Puppy guide
Goldendoodle or
Labradoodle?
Both are Poodle crosses known for friendly, family-minded dogs. Here is how the two compare, and why many families choose a Goldendoodle.
A Goldendoodle is a Golden Retriever crossed with a Poodle. A Labradoodle is a Labrador Retriever crossed with a Poodle. Both are bred for a friendly nature and a low-shedding coat, and both can make wonderful family dogs.
Golden Retriever × Poodle
Goldendoodle
Goldendoodles are known for a gentle, people-loving nature and a soft, wavy to curly coat. Golden Retrievers are famously eager to please, which many families find makes training a joy.
Labrador × Poodle
Labradoodle
Labradoodles are energetic, athletic, and outgoing. Labs are a hardworking breed, and Labradoodles often have plenty of stamina for active households. Coats range from loose waves to a flatter, wirier texture.
Side by side
How they
compare.
Temperament
Both are social and friendly. Goldendoodles tend to be described as gentle and affectionate; Labradoodles as high-energy and playful. Individual puppies and their parents vary, so meet the parents when you can.
Coat
Coat depends on generation and on the individual puppy. Goldendoodle coats are often soft and wavy; Labradoodle coats can be wavy, curly, or straighter and coarser. Shedding is lower than in many breeds, but no dog is guaranteed non-shedding or hypoallergenic.
Size
Both come in a range of sizes depending on the Poodle used, from miniature to standard. See our sizing guide for weights by size.
Grooming
Both need regular brushing and professional grooming every several weeks to prevent matting.
Exercise and training
Both are smart and need daily exercise and mental stimulation. Both do best with positive, reward-based training, which you can learn in our training guides.
Health
Responsible breeders of either type test both parents for the conditions common in their breeds. Ask any breeder to show you the results.
Choosing
Which is
right for you?
If you want a gentle family companion with a soft, wavy coat, a Goldendoodle is a lovely fit. If you lead a very active life and want a high-energy partner, a Labradoodle may suit you. In either case, the breeder, the parents’ health and temperament, and the individual puppy matter more than the name of the cross.
At Cocoa Doodles we raise Goldendoodle and Poodle puppies at home in West Michigan. If you are not sure which size or type fits your family, ask us. We are happy to help.
Next step
Meet our
puppies.
See our current and upcoming Goldendoodle and Poodle litters, with their parents, colors, and sizes.
See available puppies →Goldendoodle generations →