Labradoodle vs. Goldendoodle: Which is the Perfect Pet?

Choosing the perfect dog for yourself or your family is a big decision. Regarding Doodle breeds, Labradoodles and Goldendoodles are among the most popular choices. Both breeds are hybrids that originated from a mix of Labrador Retrievers or Golden Retrievers and Poodles. However, there are some differences between these two breeds that you should consider when deciding to bring home a new family pet.

In this blog post, we’ll compare the Labradoodle and the Goldendoodle in terms of their personalities, appearance, health, and maintenance. Whether you’re a pet lover or someone interested in buying a Goldendoodle or a Labradoodle, this article will help you decide which breed is right for you.

Personality

The first thing you should consider when choosing a dog is its personality. Luckily, both Labradoodles and Goldendoodles have similar personalities that are affectionate, playful, and intelligent. They are very social dogs, and they enjoy spending time with their owners. However, there are some subtle differences between the two breeds.

Labradoodles are known for their high energy and extreme loyalty. They are great for families with active lifestyles and outdoor activities. They also get along well with children and other dogs. On the other hand, Goldendoodles can be more laid-back and calm. They are better suited to families who prefer a quieter lifestyle but will still step up to the challenge of outdoor activities with the family. They are also great with kids and other pets and make excellent therapy dogs. Goldendoodles have become extremely popular in the last 20 years due to their personalities and overall characteristics. Goldendoodles tend to make friends easier/faster than Labradoodles. Neither are suited to serve as any type of guard dog due to their overly friendly demeanor.

Appearance

The second thing to consider is the appearance of the two breeds. Both Labradoodles and Goldendoodles can come in various sizes, colors and coat types, from curly to wavy, but there are some key differences.

Labradoodles can vary in size, but generally, they are broader in stature than Goldendoodles. They have a more muscular build with a more angular head. They also may have a coarser coat than a Goldendoodle’s coat.

Goldendoodles, on the other hand, have a softer coat that can be more appealing to the touch. They have a round head and usually have a more slender build that can make them a more athletic dog than the Labradoodle.

Health

When it comes to health, both breeds are relatively healthy dogs with few genetic health problems.

Nationwide Pet Insurance even did a study and found Goldendoodles are far less likely to have claims filed for cancer than their parent breeds. However, there are a few diseases that Labradoodles and Goldendoodles could be prone to, just like any other dog breed, pure or mixed.

Labradoodles are more prone to hip and elbow dysplasia as well as eye problems like cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. Goldendoodles could be more prone to heart issues, just like their ancestors, the Golden Retriever. However, all of these issues can typically be avoided simply by working with a breeder that screens their breeding dogs by doing physical and DNA health certifications.

Grooming Maintenance

Both breeds require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and free of tangles and mats. Both need to be brushed regularly and take baths periodically to keep their coats clean and healthy. Both require full brushing at least once a week and occasional baths. Goldendoodles’ coats are usually very plush and soft, with minimal shedding. The reduced shedding of both breeds can be great for people who don’t want the hassle of constantly vacuuming pet hair. Additionally, Goldendoodles have a reputation for being calm, especially the larger varieties. A calmer dog always makes for easier grooming.

The fur texture of a Goldendoodle is typically wavy to loose curls, more like the Golden Retriever parent, which tends to mat and tangle less often than the denser, tighter curled coat of a Labradoodle. This makes brushing and general upkeep less labor-intensive for Goldendoodle owners. While regular grooming is a necessity for both breeds, the Goldendoodle’s coat characteristics can make the grooming process somewhat more straightforward and less time-consuming compared to Labradoodles. Of course, individual experiences may vary based on each dog’s unique coat and the owner’s grooming practices.

Exercise Requirements

Labradoodles and Goldendoodles both require regular exercise as they are energetic breeds, thanks to their Retriever and Poodle parents. However, it is often reported that Labradoodles may require slightly more exercise than Goldendoodles due to the Labrador Retriever’s high energy level and work-oriented background. Labradors were initially bred for physically demanding jobs like retrieving games and assisting fishermen, which makes them naturally active and energetic. Therefore, their crossbreed offspring, Labradoodles, often inherit this high-energy trait. Goldendoodles, while also active and playful, typically have a slightly lower energy level compared to Labradoodles because Golden Retrievers are usually more relaxed and less hyperactive than Labradors. Of course, every dog is an individual, and there can be considerable variation within each breed.

Both breeds have a moderate to high energy level and require daily exercise. They should be walked or provided a playdate for a minimum of 30-60 minutes daily to maintain their health and keep them happy.

Hypoallergenic?

One major advantage of Goldendoodles over Golden Retrievers and Labradoodles over Labrador Retrievers is their hypoallergenic coats. The combination of Poodle hair with Golden Retriever or Labrador Retriever fur results in a low-shedding coat that produces little dander and allergens compared to other dogs making them perfect for people who suffer from allergies or asthma. This makes them much more suitable for households with one or multiple members who have sensitivities or allergies than other breeds, such as Labrador or Golden Retrievers would be. However, it’s important to know what generation is the best for low allergies as an F1 Goldendoodle or Labradoodle is not going to be as hypoallergenic as a multigen who is bred properly.

Life Expectancy

Goldendoodles tend to live longer than Golden Retrievers, and Labradoodles tend to live longer than Labrador Retrievers, often reaching up to fifteen or more years old if cared for properly. Thanks to their hybrid vigor, they’re less prone to genetic diseases associated with purebreds. However, this is largely dependent on the health screening done by the breeder, as crossing two dogs who carry the same disease mutation can result in litters of affected puppies. Hybrid vigor does not cancel out this type of inheritability. Also, as with all breeds of dogs, the smaller the dog, the longer their life expectancy.

Conclusion:

Choosing between a Labradoodle and a Goldendoodle can be a difficult decision due to their similarities, but there are subtle differences that can help make the decision easier. Regardless of which doodle breed you choose, both are great family pets that will give you unconditional love and happiness for years to come. Obviously, after over two decades as a Goldendoodle breeder, we prefer the Goldendoodle. Let us help you find the perfect Goldendoodle puppy to fill your home with joy and happiness.