Cockapoo Vs. Labradoodle - Which Breed is Right for Me?

You’ve been scrolling through photos of fluffy dogs that look like living teddy bears and you’ve ended up with two front-runners: the Labradoodle and the Cockapoo. The tricky bit? They both tick a lot of boxes.

Both breeds are doodle mixes, with a Poodle parent in the family, so the bouncy curls and cute faces are a given.

With so many opinions online, it’s easy to worry about picking the wrong breed for your lifestyle.

Totally normal. Choosing a family pet is a big call. It’s less about which one looks sweetest and more about how they fit your day-to-day. Once you understand the real differences in size, energy, and coat care, the Cockapoo vs Labradoodle choice gets much clearer.

Key takeaways

• The Cockapoo is usually smaller, which suits apartments or anyone after a lap-friendly companion.

• Labradoodles bring more 'go-go-go' and need longer, steadier exercise.

• Both are sharp and quick to train thanks to the Poodle brain.

• Their coats need work. Book in regular grooming or mats will creep in.

• Cockapoos often come across as cheeky and playful. Labradoodles can feel a touch steadier.

• Size is the biggest divider, especially with a Standard Labradoodle.

• Both are affectionate and usually great with children.
  

Mixed breeds take traits from each parent breed. That means trends, not guarantees. Litter mates can differ, and that’s part of the charm of owning a pet.

The Cockapoo: Cocker Spaniel meets Poodle

The Cockapoo has history, dating back to the 1960s. It’s a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Miniature, regular, or Toy Poodle. From the Cocker Spaniel you get a people-loving nature and that sunny, eager vibe. The Poodle adds brains and a lower-shedding coat.

End result: a small to medium pal with a smiley outlook and a big desire to please. Cockapoo owners often mention the cuddles, the loyalty, and the silly zoomies.

The Labradoodle: Labrador Retriever meets Poodle

The Labradoodle came later. Bred in Australia in the late 1980s as a low-shedding guide dog, it blends the friendly, willing side of the Labrador Retriever with the smart, lower-shedding coat of the Poodle.

You’ll also hear them called the Australian Labradoodle due to their origin. They’re usually multi-generational and can include breeds like the Irish Water Spaniel or Terrier to lock in certain traits.

Size swings with the Labrador or Poodle parent, so knowing the line helps set expectations.

Cockapoo size range

Most Cockapoos sit in the small to medium bracket, roughly 5–12 kg . Great for smaller homes or anyone who prefers a compact buddy.

They’re high energy, but not marathon trainers. A decent daily walk and proper play usually cover it. You still need plenty of exercise, just not hours on end.

Labradoodle size range

Labradoodles spread wider. Standard Labradoodles can reach 30 kg or more. Miniature Labradoodles tend to land around 7–15 kg.

Thanks to the Retriever roots, they’re built for distance. Think long walks, runs, hikes, and brain games. If weekends outdoors are your thing, the Labradoodle will keep up and then some.

Both breeds inherit that Poodle knack for learning. Food rewards and praise go a long way, which is handy if you’re new to training.

Cockapoo temperament

Cockapoos are loyal shadows. Playful, people-focused, and usually great with children and other pets.
They want to be involved, which is lovely, but it can tip into separation worries if left too long. Early socialising and steady routines help. Training is straightforward if you keep it fun and short.

Labradoodle temperament

Labradoodles are friendly and easy to live with. The Labrador half brings a gentle, reliable streak, which is why so many make great therapy or service dogs. Bigger Labradoodles often feel calmer once they’ve had their exercise.

One quirk you may notice: that Retriever urge to carry things. Balls, toys, socks if you’re not careful. Fetch is their happy place.

People often choose doodles for their hypoallergenic reputation. Reality needs a quick note however.

Shedding and hypoallergenic claims

No dog is truly hypoallergenic. Lower shedding usually helps allergy-prone families. Cockapoos and Labradoodles can have straight, wavy, or curly coats. Wavy and curly types tend to drop less hair.

If allergies matter, ask your breeder about the coats in the litter and request health testing proof. Cockapoos and Labradoodles with tighter curls usually shed less.

Grooming requirements

Coats need commitment. Loose hair gets trapped and mats if you don’t stay on top of it. Daily brushing and a tidy every 6–8 weeks is the sweet spot.

In short, you swap hoovering the sofa for time at the groomer.

Like many Poodle cross breeds, these mixes can benefit from hybrid vigour, but they can still inherit issues. Good breeders screen hips, elbows, and eyes.

• Cockapoo lifespan: 12–15 years

• Labradoodle lifespan: 12–15 years for Standards, larger types could be shorter.

Always ask for health paperwork. Steer clear of puppy farms, no matter the price tag.

If size is your decider, you’ll likely compare Cockapoos with Miniature Labradoodles. Similar weights, different feel.

• Cockapoo: Often settles faster indoors after a proper walk.

• Mini Labradoodle: Keeps that Labrador drive, loves long outings and fetch.

Want a small dog that chills nicely after exercise? Cockapoo leans that way. Want a smaller partner for long hikes? The mini Labradoodle fits the brief.

Factors influencing your final decision

• Living space: Flats and smaller homes point to Cockapoo. Bigger spaces suit Labradoodles.

• Activity level: Very active owners match Labradoodles. Steady but moderate suits Cockapoos.

• Grooming commitment: Daily brushing and regular trims for both.

• Maturity rate: Standard doodles often take longer to settle.

• Children: Both are kid-friendly, but a big Labradoodle can bowl over toddlers by accident so size can be a factor.

Pick a Cockapoo or a Labradoodle and you’ll get a bright, affectionate, loyal friend. The real fork in the road is size and exercise. Want compact and a bit calmer at home? Cockapoo. Want bigger and built for action? Labradoodle.

Thank the Poodle for the brains, and budget time for grooming. If allergies are on your mind, remember coat type varies, so buy from a breeder you trust and set your expectations early.

Whatever you choose, plan for training, patience, and a lot of love. You must consider your lifestyle before you commit.

Looking at a Standard? Read up on Australian Labradoodles too. Multi-generational lines often feel more predictable in coat and temperament.

We hope this clears up the Cockapoo vs Labradoodle question and nudges you closer to the right match. When you’re ready, protect your new teammate with pet insurance.