Double Doodle Breed Profile
Complete Double Doodle guide covering size, temperament, coat types, generations (F1/F1B), health risks, grooming, and 2026 pricing for this Labradoodle-Goldendoodle mix.
What Is a Double Doodle?
A Double Doodle is a designer crossbreed produced by mating a Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever × Poodle) with a Goldendoodle (Golden Retriever × Poodle). The result is a dog carrying genetics from three foundation breeds: Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and Poodle — with Poodle DNA appearing on both sides of the pedigree, effectively doubling the Poodle influence.
Double Doodles are not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as a distinct breed, nor are they registered with the United Kennel Club. They fall under the broader "designer dog" or mixed-breed category. However, some registries like the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC) and the International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR) do list them, which can help verify parentage when buying from a breeder.
Parent Breed Breakdown: Labradoodle and Goldendoodle
Understanding a Double Doodle requires understanding the two parent hybrids, since the puppy will inherit a randomized blend of traits from each. Here is how the parent breeds compare across the characteristics that matter most to owners:
| Trait | Labradoodle | Goldendoodle |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation breeds | Labrador Retriever × Poodle | Golden Retriever × Poodle |
| Typical weight | 50–65 lb (23–29 kg) | 50–70 lb (23–32 kg) |
| Height at shoulder | 21–24 in (53–61 cm) | 20–24 in (51–61 cm) |
| Energy level | High — needs 60–90 min/day | Moderate-high — needs 45–75 min/day |
| Temperament tendency | Outgoing, bouncy, mouthy | Gentle, sociable, slightly calmer |
| Coat types seen | Wavy, curly, or straight (fleece/wool) | Wavy, curly, or straight (fleece/wool) |
| Shedding | Low to moderate (varies by generation) | Low to moderate (varies by generation) |
| Lifespan | 12–14 years | 10–15 years |
Because both parent breeds already carry Poodle genetics, a Double Doodle's genome is roughly 50% Poodle, 25% Labrador Retriever, and 25% Golden Retriever in a first-generation (F1) cross. This higher Poodle concentration is what drives the expectation of lower shedding — but as we will discuss, coat outcomes remain unpredictable.
Generations Explained: F1, F1B, F2, and Multigen Double Doodles
Not all Double Doodles are created equal. The generation of the cross significantly affects coat type predictability, shedding levels, and size consistency. Here is what each generation label means:
Generation Explainer
- F1 Double Doodle: First-generation cross — one Labradoodle parent × one Goldendoodle parent. Genome is approximately 50% Poodle, 25% Labrador, 25% Golden Retriever. Most variable in coat and size.
- F1B Double Doodle: Backcross — an F1 Double Doodle bred back to a Poodle. Genome shifts to approximately 75% Poodle, 12.5% Labrador, 12.5% Golden Retriever. Higher likelihood of curly, low-shedding coats.
- F2 Double Doodle: Two F1 Double Doodles bred together. Still roughly 50% Poodle but with more genetic recombination. Coat and size unpredictability increases in F2 litters.
- F2B Double Doodle: An F2 Double Doodle bred to a Poodle. Approximately 75% Poodle. Similar coat predictability to F1B.
- F3 / Multigen Double Doodle: Third generation or beyond, bred from established Double Doodle lines. Reputable multigen breeders select for consistent traits over multiple generations, producing the most predictable puppies — but this requires years of careful breeding and health testing.
Why this matters to buyers: An F1 Double Doodle puppy from two well-tested parents may still produce a high-shedding, straight-coated dog that looks more Labrador than Poodle. If low shedding is a priority (for allergy households), an F1B or multigen Double Doodle from a breeder who can show coat-test results is a more reliable choice. Ask the breeder specifically which generation they produce and whether they perform DNA coat testing for the furnishing gene (RSPO2) and curl gene (KRT71).
How Big Will a Double Doodle Get?
Size in Double Doodles depends on the size varieties of Poodle used in the lineage. Most Double Doodles are bred from Standard Poodle lines, but some breeders use Miniature Poodle lines in one or both parent doodles, producing smaller offspring.
| Size Category | Weight | Height at Shoulder | How It Happens |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medium | 30–45 lb (14–20 kg) | 17–20 in (43–51 cm) | Miniature Poodle in lineage (one or both parents) |
| Standard | 50–80 lb (23–36 kg) | 21–25 in (53–64 cm) | Standard Poodle in both parents (most common) |
The wide weight range (30–80 lb / 14–36 kg) reflects the inherent variability of mixed breeds. Even within a single litter of standard-size Double Doodles, individual puppies can mature to weights that differ by 15–20 lb. There is no reliable way to predict an individual puppy's adult weight from appearance alone at 8 weeks. A rough estimate: multiply the puppy's weight at 16 weeks by 2, then add or subtract 10%.
Coat Types, Shedding, and the Hypoallergenic Question
Double Doodles inherit coat traits from three breeds, each contributing different possibilities:
- Poodle contribution: Tightly curled, single-layer coat. Lowest shedding. Requires clipping every 6–8 weeks.
