A “Doodle” is a nickname given to a number of types of dogs that have “poodle” in their genetic mix. These include Australian Multi-generational Labradoodles, first generation American Labradoodles, and first generation Goldendoodles.

Australian Multi-generational Labradoodle:

Kodiak – An 8th Generation Standard Chocolate Doodle Dad

The Australian Multi-generational Labradoodle was created in Australia (hence the use of “Australian” in the name, but there are no Australian Breeds in the mix). Australian Multi-generational Labradoodle are bred to other Australian Multi-generational Labradoodle (hence the “multi-generational” part of the name) and many are more than 3 generations (the definition of a pure bred). At the base of this lovely breed is a Labrador and a Standard Poodle (Labrad-Oodle). However, to ensure a consistent non-shedding coat and to influence size, the genetics of other breeds have been added through careful and selective breeding. These include the Cocker Spaniel and Irish Water Spaniel.

The Australian Labradoodle breed has defined standards related to coat type and colour, as well as size, body structure, etc…. that are maintained by the Worldwide Australian Labradoodle Association. Australian Multi-generational Labradoodles have three size standards; small, medium, and standard. They also have soft, wavy, long, non-shedding coats that need to be groomed several times a year. Learn more about the Breed Standards.

Australian Labradoodles were created as Guide Dogs for people with allergies. They have an interesting history, which is further explained here Australian Labradoodle History.

Learn More About These Amazing Dogs

Governing Breeding Association

Breed Educational Resources

Close Relatives

1st Generation American Labradoodle

First generation (F1) American Labradoodles are a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Standard Poodle. They are a lovely dog, although quite different from an Australian Multi-generational Labradoodle. The coat and size of a first generation Labradoodle can vary, but generally, they tend to be a little taller and a little thinner than a Labrador Retriever, thanks to their Standard Poodle genes. Their coat is often wiry, not very soft, and fairly straight and short (almost terrier like), although they may need to be groomed once or twice a year. Some F1 Labradoodles shed and may not have the classic thick beard and moustache of a traditional doodle. American Labradoodles can also be F1B (next explanation for first generation Goldendoodle).

1st Generation Goldendoodle

First generation Goldendoodles (F1) are a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Standard Poodle. Backcrossed Goldendoodles (F1B) are a F1 Goldendoodle and a Standard Poodle (25% golden retriever/75% poodle). Also a very lovely dog. They too tend to be taller and thinner than a Golden Retriever and, in fact, taller and thinner than a first generation Labradoodle. Thanks to the soft long coat of the Golden Retriever, Goldendoodles tend to have long, soft hair, that grows fairly rapidly. Thanks to the Poodle, they have lovely waves in their hair. Goldendoodles generally need to be groomed several times a year. Most Goldendoodles do not shed, however, on occasion one may meet a Goldendoodle that does (personally, I have not).