The Labradoodle - (Labrador & Poodle Mix)
The Labradoodle, also known as a Labrador Poodle mix or poodle lab mix, is one of the most popular crossbreed dogs in the world.
Originally bred for both companionship and practicality, Labradoodles are known for their intelligence, friendly nature, and often low-shedding coats.
How Did The Labradoodle Come About?
The Labradoodle is a crossbreed created by mixing a Labrador Retriever with either a Standard or Miniature Poodle.
The first intentional Labradoodle breeding took place in 1989, when Australian breeder Wally Conron crossed the two breeds for Guide Dogs Victoria. His goal was to create a guide dog with:
• the trainability and calm temperament of a Labrador
• the low-shedding coat of a Poodle
The result was a dog that could better suit people with allergies, while still performing as a working guide dog. Today, Labradoodles are widely used as:
• family pets
• therapy dogs
• assistance dogs
Labradoodle Characteristics
The Labradoodle is still considered a developing crossbreed, meaning appearance and temperament can vary significantly.
Common Labradoodle traits:
• Intelligent and quick to learn
• Friendly and sociable
• Energetic and playful
• Often good with families
However, because they are a mix, Labradoodles can be unpredictable.
Variations you may see:
• Coat: curly, wavy, or straight
• Texture: soft, fleece-like, or wiry
• Shedding: low to moderate
Labradoodle Colours
Labradoodles come in a wide variety of colours, making each dog truly unique.
Common Labradoodle colours include:
• Chocolate Labradoodle
• Brown Labradoodle
• Black Labradoodle
• Golden Labradoodle
• Cream Labradoodle
• White Labradoodle
• Red Labradoodle
• Black and white Labradoodle
With the Black and the Chocolate Lab Poodle mix being some of the most popular colours.
This variety is one of the reasons Labradoodles are such great subjects for artwork — their colouring and markings can be beautifully distinctive.
A Unique Dog Deserves a Unique Portrait
Because no two Labradoodles are ever quite the same, many owners choose to capture their dog’s individuality in a custom portrait.
Over the years I’ve created many portraits of similar poodle crossbreeds such as Cavapoos and Havapoos. These dogs share the same expressive eyes, soft coats, and distinctive features that make each one completely unique. From capturing subtle coat textures to bringing out personality in the expression, I always aim to create a portrait that feels true to your dog — not just how they look, but who they are.
View examples of my work or commission your own portrait.
The Labradoodle coat is split into three categories:
Fleece Coat
• Soft and silky
• Slight wave or loose curl
• One of the most sought-after coat types
Wool Coat
• Tight curls (similar to a Poodle)
• Dense and textured
• Often low shedding
Hair Coat
• Can be straight, wavy, or slightly rough
• More similar to a Labrador’s coat
• May shed more
You may also hear terms like:
• fleece coated labradoodle
• wiry haired labradoodle
• straight hair labradoodle
Is the Labradoodle a Recognised Breed?
The Labradoodle is not officially recognised as a pure breed by major kennel clubs.
Many breeders continue to cross Labradors and Poodles directly rather than breeding Labradoodle to Labradoodle. This helps maintain genetic diversity and may reduce inherited health issues.
The Australian Labradoodle
Some breeders have developed what is known as the Australian Labradoodle, sometimes called a multigenerational Labradoodle.
These dogs may include other breeds in their lineage, such as the English Cocker Spaniel, the American Cocker Spaniel, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier and the Irish Water Spaniel
The goal has been to create a more consistent temperament and coat type.
Labradoodle Size & Height
Labradoodles can vary in size depending on whether a Standard, Miniature, or Toy Poodle is used.
Typical ranges include:
• Small: 14–16 inches
• Medium: 17–20 inches
• Large: 21–24 inches
Labradoodle Health Considerations
Like all dogs, Labradoodles may be prone to certain health issues. These can include:
• hip dysplasia
• eye conditions
• ear infections (due to floppy ears)
Choosing a responsible breeder and maintaining regular vet care is essential.
Why Labradoodles Are So Popular
The Labradoodle’s popularity comes from its combination of:
• intelligence
• affectionate nature
• adaptable personality
• often low-shedding coat
For many owners, they offer the best of both worlds — the Labrador’s friendliness and the Poodle’s intelligence.
A Lasting Way to Celebrate Your Labradoodle
Whether your Labradoodle is energetic and playful or calm and affectionate, their personality is what makes them special. A custom portrait captures those details — the expression, the coat texture, the individuality — in a way that photographs sometimes can’t.
I’ve spent over 20 years creating hand-crafted pet portraits for dog owners across the UK and beyond, helping turn treasured photos into lasting artwork.
Please do feel free to get in touch if you have any questions or would like to commission me.
Final Thoughts
The Labrador Poodle mix is one of the most versatile and widely loved crossbreeds in the world.
With their intelligence, charm, and wide variety of looks, Labradoodles are truly one-of-a-kind companions — and that uniqueness is exactly what makes them so special.
Contact Julie
• ask me a question by filling in this form
• email your photos to see which ones might be possible to create a portrait from
• you can also telephone me on +44 (0)1243 773123
• or order a portrait online now