Labradoodles are crossbreeds of Labrador Retrievers and Poodles, while Goldendoodles are a cross between Golden Retrievers and Poodles. These designer dogs share many behavioral, mental, and physical traits, like high intelligence, trainability, and friendliness. But these closely related mixed breeds also have some differences:
Both Labradoodles and Goldendoodles share the same parent breed on one side: the purebred Poodle. As a result, while they share some traits, there are some distinctions as well.
Let’s find out what these furry breeds have in common and how they differ from each other in terms of pedigree, physical traits, personality, popularity, and price.
They primarily differ in parentage. The Goldendoodle is a crossbreed of a purebred Poodle and Golden Retriever, while the Labradoodle is a cross between a purebred Poodle and a purebred Labrador. Both of these hybrids were intended to be hypoallergenic and intelligent companion dogs.
When it comes to hybrids, achieving genetic balance is tricky, so it’s important to see the dominant traits of both parents. That said, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, and the offspring is likely to get similar traits from both parents.
With their adorable looks, smart minds, and affectionate personality, they are two of the most popular dog breeds in the world!
Let’s learn some facts about the parent breeds.
Labrador Retrievers are known for their endurance, swimming skills, and innate retrieving instincts. They are also friendly, loyal, trainable, and versatile.
This breed traces its origin to Newfoundland, Canada, where fishermen bred them as working dogs. They were reliable at retrieving fishing nets, ropes, and fish that escaped from the net. The breed was also used for retrieving game during hunts.
They were brought to England in the early 1800s and soon became popular for their skills, gentle temperament, and adaptability to new environments.
Today, they are family pets, and also used in therapy, search and rescue, or as guide dogs. They make excellent assistance dogs for individuals with disabilities.
The Golden Retriever, originally from mid-19th century Scotland, was brought to England in the early 1900s. It was bred to help hunters retrieve waterfowl and upland game birds. Like the Labrador Retriever, it’s also an excellent swimmer and has a friendly, gentle, and hardworking nature.
Because of how devoted they are, they are used as search and rescue, therapy, guide, and service dogs. They are obedient and agile, traits that make them good family pets.
This iconic breed, known for its distinct curly coiffure, is believed to have originated in Germany. However, it became a cult favorite in France, evolving from a water retriever to a symbol of elegance and companionship, especially for the royalty.
Poodles are highly intelligent and trainable. They are also playful, social, lively, and barely shed. These traits make them a good mating match for the Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever.
The results – smart, reliable, endearing, and hypoallergenic dogs.
While both have similar teddy bear-like faces, Labradoodles have square or rectangular faces with broader muzzles. They also have expressive eyes of various colors.
Goldendoodles on the other hand, have oval faces with narrower muzzles. Their eyes are often round or almond-shaped with dark brown color.
Both breeds have floppy ears. And given their striking resemblance, especially to the untrained eye, distinguishing between Labradoodles and Goldendoodles can be tough.
When it comes to size, both breeds are considered medium dogs. A few inches set them apart, distinguishable only to experts. And their size largely depends on the size of their parents and gender.
Having said that here’s a grown average height chart:
| Size Category | Goldendoodle | Labradoodle |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 20-24 inches | 21-24 inches |
| Medium | 17-20 inches | 18-20 inches |
| Miniature | 13-17 inches | 14-17 inches |
Labradoodles are generally slightly taller than Goldendoodles, but this will depend on their specific breeding lines and the parents’ size. When it comes to their build, Labradoodles are leaner, while Goldendoodles are more plump, making them a bit heavier, but just by a few pounds.
Both mixes shed minimally, thanks to their Poodle ties. However, not all may inherit more of their Poodle parent’s non-shedding trait; some may not be hypoallergenic or not shed minimally.
The general rule that applies to other dog breeds applies to this breed too: the straighter the coat, the more likely it will shed. The curlier, the less chances of it shedding. So, a Goldendoodle’s shedding tendency will depend on which parent’s coat texture and density it takes after.
According to Mike Martinez, owner of Chicago Area Labradors & Labradoodles, “Everybody has different severity of allergies… Some people are more sensitive than others.”
Goldendoodles and Labradoodles each have their own unique “mane attraction.”
Labradoodles sport shorter, straighter, or wavy coats, a nod to their Labrador Retriever roots. When it comes to colors, they are mostly black and gold, but they also come in white, red, chocolate, or cream.
Meanwhile, Goldendoodles usually rock the longer, wavy or curly fur, channeling their inner Golden Retriever ancestry. They come in more varieties of black hues (most common), gold, apricot, tan, cream, white, orange, caramel, red, silver, or gray.
The coat colors depend on their parents and may even result in particolored patterns for some hybrids. Both mixed breeds require regular grooming to keep their coats dust-free, given their outdoorsy, playful nature.
