If you’ve been Googling “which Doodle should I get” at 11pm with 47 browser tabs open, you’re exactly where every Australian Doodle buyer ends up. Groodles (Goldendoodles) and Labradoodles are the two most popular Poodle crosses in Australia, and on the surface they look almost interchangeable — fluffy, friendly, and roughly the size of a small bear. The short version: Groodles are the golden retrievers of the Doodle world — softer, goofier, and more likely to befriend every human in a five-kilometre radius. Labradoodles are the workers — sharper, slightly higher energy, and the ones who actually get picked for service dog training. Here’s what matters when you’re choosing between them.
What You’ll Learn
- Breed traits & temperament
- Health concerns to know
- True cost in Australia
- Training & exercise needs
- Is this breed right for you?
Groodle vs Labradoodle at a Glance
| Trait | Groodle (Goldendoodle) | Labradoodle |
|---|---|---|
| Parent Breeds | Golden Retriever × Poodle | Labrador Retriever × Poodle |
| Origin | USA / Australia (late 1960s–1990s) | Australia (1988) |
| Size (Height) | 35–65 cm (varies by size) | 35–65 cm (varies by size) |
| Weight | 10–35 kg (mini to standard) | 10–40 kg (mini to standard) |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years | 12–15 years |
| Coat Type | Wavy to curly, low-shedding | Wavy, fleece, or wool, low-shedding |
| Shedding Level | Low (varies by generation) | Low (varies by generation) |
| Energy Level | Moderate to High | High |
| Trainability | Easy (eager to please) | Easy (focused, task-driven) |
| Barking Level | Moderate | Low to Moderate |
| Good With Kids | Yes — gentle and patient | Yes — playful and active |
| Good With Other Dogs | Yes | Yes, with socialisation |
| Apartment Friendly | Mini/medium yes; standard no | Mini/medium yes; standard no |
| Puppy Price (AUD) | $2,500 – $5,000 | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| ANKC Registered | No (designer crossbreed) | No (designer crossbreed) |
| Australian Popularity | Top 10 crossbreed | Top 5 crossbreed |
Where Did They Come From?
The Labradoodle came first — and it’s an Australian original. In 1988, breeder Wally Conron at the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia set out to create a hypoallergenic guide dog by crossing a Standard Poodle with a Labrador Retriever. After sending 33 coat samples to a couple (where the husband had dog allergies), he found the right match. The Labradoodle was born as a working dog, not a pet — which is why they still excel in service, therapy, and assistance roles today.
The Groodle (known as Goldendoodle in the US and UK) followed in the early 1990s, inspired by the Labradoodle’s success. Breeders crossed Golden Retrievers with Poodles, aiming for the same low-shedding coat but with the Golden’s famously gentle, emotionally intuitive temperament. While there are earlier reports of this cross dating back to 1969, the breed gained mainstream popularity in the late 1990s and 2000s.
Neither breed is ANKC-registered as a pedigree. Both are classified as designer crossbreeds. The Australian Labradoodle is a distinct variant that also includes Cocker Spaniel genes and is working toward breed recognition — but the standard Labradoodle (Lab × Poodle) is what most Australians are buying.
How to Tell Them Apart
At first glance, Groodles and Labradoodles can look almost identical — especially if they share a similar coat colour like cream or apricot. But once you know what to look for, the differences are clear.
Groodles tend to have a softer, rounder face with a shaggier, more “teddy bear” appearance. Their coat is usually wavy to curly and has a silkier texture inherited from the Golden Retriever. They often come in warmer tones — gold, cream, apricot, and red are the most common colours, though black and chocolate do appear.
Labradoodles have a slightly more athletic, leaner build with a broader skull shape. Their coat can range from straight (hair coat) to wavy (fleece coat) to tightly curled (wool coat), and they come in a wider colour range: chocolate, black, cream, caramel, red, parti, phantom, and merle patterns. Labradoodles with wool coats tend to look more “Poodle-like,” while fleece-coat Labradoodles have that classic shaggy Doodle look.
