Frequently Asked Questions
Are there differences between the Labradoodle and the Goldendoodle
Simply put, a Labradoodle has the Labrador Retriever as a foundation dog where the Goldendoodle has the Golden Retriever. Both have been bred to the poodle to create the doodle. Size in both breeds is dependent upon the size of the poodle used.. toy, moyen or standard and their specific parentage.
There are minor differences in coats, colors, activity level and disposition.
Regardless, Labradoodles and Goldendoodles both share “the best of the best” qualities found in companion animals.
Both Doodles are:
- Allergy friendly
- Low to no shedding or odor
- Highly Intelligent
- Easy to train
- Loving, gentle and friendly
- Need to be treated as a member of their family- will treat all members equally
- Ideal candidates for therapy and/or service work
- Excellent with autistic children
- Don’t need a college fund
Being in a position of having bred and adored both Labradoodles and Goldendoodles for 16 years, under foot in our home, I have been able to observe our individuals and their puppies. We have multiple generations of both. Therefore, I feel qualified to discuss the differences, however minor they may be.
Coat– As puppies, the Labradoodle and Goldendoodle appear to have similar coats. As adults, generally the Goldendoodle has fluffier longer fur where the Labradoodle tends to have a thicker shorter fur length. Both coats need regular brushing and are as close to non-shedding as you can get.
Labradoodles come in a wider range of colors, where the Goldendoodle is primarily represented by the golden hues and occasionally black.
Disposition- Every dog is an individual however overall, minor differences between the two breeds can be generalized. The Goldendoodle is relentlessly happy and friendly but can be prone to separation anxiety if their family is away. They are natural people pleasers which make them perfect therapy comfort animals.
The Labradoodle tends to be thoughtful and lovingly loyal and can be a bit reserved with strangers. Labradoodles, on the whole, are more focused which is why they make great service companions. Labradoodles are calmer and more even natured.
Both breeds have a considerable amount of energy. However they are willing participants in whatever their family is doing- couching out, napping, riding in a car, or going for a run. They take their cue from you.
Remember- Puppies are puppies whatever the breed and their behavior is usually very similar to a 2 year old human child. As busy, busy little folks, they do not represent the maturity of an adult. They do grow up quickly so enjoy their antics!
The emotional characteristics of the Labradoodle and the Goldendoodle
Both the Labradoodle and Goldendoodle are heralded for a combination of remarkable intelligence and supreme empathy. They have been created to be all-around loving, loyal family companions as well as extremely good service dogs. Their abilities to reason through complex circumstances is truly amazing.
They are sensitive to their owner’s emotions. This emotional connection is complex, especially given the highly empathetic nature of the Labradoodle and Goldendoodle. An excellent National Geographic article on this emotional interaction between human and canine can be accessed here: Canine emotions
They are reading you all the time! Given these wonderful characteristics, owners may find that they are quickly out-foxed by their new canine companion if not trained and properly guided. This is not a huge task- Labradoodles and Goldendoodles are anxious to please and learn incredibly quickly. Thus he is happiest learning and abiding by the proper guidelines. This knowledge brings about self assurance and pure joy. When you are happy with him, he is happy. It’s that simple.
Understanding Sizing- What does small, medium, large mean?
Goldendoodle and Labradoodle size standards have been recognized officially by the major breed clubs and are explained here:
Please note that the final size catagory of a dog will be determined at adulthood and is measured at the withers. (height to top of shoulder; see illustration below).
A breeder is only able to give an educated estimate of a puppy’s mature size. The final size may vary somewhat from our initial calculation.
Goldendoodle Sizes
Petite range: Height- below 14 inches, typically 25 lbs. or less
Miniature range: Height- over 14 but under 17 inches (43cm to 42cm) at wither, typically 26-35 lbs.
Medium range: Height- over 17 but under 21 inches (43cm to 52cm) at wither, typically 36-50 lbs.
Standard range: Height-over 21 inches (53cm to 63cm) at wither, typically 51 lbs. or more
Australian Labradoodle Sizes
As determined by ALAA
At this stage in the breed’s development, the Australian Labradoodle comes in three size ranges. Inter-size breeding is acceptable and expected at the moment.
Miniature range: between 14 and 16 inches (35 t0 42 cm) height at wither, but not more than 17 inches. Typically 25-35 lbs.
Medium range: between 17 and 20 inches (43 to 52 cm) height at wither, but not more than 21 inches. Ideal size for a female is 17 to 19 inches; for a male, 18 to 20 inches. Typically 36-50 lbs
Standard range: between 21 and 24 inches (53 to 63 cm) in height at wither, but not more than 25 inches. Typically 51 lbs. or more
What is GANA and why we belong
The first and only official breed organization dedicated to the Goldendoodle, GANA guides and guards against indiscriminate breeding. Optimum health, soundness, disposition, and protection of our beloved Goldendoodle breed is crucial in today’s world. Unfortunately, internet sales can be unreliable if not downright deceptive. Greed and the fact that Labradoodles, Goldendoodles and many other non-shedding, allergy friendly breeds (that can be more expensive) has promoted unscrupulous breeding practices. This fact alone opens heart breaking abuse of these gentle, intelligent, and loving companions.
We are proud to be a member of this outstanding organization. You and your family can be assured that the Goldendoodle puppy you choose will have the very best start in their journey for a long and healthy life.
“The Goldendoodle Association of North America (GANA)’s primary objective is to promote and guide the development of the Goldendoodle to achieve breed standards while maintaining optimum health. GANA guides breeders to the common goal of establishing reliability in coat, type, health, and temperament. It is imperative that the breed’s ancestry be documented to allow pedigree and health information to be accessed as the breed’s development moves forward. GANA has established a registry that will document this development. Without careful consideration and proper use of the records, the future of the Goldendoodle could be compromised. A Code of Ethics and Accredited Breeder Rules and Requirements have been created to assure that the common goal of the betterment of the breed is followed by all member breeders. Protecting the integrity of the Goldendoodle is in the best interest of all of us as we are the beneficiaries of this wonderful breed.”