- Labrador contribution: Short, dense double coat with a weather-resistant topcoat and soft undercoat. Moderate to heavy seasonal shedding.
- Golden Retriever contribution: Medium-length, wavy to straight double coat with feathering on legs, chest, and tail. Moderate year-round shedding with heavier seasonal blows.
The resulting coat in a Double Doodle typically falls into one of three categories:
Trait Variability: Coat Outcomes
- Curly (wool coat): Tight ringlets, single layer, lowest shedding. Most Poodle-like. Common in F1B and multigen dogs. Requires professional grooming every 6–8 weeks at $65–$120 per session depending on your region.
- Wavy (fleece coat): Loose waves, may be single or double layer. Moderate shedding. The most common coat type in F1 Double Doodles. Brushing 3–4 times per week, professional grooming every 8–10 weeks.
- Straight (hair coat): Flat or slightly wavy, double layer, higher shedding. Least Poodle-like. More common when both parent doodles carry recessive straight-coat genes. Brushing 2–3 times per week; less frequent professional grooming needed.
Is a Double Doodle hypoallergenic? No dog is truly hypoallergenic. All dogs produce dander, saliva, and urine proteins (particularly Can f 1 and Can f 2) that trigger allergic reactions. However, curly-coated Double Doodles (especially F1B or multigen) tend to shed less dander into the environment, which may reduce symptoms for some allergy sufferers. This is not guaranteed. If allergies are a concern, spend time with the specific puppy or adult dog before committing, and consult an allergist.
Temperament: What to Expect (and What Can Go Wrong)
Double Doodles inherit temperament genes from three of the most people-oriented breeds in existence. In the best-case scenario, this produces a dog that is friendly, trainable, eager to please, gentle with children, and sociable with other dogs. Many Double Doodles do match this ideal.
But mixed-breed genetics do not guarantee a blended-best-of-both-worlds outcome. Here is a realistic range:
| Trait | Best-Case Expression | Challenging Expression |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | Playful but settles well indoors after 60 min of exercise | Hyperactive, mouthy, destructive if under-exercised (Labrador influence can be strong) |
| Sociability | Greets strangers warmly, good with children and other dogs | Overly excitable jumping, or anxious/shy if under-socialized |
| Trainability | Picks up commands quickly, food-motivated, loves working with handler | Easily distracted, sensitive to harsh corrections, slow to house-train |
| Vocalization | Barks to alert, generally quiet otherwise | Demand barking, separation anxiety vocalization (Poodle and Lab lines both prone) |
| Retrieving instinct | Loves fetch, great for active families | Carries everything in mouth, chews household items, hard to redirect |
Training recommendation: Use positive reinforcement methods exclusively — reward-based training with food, toys, and praise. All three foundation breeds respond poorly to aversive methods. Force-free training builds confidence and strengthens your bond. If you encounter persistent behavioral challenges like separation anxiety or leash reactivity, consult a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) or a veterinary behaviorist (DACVB).
Health Considerations: Hybrid Vigor Myth vs. Reality
A common marketing claim for designer dogs is "hybrid vigor" — the idea that crossing two breeds automatically produces a healthier dog. The reality is more nuanced.
Hybrid vigor (heterosis) can reduce the risk of recessive genetic disorders that are common in one parent breed but not the other, because the crossbred offspring is less likely to inherit two copies of the same harmful gene. However, it does not protect against conditions that affect multiple foundation breeds. Since the Labrador, Golden Retriever, and Poodle all share predispositions to several conditions, a Double Doodle remains at risk for:
| Condition | Foundation Breeds Affected | What to Ask the Breeder |
|---|---|---|
| Hip dysplasia | Labrador, Golden Retriever, Standard Poodle | OFA or PennHIP scores for both parents |
| Elbow dysplasia | Labrador, Golden Retriever | OFA elbow clearance for both parents |
| Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) | All three breeds | DNA test results (prcd-PRA) for both parents |
| Exercise-induced collapse (EIC) | Labrador (carrier in some Poodle lines) | EIC DNA test for Lab-side parent |
| Sebaceous adenitis | Standard Poodle | Skin exam history, breeder awareness of condition |
| Hip and joint issues (general) | All three breeds | Ask about joint health management plans |
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, hip dysplasia remains one of the most common orthopedic conditions in medium-to-large breeds, with prevalence rates of 10–20% depending on the breed and screening program. Responsible breeders test both parents and share results openly.
Grooming Needs and Maintenance Costs
Grooming requirements depend entirely on the coat type your Double Doodle inherits:
- Curly coat: Daily or every-other-day brushing with a slicker brush (such as a Chris Christensen Big G) to prevent matting at the skin level. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks. Expect annual grooming costs of $650–$1,100.
- Wavy/fleece coat: Brushing 3–4 times per week. Professional grooming every 8–10 weeks. Annual grooming costs of $400–$750.