Physical Comparison at a Glance
| Physical Trait | Groodle (Goldendoodle) | Labradoodle |
|---|---|---|
| Build / Frame | Stocky, rounded, teddy bear-like | Athletic, leaner, slightly taller |
| Head Shape | Rounded, softer features | Broader skull, more defined muzzle |
| Ear Type | Floppy, pendant, set low | Floppy, pendant, set low |
| Tail | Long, feathered, carried high | Long, varies in feathering |
| Coat Texture | Silky-wavy to curly | Fleece, wool, or hair (wider range) |
| Common Colours | Gold, cream, apricot, red, black | Chocolate, black, cream, caramel, red, parti, phantom |
What Are They Actually Like to Live With?
Both breeds were designed to be friendly, intelligent companions. But the difference in their non-Poodle parent creates genuinely different dogs to live with.
Labradoodles are the higher-energy dog. They need 60–90 minutes of exercise daily and will actively seek stimulation if bored — think destroyed cushions, dug-up gardens, and stolen shoes. Groodles need 45–60 minutes and are better at settling after exercise. If you’re an active runner, hiker, or beach walker, a Labradoodle will match your pace. If you want a dog who’s happy with a park walk and then a couch session, the Groodle is your match.
Groodles are the Velcro Doodles. They inherit the Golden Retriever’s emotional sensitivity and will pick up on your mood, sit with you when you’re sad, and physically lean into you when they want attention. They’re therapy dogs by nature. Labradoodles are affectionate too, but more independently so — they’ll stay in the same room but won’t need to be in your lap. Think of a Groodle as the friend who brings you soup when you’re sick; the Labradoodle is the friend who invites you for a run to feel better.
Groodles will try to befriend every person and dog they meet. They have zero guard dog instinct and will happily greet a burglar with tail wags. Labradoodles are slightly more reserved with strangers — not unfriendly, just a touch more cautious. They’ll warm up quickly but won’t throw themselves at every passer-by.
Both breeds are excellent family dogs. Groodles are better with very young children due to their gentler, more patient nature — the Golden Retriever influence makes them incredibly tolerant. Labradoodles are fantastic with older children who can match their energy and enjoy active play. Standard-sized Doodles of either breed can be too boisterous for toddlers simply due to their size (25–35 kg is a lot of enthusiastic dog).
Both breeds can suffer from separation anxiety, but Groodles tend to be worse. Their intense emotional bond means they struggle more when left alone. Labradoodles handle alone time slightly better, especially if given a puzzle toy or something to “work” on. Neither breed should be left alone for more than 4–5 hours.
[Image: Groodle playing with family. Alt text: “Groodle playing with family in Australian backyard”]
Health Issues
Both breeds benefit from “hybrid vigour” — first-generation crosses tend to be healthier than their purebred parents. However, both can still inherit conditions from either parent breed, and the specific risks differ.
Shared health risks: Hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), ear infections (those floppy ears trap moisture), skin allergies, and food sensitivities.
Groodle-specific risks: Groodles inherit the Golden Retriever’s elevated cancer risk. Golden Retrievers have one of the highest cancer rates of any breed (affecting up to 60% over their lifetime), and while crossing with a Poodle reduces this, it doesn’t eliminate it. Groodles are also more prone to subvalvular aortic stenosis (a heart condition), sensitive stomachs, and ichthyosis (a skin condition causing excessive flaking).
Labradoodle-specific risks: Labradoodles can inherit the Labrador’s tendency for exercise-induced collapse (EIC), obesity (Labs are notorious food vacuums), and a slightly higher risk of elbow dysplasia than Groodles. They can also be prone to Addison’s disease (inherited from the Poodle side) and von Willebrand’s disease (a bleeding disorder).
For both breeds, always choose a breeder who provides DNA health testing results for both parents. Reputable Doodle breeders in Australia test for PRA, hip/elbow scoring, von Willebrand’s, and breed-specific panels through Orivet or Embark.
Common Health Costs Comparison (AUD)
| Health Concern | Groodle Risk | Est. Cost | Labradoodle Risk | Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Hip Dysplasia | Moderate | $4,000–$8,000 | Moderate | $4,000–$8,000 |
| Elbow Dysplasia | Low–Moderate | $3,000–$6,000 | Moderate | $3,000–$6,000 |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy | Moderate | $1,500–$3,000 | Moderate | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Cancer (various) | Moderate–High | $5,000–$15,000+ | Low–Moderate | $5,000–$15,000+ |
| Ear Infections (chronic) | Moderate | $200–$800/yr | Moderate | $200–$800/yr |
| Skin Allergy Management | Moderate | $500–$2,000/yr | Moderate | $500–$2,000/yr |
| Est. Annual Vet Costs | $600 – $1,500 | $600 – $1,500 |
Grooming – Which Is More Work?
