A mini Labradoodle is a cross between a Labrador and a Toy or Miniature Poodle. Most miniature Labradoodles will have a maximum height of less than 18 inches and a wavy or curly coat.
The mini Labradoodle is an intelligent active dog that is likely to need clipping or regular grooming.
Labradoodles of all sizes have taken the world by storm in the past few years. Most of them were created by crossing a Labrador Retriever with a Standard Poodle.
In this article, we’ll take a look at why people love miniature Labradoodles, and what you can expect as far as health, temperament, and care.
What’s In This Guide
Mini Labradoodle FAQs
Our readers’ most popular and frequently asked questions about the mini Labradoodle.
- What is the average size of a mini Labradoodle?
- Do miniature Labradoodles shed?
- Where can I find toy Labradoodles near me?
- Are mini Labradoodles good family dogs?
Don’t see your question answered here? Let us know in the comments!
Mini Labradoodle: Breed At A Glance
- Popularity: The Labrador Retriever is the number one most popular breed in the US, according to the AKC, while Poodles come in at number seven.
- Purpose: Companion.
- Weight: 20-80 pounds.
- Temperament: Friendly and playful.
Now it’s time to get into some specifics!
Mini Labradoodle Breed Review: Contents
- History and original purpose of the mini Labradoodle
- Fun facts about mini Labradoodles
- Mini Labradoodle appearance
- Mini Labradoodle temperament
- Training and exercising your mini Labradoodle
- Mini Labradoodle health and care
- Do mini Labradoodles make good family pets
- Rescuing a mini Labradoodle
- Finding a mini Labradoodle puppy
- Raising a mini Labradoodle puppy
- Mini Labradoodle products and accessories
Do you see a specific portion you’re more interested in? Go ahead and use our handy jump links to go directly to that section.
History And Original Purpose Of The Mini Labradoodle
Designer dogs can be a little divisive. Some of us love them and some of us don’t.
Mixed breeds are definitely becoming more and more popular, though they are still controversial.
The miniature Labradoodle is a cross of a Miniature Poodle and a Labrador Retriever.
Any Poodle under 10” at the shoulder is a toy, 10-15” is miniature, and larger than 15” is a Standard Poodle.
This means that far from a new mixed breed, the mini Labradoodle is just a Labradoodle where the Poodle parent happens to be Miniature.
Labradoodles were thought to be created in the search for a “hypoallergenic” dog, or at least one that would be easier on owners with serious allergies.
Mini Labradoodles were further created because, well, miniature things are even cuter than the normal size! They also take up less space for owners in constricted living conditions.
Fun Facts About Mini Labradoodles
Labradoodles first began to be better known in the late 80s, in Australia. Only more recently has their popularity spiked.
The crown prince and princess of Norway own Labradoodles.
Mini Labradoodle Appearance
One of the most surprising things about buying a mini Labradoodle is that they won’t necessarily be, well, “mini.”
Within any given litter there will inevitably be a huge variance in size, with different pups taking after different parents, and some landing somewhere in the middle.
In fact, your miniature Labradoodle full grown might be as large as its Labrador parent. Miniature Poodles can be as small as 10 inches at the shoulder, and Labradors as tall as 25.
An adult mini Labradoodle, directly crossed between a Miniature Poodle and a Lab, will be anywhere within these size ranges. And anywhere within the weight ranges of 12-80 pounds, too!
If you are set on your mini Labradoodle being mini, look for a second generation miniature Labradoodle.
If two genuinely small mini Labradoodles are bred, their pups will be much more likely to carry this size trend on with them.
This is the only way to almost guarantee mini Labradoodle size. With this being said it’s always possible one will still come out Lab sized at this stage.
Toy Labradoodle Color And Coat
There are tons of coat color possibilities, drawing from all the Lab and all the Poodle colorations.
You could have a miniature chocolate Labradoodle, a black mini Labradoodle, or just about any color Labradoodle you want!
