Labradoodle — Breed Profile

"Friendly, intelligent, eager to please, playful, affectionate, loyal"

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At a Glance

Weight 30–65 lbs
Height 14–24"
Lifespan 12–16 years
Coat Curly
Group Not AKC Recognized
Origin Australia

Breed Traits

Energy Level
4/5
Trainability
5/5
Kid Friendly
5/5
Shedding
2/5
Barking
3/5
Grooming Needs
4/5
Independence
2/5
Apartment Friendly
2/5
Beginner Friendly
4/5
Dog Friendly
5/5
Stranger Friendly
5/5
Playfulness
5/5

Best For

Active families, allergy-conscious households, first-time dog owners, homes with yards, therapy and service work

Not Ideal For

Apartment dwellers, people unable to commit to grooming, those seeking a truly hypoallergenic dog, sedentary lifestyles

Health Considerations

Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, ear infections, epilepsy

Estimated annual vet cost: $1,000-$1,500

Breed History

Created in 1989 by Wally Conron in Australia to produce a hypoallergenic guide dog by crossing Labrador Retrievers with Standard or Miniature Poodles. Became hugely popular as a designer breed despite mixed coat variability.

Fun Facts

  • Originally called 'Labradoodles' only started gaining popularity after 2003
  • Coat quality varies significantly between litters, not all are hypoallergenic
  • Can weigh 30-65 lbs depending on whether Standard or Miniature Poodle parent was used
  • Their creator, Wally Conron, has expressed regret about unintended consequences of popularizing the breed
  • Often used as emotional support and therapy animals

Famous Labradoodles

Jock the Labradoodle (social media), numerous service and therapy dogs

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