Labradoodle Breed Guide
Also known as: Labrapoodle, Labrapoo
Popular Labrador-Poodle crosses, Labradoodles combine friendly retriever temperaments with low-shedding coats, appealing to those wanting active, allergy-friendly companions.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Medium/large
Weight
22-41 kg
Lifespan
10-16 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Low
Size
Medium/large
Weight
22-41 kg
Lifespan
10-16 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Low
About Labradoodles
The Labradoodle was first developed in Australia during the 1980s by Wally Conron, who crossed Labrador Retrievers with Poodles to create a hypoallergenic guide dog. This crossbreed quickly gained popularity as a family pet due to its combination of the Labrador's temperament and the Poodle's low-shedding coat.
Available in various sizes depending on the Poodle parent (standard, medium, or miniature), their coats can be wavy to curly and come in various colours including cream, gold, red, chocolate, and black.
These dogs are intelligent, friendly, and make excellent family pets. They're generally good with children and other pets, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their coats need regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain their appearance. While generally healthy, they can inherit health issues from both parent breeds including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and certain eye conditions. Early socialisation helps ensure they develop into well-adjusted, confident adults.
Complete Care Guide for Labradoodles
Expert advice on keeping your Labradoodle healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Providing optimal nutrition for your Labradoodle requires careful attention to their unique dietary needs and activity levels. These intelligent, energetic dogs thrive on high-quality protein sources that support muscle development and maintain their characteristic vitality. A well-balanced diet should comprise approximately 25-30% protein from quality sources such as lean meats, fish, or poultry.
Essential fatty acids play a crucial role in maintaining your Labradoodle's distinctive coat and supporting joint health. Including sources rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids helps ensure their coat remains lustrous while promoting skin health and reducing inflammation. Complex carbohydrates from wholesome sources like sweet potatoes and brown rice provide sustained energy for their active lifestyle.
Portion control and age-appropriate feeding are essential considerations. Puppies require more frequent meals with higher protein content, while adult Labradoodles typically do well with two measured meals daily. Senior dogs may need adjusted portions and specific nutrients to support their changing needs. Regular monitoring of your dog's weight and body condition helps maintain optimal health and prevents obesity-related issues.
How healthy is your Labradoodle?
A two minute quiz for your personalised results and health plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Labradoodles from our community of pet parents
Labradoodles are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They are intelligent dogs, which can make them both fun and challenging to train. Despite their playful energy, they also have a gentle side and can be quite sensitive. They are sociable dogs and get along well with families, children, and other pets.
Dog Breeds Similar to Labradoodle
Explore breeds with comparable temperament, size, and care requirements to the Labradoodle
Goldendoodle
Combining Golden Retriever friendliness with Poodle intelligence, Goldendoodles are popular crossbreeds whose low-shedding coats suit many modern households.
Poodle
Intelligent athletes in curly coats, Poodles are versatile, hypoallergenic dogs whose intelligence and trainability make them excellent companions in three sizes.