We’re perhaps most familiar with heavily groomed and styled Poodles, but they naturally have a fluffy, shaggy coat over their entire body.
Mini Labradoodles in their most conventional appearance will have this coat, coupled with some more ‘Labradorish’ physical features.
Mini Labradoodle Temperament
In general, these are friendly, playful family dogs.
They owe this to their parent breeds.
Both are energetic but social breeds, and make excellent family pets.
Labs can be a bit more pushy with strangers, and Poodles a little more aloof. Your pup’s personality could go either way.
Labradors are also prone to boredom and loneliness if left for long periods. Even a Lab mix isn’t ideal if you work full time or are away from the home a lot.
You’ll want to raise a confident dog too.
Even a usually sweet tempered mix like the mini Labradoodle could end up unpredictable through poor rearing.
Dogs usually get aggressive not out of any misplaced sense of dominance, but because they feel scared.
Training And Exercising Your Mini Labradoodle
Socialization plays a huge part in stopping this from ever being an issue. From the moment you bring your mini Labradoodle puppy home you should be exposing it to new places, people and dogs.
Failure to do this can result in a dog that’s fearful of new people in the house, and nervous and insecure when out in public.
Until relatively recently people regularly hit their dogs and used punishments as the main reinforcement in their training, we now know this is not a good idea.
Studies have shown punishment based training methods create aggressive dogs.
Fortunately there’s a better way. Positive training methods are not only more effective, but don’t result in a nervous dog.
Both parent breeds are energetic and athletic. Your mini Labradoodle will needs lots of playtime and exercise, though how much time may depend on how small he actually is.
For further tips on training, check out our crate training guide and puppy potty training guide.
Mini Labradoodle Health And Care
You can reduce the chances of your Miniature Labradoodle inheriting their parents genetic diseases by only choosing a puppy from a litter where both of their parents were health tested.
Labradors and Poodles commonly suffer from hip dysplasia, a malformation of the hip joint.
This disorder will gradually put extra stress on their joints, and can lead to a dog that’s much less physically able. The extent to which a dog has hip dysplasia can be examined through an x-ray, and a hip score given.
It’s important to point out that, while Poodles are at risk of hip dysplasia, the Miniature size bracket of Poodles seems to experience lower instances of this disorder.
The Lab parent must have good hip and elbow scores. The Poodle parent should ideally have good hip scores.
Labradors often carry a gene that predisposes them to a condition known as ‘exercise induced collapse’.
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It’s important to spot this early on so we can take measures against it with our vet, but as the name suggests it involves dogs becoming suddenly unable to stand after exertion. Don’t buy a pup whose parent has suffered from this.
Mini Labradoodle Eyesight
On top of all this, Poodles regularly suffer from progressive rod cone degradation. Dogs with this inherited condition will gradually lose their vision in later life
Labs can also suffer from PRA blindness. Make sure both parents are DNA tested clear.
Mixed Breed Health
Some purebred breeders argue that this presence of two different sets of diseases will make mixes less healthy, but this is a misunderstanding of genetics.
Outbreeding will mean less of the genes for these conditions have a chance to match up. But not impossible, which is why you should still have each parent health tested for their own conditions.
With this being said, with mini Labradoodles being given pedigrees of their own by independent organizations, this issue may have a chance to rear up again.
If miniature Labradoodles are treated as an independent breed, they may eventually be line-bred back into the state of disrepair we find modern purebreds in.
Even so, having the genetic diversity of two breeds of dog does stand them in better stead than most.
Miniature Labradoodle Life Expectancy And Grooming
The mini Labradoodle lifespan will be a product of the parents’ lifespans and potentially will be increased a little by being a cross.
Labs live on average 12.5 years and miniature Poodles an impressive 14 years.
So you can hope for your mini Labradoodle pup to experience somewhere in that region.
