Picking between a Labrador Retriever and a Labradoodle can be a tough decision to make. While Labrador Retriever holds the position of most popular purebred dog, Labradoodle is a very desirable mixed breed dog. The comparison below will make the pick easier for you.
1. Difference Between a Labrador vs. Labradoodle
The Labrador Retriever is a purebred dog, whereas Labradoodle is a hybrid dog breed. Labrador Retriever and Poodle are bred to get Labradoodle. The Labrador Retriever is a purebred dog breed, but the size of the poodle parent may vary. If the breeding happens with a Miniature Poodle, then they are known as Mini Labradoodle. If the Poodle parent is a medium breed, then they are called Medium Labradoodle.
2. Size Difference
Labradors are medium to large breed dogs and weigh about 55 to 80 pounds. They can stand as tall as 21.5 to 24.5 inches.
The Labradoodle size varies based on the size of the Poodle as below:
Standard Labradoodles- 15 to 25 pounds and stand 14 to 16 inches tall.
Medium Labradoodles- 30 to 45 pounds and stand 17 to 20 inches tall.
Mini Labradoodles- 50 to 65 pounds and stand 21 to 24 inches tall.
3. Shedding and Hypoallergenic
Labradoodles can be anywhere between low-shedding to non-shedding. Labradors are known to shed a lot since they have thick straight double layer coat that does not catch falling hair. Labradoodles have the gene of a Poodle parent as well hence they have curly thick coat which catches the shed hair before it falls hence reducing any allergen.
4. Temperament
Both the breeds are loving and affectionate hence you will definitely end up with a dog that is a mix of both.
Labradors are intelligent, friendly, affectionate and love to be around family and are friendly with starters as well.
Labradoodle is a mixed genes dog, hence its temperament depends on the dominant gene. The generation of this breed will affect its nature. If it is F1B generation Labradoodle, then it has 75% Poodle traits this means they will be intelligent and affectionate but not very friendly with strangers. Whereas a first-generation Labradoodle will have the best of both breed traits.
Both of them are family dogs hence you cannot go wrong there.
5. Exercise Needs
Both these dog breeds need a lot of exercise physically and mentally. We are talking about standard sized Labradoodle. Medium and mini breed of Labradoodle require low to almost no exercise.
6. Trainability
Both Labrador and Poodle come under 10 of the smartest dogs. This only means they can be easily trained. These dogs have people-pleasing traits, which means they will want to get trained. Also, they are not small dogs; hence, it is essential to train them before they become full-sized.
7. Health Problem
Purebred dogs are known to have certain genetic conditions that can be passed on to the puppy. Labradors are known to have hip dysplasia issues that can be passed on to Labradoodle. Canine cancer is also a common issue in Labrador and Labradoodle dogs. But in general, these breeds are happy and healthy most of the time.
8. Life Expectancy
Labrador generally has a lifespan of 10 to 12 years, and a Poodle can live for 10 to 18 years. This means a Labradoodle has a minimum lifespan of 10 years and may live longer.
The Bottom Line- Which Dog Is Right for Me?
Well, both dogs are friendly and a good family dog choice. They have their own traits, and it is up to you to choose the ones that suit your family’s needs. If someone in your family is allergic, then a Labradoodle should be your default option. If not, pick anyone, and you will get immense love and attention from your furry friend.
Also read: The Benefits And Costs of Dog Ownership For Young Families
