Labradoodle: Temperament, Coat and Everyday Care

A Labradoodle is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. Most are friendly, clever and energetic, needing daily exercise and training. Size depends on the Poodle parent, and the coat can be straight, wavy or curly. Plan for regular grooming and ask for health tests on both parents.

A chocolate Labradoodle with a wavy fleece coat carrying a stick across a field — Part Lab, part Poodle, fully enthusiastic.

A cross, not a breed: expect a range.

Labradoodle at a glance
Size	Small to large, depending on the Poodle parent
Coat	Hair, fleece or wool; regular grooming
Exercise	About an hour or more a day, plus brain work
Good with	Families and other dogs, usually
Parents	Labrador Retriever and Poodle

Who a Labradoodle Suits

Labradoodles are usually sociable and keen to please. They suit active families who enjoy walks, training and play.

They are a harder fit for long days alone and for anyone expecting a guaranteed allergy-free or low-maintenance dog.

Energy and Training

Both parent breeds are clever, working dogs, so plan for daily exercise and training games. Work early on not jumping up and loose-leash walking.

Coat and Allergies

Coats range from shedding "hair" to low-shedding fleece or wool. Curlier coats need brushing several times a week and a groomer every 6–8 weeks. No dog is truly allergy-free. See doodles explained.

Gear for a Labradoodle

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A slicker brush and comb for the coat, a front-clip harness for a keen walker, a puzzle feeder for a clever mind, and a drying towel for muddy days.

Health: What to Ask the Breeder and Your Vet

Ask the breeder for health test results for both parents: the tests recommended for Labradors (such as hip, elbow and eye checks and DNA tests) and for the Poodle side. See our Labrador page for the Labrador tests.

Book a check-up soon after your dog comes home, keep it lean, and ask your vet about vaccinations, neutering and a parasite prevention plan for where you live.

Worming, flea and tick products and any medicines: see your vet or a pet supply store with trained staff. They can tell you what suits your dog.

Frequently Asked Questions

Popular cross, common questions.

Are Labradoodles hypoallergenic?

No dog is truly allergy-free. Some Labradoodles shed little, but meet the dog first if anyone has allergies.

How big will my Labradoodle get?

It depends on the Poodle parent. Ask the breeder about both parents' sizes.

Do Labradoodles need grooming?

Yes. Most need regular brushing and a groomer every 6–8 weeks.

Are Labradoodles good family dogs?

Often, yes, for active families.