When it comes to personalities, Goldendoodles and Labradoodles are two peas in a pod, thanks to their close-knit family connections.
While both are loyal, friendly, sociable, and eager to please, Labradoodles are a bit more reserved and cautious around strangers. On the other hand, Goldendoodles tend to be more open and trusting.
The three purebreds in the mix are some of the most intelligent breeds around, so it’s hardly surprising to see Labradoodles and Goldendoodles ace learning commands and tricks.
Although they are highly trainable, it’s crucial to give the breeds a dose of early socialization and consistent training to polish their skills as they grow. Keeping at it results in a canine that’s happy to learn and apply what it’s been taught, right from tracking to therapy and everything in between.
Labradoodle vs. Goldendoodle, which breed will adapt to your lifestyle better?
Well, both mixed breeds are playful, active, and resilient! Due to their hardworking, agile, and fun-loving parents, expect them to always be on their toes and ready for action. They love long walks, hikes, playing fetch, swimming, socializing, learning tricks, and other physically and mentally stimulating activities.
But if you want a dog that will be okay with less activities on some days, the Goldendoodle may be more suitable for you.
“Goldendoodles love water, they love to hike, but they also love being a couch potato,” says GANA, Blue Ribbon Breeder, Lynne Whitmire. This is because they have a calm demeanor.
On the other hand, Labradoodles are just a ball of energy and can be too sprightly for your mellow moments.
Sometimes, traits may vary, and Labradoodles may be more laid back, depending on their genetics, age, and individual temperament.
In the Goldendoodle vs. Labradoodle battle of popularity, both are winners.
They are both well-loved because of their parentage and overall endearing character. Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, and Poodle are often among the top five most popular dogs worldwide.
When it comes to price range, Labradoodles and Goldendoodles are similar. Some reports show that Labradoodles are slightly more pricey ($1,200-$2,500) than Goldendoodles ($500-$800). However, prices may vary and be influenced by different factors like the breeder’s reputation, location, coat type, and generation.
Just like their parent breeds, Labradoodles and Goldendoodles are also prone to health issues like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and dilated cardiomyopathy.
Both have an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years, depending on factors like genetics, underlying health conditions, nutrition, physical activity, social environment, and healthcare.
It is essential to prepare the diet exactly as formulated, as it is very dangerous to stray from the diet as nutritional imbalances are likely to occur.” – Jamie Whittenburg, DVM.
Both Labradoodles and Goldnedoodles are:
They both check all the boxes if you are looking for a family pet you can train for a specific purpose. Just ensure you treat them with kindness.
Australian Labradoodles are lesser known. They’re a distant cousin to both the Labradoodle and Goldendoodle.
The difference between Australian Labradoodle and Goldendoodle is that the former is originally bred in Australia, is a bit smaller, and tends to exhibit aggression to dogs of the same gender compared to the more friendly, chill, and social Goldendoodle.
The differences lie in their parentage, size, build, and temperament. Labradoodles are slightly taller and leaner. They are also a bit more reserved and calm. Labradoodles are also generally more pricey, but this may depend on factors like the breeder, coat, and location.
Meanwhile, Goldendoodles are a bit shorter and stockier and tend to be more social and rambunctious, even around strangers.
Both Labradoodles and Goldendoodles make brilliant therapy dogs because of their innate friendly nature. Another important factor is that they are highly trainable.
However, there’s no guarantee that all dogs will pass the training. Qualifying criteria include their temperament, training levels, and the specific requirements of the therapy setting.
Labradoodles and Goldendoodles have similar natures and traits. But their maintenance needs and costs will depend on their coat type, shedding tendencies, health conditions, and activities. If they inherit the Poodle parent’s coat, they are less likely to shed.
It’s best to do your research and check out reputable breeders. Look for breeders that follow ethical breeding practices. This will ensure your pup has the best and most consistent traits.
Science-backed intentional breeding practices that maintain or enhance desirable traits is the best way to ensure the ideal hybrid dog.
In conclusion, both Labradoodles and Goldendoodles have unique and wonderful qualities that make them highly desirable companions. Their hybrid nature allows them to inherit the best traits from their purebred parents, resulting in intelligent, affectionate, and adaptable dogs.
Whether you choose a Labradoodle or a Goldendoodle, you can be assured that you’re welcoming a delightful and cherished member into your family.
Meet Sheryl, a dedicated pet mom with over 20 years of hands-on experience as a pet mom to various dog breeds, from German Shepherds to Shih Tzus. Join her on her pet-centric journey as she aims to empower pet owners with practical tips and guidance. With her experience and passion for pets, she strives to make a positive impact in the lives of pets and their devoted owners.