As far as coat and grooming, remember that your toy Labradoodle could inherit from either parent. So their coat may be shorter, like a Lab’s, or it could be long, thick, and curly like a Poodle. Or it could be somewhere in between!
Do Mini Labradoodles Make Good Family Pets
Poodles and Labradors are both family friendly happy-go-lucky breeds.
So their offspring, no matter the size, is likely to be the same!
Are you happy to exercise, train and socialize your dog every day?
Do you spend plenty of time in the home, and are you happy to do lots of grooming?
Are you family all on board with the idea of getting a dog?
If you can happily answer yes to all of the above, the mini Labradoodle should be a good choice.
With good socialization and proper training, you can expect your mini Labradoodle to be a wonderful family pet.
However, remember that a dog like this requires care and attention, and doesn’t do well when left alone for long periods of time.
Rescuing A Mini Labradoodle
Are you thinking about getting a mini Labradoodle, but not sure whether you want to start from scratch with a puppy?
Consider rescuing an adult or senior dog who needs a good home. It’ll benefit both of you!
On top of the heartwarming feeling of helping a dog who really just wants someone to love, mini Labradoodles keep their cuteness regardless of their age. So even if the dog you adopt is well past puppy stage, it might look like he’s always an adorable youngster!
Take a look at some of the rescue organizations we’ve listed below.
Finding A Mini Labradoodle Puppy
But if you’re really set on finding a puppy, take a look at our puppy search guide.
As you go about your search, make sure that you avoid backyard breeders, puppy mills, and pet stores. These sources most likely will be far more concerned about making money than about the health and happiness of their pups.
When you go to see a prospective pup, always ask to see the parents.
You can gauge their temperament, and if it is a second generation mix even make sure of the size.
You should also ask for the medical history of the parent dogs, to see if there might be any nasty inherited surprises.
Choosing the right breeder is very important.
The Perfect Companion For Life With A New Puppy
Mini Labradoodle Breeders
Labradoodles, and their miniature varieties, are one of the most popular mixed breeds, so finding a breeder shouldn’t be too difficult for aspiring owners.
But finding a good breeder might be a bit trickier.
Good breeders don’t churn out puppies with cash as their only motivation.
The mother should be a treasured pet, know her own name and have a clear bond with the owner.
They shouldn’t have too many other dogs, and they should be treated as members of the family.
The breeder must keep the puppies in excellent conditions, and ask you lots of questions as well as being happy to answer yours. They will also thoroughly health test.
As we’ve said, to be more sure that your mini Labradoodle puppies will actually be small, you’ll need to go for dogs bred from two genuinely miniature Labradoodles.
Mini Labradoodle Price
A mini Labradoodle puppy will range in price from hundreds to a couple of thousand dollars.
It’s worth pointing out that although some of the cheapest dogs might be tempting, there might be something you’re not being told.
Mini Labradoodles are really popular, so there’s plenty of incentive for puppy farms and unscrupulous breeders to breed unethically.
Raising A Mini Labradoodle Puppy
Caring for a vulnerable mini Labradoodle puppy is a big responsibility.
There are some great guides to help you with all aspects of puppy care and training.
You’ll find them listed on our mini Labradoodle puppy page.
Mini Labradoodle Products And Accessories
For more recommendations, scroll through our reviews page.
Pros And Cons of Getting A Mini Labradoodle
Cons
- May not do well if left alone for a long period of time
- Might need a lot of exercise
- May not be truly “miniature”
- Will likely shed
Pros
Comparing The Mini Labradoodle With Other Breeds
Some other breeds may compare favorably with the mini Labradoodle. If you’re interested in truly getting something “mini,” for instance, check out some of these options.
- Pomeranian
- Toy Poodle
- Schipperke
On the other hand, if you’re more interested in the mix factor, there are other breeds worth investigating, too.
Similar Breeds
There are so many mixes out there, it would be hard to count them all! But in the search for the perfect companion, it’s worth all the effort of investigating.