- Straight/hair coat: Brushing 2–3 times per week during shedding season, weekly otherwise. Professional grooming optional (bath and nail trim every 8–12 weeks). Annual grooming costs of $200–$450.
All Double Doodles need regular ear cleaning (weekly, especially for floppy-eared dogs prone to yeast infections), nail trims every 3–4 weeks, and daily tooth brushing with a veterinary-formulated enzymatic toothpaste. Budget an additional $150–$300 annually for grooming supplies (brushes, shampoo, ear cleaner, dental products).
Cost: What You Will Actually Pay
Double Doodle puppies typically cost between $1,500 and $4,000 from a breeder in 2026, with the following price drivers:
- $1,500–$2,200: F1 puppies from breeders who perform basic health testing but may not provide extensive documentation. Often found through local breeders or online listings.
- $2,200–$3,200: F1B or F2 puppies from established breeders with full OFA/PennHIP clearances, DNA panel results, early neurological stimulation (ENS) programs, and health guarantees of 2+ years.
- $3,200–$4,000+: Multigen puppies from highly regarded programs with proven temperament testing (such as Volhard or Puppy Aptitude Testing), guardian home programs, and extensive generational health records.
First-year total cost estimate: Beyond the purchase price, budget $2,800–$4,500 for the first year including veterinary care (initial exam, DHPP and rabies vaccines, spay/neuter at $300–$700), quality food ($600–$1,000 for a large-breed puppy formula meeting AAFCO standards for growth), grooming, supplies (crate, harness, bed, toys), and pet insurance ($40–$90/month for comprehensive coverage).
Rescue availability: Double Doodles occasionally appear in breed-specific rescues (such as Doodle Rescue Collective or IDOG Rescue) and general shelters. Adoption fees typically range from $300–$600. Rescue dogs may be adults with known temperaments, which can actually reduce the unpredictability that comes with puppies. Check Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet with search terms "Labradoodle," "Goldendoodle," or "doodle mix" since Double Doodles are rarely listed by that specific name.
Who Is the Double Doodle Best Suited For?
Based on the typical trait profile — high energy, high sociability, moderate-to-high grooming needs, and large size — the Double Doodle fits best with:
- Active households that can provide 60–90 minutes of daily exercise (walks, fetch, swimming, hiking)
- Families with children aged 6+, as the dog's size and exuberance can knock over toddlers (supervision is always essential with any dog and young children)
- Homes with yards — apartments can work with dedicated exercise routines, but a fenced yard is ideal for a dog this size and energetic
- Owners willing to commit to grooming — if daily brushing and regular professional grooming feel burdensome, a shorter-coated breed may be a better fit
- First-time dog owners can succeed with a Double Doodle given their generally biddable nature, but should invest in puppy classes (6–8 week group course, typically $150–$300) and commit to consistent training
The Double Doodle is a poor fit for owners who are away from home 10+ hours daily (separation anxiety risk is real in all three foundation breeds), those unwilling to budget for ongoing grooming, or anyone expecting a guaranteed non-shedding dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
What two breeds make up a Double Doodle?
A Double Doodle is a cross between a Labradoodle (itself a Labrador Retriever × Poodle mix) and a Goldendoodle (a Golden Retriever × Poodle mix). The result carries genetics from three breeds: Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and Poodle.
How big will my Double Doodle get?
Standard Double Doodles typically reach 50–80 lb (23–36 kg) and 21–25 inches (53–64 cm) at the shoulder. Medium varieties (with Miniature Poodle ancestry) typically reach 30–45 lb (14–20 kg) and 17–20 inches (43–51 cm). Ask your breeder about the specific size of the parent dogs for the best estimate.
What will a Double Doodle's temperament be like?
Most Double Doodles are friendly, social, and eager to please — traits inherited from all three foundation breeds. However, individual temperament varies. Some lean more energetic and mouthy (Labrador influence), while others are calmer and gentler (Golden Retriever influence). Early socialization between 8–16 weeks and positive reinforcement training are critical for shaping a well-adjusted adult dog.
Is a Double Doodle hypoallergenic or low-shedding?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic. Curly-coated Double Doodles (especially F1B and multigen generations) tend to shed less and may be better tolerated by some allergy sufferers. However, shedding and allergen production vary by individual dog. Spend time with the specific dog before committing if allergies are a concern.
What health issues might a Double Doodle inherit?
The most common inherited risks include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), exercise-induced collapse (EIC), and sebaceous adenitis. All three foundation breeds share predispositions to hip and joint issues, so hybrid vigor does not eliminate these risks. Reputable breeders perform OFA or PennHIP hip/elbow scoring and DNA testing on both parent dogs.
How much does a Double Doodle cost?
Expect to pay $1,500–$4,000 for a Double Doodle puppy from a breeder in 2026, depending on generation, health testing, and breeder reputation. First-year total ownership costs (including vet care, food, grooming, and supplies) typically add $2,800–$4,500. Adoption through rescue organizations costs $300–$600.
Tom Renshaw
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
