Thinking About Adopting a Labradoodle? Here’s What You Should Know

Labradoodles have become one of the most popular mixed-breed dogs in Canada—and for good reason. A cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, Labradoodles are known for their friendly personalities, trainability, and often low-shedding coats.

But they’re not just trendy “designer dogs”—they’re smart, active, and need the right environment to thrive. Here’s everything you should know before adopting a Labradoodle in Burlington.

🐕 Temperament: Friendly, Social, and People-Loving

Labradoodles are typically:

• Outgoing and affectionate with family, kids, and strangers
• Playful, goofy, and eager to be involved in whatever you’re doing
• Usually good with other dogs, especially with early socialization
• Prone to separation anxiety if left alone too long

They’re highly social dogs who want to be part of the family—on the couch, on walks, and everywhere in between.

🧠 Trainability: Very Smart and Eager to Learn

With two intelligent parent breeds, Labradoodles are highly trainable:

• Learn commands quickly with positive reinforcement
• Excel in obedience, agility, therapy work, and tricks
• Thrive on structure, routine, and mental stimulation

They’re great dogs for first-time owners if you’re ready to commit to daily engagement and training.

⚡ Energy Level: High (Especially When Young)

Labradoodles are energetic and athletic:

• Need 60–90 minutes of daily exercise
• Enjoy long walks, fetch, swimming, hiking, and backyard play
• Mental stimulation (like training games or puzzle toys) is just as important as physical activity

A tired Labradoodle is a well-behaved Labradoodle—without exercise, they can become hyper, anxious, or destructive.

🧼 Grooming & Shedding

Coats vary, but most Labradoodles are low to moderate shedders:

• May have curly, wavy, or fleece-like coats (coat type varies by generation)
• Require brushing 3–4 times a week, or daily for curlier coats
• Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks helps avoid matting
• Regular ear cleaning is important—especially for doodles that love water

They’re often called “hypoallergenic,” but no dog is 100% allergen-free.

🩺 Health Considerations

Labradoodles are generally healthy but may inherit conditions from either parent breed:

• Hip and elbow dysplasia
• Allergies or skin sensitivities
• Ear infections (due to floppy, hairy ears)
• Eye conditions and Addison’s disease (especially from the Poodle side)

Responsible breeding, regular vet checkups, and a balanced diet can support a long, healthy life. Labradoodles often live 12–15 years.

🏡 Lifestyle Fit

Ask yourself:

• Can I give this dog daily exercise and mental stimulation?
• Is someone home often? (Labradoodles don’t like being left alone)
• Am I okay with regular grooming?

Labradoodles are ideal for active families, couples, or individuals who want a fun-loving dog that’s smart and social. They thrive in homes where they’re included and engaged.

🍗 Feeding & Nutrition

Labradoodles benefit from a high-quality, balanced diet:

• 2.5 to 4 cups of food per day, depending on size and activity
• Choose food with joint support and omega-3s for coat health
• Avoid overfeeding—Labradoodles love food and can gain weight easily

Be sure to provide plenty of fresh water, especially after exercise or in warm weather.

🐾 Puppy vs. Adult Labradoodle

Labradoodle puppies are:

• Super cute, super busy, and sometimes mouthy
• Need crate training, socialization, and early grooming exposure
• Easily overstimulated, especially without enough sleep

Adult Labradoodles are usually calmer, more predictable, and great for people who want to skip the puppy stage.

🧬 Adoption vs. Breeder in Ontario

Adoption:

• Labradoodles are common in rescues due to their popularity
• Check local shelters or poodle-mix rescue groups in Ontario

Breeder:

• Choose a breeder who health-tests for hips, elbows, eyes, and skin conditions
• Ask about coat types and generation (F1, F1B, multigen)
• Avoid breeders who make unrealistic claims (e.g. “100% hypoallergenic”)

Final Thoughts

Labradoodles are smart, loving, and full of life. With the right balance of activity, attention, and grooming, they can make an amazing addition to any Burlington family. If you want a dog that’s equal parts fun and cuddly—this mix might be the one.

🐾 Have a Labradoodle or Thinking of Adopting One?

At Playday Pups, we work with Labradoodles of all sizes and coat types. Whether you’re looking for daycare while you’re at work, boarding during your next trip, or just want to see how your pup socializes in a safe group, we’re here to help.

📍 Near Guelph Line & Mainway, Burlington

📞 (905) 230-2541 | ✉️ hello@playdaypups.ca

🔗 Register today at playdaypups.ca