The difference between Labradoodle and Goldendoodle is not easy to decipher as some people may think. This is because they are two of the most similar and well-known dog breeds worldwide. Everyone seems to want to adopt one of these lovely puppies, which is understandable because of their “teddy bear” looks, warm demeanor, and intellect.
Despite their similarities, there are still some distinctions between Labradoodle vs Goldendoodle, and today we will help you go through them so you can have a clear understanding of their differences. You will be able to choose the ideal Doodle dog breed for your family structure.
The Origins of Labradoodle and Goldendoodle
The Labradoodle puppy is a mix of a Lab Poodle, a hybrid between a purebred Standard Poodle and a purebred Labrador. The Standard Goldendoodle size, on the other hand, is a cross between a purebred Standard Poodle and a purebred Golden Retriever. Because Goldendoodle and Labradoodle are not separate breeds, both hybrids are considered F1 generations.
Common Traits
- Color – There are various variations, including black, white, chocolate, yellow, golden, and other colors.
- Coat – Their coats vary between long, unruly, and short, tightly curled hair, a low shedding type.
- Temperament – Friendly, knowledgeable, and active.
- Training – Eager to please and receptive to tactics for positive reinforcement.
The Difference Between Labradoodle and Goldendoodle
The length, color, and weight of each breed’s coat are its primary distinguishing characteristics, though there are some temperamental variations. Every Doodle dog is unique, based on its parents and good fortune. Let us compare them to one another and see how they compare.
Both doodles occasionally have the term “Australian” in front of them. The Australian Goldendoodles are a cross between an English Goldendoodle and an Australian Labradoodle. Additionally, Australian Labradoodles are a cross between the Poodle and the Labradoodle breeds.
But let us keep things straightforward for the sake of this post!
Appearance
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Labradoodle
Although these two doodles are from similar breeds, they look quite different. They frequently have the same height; Labradoodle canines may weigh more than Goldendoodle canines do. A larger variety of colors and shorter coats are characteristics of Labradoodle canines. Meanwhile, a Golden Goldendoodle is more common than a Golden Labradoodle. A Labradoodle is a better choice if you want a black Doodle, but Goldendoodle canines make more sense if you want a white Doodle dog.
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Goldendoodle
Some breeders claim that a full grown standard Goldendoodle is heavier than an adult Standard Labradoodle, while others assert the exact reverse. In contrast, if both parents for either hybrid canine are full-sized, you may anticipate that a Standard Labradoodle would slightly weigh more than a Standard Goldendoodle when they are adults. Their parents’ body types will have an impact on their size. Therefore, the only way to determine exactly how big their puppies will become is to look at them.
Size
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Labradoodle
Standard Poodles weigh between 40 and 70 pounds, while Labrador Retrievers weigh between 55 and 80 pounds. A Labradoodle at its largest size, then, can weigh 80 pounds. Adults typically range in height from 22 to 24 inches.
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Goldendoodle
Golden retrievers can weigh between 55 and 75 pounds. They, therefore, arrive a little lighter than in a typical Lab. Because both parents are tiny in size than Labs, a Goldendoodle puppy’s average size is going to be smaller. They weigh 75 pounds at their heaviest. But they will only reach a height of about 22 inches. Based on the size of their parent dog, there is a lot of variation.
Giant size – (Goldendoodle vs Labradoodle)
The Giant size Goldendoodle or Labradoodle may be a breed with which you are familiar. In actuality, the term “big dog” is only used to describe canines that weigh more than 100 pounds. Additionally, a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle of the first generation is not likely to experience this. The New Fipoo or Bernedoodle are two of the largest doodle breeds, so they might be a better option if you are searching for a large doodle dog.
When comparing Bernedoodles vs. Goldendoodles, it’s important to note that Bernedoodles are generally known for their calm and easygoing temperament, while Goldendoodles tend to be more energetic and playful, making them ideal for families with children or active individuals. Both breeds are affectionate and great family pets, but their energy levels and sizes may suit different lifestyles.
Colors and Coats – (Goldendoodle vs Labradoodle)
The color and coat difference between Labradoodle and Goldendoodle can be quite complex. To start with, the Goldendoodle and the shaggy Labradoodle can both have a wide range of coats. Their fur can range from being short and curl to being long and fluffy. While this is incorrect, you can understand why some people might refer to a Labrador Poodle combination with medium-coarse curls as a wiry-haired Labradoodle. The poofy Labradoodle puppy can grow up with a rough coat because coarse hair is typical in this breed.
Although individual Goldendoodle coats do differ, coarse hair is slightly less frequent in Goldendoodles. But since it fully depends on the characteristics the puppies acquire from each of their parents, coat quality and curl may be difficult to predict. Their coat color is comparable in this regard. The Standard Poodle’s coat colors span a much wider range. So, to forecast how your puppies will look, look at the precise colors of the parent dogs you are breeding.
