Goldendoodle vs Labradoodle:
Goldendoodles and Labradoodles are two of the most popular “doodle” dogs in America. Both are friendly, fluffy, and marketed as family-friendly and low-shedding. But they aren’t the same. If you’re trying to choose between them, understanding the real differences in goldendoodle vs labradoodle can help you find the right dog for your family.
Here are eight key differences, plus tips on choosing a healthy puppy.
What Are Goldendoodles and Labradoodles?
Both are crossbreeds with a Poodle parent:
- Goldendoodle: Golden Retriever × Poodle
- Labradoodle: Labrador Retriever × Poodle
The Labradoodle came first. It was developed in Australia in the late 1980s as a potential guide dog for people with allergies. The Goldendoodle became popular in the 1990s.
Neither is recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club, because they’re crossbreeds, but both are extremely popular family dogs.
8 Key Differences Between Goldendoodles and Labradoodles
1. Temperament
Both dogs are friendly, smart, and social, but there are general tendencies:
- Goldendoodles are often described as especially gentle, affectionate, and eager to please, much like Golden Retrievers.
- Labradoodles tend to be a bit more energetic, athletic, and playful, like Labradors.
Every dog is an individual, and parents’ temperaments matter more than the cross.
2. Size
Both come in several sizes, depending on the size of the Poodle parent:
- Standard Goldendoodle: often 50–90 lbs
- Standard Labradoodle: often 50–65 lbs
- Medium versions: around 30–50 lbs
- Miniature versions: often 15–35 lbs
Standard Goldendoodles can grow slightly larger than Labradoodles on average. Want a smaller dog? See our guide on how big mini Goldendoodles get.
3. Appearance and Coat
Both can have three main coat types:
- Straight coat: more like the Retriever parent, usually sheds more
- Wavy (fleece) coat: loose waves, moderate shedding
- Curly coat: closer to the Poodle, usually sheds the least
Goldendoodles often have a shaggier, “teddy bear” look in golden, cream, or red. Labradoodles come in a wider range of colors, including chocolate, black, and caramel, and often look a little leaner.
4. Shedding and Allergies
Many people choose doodles because they’re described as hypoallergenic. The truth: no dog is 100% hypoallergenic. Shedding varies widely, even within the same litter. Curly-coated dogs and F1B generations (a doodle crossed back to a Poodle) usually shed less.
If you have allergies, spend time with the specific dog before committing.
5. Energy and Exercise Needs
- Goldendoodles: moderate to high energy, and they need about 1 hour of exercise daily.
- Labradoodles: high energy, and they often need 1 hour or more of vigorous activity.
Both love fetch, swimming, hiking, and games that challenge their minds.
6. Trainability
Both are highly trainable thanks to their smart parent breeds. Goldendoodles may be slightly more eager to please, while Labradoodles can be more excitable when young. Positive, reward-based training works best for both. See the AKC’s dog training advice for helpful tips.
7. Health and Lifespan
Both typically live 10–15 years. Common health concerns include:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Eye problems like progressive retinal atrophy
- Ear infections, because of floppy, hairy ears
- Allergies and skin issues
- Certain heart conditions, especially from the Golden Retriever side
Ask breeders for health-testing results for both parents.
8. Grooming
Both need regular grooming:
- Brushing several times a week to prevent mats
- A professional groom every 6–8 weeks
- Regular ear cleaning. See our guide on how to clean dog ears at home.
Curly coats often need more brushing to prevent matting.
Goldendoodle vs Labradoodle vs Bernedoodle
Some families also consider the Bernedoodle (Bernese Mountain Dog × Poodle). Bernedoodles are often calmer and more laid-back, with striking tri-color coats, but they can be stubborn and are sometimes larger.
Which Is Better for Families?
Both can be wonderful family dogs:
- Choose a Goldendoodle if you want a gentle, affectionate dog with a soft teddy bear look.
- Choose a Labradoodle if you’re an active family that wants a playful, athletic companion.
For apartment living, a mini version of either is usually easier. Learn more in our guide to the best dog breeds for apartments.
How to Choose a Healthy Doodle Puppy
- Meet at least one parent, ideally both.
- Ask for health certifications for hips, elbows, eyes, and heart.
- Avoid breeders who always have puppies available or won’t let you visit.
- Consider doodle rescues, since many adult doodles need new homes.
- Expect to pay roughly $1,500–$4,000 or more from a reputable breeder.
Curious about other doodle crosses? Read our comparison of Cavapoo vs Cavachon.
Quick Comparison Summary
- Parent breeds: Goldendoodle = Golden Retriever × Poodle. Labradoodle = Labrador Retriever × Poodle.
- Typical temperament: Goldendoodles are gentle and affectionate. Labradoodles are energetic and playful.
- Common colors: Goldendoodles come in cream, golden, apricot, and red. Labradoodles come in cream, chocolate, black, caramel, and more.
- Standard size: Goldendoodles are often 50–90 lbs. Labradoodles are often 50–65 lbs.
- Lifespan: about 10–15 years for both
- Grooming: high for both, with a professional groom every 6–8 weeks
- Exercise: at least 1 hour daily for both
Daily Life With a Doodle: What to Expect
Both doodles are people-oriented dogs that don’t enjoy long hours alone. Expect a dog that wants to join family activities, greets guests enthusiastically, and needs daily training to learn polite manners. Doodle puppies can be mouthy and bouncy, so early work on calm greetings pays off. Our guide on how to stop dog pulling on leash is a good place to start with leash manners.
Budget for grooming as well. Professional grooming for a standard doodle often costs $80–$150 per visit, depending on where you live. Learning to brush at home between appointments helps prevent painful mats.
Quick Summary
In the goldendoodle vs labradoodle debate, there’s no single winner. Goldendoodles are often gentler and fluffier, while Labradoodles are usually more athletic and come in more colors. Both are smart, friendly, and need regular exercise and grooming. Choose the one that fits your lifestyle, and focus on finding a healthy, well-socialized puppy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which sheds less, a Goldendoodle or a Labradoodle?
Neither consistently sheds less. Shedding depends on coat type and generation, and curly-coated dogs usually shed the least.
Which is bigger, a Goldendoodle or a Labradoodle?
Standard Goldendoodles can grow slightly larger on average, but size varies widely in both.
Are Goldendoodles calmer than Labradoodles?
Goldendoodles are often described as a bit calmer and gentler, but individual personality varies.
Are doodles good for first-time owners?
They can be, thanks to their friendly and trainable nature, but they need lots of exercise, training, and grooming.
What is an F1B Goldendoodle or Labradoodle?
An F1B is a first-generation doodle bred back to a Poodle, which usually makes the coat curlier and lower-shedding.
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