Labradoodle vs Portuguese Water Dog

Side-by-side comparison of two popular breeds — temperament, exercise, grooming, lifespan and common health issues. Use it to decide which breed fits your home.

Labradoodle vs Portuguese Water Dog — at a glance

The Labradoodle (15–30 kg, 12–14 years) and the Portuguese Water Dog (16–27 kg, 11–13 years) sit in different — or sometimes overlapping — corners of dog ownership. Here's how they really compare for an everyday Irish or UK family.

Energy levels are well-matched between the Labradoodle and Portuguese Water Dog — both need similar daily exercise.

For allergy sufferers, the Portuguese Water Dog is the lower-shed, more hypoallergenic option.

Insurance premiums for breeds with brachycephalic, joint or cancer predispositions run 20–40% above average — check before you commit. We have a free quote calculator here.

	Labradoodle	Portuguese Water Dog
Group	Crossbreed	Working
Origin	Australia (1989)	Portugal
Weight	15–30 kg	16–27 kg
Height	36–60 cm	43–58 cm
Lifespan	12–14 years	11–13 years
Energy level
Trainability
Grooming needs
Good with kids
Good with other pets
Hypoallergenic
Watchdog instinct
Novice-owner OK

Labradoodle

Temperament

Friendly, energetic, intelligent, eager to please. Excellent with children, other dogs and cats. Bonded with family.

Exercise

60–90 minutes of daily exercise — running, swimming, fetching, agility. Lots of mental enrichment.

Grooming

Coat varies from short Lab-like (sheds) to curly Poodle-like (low-shed, mats). Brush 3–4× weekly; professional groom every 6–8 weeks for curlier coats.