Colors included – Both dogs are commonly known for wearing the following solid colors: Brown or chocolate, black, apricot, gray-red, silver, and cream.
It can be more difficult to locate a chocolate Goldendoodle than a Labradoodle with a chocolate color.
Additionally, Goldendoodles in the colors gold, such as cream through red, are typically simpler to locate. Doodles with patches of a coat that are two distinct colors are also common. Poodles are the father of the Parti gene, and Parti doodles can have highly remarkable looks. Then there are rarer color combinations, such as striped variations of a single color, like the elusive chocolate merle Goldendoodle. Meanwhile, it can be slightly hectic to find a black Goldendoodle full grown.
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Labradoodle Coat
The hair of the Labradoodle is often shorter, wiry, and wavy. The colors of coats can differ significantly. Labradoodles frequently come in a variety of hues, including black, white, red, yellow, cream, and chocolate.
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Goldendoodle Coat
The hair of the Goldendoodle is often longer and can be wavy, curly, or straight. The hybrid dog breed’s coat colors tend to stay in the range of gold, caramel, and red, not varying as much from one another.
Temperament
Even in terms of disposition, Labradoodle and Goldendoodle differ from one another. Doodle breeders agree that Labradoodle & Goldendoodle canines both have extreme devotion, affection, and energy, and are outgoing puppies that can make wonderful family companions. However, each hybrid breed has some significant temperament variations if your goal in choosing a doodle is to use your new dog in a particular type of activity, like farming, hunting, service, or therapy dog work.
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Labradoodle
Compared to Goldendoodle dogs, Labradoodle dogs are a little bit more energetic and reserved. In comparison to Goldendoodle dogs, they are typically a little stronger and more energetic. Due to a mix of characteristics, the Labradoodle is a superior choice overall for work on the farm, in the field, or the community. Additionally, breeders favor Labradoodle dogs for work as service dogs, seeing-eye dogs, and guide dogs.
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Goldendoodle
In general, Goldendoodle dogs tend to be more outgoing and less anxious than Labradoodle dogs. They can be the life of the party despite having a lower energy level altogether, thanks to their unwavering pleasure and excitement. Furthermore, even though all puppies inevitably have their moments, they are not typically energetic. Breeders choose Goldendoodle dogs as the best choice for therapy dogs and hospital/nursing home employment due to their sunny, outgoing temperament.
Health Conditions
It is well known that Goldendoodle-Labradoodle mixes are often healthy canines. The health of a puppy from any of the dog’s hybrid dog lines, nevertheless, will depend on the breeder’s testing procedure for the dog’s genetic health. Poodles are susceptible to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation (in small or toy Poodles), (PRA) progressive retinal atrophy, and other eye conditions. Allergies, skin issues, Goldendoodle hypoallergenic issues, and thyroid abnormalities are examples of less serious health issues. Theoretically, the puppies could inherit any health issues from the parent dogs.
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Labradoodle
Certain health issues, such as the following, can be particularly prevalent in Labrador retrievers:
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- The collapse triggered by exercise
- progressive retinal atrophy
- Bloat
- Infected ears
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Goldendoodle
Golden retrievers have a higher risk of developing the following health problems:
- Elbow and hip dysplasia
- Cancer
- Eye problems
- Heart condition
Because Golden retrievers frequently develop cancer, it is important to consider how long the Goldendoodle parent’s family lived. This is because not every Golden retriever has the genes that make them more likely to develop cancer.
Exercise
The exercise requirements for Goldendoodles and Labradoodles are comparable. Although they could have a milder temperament, Goldendoodles have an energy level that is comparable to Labradoodles. Given that they require frequent exercise, both breeds are best suited for active households. Any of these doodles might be a fantastic option if you are searching for a breed that your family or even you can hike with and go on outdoor activities with. These two dogs are quite active, much like most Doodles. They flourish in environments with lots of opportunities to maintain their bodies and mind activities.
Shedding
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Goldendoodle shedding
When a breed is said to as hypoallergenic, it means that they produce less dander, which is the main enemy of your allergies, and shed less than usual. However, allergic responses can still occur in “hypoallergenic” breeds. Even though a parent breed of Goldendoodles is hypoallergenic, they are not entirely blameless. Pet dander is just one of the potential allergens that could cause your allergies to flare up. Others include the fur, saliva, and urine of your dog.
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Labradoodle shedding
Due to their mixed Poodle and Labrador heritage, Labradoodles may shed less frequently than other dog breeds. Because of their lustrous coats, Labradors shed their hair easily. This can occur at any time of the year.
Intelligence and training
Labradoodles and Goldendoodles are both exceptionally intelligent dogs!
Golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers, and Poodle parent dogs are also quite smart. These three parent dogs have strong inborn motivations to work alongside humans in daily life as well as a significant desire to please “their” people. Labradoodles and Goldendoodles may be trained easily as a result, and they pick things up quite quickly. Both dogs react best to constructive training techniques.
