensitivities
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Regular vet visits, early health screening, and proper exercise go a long way toward keeping them healthy.
Nutrition and Feeding
Feed your Labradoodle a high-protein, balanced diet based on their size, age, and activity level. Most adults need 2 to 4 cups of dry food per day, divided into two meals.
Avoid overfeeding—they love food and will keep eating if you let them. Use a slow-feeder bowl if your dog eats too quickly.
Cost and Adoption
A Labradoodle puppy from a breeder can cost between $1,000 and $3,500 depending on coat type, generation, and breeder quality. Adopting from a shelter or Doodle-specific rescue may cost $100 to $500.
Keep in mind grooming, food, vet bills, and training add to the total cost of ownership.
Is the Labradoodle Right for You?
This mix is ideal for someone who wants a social, intelligent, and active dog. If you can commit to regular grooming, consistent training, and daily exercise, the Labradoodle will reward you with love and loyalty.
But if you’re gone all day or want a low-energy lapdog, this probably isn’t your best match. They do best with people who enjoy including their dog in daily life. If you’re considering a smaller version of this breed, you might want to learn more about the Mini Labradoodle.