Goldendoodle vs Labradoodle
Written by The Real Doodle Co. | therealdoodleco.com
They're the two most popular doodles in the country, and they look almost identical in photos — so which is right for your family? Here's an honest side-by-side from a breeder's point of view.
The short answer
Both are non-shedding, family-friendly Poodle crosses, and most families would be happy with either. The real difference is temperament: a Goldendoodle tends to be a little calmer and more consistently affectionate, while a Labradoodle often carries more energy and drive. Want a mellow velcro dog? Goldendoodle. Want an athletic, always-ready buddy? Labradoodle.
The parent breeds
A Goldendoodle is a Golden Retriever × Poodle; a Labradoodle is a Labrador Retriever × Poodle. Both retrievers are smart, trainable, and people-loving — the Golden brings a softer, gentler streak, while the Lab brings more high-octane energy and working drive.
Temperament & energy
This is where families feel the difference day to day. Goldendoodles are famously easygoing and patient — quick to settle on the couch after a walk. Labradoodles are typically a notch more energetic and mouthy as youngsters, and they thrive with an active family that can keep them busy.
Size
Both come in mini, medium, and standard sizes depending on the Poodle parent, so you can find either breed to fit your space. Standard Labradoodles can run a touch larger and more solidly built on average, but there's plenty of overlap.
Coat & shedding
Both are low-shedding and allergy-friendly, and in both breeds an F1b (about 75% Poodle) sheds the least. Goldendoodle coats trend a little softer and wavier; Labradoodle coats can be wavy to more wiry, depending on the lines.
Grooming
Grooming is similar for both: brush several times a week and plan on a professional groom every 6–8 weeks to prevent matting, plus regular ear care. Neither is a wash-and-go dog — the low-shedding coat is the trade-off.
Which is right for your family?
| Trait | Goldendoodle | Labradoodle |
|---|---|---|
| Base breed | Golden Retriever | Labrador Retriever |
| Temperament | Calm, affectionate | Energetic, driven |
| Energy level | Moderate–high | High |
| Shedding | Low | Low |
| Best for | Relaxed family companion | Active, on-the-go family |
If you want a gentle, snuggly family dog, we think the Goldendoodle is hard to beat — and it's the doodle we love raising.
Goldendoodle FAQs
Is a Goldendoodle or Labradoodle calmer?
Goldendoodles are generally the calmer, more consistently affectionate of the two, thanks to their Golden Retriever side. Labradoodles tend to have more energy and drive.
Do Goldendoodles and Labradoodles both shed?
Both are low-shedding and allergy-friendly. In each breed, higher-Poodle F1b coats shed the least.
Which is better with kids?
Both are excellent family dogs. Goldendoodles are famous for patience with children; energetic Labradoodles do best with older, active kids.
Are Goldendoodles and Labradoodles the same size?
Both come in mini, medium, and standard sizes. Standard Labradoodles can average a little larger, but there is a lot of overlap.