Goldendoodle vs Labradoodle

Choosing between Goldendoodle and Labradoodle? They are a similar size, so the real deciding factors are lifestyle and temperament: Labradoodle is the higher-energy of the two, while Goldendoodle is happier with a calmer routine. Below we break down exactly how the two breeds compare on the things that shape daily life with a dog, so you can see which one is the better fit for your home, family and routine.

Goldendoodle vs Labradoodle: full comparison

TraitGoldendoodleLabradoodle
SizeLargeLarge
Energy levelHighVery High
TrainabilityVery HighVery High
FriendlinessVery HighVery High
Good with childrenVery HighVery High
Grooming needsHighMedium
SheddingLowMedium
BarkingLowLow
ProtectivenessLowLow
AdaptabilityVery HighVery High
Typical lifespan13 years13 years
HypoallergenicYesNo

Size and living space

The Goldendoodle is a large dog that wants a roomier home and ideally a yard to move around in. By comparison, the Labradoodle is a large dog that wants a roomier home and ideally a yard to move around in. Because they are a similar size, neither has a clear space advantage — both will suit the same kind of home.

Exercise and energy needs

The Goldendoodle demands substantial daily activity, from long walks to hard play. The Labradoodle is a canine athlete needing hard daily work and a purpose, or it turns restless. If you have a busy schedule, the lower-energy of the two will be easier to keep satisfied; if you are active and want a dog to keep up, the higher-energy breed is the better match.

Grooming and shedding

The Goldendoodle requires frequent brushing and regular professional trims and sheds only lightly. The Labradoodle wants brushing on a regular schedule to stay tidy and loses a fair amount of coat, especially seasonally. The Goldendoodle is also considered hypoallergenic, an advantage for allergy sufferers. If low upkeep matters to you, factor this in — the difference adds up over a dog's lifetime.

Temperament, training and family life

The Goldendoodle learns at a pace few breeds can match, speaks up only now and then and is famously gentle and patient with children. The Labradoodle learns at a pace few breeds can match, speaks up only now and then and is famously gentle and patient with children. On guarding instinct, Goldendoodle is not especially protective and is welcoming to visitors, whereas Labradoodle is not especially protective and is welcoming to visitors.

Which is better for…

Which should you choose?

Choose the Goldendoodle if you need a hypoallergenic, low-dander coat, you want a calmer, lower-energy companion, or you want less shedding around the home.

Choose the Labradoodle if you want a more energetic partner for sport and adventure or you prefer lower grooming upkeep.

Not sure which breed is right for you?

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Goldendoodle or the Labradoodle better for families with children?
Both the Goldendoodle and the Labradoodle are considered good with children when properly socialized and supervised.
Which sheds more, the Goldendoodle or the Labradoodle?
The Labradoodle sheds more than the Goldendoodle. If shedding is a concern, the Goldendoodle is the lower-maintenance choice.
Which is easier to train, the Goldendoodle or the Labradoodle?
Both breeds have comparable trainability. Consistency and positive reinforcement work well for each.
Is Goldendoodle or Labradoodle bigger?
Goldendoodle and Labradoodle are a similar size (Large).
Which barks more, Goldendoodle or Labradoodle?
Both bark a similar amount (low).
Which is better for apartment living, Goldendoodle or Labradoodle?
For apartment or apartment living, Goldendoodle has the edge, thanks to its size, quieter nature and more manageable energy.

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