Labradoodle
Lab × Poodle cross. Friendly, athletic, often (but not always) low-shedding.
Photo: Mia Anderson / Unsplash
The Labradoodle was originally bred in Australia in 1989 by Wally Conron at Royal Guide Dogs, hoping to combine the Lab's service-dog temperament with the Poodle's hypoallergenic coat for a blind woman whose husband had allergies. Today the Labradoodle is one of the world's most popular crossbreeds. Coat type varies — not every Labradoodle sheds little.
Temperament
Friendly, energetic, intelligent, eager to please. Excellent with children, other dogs and cats. Bonded with family.
Exercise needs
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.
Common health issues
Hip and elbow dysplasia. Eye conditions. Ear infections. Allergies. Addison's disease (Poodle inheritance).
👍 Best for
Active families, allergy-sensitive families (with the right coat type), multi-pet homes.
👎 Not best for
Owners who want predictability — coat type and shedding vary by litter.
Buying guides for Labradoodle owners
Recommended for Labradoodle owners
Buying guides for Labradoodle owners
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