Breed Comparison
Labradoodle vs Cockapoo
Side-by-side breakdown of shedding, trainability, cost, temperament, and whether either breed suits your lifestyle, with honest UK context.
Labradoodle
The crossbreed that started it all. Combines the Lab's sociability with the Pood…
Cockapoo
The UK's most popular crossbreed. Combines the Cocker's charm with the Poodle's …
The Labradoodle is a large breed while the Cockapoo is small. Labradoodles are high-energy, Cockapoos are moderate-energy. Puppy prices: Labradoodle £1 200–£2 800, Cockapoo £1 000–£2 500 from UK breeders.
Side-by-side comparison
| Labradoodle | Cockapoo | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Small |
| Weight | 23–30 kg | 5–11 kg |
| Lifespan | 12–14 yrs | 13–16 yrs longer |
| Shedding | Minimal shedding | Minimal shedding |
| Barking | Moderate barker | Moderate barker |
| Trainability | Easy to train | Easy to train |
| Good with kids | Yes | Yes |
| Good with cats | Yes | Yes |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes | Yes |
| UK puppy price | £1 200–£2 800 | £1 000–£2 500 cheaper |
| Insurance/month | £35–£70/mo | £25–£55/mo cheaper |
Green highlight = advantage on that trait. Prices are UK averages from reputable KC-registered breeders (2024–25).
Quick verdict
Labradoodle
Cockapoo
Which should you choose?
Both the Labradoodle and Cockapoo have their merits, the right choice depends on your lifestyle, living situation, and what matters most in a dog. Here is an honest breakdown of who each breed suits best.
Choose the Labradoodle if…
- Their temperament, friendly, intelligent, playful, matches what you are looking for
Choose the Cockapoo if…
- Budget is a factor, Cockapoos typically cost less to buy
- Longevity matters to you, Cockapoos tend to live longer
- Their temperament, friendly, playful, intelligent, matches what you are looking for
Energy and exercise requirements
The Labradoodle is the higher-energy breed here, Labradoodles need 90–120 minutes of exercise daily, while the Cockapoo is more manageable at 60–90 minutes per day. This difference matters significantly if you have a small home, work long hours, or aren't an active exerciser.
Cost comparison
Buying a Labradoodle costs £1 200–£2 800 from a reputable UK breeder, compared to £1 000–£2 500 for a Cockapoo. Insurance is another key variable: Labradoodles run £35–£70/mo monthly versus £25–£55/mo for Cockapoos. Over a dog's lifetime, insurance and food costs typically dwarf the initial purchase price, factor both into your budget.
Which is easier to live with day-to-day?
Energy level is the dominant practical difference here. The Labradoodle requires significantly more exercise, plan for 90+ minutes daily rather than 60–90 for the Cockapoo.
The honest summary
On balance, the Cockapoo edges ahead on the metrics that matter most to the majority of UK dog owners, but "better" is always personal. If the Labradoodle's specific traits match your situation, go with the Labradoodle.
Both the Labradoodle and Cockapoo can be wonderful dogs in the right hands and the right home. The worst outcome is choosing based on looks or trend alone, make sure their energy level, grooming needs, and temperament fit your life before you commit.
Before you decide
Whatever breed you choose, buy from a reputable breeder who health-tests their breeding stock, not a puppy farm or pet shop. For the Labradoodle, check what health testing the relevant breed club recommends (KC Assured Breeders follow minimum health testing requirements). The same applies to the Cockapoo. A slightly higher purchase price from a responsible breeder is almost always cheaper than the veterinary bills from a poorly-bred dog.
If you're still undecided after reading this comparison, consider meeting dogs of both breeds in person, at a breed club event, through a local rescue, or by contacting a reputable breeder who allows you to meet the parents. Temperament on paper and temperament in the room are not always the same thing. Spend time with both breeds before committing: it's a 10–15 year relationship.