Labradoodle Characteristics
Life expectancy: 12 – 14 years
Adult weight: 50 – 60 lbs.
Adult height: 21 – 24 in.
Origin – Australia
Labradoodle Cost: Buying vs. Adoption
Thinking of welcoming a furry Labradoodle friend into your life? Wondering "how much does a labradoodle cost"? This guide will explore the costs of Labradoodle ownership, including adoption fees, breeder prices, and lifetime expenses like dog food, grooming, and vet care.
Adoption vs. Buying
The initial cost of a Labradoodle can vary depending on whether you choose adoption or go through a breeder.
Adoption: Adoption fees for Labradoodles from shelters or rescues typically range from $100 to $300. This is a fantastic option for giving a loving home to a dog in need, and many adopted Labradoodles come already spayed/neutered and with some basic vaccinations. If you do decide to adopt your new labradoodle, take a look at our dog adoption checklist for tips on how to prepare for your new pet.
Buying: Labradoodle puppy costs from reputable breeders can range from $1,500 to $2,500, with some reaching upwards of $3,000 for rare colors.
Factors Affecting Breeder Price
Several factors can influence labradoodle puppy cost:
Coat Color: Exotic coat colors like red, lavender, or blueish-gray tend to be more expensive.
Breeder Reputation: Reputable breeders who prioritize health testing and ethical breeding practices may charge more.
Geographic Location: Labradoodle puppy costs can vary depending on your location.
Lifetime Expenses
Beyond the initial adoption or breeder fee, Labradoodle ownership involves ongoing expenses throughout their lifespan. Here's a breakdown of the key cost categories:
Initial Costs: $400-$500 (bed, dog crate, food/water bowls, a leash and collar, dog toys, etc.)
Monthly Costs:
Lifetime Cost: $18,000-$20,000 (estimated, including food, vet care, grooming)
Expert Insights From Spot
According to Spot’s internal data, the claims most often submitted for Labradoodles are for preventive care services like; heartworm and flea medications, rabies and Bordetella vaccinations, and special diets, foods, or supplements. Spot has received almost 700 claims from pet parents of Labradoodle for heartworm and flea medications, over 900 claims for Bordetella and rabies vaccinations, and over 250 claims for special diets, foods, or supplements. If you decide to add a Labradoodle puppy to your family, we hope this information will help give you an understanding of the kinds of veterinary services your pet may need during their life.
Additional Considerations
Why is a Labradoodle so expensive? A big reason doodles tend to be costly is because a lot of effort is put into breeding them. A reputable breeder will perform genetic testing to check for common canine diseases, as well as coat testing, to certify the dog is low-shedding.
Is 14 old for a Labradoodle? Small Labradoodles are expected to live between 12-15 years. However, bigger versions like full Labrador and standard Poodle crosses usually live for around 10-13 years, similar to other large breeds.
Do Labradoodles bark a lot? Labradoodles can bark more than other breeds, but they're considered to be medium barkers as they'll only be more vocal if they need attention or food, or out of frustration.
Key Takeaways
Labradoodles can be wonderful companions, but it's important to understand the lifetime costs involved before bringing one home. Whether you choose adoption or a reputable breeder, factor in initial expenses, ongoing monthly costs, and potential vet bills to ensure you can provide your furry friend with a happy and healthy life.
