The popularity of poodle mixed breeds has soared in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. These amiable dogs make perfect family pets; they’re full of personality, easy to train, and great with kids.
But it can be tough to know which ‘doodle’ dog to choose. The two most common varieties are the Labradoodle and the Goldendoodle, but do you know the difference between them?
Before you welcome any new four-legged addition to your family, it’s important to research a dog breed’s temperament, habits, and genetic background. Picking the perfect pooch isn’t always easy, but this guide to the most common doodles will give you somewhere to start!
Labradoodle vs Goldendoodle – what’s the difference?
When it comes to differentiating your doodles, the clue is right in the name.
- A Labradoodle is a cross between a Poodle and Labrador Retriever
- A Goldendoodle is a cross between a Poodle and Golden Retriever
Both Labradoodles and Goldendoodles were bred primarily for their coat. This low-shedding breed is generally considered hypoallergenic, so they’re perfect if anyone in the family has trouble with pet hair.
Labradoodles and Goldendoodles also share a very similar pedigree. They’re a mix of a toy breed and a retriever breed, so they have some characteristics in common.
While they may look very similar (especially as puppies), there are several key differences between Labradoodles and Goldendoodles.
Part Poodle
The American Kennel Club first recognized the Standard Poodle in 1887.
It’s known as an athletic dog that’s fiercely loyal, gentle with children, and affectionate.
Poodles can be difficult with other dogs if not properly socialized but are easy to train thanks to their eagerness to please and sharp intelligence.
Retriever pedigree
Retrievers belong to the sporting class of dogs. They love to play and are extremely active and energetic.
This breed is best known for its sociable and friendly temperament. They’re great with kids and other dogs and are extremely devoted to their human families.
Retrievers are America’s most popular dog breeds, beloved for their easygoing attitude and affectionate companionship.
Goldendoodle vs Labradoodle – breed characteristics
Of course, not all dogs are alike. Any dog owner can tell you that they have their own quirks, likes, and habits. That’s what makes them so much fun!
Goldendoodles and Labradoodles are crossbreeds, so they can borrow certain characteristics from the Poodle and either Golden Retriever or Labrador Retriever bloodlines. Sometimes they even develop traits all of their own, unique to the crossbreed.
It’s worth noting that Goldendoodles are sometimes known as Groodles, especially in Australia. Also, the Australian Labradoodle, or Aussiedoodle, is a different breed with its own unique set of genetics.
Labradoodle
Labradoodles are born extroverts. These bundles of fun love to play and are as happy bounding around the backyard as they are curled up at your feet. Labradoodles just want to be with their humans!
Like Labrador Retrievers, they have a calm demeanor and are easy to train. Willing and smart, they’ll pick up tricks quickly and listen to commands attentively.
This is an athletic breed, so they do like lots of exercise. You’ll also need to set some boundaries – Labradoodles are very friendly, so they can get distracted by other people and opportunities to play.
Goldendoodle
Like Labradoodles, Goldendoodles are a curly-haired breed with a thick, wiry coat. They share the Labradoodle’s outgoing personality and high intelligence.
These pups love plenty of input. Get them as a puppy, and they’ll bond for life, easily picking up commands and remaining loyal to their owners.
It’s important to note that on occasion, Goldendoodles can get feisty. They, too, need lots of exercise to curb their energetic nature.
Labradoodle vs Goldendoodle – at a glance
Lifespan – both these breeds live around 10 to 15 years.
Temperament – Labradoodles are friendly, loyal, and easygoing. Goldendoodles are energetic, sociable, and eager to please. Both are intelligent and easy to train as puppies.
Coat – Both breeds have short, curly hair. They are low-shedding and considered hypoallergenic, although you do need to check this with your breeder. Goldendoodles tend to have fluffier and thinner, softer hair follicles than Labradoodles. Both breeds need regular grooming, especially in the warm summer months.
Color – Goldendoodles come in a range of colors, including gold, red, and cream. Labradoodles can be black, white, chocolate, or golden.
Size – There’s not much difference between Labradoodles and Goldendoodles when it comes to size. You can find mini Labradoodles and mini Goldendoodles, measuring up to 17 inches high, while the standard variety is slightly larger, at around 24 inches.
Health – Health issues among dogs are generally genetic. Certain breeds are prone to their own unique conditions. Being hybrids, the doodles can fall prey to any of the issues common to Poodles (such as hip dysplasia and eye disorders). Both Golden Retrievers and Labs can also suffer from the aforementioned issues, along with heart conditions. Good breeders will screen their stock for these sorts of conditions, so always ask for a full medical and genetic history if buying from a kennel.
Labradoodle vs Goldendoodle – which is the right dog for me?
Whether you are leaning towards a Labradoodle or a Goldendoodle, the first rule of dog ownership is to do your research.
Know your breeder and make sure they’re reputable. Sadly the popularity of these two designer dogs has led lots of unscrupulous breeders to enter the market.
Puppy mills and sub-standard kennels aren’t just dangerous and devastating for dogs; they’re also illegal. Ask to see your breeder’s certifications and, if in doubt, do a background check to see if they’re registered and up-to-date with all regulations.
You may also consider getting in touch with your local rescue organization or shelter. When breeds like the doodles become ‘trendy,’ they get scooped up by people unprepared or ill-equipped to take care of a dog, and many end up abandoned or given to shelters.
There’s nothing like saving an animal and giving it the gift of a stable, loving home. Get a rescue Labradoodle or Goldendoodle, and they’ll repay you with love and loyalty for the rest of their life.
Above all, make sure you’re thoroughly prepared for your new family member. Owning a dog isn’t just a fun hobby; it’s a privilege and a responsibility. All breeds have their own needs, and meeting those needs isn’t just a matter of providing food and shelter.
Give your dog a loving home, and you’ll be richly rewarded with plenty of joy, laughs, and special memories!
