Introduction
The Labrador Retriever and the Labradoodle are two of the most popular dog breeds for families and individuals looking for an intelligent, friendly companion. While they share some key traits, there are also some notable differences between these two breeds. This article will compare and contrast Labradors and Labradoodles on a variety of factors to help you determine which one may be the better fit for your lifestyle.
Overview of Labradors
The Labrador Retriever, often referred to as just Labrador or Lab, originated in Newfoundland, Canada in the late 1800s. They were bred as retrieving dogs for duck hunting and assisted fishermen by hauling in nets and fetching ropes. Their friendly, gentle temperament led to them becoming popular family pets and service dogs over time.
Some quick facts about Labrador Retrievers:
- Purebred dog breed recognized by the AKC
- Medium-large size, 21.5-24.5 inches tall at shoulder
- Short, dense, water-resistant double coat that sheds seasonally
- Moderate energy level, require 30-60 minutes of exercise daily
- Excellent family dogs, do well with children
- Intelligent and highly trainable
- Make wonderful service dogs, often used as guide dogs and therapy dogs
- Lifespan of 10-12 years on average
Labradors have a reputation for being one of the best family dogs. They are patient, loyal, and get along well with children and other pets. Their intelligence makes them highly trainable, even as service dogs. However, their high energy level and tendency to be mouthy as puppies make them better suited to families with older children. Their shedding can also be an issue for those with allergies. Overall, Labradors make wonderful pets for active families who have time to exercise them daily.
Overview of Labradoodles
The Labradoodle is a crossbreed that was originally developed in Australia in the 1980s by crossing Labrador Retrievers with Standard Poodles. Wally Conron pioneered early Labradoodle breeding in hopes of creating guide dogs suitable for people with allergies.
Some quick facts about Labradoodles:
- Hybrid dog breed, not recognized by major kennel clubs
- Three sizes: Standard, Medium, and Miniature
- Non- to low-shedding coats, often curly or wavy like a Poodle
- Moderate to high energy level, require 30-60+ minutes of exercise
- Intelligent, friendly, and sociable
- Make good family dogs and service dogs
- Lifespan of 12-15 years on average
While not an officially recognized breed, Labradoodles have become popular family pets and service dogs like their parent breeds. Their intelligence, trainability, and low-shedding coats make them a good choice for many households. However, their grooming requirements are higher than a Labrador’s. Their energy levels can also be mismatched with a less active family. Overall, Labradoodles can make a great pet for the right owner who is prepared to meet their needs.
Shedding and Grooming Needs
One of the biggest differences between Labradors and Labradoodles is shedding and grooming requirements. This is a major factor for many prospective owners to consider.
Labradors
- Shed moderately year-round, more heavily during seasonal “blowing coat” periods
- Require occasional brushing and bathing
- Shed hair can collect on furniture and clothing
- May not be suitable for those with allergies
Labradoodles
- Most have a non- to low-shedding coat more like a Poodle parent
- Require regular brushing and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks
- Shed little to no hair on furniture or owners
- Often tolerated better by those with allergies
Labradoodles’ Poodle ancestry gives them a coat that doesn’t shed much or at all, making them a better choice for those with allergies or who want to minimize hair around the house. However, their coats require much more hands-on grooming to prevent matting. Labrador owners can get by with less frequent brushing and bathing.
Energy Level and Exercise Needs
Both Labradors and Labradoodles are energetic, athletic dogs that require a good amount of daily activity and exercise. However, Labradoodles tend to need more exercise on the whole.
Labradors
- Moderate energy level
- Require 30-60 minutes of exercise daily
- Enjoy activities like walking, hiking, swimming, playing fetch
Labradoodles
- Moderate to high energy level
- Require 30-60+ minutes of exercise daily
- Need vigorous activities like running, swimming, agility
Labradoodles were bred from two energetic working breeds and tend to be higher energy than the calmer Labrador. Labradoodles need active owners willing to provide more intensive and lengthy exercise routines. Labradors can get by with slightly less exercise, making them better suited to moderately active owners.
Trainability
The intelligence shared by both breeds makes Labradors and Labradoodles highly trainable dogs overall. However, Labradors may be slightly easier to train for first-time owners.
Labradors
- Eager to please owners
- Respond well to positive reinforcement training
- Quick to pick up on commands and routines
- Tolerant of mistakes during training
Labradoodles
- Intelligent but can be more stubborn
- Benefit from firm, consistent training
- Can be more difficult for first-time owners
- Require early socialization and training
Labradors were bred as working gundogs reliant on human direction. This gives them a strong desire to cooperate with training. Labradoodles tend to be a bit more independent and headstrong. Their training should start early and be consistent to establish good behavior.
Temperament
Both breeds share the typical friendly, sociable temperament of family dogs. However, Labradors tend to be slightly more laidback and patient than energetic Labradoodles.
