The Labradoodle: thinking of getting a Labradoodle?

Place of origin: Australia

How big do Labradoodles get? 45 – 60cm

How heavy are Labradoodles? 13 – 29kg

Life Expectancy: 12 – 16 years

Types of Labradoodle: sizes, colour and fur-type depends on the type of poodle they’re bred from

Colour: Chocolate, Cafe, Parchment, Cream, Gold, Apricot, Red, Black, Silver, Chalk, Lavender, Blue

Please note: A dog’s exercise, training/stimulation and grooming requirements can depend on several factors such as age and health. The same goes for ongoing costs of ownership. For advice on one specific dog, we always advise chatting with a vet.

How much exercise does a Labradoodle need?

A fair bit. Labradoodles tend to have lots of energy; they’ll gladly accompany their owners on a range of outdoor activities and just like Labradors, they love swimming.

Your Labradoodle’s exact exercise needs will vary depending on their size but overall, if you lead an active lifestyle and want your canine companion to join in, a Labradoodle may be just the pet for you!

Labradoodles can resort to destructive behaviour if they’re allowed to get bored, so they’re not recommended for owners who work long hours or households in which they’re likely to be left alone.

Training: how to train a Labradoodle

Labradors and Poodles are both very intelligent breeds, so a Labradoodle gives you the best of both. They should pick up commands quickly and generally be very easy to train. Labradoodles love play and are typically great with children.

If you’re looking to combine exercise with quality time spent learning tricks and playing games – both inside and outside – a Labradoodle could be your perfect match.

Grooming: do Labradoodles shed?

Some Labradoodles will shed more than others, depending on how much Labrador vs. how much Poodle they inherit. Labradoodles come with 3 different types of coat:

Wool – soft, tight, Poodle-like curls

Fleece – Loose, free-flowing curls, exactly halfway between Labrador and Poodle

Hair – Straight/wavy, like a Labrador’s coat

Their grooming requirements will vary depending on the type of coat, but it’s always good practice to brush your Labradoodle regularly. You’ll only need to bathe them when they’re particularly dirty – or if they’ve swam though a mucky river.

Complete your Labradoodle’s grooming routine with regular tooth brushing, nail clips and ear checks.

Labradoodle temperament, socialising and ideal home environment

Labradoodles are social butterflies. If anyone, whether grown-up, child or other pet, is nice to them, they’ll be nice back, making them perfect family pets.

They’re huge bundles of energy and will accept any offer of exercise or play that you make. If you and your family are looking for a dog to spend lots of quality time with, both inside and out, a Labradoodle may just be the perfect breed for you.

If you live alone and don’t get much free time to walk, you’d be better off with a dog less dependent on physical and mental stimulation. 

Cost of owning a Labradoodle

When you’re considering the lifetime cost of owning a Labradoodle, remember to take into account:

• Breed-specific food
• Veterinary care
• Pet insurance
• Kennels or dog sitters
• Grooming costs
• Toys and equipment

Need more info?

For more info on finding the best dog breed for you and your lifestyle, have a chat with your vet.

Find your nearest vet using our Find a Vet page, or speak to a vet online using Online Vets.