APPEARANCE DIFFERENCES

Labradoodles look different than Goldendoodles because they are born with different colored coats and with coats that have a different consistency. A Labradoodle will typically have shorter, wirier fur that comes in a larger variety of colors such as black, chocolate, red, cream, white, yellow and parti-colored coat. Many first generation Labradoodles shed because of their wiry coat.

At Crockett Doodles, we work only with f1b (sometimes called second generation) Labradoodles. A f1b Labradoodle is first generation back-crossed. So we take a first generation Labradoodle (50% Lab and 50% Poodle) that got a nice coat and breed it back to a non-related Poodle.  A first generation Goldendoodle will usually have longer, wavy fur that will usually be golden (caramel), cream, apricot or red.  

When dealing with a f1b Labradoodle or Goldendoodle, they both typically share the non-shedding, hypoallergenic coats that have become so desirable in Doodle varieties so whether you choose Labradoodle or Goldendoodle your dog will more than likely be safe for any family members with allergies. If you're getting a multigenerational (f1b) variety from a reputable breeder.

TEMPERAMENT DIFFERENCES

While both Goldendoodles and Labradoodles are moderately energetic, personable, great family dogs there are slight differences between the two. Goldendoodles are usually more friendly and enthusiastic with a happiness that lasts longer than the Energizer bunny.

Goldendoodles seem like they can never stop wagging their tails. Some Labradoodles are a bit more reserved than Goldendoodles but in a loyal way. Labradoodles are less likely than Goldendoodles to make as many new friends but they are extremely loyal to their families and are still energetic and playful dogs. In general a Goldendoodle is more quick to approach a complete stranger, whereas a Labradoodle will typically stay closer to his/her "person."

I tell people that Labradoodles are like your high school senior class president. Labradoodles are confident, dependable, and love to have a task to handle. Goldendoodles are a bit more like your high school senior class Mr. Personality (maybe even the class clown). Goldendoodles are like the guy who was always back-slapping, telling jokes, and the life of the party.  

We recommend Labradoodles as service dogs (seeing eye Labradoodles, Labradoodles to help those in wheelchairs, etc.). We typically recommend Goldendoodles as therapy dogs. If you want a Doodle to go into a nursing home, hospital, or elementary school, a Goldendoodle can make an excellent pet to meet new people, create lots of smiles, and elicit many laughs.

SIMILARITIES

Both Labradoodles and Goldendoodles are highly intelligent, and both make excellent family pets. At Crockett Doodles we offer mini Labradoodles and mini Goldendoodles as well as standard Labradoodles and standard Goldendoodles. If you are searching for a pet for either a family with young children or for a sweet companion for a couple who is a little older in age, either a Goldendoodle or Labradoodle would be an excellent choice.  They are also both incredibly effective guide or therapy dogs, while Labradoodles are bit more apprehensive in new environments they are still wonderful guide or therapy dogs when trained correctly.  With proper training or the opportunity to grow up in a loving family Goldendoodles and Labradoodles are beautiful, loving pets with a high aptitude for learning, an infectious exuberance, and a huge heart for people.