Mini Labradoodle Breed Rescues
It may be hard to find rescues for specifically mini Labradoodles, but here are some Labradoodle rescue organizations that are a great place to start.
If you know of any other rescues that may focus on Labradoodles or toy Labradoodles, please let us know in the comments!
References And Resources
- Gough A, Thomas A, O’Neill D. 2018 Breed Predispositions to Disease In Dogs and Cats. Wiley Blackwell
- O’Neill et al. 2013. Longevity and Mortality of Dogs Owned In England. The Veterinary Journal
- Schalamon et al. 2006. Analysis of Dog Bites In Children Who Are Younger Than 17 Years. Pediatrics
- Duffy D et al. Breed differences in canine aggression. Applied Animal Behaviour Science 2008
- Strain G. Deafness prevalence and pigmentation and gender associations in dog breeds at risk. The Veterinary Journal 2004
- Packer et al. 2015. Impact of Facial Conformation On Canine Health. PlosOne
- Evaluation of risk factors for degenerative joint disease associated with hip dysplasia in German Shepherd Dogs, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and Rottweilers
- The myth of hybrid vigor in dogs … is a myth C. Beuchat PhD – The institute of canine biology
- Sewall Wright and evolutionary biology W. D. Proven
- The relationship between training methods and the occurrence of behavior problems, as reported by owners, in a population of domestic dogs E. J. Blackwell
- Dog training methods: their use, effectiveness and interaction with behavior and welfare E. F. Hiby
- A canine DNM1 mutation is highly associated with the syndrome of exercise-induced collapse E. E. Patterson et al
- Canine hip dysplasia, breed effects The canadian veterinary journal S. W. Martin
- Segregation distortion in inheritance of progressive rod cone degeneration (prcd) in Miniature Poodle dogs Dr. G. M. Acland et al
This article has been extensively revised and updated for 2019.
Mandy says
I am also from Western NY and looking for a Mini Labradoodle breeder, and am having a terrible time! I do not mind travelling some distance but I do want a reputable breeder and to see some health guarantee/genetic testing results and the ability to view the parents and to FaceTime or Skype to see the puppies, etc. before driving. Any recommendations?
Debra Sartwell says
I suggest you contact Monadnock Labradoodles, LLC located in New Boston, N H
I will pick my Labradoodle puppy tomorrow, Sunday, 2/24/19 and will bring her home at 8 weeks. This breeder has kept me informed of the litter’s progress from birth to 8 weeks. They post weekly photo’s and both the mom and dad are checked and tested for any genetic disorders. Puppies are checked by a vet. and microchipped, and receive necessary immunizations. Puppies live with their Mom and siblings on site w/the breeder until they are ready for adoption.
Looking for a breeder of a Labre doodle puppies we are from Buffalo New York but we don’t mind traveling to Pennsylvania or Ohio thank you for all the great informatin says
Looking for a breeder of a Labre doodle puppies we are from Buffalo New York but we don’t mind traveling to Pennsylvania or Ohio thank you for all the great information Jim
Jim says
We’re looking for a breeder for a mini labradoodle we are from buffalo NY We don’t mind traveling too PA or Ohio to find a good breeder thank you for all the great information on this breed thank u Jim
Sharyn lohman says
Where can I find a reputable mini labradoodle place in north Richland hills area in texas
Jo says
Where can I find a breeder in NC?
Pat Kalousek says
Do they shed their coats?
Lucy says
Hi Pat, All dogs shed to some extent. Labradors are high shedders, and Poodles fairly low due to their curly coats. Labradoodles can fall anywhere in between, so they might be high or low shedding depending upon how curly their coat turns out.
Patti says
How do I find one in central califorinia??? Everyone that I have found is in another state and really do not want them to be shipped if that causes them any stress
Vicki says
Just trying to find out do mini Labradoodles have the runny or stained eyes look?