Labradors
- Affectionate, gentle, and patient
- Eager to please, love spending time with family
- Excellent with children and other pets
- Can be rambunctious as puppies
Labradoodles
- Affectionate and lively
- Playful, energetic, and mischievous
- Get along well with children and pets
- Require socialization training as puppies
Labradors have a time-tested reputation as a patient, family-friendly breed. Labradoodles exhibit more exuberance and require more training and supervision around children. Both make wonderful family pets, but Labradors edge out Labradoodles when it comes to rock-solid temperament.
Health Issues
As with any breed, prospective owners should be aware of the health issues Labradors and Labradoodles are predisposed to.
Common health issues seen in Labradors:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Eye disorders like cataracts
- Obesity
- Ear infections
- Allergies
Common health issues seen in Labradoodles:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Eye diseases like progressive retinal atrophy
- Von Willebrand’s disease (bleeding disorder)
- Sebaceous adenitis (skin disorder)
- Addison’s disease
Labradors’ health concerns mainly stem from their size and fast growth as puppies. Labradoodles tend to be prone to a wider variety of inherited disorders common to Poodles. Thorough health screening of parents helps minimize risks when getting a puppy of either breed.
Popularity
Labrador Retrievers have topped the AKC’s list of most popular breeds in the U.S. for years. Labradoodles are a newer crossbreed gaining popularity since the 2000s.
Labradors
- #1 most popular breed according to AKC registrations
- Beloved as family pets for decades
- Often recommended as a first dog
Labradoodles
- Not recognized as a breed by major kennel clubs
- Gaining popularity since the 2000s
- Often marketed as hypoallergenic family dogs
While nowhere near as popular as Labradors, Labradoodles have carved out a niche as an allergy-friendly alternative. However, their popularity has led to issues like irresponsible breeding practices. Prospective owners should research breeders carefully.
Cost
The upfront cost of a Labrador vs. Labradoodle differs significantly, mainly thanks to the Labradoodle’s status as a designer crossbreed.
Labrador
- Puppy price range: $500 – $2,000+
- Readily available from many reputable breeders
Labradoodle
- Puppy price range: $2,000 – $5,000+
- Marketed as an exclusive hybrid breed
- Fewer reputable breeders to choose from
Labradoodles often cost two to three times more than a Labrador puppy when purchased from a breeder. Their higher cost is not indicative of quality but rather their popularity and trendiness. Prospective owners should avoid “boutique” breeders charging excessive prices.
Origins
The origins of these two breeds in different countries has shaped their distinctive personalities and appearances.
Labrador
- Developed in Newfoundland, Canada as waterfowl retrievers
- Used by fishermen to haul nets and fetch ropes
- Later made popular as family companions
Labradoodle
- First bred in Australia in the 1980s
- Pioneered as hypoallergenic guide dogs
- Gained fame as the first “designer dog”
Labradors were working dogs bred for obedience and mild temperaments. Labradoodles were envisioned as service dogs with Poodle-like coats. Knowledge of their origins provides insight into their traits and purpose.
Finding a Responsible Breeder
Careful selection of a responsible, ethical breeder is crucial for either breed. Warning signs of irresponsible breeders include:
- Excessive focus on trendy colors, coats, or sizes
- Breeding dogs under 12-18 months old
- Producing many litters per year
- No health testing of parents
- Unable or unwilling to show parents on-site
Reputable breeders focus on health, temperament, and breed standards. They do all recommended health screening and provide proof. Never purchase a puppy without meeting the parents and seeing living conditions.
Adoption and Rescue
Those open to an adult dog can find both Labradors and Labradoodles through breed-specific rescues or shelters. The adoption process includes:
- Application screening
- Home visits
- Meet and greets
- Adoption fee of $50-$500
The rewards of providing a loving home to a dog in need are immense. Rescues enable prospective owners to skip the puppy stage as well. Ask shelters about their adoption process and fees.
The Takeaway
At the end of the day, Labradors and Labradoodles can both make wonderful companions for the right owner. Key differences to consider are shedding and grooming, energy level, cost, and health. Meet both breeds before deciding which is better for your lifestyle. Thoroughly research breeders and rescues when ready to add one of these intelligent dogs to your family!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which breed is better with young children?
A: Labradors are generally recommended over Labradoodles for families with very young children under age 5. Labradors have a more patient, tolerant temperament. Supervision is still required with any dog breed around toddlers.
Q: Are Labradoodles actually hypoallergenic?
A: While many Labradoodles shed less than Labradors, no dog is truly hypoallergenic. Allergies vary by individual. Meet the specific dog before adopting to see if allergies are triggered.
Q: How big do Labradoodles get compared to Labradors?
A: The maximum height is similar between breeds, around 24 inches for a large size. However, Labradors tend to be stockier and weigh more than leaner built Labradoodles. Talk to your breeder about expected adult sizes.
Q: Which breed needs more exercise?
A: Labradoodles typically need more daily exercise and activity compared to Labradors. Labradoodles were bred from two energetic working breeds and tend to be higher energy. Labradors are content with slightly less intensive exercise.
Q: Are there certain colors unique to each breed?
A: Yes, Labradoodles come in a wider variety of colors than Labradors. Labradors are limited to solid black, yellow, or chocolate. Labradoodles can be silver, red, apricot, cream and more multicolored combinations.