Labradoodle vs Groodle: Which Crossbreed is Right For Your Family?

If you’re looking for a clever, affectionate, curly-coated companion, chances are you’ve come across the Labradoodle and the Groodle. These two popular crossbreeds are sweeping the coats off Kiwi dog lovers with their friendly temperaments and adorable looks.

But while they may look similar at a glance, there are some paw-sitively important differences to consider that could make one breed a better fit for your home and lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll sniff out the key features of the Labradoodle vs Groodle debate so you can make the right choice for your future four-legged family member.

Breed Origins And Parentage

Both the Labradoodle and Groodle are designer crossbreeds with Poodle parents, but there’s a twist in their tails. Labradoodles are a blend of a Poodle and a Labrador Retriever, while Groodles (also known as Goldendoodles) combine a Poodle with a Golden Retriever.

These blends bring together the intelligence and low-shedding coat of a Poodle with the personality traits of two of the world’s most beloved breeds—so you’re in for a treat either way. However, their differing backgrounds can give each breed distinct energy levels, behaviour tendencies, and grooming needs.

Temperament And Personality

Labradoodles are lively and athletic, often ideal companions for active households or individuals who love a good hike or beach run. Thanks to their Labrador lineage, they can be playful, enthusiastic, and eager to please. They might also have a stronger instinct for retrieving and water play.

Groodles, on the other paw, tend to be a bit more gentle and laid-back. With Golden Retrievers often regarded as one of the most loving breeds, Groodles are usually warm-hearted, patient, and great with kids or seniors. They’re also incredibly people-focused and may be more sensitive to their owner’s mood making them great therapy or emotional support dogs.

Of course, all dogs are individuals, and early socialisation plays a big part in shaping personality. But if you’re after a boisterous playmate, Labradoodle might be your pick. Prefer a snuggly shadow that follows you around the house? Groodle could be the one.

Coat Types And Grooming Needs

Since both dogs have Poodle genes, you’ll often see similar soft, curly, or wavy coats. But coat type can still vary widely, especially in first-generation crosses, making grooming routines a key consideration.

• Labradoodles typically have wirier or coarser coats compared to Groodles, especially if they inherit more from the Labrador side. They may shed more and require regular brushing to keep tangles away.
• Groodles often have silkier, more uniform coats thanks to the Golden Retriever’s influence. Still curly or wavy, but a bit smoother in many cases. They can need more frequent grooming to prevent matting and keep their coat gorgeous.

No matter which you choose, routine maintenance is a must. Explore our range of dog grooming essentials or consider professional grooming every 6–8 weeks to keep their curls in check.

Exercise And Training Needs

Both Groodles and Labradoodles are smart, active dogs that thrive on mental and physical stimulation. Left bored, they might find creative (and less desirable) ways to burn energy—like chewing couch cushions or practising uninvited zoomies around the house.

You’ll want to provide daily walks, games, puzzle toys, and early socialisation. Dog training accessories are great tools to keep your pup’s brain busy and reinforce positive behaviours.

Training tends to be a breeze with both breeds, thanks to their eagerness to learn. Groodles, being slightly more emotionally tuned in, might be softer in temperament during training, while Labradoodles can have more excitable energy that needs to be channelled into constructive outlets.

Health Considerations

Labradoodles and Groodles are generally healthy, but as with all dogs, they can inherit health concerns from their parent breeds. Responsible breeding and regular vet checkups are vital for maintaining wellbeing.

Consider supporting your pup’s vitality with supplements for joint, coat, or digestive health, especially as they grow. With their active lifestyles, joint support like 4CYTE or Blackmores may come in handy down the track.

You’ll also need to stay on top of parasite protection. Explore our range of flea and worm treatments to keep itchy bugs at bay all year round.

Which Crossbreed Is Best For You?

Ultimately, it comes down to your lifestyle and preferences. If you’re an outdoorsy adventurer looking for a high-energy mate, a Labradoodle could slot right into your life. If you prefer a calm cuddle buddy who loves human attention, a Groodle is a paw-some pick.

Either way, you’re adding a loving, loyal, low-shedding companion to your family—and if you ask us, that’s a win-win!

Final Treat For Thought

Whether you go team Labradoodle or team Groodle, you’ll need everything from nutritious puppy food to toys and accessories. Jump into our puppy training essentials range to help your new best mate settle in smoothly.

And don’t forget to unlock exclusive discounts with our Pet Perks loyalty programme and earn Airpoints on every shop. Because at Petdirect, We Get Pet—and we get excited about helping you nurture your new furry family member.