Grooming is a major commitment for both breeds, and it’s the cost that most new Doodle owners underestimate. Both require regular professional grooming every 6–8 weeks ($80–$150 per session in Australia depending on size) and daily-to-weekly brushing at home to prevent matting.
Labradoodles with wool coats require the most grooming of any Doodle type — their tight curls mat quickly and need brushing every 1–2 days. Fleece-coat Labradoodles are more manageable. Groodles generally have a slightly easier coat to maintain, particularly wavy-coated F1 Groodles, though they shed marginally more than curly-coated Labradoodles.
| Grooming Task | Groodle | Labradoodle |
|---|---|---|
| Brushing Frequency | 3–4 times/week | 3–7 times/week (coat-dependent) |
| Professional Grooming | Every 6–8 weeks | $80–$150 AUD | Every 6–8 weeks | $80–$150 AUD |
| Shedding Season | Minimal, year-round | Minimal, year-round |
| Nail Trimming | Every 2–3 weeks | Every 2–3 weeks |
| Ear Cleaning | Weekly (critical — floppy ears) | Weekly (critical — floppy ears) |
Exercise – How Active Are They Really?
If you’re not an active person, neither of these breeds is a great fit in their standard size. Both are genuine working-breed crosses that need real daily exercise. The difference is in intensity.
| Exercise Factor | Groodle | Labradoodle |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Exercise Needed | 45–60 minutes | 60–90 minutes |
| Exercise Type | Walks, fetch, swimming, play | Running, hiking, fetch, agility |
| Off-Leash Reliability | Good (may wander to greet people) | Good (stronger recall drive) |
| Heat Tolerance (Aus summers) | Moderate (exercise early/late) | Moderate (exercise early/late) |
| Swimming Ability | Natural — most love water | Natural — most love water |
| If Under-Exercised… | Digging, chewing, attention-seeking, barking | Destructive chewing, hyperactivity, jumping, digging |
Australian Climate Warning
Both breeds handle Australian summers better than brachycephalic breeds, but standard-sized Doodles with thick coats can still overheat on 35°C+ days. Keep them clipped shorter in summer (a “summer cut” of 10–15mm), exercise before 8am or after 6pm, and ensure they always have shade and fresh water. Both breeds are excellent swimmers — Australian beaches, lakes, and backyard pools are their happy place. Always supervise around the ocean (rips are a real risk for even strong swimming dogs).
[Image: Labradoodle running outdoors. Alt text: “Labradoodle running at off-leash dog park in Australia”]
Training
Both breeds are highly intelligent (Poodles, Golden Retrievers, and Labradors are all in the top 10 most trainable breeds), but they learn differently.
Groodles are easier for first-time dog owners. They’re eager to please, emotionally sensitive to your tone of voice, and respond beautifully to positive reinforcement. They’re natural therapy dogs and excel at reading human emotions. The downside: they can be “soft” and shut down if corrected too harshly.
Labradoodles are better for experienced owners or those who want to do structured training (agility, obedience trials, service work). They’re more focused, slightly more independent, and have a stronger work ethic. However, they can test boundaries more than Groodles, especially in adolescence (8–18 months), and need firmer, more consistent leadership.
Common Groodle training mistake: Letting their sweetness get away with bad habits. A Groodle that learns jumping on people gets attention will jump on everyone forever.
Common Labradoodle training mistake: Not providing enough mental stimulation. A bored Labradoodle is a destructive Labradoodle. Puzzle feeders, nose work, and structured training sessions are essential.
Which Costs More in Australia?
