Goldendoodle vs. Labradoodle: What's The Difference?

Both the Goldendoodle and Labradoodle are poodle mixes that have been very popular for many years. Yet, what's the difference between these two poodle mixes? Do you want a working dog or a hunting dog? Or maybe you just want a lap dog!

Rover.com explains that the difference between the two depends on the type of dog you're looking for when it comes to companionship:

"If you're looking for a working or hunting dog, a Labradoodle may be better because of its slightly bigger size and higher energy level. Labradoodles are often chosen for service dog work, too. However, Goldendoodles are very popular for therapy dog work, thanks to their outgoing, sunny personalities."

Regardless of which dog you choose, both are adorable.

Breed Origin: Goldendoodle vs. Labradoodle

The Labradoodle:

In 1988, Wally Conron was living in Australia, where he served as head of the Royal Guide Dogs Association. Conron crossbred a standard poodle with a Labrador Retriever, hoping to create a new breed of hypoallergenic guide dogs.

Thus, the Labradoodle was born!.

The Goldendoodle:

Goldendoodles were first bred as a larger type of Cockapoo, which have been popular designer dogs for years. Goldendoodles range in size, depending on the variant of Poodle that the Golden Retriever is crossed with.

Coat Types

The Labradoodle:

They have two coat types; There is a fleece coat type and wool coat type. Both labradoodle breed coat types are beautiful!

The Goldendoodle:

Goldendoodles are typically very light shedders, making them potential matches for people with allergies. They require regular brushing to those coats shining.

Overall Temperament

The Labradoodle:

They are known for their intelligence, calm temperament, and affection. The Labradoodle is a fantastic dog for folks that just want to hang out at home. Experts say they often need to be trained given their zest and excitement for life.

The Goldendoodle:

This dog is highly social and easy to train. They are great for first-time owners and must be properly socialized when they're puppies so they don't portray any fearful behaviors.

Activity Level

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The Labradoodle:

Labradoodles are high-energy dogs that need at least 30 minutes of exercise each day. Like with many breeds, they need exercised so that a bored dog doesn't become a destructive dog.

The Goldendoodle:

They require a moderate activity level, around 20-30 minutes of exercise a day, but are well suited for city or country living. Goldendoodles don't require as much exercise as Labradoodles. Both would be a great addition to your therapy dog team that visits nursing homes. However, they're not great guard dogs!

When it comes to potential health problems, make sure to talk with your breeder about allergic reactions to anything in the environment, progressive retinal atrophy,  elbow dysplasia, and hip dysplasia. Many purebred dogs have possible health issues and mixed breeds do as well as they age.

Similar dog breeds to these two lovers that you may come across are mini Labradoodles or mini Goldendoodles, and also Australian Labradoodles and Standard Labradoodles.

Like with any doodle breeds, the trainability of both of these dogs is off the charts. They are lovable, sociable, trainable, and wonderful family pets. These dogs make fabulous family members so work with a reputable breeder to determine which breed you want to bring home. Either will be the perfect dog!

Do you live with either breed? Share them at our Wide Open Pets Facebook!

This article was originally published August 19, 2020.

READ MORE: Cavapoo 101: The Dog Breed For Your Whole Family!