Labradoodle Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Labradoodle is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. The cross first drew attention in the late twentieth century when it was promoted as a guide dog for people with allergies, and it has since become a popular family dog with a lively, friendly temperament.

Origins and appearance

Wally Conron, working for a guide dog organization in Australia, is widely credited with popularizing the cross, and he has said he later regretted how the trend grew. Labradoodles vary in size depending on the type of Poodle used, and in coat from straight and smooth to wavy and curly. Colors include cream, apricot, chocolate, black and parti-colored.

Temperament

They are usually friendly, intelligent and energetic. They tend to love people and are often good with children and other pets. They can be exuberant and bouncy. They dislike being left alone and may develop separation problems.

Exercise

They need an hour or more of daily exercise, with walks, swimming, fetch and training. They are athletic and enjoy water. Mental work matters.

Training

They are intelligent and eager to please. Use positive methods, variety and early socialization. Teach polite greetings and a reliable recall. Many excel in obedience and therapy work. See recall training guide.

Coat and grooming

Coats vary. Curly and wavy coats need brushing several times a week and a professional trim every six to eight weeks, while straighter coats shed more. See curly coat dog grooming guide. Clean the ears, trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Both parent breeds have known conditions, and a cross can inherit either. Topics include:

• Hip and elbow dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Eye conditions, such as progressive retinal atrophy
• Ear infections. See dog ear infections
• Skin allergies. See dog skin allergies
• Addison's disease. See Addison's disease in dogs
• Obesity. See obesity risks in dogs

Living with a Labradoodle

They suit active families who enjoy training and outings, and who will keep up with grooming. They do best with company. They are poorly suited to long hours alone or owners wanting a low-maintenance coat.

A typical day

A Labradoodle wants a morning walk or swim, training, play, a rest and an evening outing. Many are calm indoors when exercised.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bouncy and mouthy. Begin socialization, handling and grooming early. Provide chew toys, and avoid heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food, regular grooming, training and vet care. Puppies can be costly. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They are adaptable but may overheat when active in hot weather. Provide shade and water. They travel well when exercised.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include assuming the coat is hypoallergenic, skipping grooming, underexercising and choosing a puppy from a seller who does not test parents.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip, elbow, eye and DNA testing on both parents, and meet them. Be wary of sellers offering many litters or guarantees about coat and allergies.

Coat surprises

Labradoodle puppies in one litter can have different coats, from smooth and shedding to dense and curly. The coat may also change as the puppy matures. People with allergies should spend time with an adult of the type they are considering, and talk to a doctor.

First generation and later generations

A first-generation Labradoodle is a Labrador and Poodle, while later generations breed Labradoodles together. Later crosses may be more consistent in coat in some lines, but variation remains. Breeders use terms differently, so ask what they mean.

Daily care checklist

• A walk, swim or play session.
• Brushing and checking for mats.
• Ear checks, especially after swimming.
• Training or puzzle games.
• Company and a comfortable bed.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Labradoodle suits active, social owners who want a friendly, trainable companion and will groom regularly. It may not suit those wanting a guaranteed non-shedding coat. For its parent breeds, see the Labrador Retriever.

The takeaway

Labradoodles are friendly, energetic and trainable, and they need exercise, grooming, company and carefully chosen breeders.