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Labradoodle: temperament, health and care
Labradoodle: temperament, exercise and grooming needs, common health problems and who this dog suits.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Size | Medium to large, about 15–30 kg |
|---|---|
| Typical lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Exercise | High: an hour or more a day |
| Grooming | Wavy or curly coat: regular brushing and professional grooming |
Temperament and who it suits
Friendly, energetic and intelligent.
Often suits: active families with space and time.
A crossbreed, so size and coat vary. A non-shedding coat is not guaranteed.
Health problems to know about
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Ear infections
Individuals vary. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks, vaccination and weight control.
Before you get a Labradoodle
- See the puppy with its mother, where it was born
- Ask about health tests on the parents for the conditions above
- Check it is microchipped and registered by eight weeks old
- Consider adopting: breed rescues and rehoming centres often have dogs of this breed looking for homes
See buying a puppy or kitten: Lucy's Law and your rights.
Care, law and costs
See our general guide to dogs for feeding, the law in the UK, what it costs and emergencies, and our guides to microchipping law and toxic foods and plants.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Labradoodle live?
A Labradoodle typically lives 12–15 years. Individual health, diet and weight all matter.
How much exercise does a Labradoodle need?
High: an hour or more a day.
What health problems are common in a Labradoodle?
Common concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy and ear infections. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks.
How much grooming does a Labradoodle need?
Wavy or curly coat: regular brushing and professional grooming.
Who does a Labradoodle suit?
It often suits active families with space and time. A crossbreed, so size and coat vary. A non-shedding coat is not guaranteed.
Similar dogs
Sources
- The Royal Kennel Club: breed information and health schemes
- BSAVA: Microchipping legislation in the UK
- Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council: Lucy's Law
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Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-23. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See how we check.