Lifespan
When selecting a dog to join your family, you should consider how long they will stay with you. Labradoodle and Goldendoodle mixes can be wonderful family pets. Average lifetime differences between Labradoodles and Goldendoodles are hardly noticeable. According to a study on dog longevity in England, Labrador and Golden retrievers share the same life span of 12.5 years. The average lifespan of poodles was found to be 12 years. The estimated lifespan of a Golden or Labradoodle will vary depending on several factors. However, a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle of average size should anticipate living for about 12 years.
Feeding and Nutrition
They require high-quality food made for energetic breeds because they are similarly sized, active, and intellectual dogs. Select food that has high protein, fat, and low carbohydrates that are designed for larger breeds. Follow the dosage guidelines on the instruction menu but save aside a portion each day to serve as a reward for your dog’s training.
Home Friendliness
These breeds are huge and vivacious, and they do not perform well in a house or a very tiny house. To host one of these Doodles, you ideally need a big house with some outdoor area. Labradoodles and Goldendoodles do not enjoy being kenneled outside all the time. These are amiable dogs that, when separated from their human families, experience tension and separation anxiety. For your dog to feel like a member of the family, he should reside at home with your family.
Pet-friendliness
These two varieties of Doodles get along great with other animals. However, you must properly educate your puppy to not bother the household cat. In this regard, full size Goldendoodle excels while the Labradoodle may be more distant with new pets.
Let us discuss a brief history of these dog breeds.
Their history
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Labrador
The Labrador retriever was developed in Canada. Hunters used them to bring back waterfowl. At the beginning of the 19th century, they were transported from Canada to England. The popularity of the breed soared all over the world. The American Kennel Club recognized this breed in 1903, and in 1917 it received its first registration with the AKC.
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Golden Retriever
In the Scottish Highlands, a man by the name of Lord Tweedmouth was the first to breed the Golden retriever. He wanted to create a new dog breed that would thrive in the arid Highland environment and rocky terrain of Scotland. He combined a Yellow Retriever with a Tweed Water Spaniel to produce this. What we now know as the Golden Retriever was his creation. In 1925, the American Kennel Club officially recognized the Golden Retriever breed. In the 20th century, the Golden Retriever’s popularity in the United States and Canada exploded. Since the 1970s, they have been consistently ranked among the most popular dog breeds worldwide. The Golden Retriever standard in England differs from the Golden Retriever standard in America. English Goldendoodles are therefore bulkier and stockier than American Goldendoodles. They are medium-sized canines that weigh between 55 and 65 pounds for males and 65 pounds for females (female). That is 25–29 kg for men (male) and 29–34 kilograms for women (female).
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Poodle
Poodles are usually linked to France because that country’s canine emblem is a poodle. They were created in Germany, nevertheless, where they were developed to pursue and recover ducks. (Congress Library). Duck hunters admired poodle fur because they believed it protected them from the so-called cold water and allowed them to move with ease. Later, the breed’s goal was changed to becoming a companion dog, and the breed criteria were modified to reflect this new endeavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is a better dog Labradoodle or Goldendoodle?
Goldendoodles can occasionally be too vivacious for timid kids, so keep that in mind. Goldendoodles may bark to express their joy, which might startle little children or disturb their sleep. It is up to you to choose according to your preferences.
2. How can you tell the difference between a Goldendoodle and a Labradoodle?
Labradoodles have higher energy and jumpy personalities which makes them a bit too much of a dog for younger children to deal with.
Goldendoodles are thoughtless in their love for everyone they encounter. In contrast, Goldendoodles are more reserved and wary of strangers and kids.
3. Are Labradoodles calmer than Goldendoodles?
Goldendoodle dogs have a timider attitude towards even strangers and children which makes them calmer than the Labradoodle, and good enough for little children to contend with.
4. Do Goldendoodles shed more than Labradoodles?
Labradoodle dogs shed less than other mixed-breed dogs. Their poodle parentage is to blame for this. Additionally, Labradoodle dogs do not shed seasonally, which often happens in the spring season as the weather changes. Most dog breeds have two coats, or an undercoat as well as a topcoat.
Dogs shed their heavier winter undercoats when the weather warms to create room for their new summer coats. They lose their lighter undercoat as the weather gets colder so they can grow thicker coats for the winter. The Labradoodle has no undercoat. They thus shed less naturally than other breeds.
5. Which doodle needs the least exercise?
The exercise requirements for Goldendoodle and Labradoodle are comparable. Although they could have a milder temperament, Goldendoodle has an energy level that is comparable to Labradoodle.
Conclusion
Looking at the difference between Labradoodle and Goldendoodle, Labradoodle and Goldendoodle can make wonderful companions for both individuals and families. They are pleasant, intelligent, devoted, and loyal. They are eager to please, which facilitates training. Remember that many Golden doodle breeders are hybrids, so even though they may arrive in adorable packaging, it is impossible to determine what is inside.