Two of the most popular “Doodle” mixed dog breeds are the Labradoodle and the Goldendoodle. At first glance, they may look nearly identical – but our Labradoodle VS Goldendoodle comparison will help you realize they do have a number of differences, certainly more than what you have initially thought!
The most obvious difference is their breed ancestry – Labradoodles are part Labrador and Poodle, while Goldendoodles are a combination of the Golden Retriever and Poodle breed. Labradoodles are also pricier and have a higher energy level than the Goldendoodle.
There’s more to these two adorable Doodles than what meets the eye. Let’s get to know more about these charming pups that will make you fall in love with them!
8. Breed Ancestry
Both Labradoodles and Goldendoodles originated in Australia, although the latter was also first bred in the United States. Breeders were inspired by the popularity of the Labradoodle, which resulted in the birth of the Goldendoodle.
With that being said, the first Labradoodle was bred in 1988. About a couple of years later, the Goldendoodle came out. Until now, these two mixed breeds remain to be seen as some of the most popular Doodles well-loved for their adorable features, endearing personalities, and hypoallergenic coats.
7. Price
Both Doodle breeds can easily cost you upwards of $2,000. But one is slightly cheaper than the other upfront.
To buy a Labradoodle from a reputable breeder, be prepared to shell out about $1,500. You can bring the cost down by adopting one from a shelter. Goldendoodles are a bit cheaper, with a starting cost of $1,000.
6. Health Issue: Skin Irritation
Just as with most dogs that have thick coats, skin irritation is a common health issue. But the type of skin-related health concerns with a Labradoodle and Goldendoodle differs.
For instance, Labradoodles are prone to allergic dermatitis due to food or environmental allergies or flea issues. Goldendoodles, on the other hand, may suffer from allergic dermatitis, as well as pododermatitis or an inflammation of the paw affecting the nails and feet.
5. Appearance: Height
A purebred Labrador is taller than a Golden Retriever, standing at 22 inches at the shoulder compared with the latter’s 20 inches. So it’s expected that the Labradoodle is taller than the Goldendoodle.
But then again, there are also different Doodle sizes of these mixed breeds, such as the standard, medium, and miniature. Nevertheless, Labradoodles still tower slightly over Goldendoodles simply because of their larger parent.
4. Appearance: Weight
Although Labradoodles are a tad taller than Goldendoodles, the latter have larger bones and muscles, making them heavier in comparison. The standard variety of a Goldendoodle weighs an average of 55 lbs and goes as heavy as 70 lbs.
On the other hand, Labradoodles are a smidge lighter at 50 lbs to as much as 65 lbs. There are also medium-sized Labradoodles that barely exceed 40 lbs in weight.
3. Energy Level
Purebred Labradors are known for their upbeat personality and high energy level. So it only follows that Labradoodles are just as active and agile as their purebred parents.
Goldendoodles, although not at all the shy and aloof type, are slightly less active than Labradoodles. They are friendly, sunny, and fun-loving yet can be slightly reserved toward strangers.
2. Appearance: Coat Type
A telltale sign for what you’re seeing is a Labradoodle, and not a Goldendoodle (and vice-versa), is the coat texture. While both of these dogs have their signature curls and waves, one is curlier than the other.
Labradoodles have shaggier and curlier coats because of a purebred Lab’s thick hair follicle. On the other hand, Goldendoodles have thinner hair follicles, which result in more wavy and fluffier coats when mixed with the Poodle breed.
1. Appearance: Coat Color
Labradoodles come in a wide range of colors, including white, yellow, chocolate, cream, or red. They can also have some fun variations, thanks to their Poodle genes such as merle, brindle, and parti.
As for Goldendoodles, they are commonly in shades of red, gold, and caramel. But it’s also possible to see them in black, parti, chocolate, and merle, just like their Poodle parents.
Related Questions
Do Labradoodles Or Goldendoodles Shed More? Neither Labradoodles nor Goldendoodles shed more than the other, and both breeds are low-shedding dogs. Both are considered to be hypoallergenic mixed breeds because of their Poodle parents. Although they have thick coats, they shed lightly, making this dog breed suitable for allergy sufferers.
Is It Better To Get A Male Or Female Labradoodle? When deciding between a male or female Labradoodle, it all boils down to your preferences for a pet. Over time, male Labradoodles grow bigger than females. So, if you prefer a smaller pet, a female Labradoodle works best. But if you like a larger four-legged companion, you may want to opt for a male Labradoodle.
Is It Better To Get A Female Or Male Goldendoodle? A male Goldendoodle is larger, heavier, and slightly more active than its female counterpart. If these features are what you look for in a dog, then it is better to get a male Goldendoodle. Otherwise, females are slightly more compact and more reserved overall.