Purchase prices for both breeds are remarkably similar in Australia, typically ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 from a reputable breeder with health testing. Some premium breeders charge up to $7,000 for rare colours, multi-generational dogs, or miniature sizes. The ongoing costs are also comparable, with grooming being the single biggest recurring expense for both breeds.
| Cost Category | Groodle (AUD) | Labradoodle (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy (Reputable Breeder) | $2,500 – $5,000 | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| Rare Colour / Mini Premium | Up to $7,000 | Up to $7,000 |
| Rescue / Adoption | $300 – $800 | $300 – $800 |
| First-Year Setup | $1,500 – $2,500 | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Annual Ongoing Costs | $2,500 – $4,000 | $2,500 – $4,500 |
| Pet Insurance (Monthly) | $50 – $100 | $50 – $100 |
| Professional Grooming (Annual) | $700 – $1,200 | $700 – $1,200 |
| Lifetime Cost (Est.) | $35,000 – $65,000 | $35,000 – $70,000 |
Labradoodles may be marginally more expensive over a lifetime due to their higher exercise needs (more toys, potential dog walking, larger food consumption in standard sizes) and potentially higher food bills — the Labrador influence means they eat more enthusiastically (and more quantity) than Groodles.
Because neither breed is ANKC-registered, you won’t find breeders through the ANKC directory. Instead, use platforms like RightPaw (which vets breeders for health testing and ethical standards), Groodles Australia, or the Australian Labradoodle Association. Always confirm DNA health testing before placing a deposit.
which one for Australian Owners
Both breeds handle the Australian climate well across most of the country. They’re more heat-tolerant than flat-faced breeds but still need precautions on extreme days (35°C+). Summer haircuts, early/late exercise, and constant water access are non-negotiable. Both breeds thrive in Australia’s outdoor lifestyle — beach walks, bush hikes, and backyard play are their natural habitat.
Neither Groodles nor Labradoodles are affected by breed-specific legislation in any Australian state or territory.
Standard council registration applies. Costs vary by local government, typically $30–$90 per year (desexed). Most Doodle breeders sell on desexing contracts, which keeps registration costs lower.
Standard-sized Groodles and Labradoodles (25–35 kg) can be harder to rent with than miniature versions (10–15 kg) simply due to size. If you’re renting, a mini or medium Doodle is a smarter choice. Victoria’s pet-friendly rental laws help, but many landlords still prefer smaller dogs.
Both breeds are at standard risk in tick-endemic areas (NSW and QLD coasts). Their thick coats can make tick detection harder — after every walk in bushland or long grass, do a thorough check by running your fingers through their coat down to the skin. Year-round tick prevention (NexGard, Bravecto, Simparica) is essential in endemic areas. Both breeds are curious enough to investigate snakes, so keep them leashed on bush walks in snake season.
Both breeds are excellent off-leash park dogs once trained. They’re social with other dogs, love running, and most adore swimming. The main caution is that Groodles can be too friendly and may run up to dogs that don’t want interaction — solid recall training is essential before going off-leash.
So, Should You Get a Groodle or a Labradoodle?
- You’re a first-time dog owner who wants a gentle, forgiving, easy-to-train companion
- You have young children and need a patient, emotionally intuitive family dog
- You want a therapy or emotional support dog — Groodles are natural empaths
- You prefer a slightly calmer dog that settles well after moderate exercise
- You’re an active person or family who runs, hikes, swims, or does outdoor sports regularly
- You want a dog for structured work — service, assistance, guide, or agility training
- You prefer a slightly more independent dog that doesn’t need to be glued to you 24/7
- You want the widest possible range of coat colours and patterns
- You can’t commit to professional grooming every 6–8 weeks ($80–$150/visit). Matted Doodles are a welfare issue, not a cosmetic one
- You’re away from home 8+ hours daily. Both breeds need human company and will develop anxiety or destructive behaviours if isolated
- You want a guaranteed hypoallergenic dog. While most Doodles shed minimally, coat type varies — especially in F1 (first-generation) crosses. No breeder can guarantee zero shedding
- You live in a small apartment with no outdoor access and limited time for exercise — even mini Doodles need daily walks
- Your budget is tight. Between purchase price, grooming, food, insurance, and vet bills, expect to spend $3,000–$5,000 AUD per year
- Both breeds are exceptional family dogs, but a Groodle will read your emotions and a Labradoodle will read the room for a job to do. One is a therapist; the other is a project manager with a wagging tail.
- If you want the dog that everyone at the park falls in love with, get a Groodle. If you want the dog that impresses at obedience class, get a Labradoodle.
