Goldendoodle vs Labradoodle: What Is the Difference?
By Pat & Sonny Heino, Bittersweet Goldendoodles, Newport NH
We get asked this one a lot. Goldendoodles and Labradoodles are both popular Poodle crosses, and they can look alike. Here is how they differ, and why we have spent 20 years raising Goldendoodles.
What each dog is
A Goldendoodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. A Labradoodle is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. Both aim to combine the friendliness of a retriever with the smart, low-shedding coat of a Poodle.
Both come in different sizes depending on the size of the Poodle parent, from standard down to mini.
Looks and coats
Goldendoodles often have soft, wavy or curly coats in cream, apricot, red and other shades. Labradoodles can have coats that range from wiry to wavy, and come in many colors too.
Coats vary in both crosses, so look at the individual dog. Two puppies from one litter can look different.
Temperament
Goldendoodles are known for being gentle, friendly and especially people-focused. They love being near their families and are often good with children and other pets.
Labradoodles are often energetic, outgoing and eager to work. Both are smart and trainable, and both do best with plenty of exercise and attention.
Shedding and allergies
Both crosses can shed less than many breeds, but neither is truly hypoallergenic. The amount of shedding depends on the coat each puppy inherits.
If allergies are a concern, spend time with the dogs you are considering before you decide.
Training and activity
Both are smart and eager to please. They respond well to positive training and enjoy games, swimming and long walks. Mental exercise is as important as physical exercise.
Our Goldendoodles also make excellent service and therapy dogs, thanks to their calm, friendly temperaments.
Health and care
Both crosses can face issues like ear infections, hip and elbow problems and allergies. Choosing a breeder who works with a veterinarian and offers a health warranty matters more than the breed name.
Both need regular grooming. Plan on brushing several times a week and a professional groom every six to eight weeks.
Why we raise Goldendoodles
After 20 years, we love the Goldendoodle temperament. They fit family life beautifully and are happy dogs to share a home with. We raise them in our house on our 100-acre farm in Newport, New Hampshire.
If you want to meet our dogs, call us at 603-543-7012 and we will set up a visit.
Choosing the right breeder matters more
Whichever cross you like, the breeder makes the biggest difference. Ask where puppies live, what health care they get, whether the parents are known to you and what the warranty covers. A puppy raised in a home with good vet care is a better start than any label.
At Bittersweet we raise our puppies in our home and give each one a vet exam, health certificate and vaccines. We would be happy to talk about the parents with you.
Which one fits your family
Think about what you want day to day. If you want a gentle, people-loving companion that fits family life, a Goldendoodle is a lovely choice. If you want an energetic partner for sports and long outings, a Labradoodle may suit.
Both need exercise, training and grooming, and both thrive on attention. The best dog for you is the one whose size, coat and energy match your life.
Come meet our dogs
The best way to understand the difference is to meet the dogs. Visit our farm in Newport, New Hampshire by appointment and see how a Goldendoodle behaves in a real home.
Call us at 603-543-7012 to book a time. We are glad to answer questions about breeds, sizes and everything in between.
Frequently asked follow-ups
Families often ask which is smarter, which sheds less and which is easier to train. The honest answer is that the individual dog matters more than the cross. Both are smart and trainable, both can shed little or a lot, and both do best with consistency.
If you are still unsure, spend time with each type. A short visit can answer questions that hours of reading cannot.
The bottom line
Both crosses can make wonderful pets. Pick the one whose temperament, coat and size match your home, and pick a breeder who raises puppies with care. Spend time with the dogs, ask good questions and trust how you feel.
If you are leaning toward a Goldendoodle, we would love to meet you. Call 603-543-7012 and set up a visit to our farm in Newport, NH.
Questions to ask about either dog
Ask the breeder about the parents’ health, the coat type you can expect, the size range and the temperament of the parents. Ask what the warranty covers and what support you get after you take your puppy home. The answers matter more than the breed name.
Ready to meet a puppy?
See our available mini Goldendoodle puppies, read the 100 most common Goldendoodle questions, or visit our contact page for directions to the farm. The quickest way to reach us is to call 603-543-7012.