- In Australia, both breeds are widely available through reputable breeders. Use platforms like RightPaw that vet breeders for health testing, and always ask to see DNA test results before committing. Avoid anyone selling “premium colours” for $8,000+ without comprehensive health screening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Groodle or Labradoodle better for families with young children?
Groodles are slightly better with very young children due to their gentler, more patient temperament inherited from the Golden Retriever. Labradoodles are fantastic with older kids (5+) who can match their energy. Both breeds are considered excellent family dogs overall.
Are Groodles or Labradoodles hypoallergenic?
Neither is guaranteed hypoallergenic. Both are low-shedding due to their Poodle parentage, and F1b (backcross to Poodle) generations shed the least. However, allergy reactions vary between individuals. If allergies are severe, spend time with the specific puppy before committing and consider an F1b or multigen with a wool or fleece coat.
Which breed is cheaper to own in Australia?
Costs are very similar. Both breeds cost $2,500–$5,000 AUD to purchase and $2,500–$4,500 AUD annually to maintain. Labradoodles may cost slightly more in food due to higher energy demands and the Labrador’s larger appetite. Grooming costs are equivalent at $700–$1,200 per year.
Can you keep a Groodle or Labradoodle in an apartment in Australia?
Miniature and medium sizes (10–20 kg) can do well in apartments with daily exercise. Standard sizes (25–35+ kg) are not ideal apartment dogs — they need a yard or very committed daily exercise. Labradoodles in apartments will need more activity than Groodles to prevent boredom.
What’s the difference between a Groodle and a Labradoodle?
A Groodle is a Golden Retriever crossed with a Poodle. A Labradoodle is a Labrador Retriever crossed with a Poodle. The main differences are temperament (Groodles are softer and more social; Labradoodles are more energetic and task-driven), appearance (Groodles tend to be warmer-toned; Labradoodles come in more colours), and suitability (Groodles for families and therapy; Labradoodles for active owners and working roles).
Do Groodles and Labradoodles get along with each other?
Typically, yes — both breeds are sociable and dog-friendly. They have compatible energy levels and play styles. Many Australian households successfully own one of each. Introduce them gradually and ensure both dogs have individual space and attention.
What is a Groodle–Labradoodle mix called?
A Groodle crossed with a Labradoodle is often called a Double Doodle. They’re essentially a Golden Retriever × Labrador Retriever × Poodle mix. Double Doodles combine traits from all three parent breeds and can be excellent family dogs, though they’re less predictable in appearance and coat type than either parent cross.
Which breed sheds more — Groodle or Labradoodle?
It depends on the generation and coat type more than the breed itself. F1 Groodles (50% Golden, 50% Poodle) tend to shed slightly more than F1 Labradoodles because Golden Retrievers are heavier shedders than Labradors. F1b and multigen versions of both breeds shed minimally. Curly wool coats shed the least; straight hair coats shed the most.
Are Labradoodles and Australian Labradoodles the same thing?
No. A standard Labradoodle is a simple Labrador × Poodle cross. An Australian Labradoodle is a multigenerational breed that also includes Cocker Spaniel genetics, bred over many generations for consistent temperament and coat. Australian Labradoodles are working toward breed recognition and tend to be more consistent in appearance and behaviour.
1. Groodles Australia (community breeding program): https://groodles.org/
2. RightPaw — Groodle breeders in Australia: https://rightpaw.com.au/dogs/breed/groodle
3. RightPaw — Labradoodle breeders in Australia: https://rightpaw.com.au/dogs/breed/labradoodle
4. Pets Online Australia — Groodle Prices: https://petsonline.com.au/dog-breeds/goldendoodle/prices/
5. Pets Online Australia — Labradoodle Prices: https://petsonline.com.au/dog-breeds/labradoodle/prices/
6. PD Insurance — Groodle/Goldendoodle Price Guide: https://www.pd.com.au/blogs/groodle-goldendoodle-dog-puppies/
7. Petzyo — Labradoodle vs Goldendoodle Comparison: https://petzyo.com.au/blogs/considering-a-pet/labradoodle-vs-goldendoodle
8. Australian Labradoodle Association of America (ALAA): https://www.alaa-labradoodles.com/
9. Goldendoodle Association of North America (GANA): https://www.goldendoodleassociation.com/