Labradoodles have become one of the most popular dog breeds for families, allergy sufferers, and even therapy dog programs. With their cute teddy bear faces and lively personalities, it’s easy to see why. But the question that often pops up is: are Labradoodles hypoallergenic?

You might have heard people say they’re great for those with allergies. Maybe you’ve even read articles calling them a “hypoallergenic miracle dog.” But let’s clear the air (literally and figuratively). There’s more to this topic than meets the eye.

In this article, we’ll dive into what being hypoallergenic actually means, how Labradoodles fit into the picture, and what you should know before bringing one home—especially if allergies are a concern.

What Does “Hypoallergenic” Actually Mean?

Let’s get one thing straight: no dog is 100% hypoallergenic. Yep, you read that right. Not even that fluffy Labradoodle your neighbor swears doesn’t shed.

Hypoallergenic simply means “less likely to cause an allergic reaction.” It doesn’t mean “free from allergens.” People who are allergic to dogs are usually sensitive to one or more of the following:

• Dander (tiny flakes of skin)
• Saliva
• Urine
• Proteins in the dog’s skin or hair

It’s not really the fur that causes allergies—it’s the proteins that cling to the fur or skin. When dogs shed, these proteins float into the air or settle on furniture, bedding, clothes—basically everywhere.

Now, Labradoodles were originally bred to be the ideal dog for allergy sufferers. The logic made sense: mix the highly intelligent, low-shedding Poodle with the friendly, outgoing Labrador Retriever. The hope was to create a dog that has a low-allergen coat and the warm personality of a Lab.

But genetics don’t always work that cleanly. So let’s look at what Labradoodles actually bring to the table.

Labradoodle Coat Types and Allergen Levels

Labradoodles come in a variety of coat types—and this plays a huge role in how allergy-friendly they are.

Here’s a breakdown:

Coat Type	Description	Shedding	Allergy Risk
Wool Coat	Tight curls, like a Poodle’s. Feels like lamb’s wool.	Very minimal shedding	Lowest risk
Fleece Coat	Soft, wavy, silky. The most common Labradoodle coat.	Low shedding	Low to medium risk
Hair Coat	Straight or wiry, more like a Labrador’s.	Moderate to heavy shedding	Higher risk

If you’re looking for a Labradoodle because of allergies, you want to aim for one with a wool or fleece coat. Hair coats are more likely to shed and carry allergens.

But even within those coat types, not all Labradoodles are equal. Some may still produce more dander, or react differently with your specific allergy.

That’s why it’s important to spend time with the dog before making a decision. More on that later.

How to Know If a Labradoodle Will Trigger Your Allergies: Key Tips

Bringing home a dog when you have allergies is a big deal—and you want to do it smart. Here are some practical, no-nonsense steps to help you figure out if a Labradoodle is a good match for your situation.

Meet the Dog First

Don’t just fall in love with a photo online. Spend time with the actual dog. Visit the breeder’s home, ask to hold or brush the dog, and see how your body reacts after an hour or two. It might sound obvious, but people skip this step all the time.

Choose a Responsible Breeder

A reputable breeder will know about the parents’ coats and allergen levels. They’ll also be able to tell you whether their dogs are multi-generational Labradoodles or first-gen. Multi-gens tend to be more predictable in coat type and shedding.

Consider an Allergy Test

If you’re not sure what you’re allergic to, get tested. Some people are fine with dog fur but react badly to saliva. That could mean even a non-shedding dog isn’t a safe bet.

Talk to a Vet

If you’re leaning toward getting a Labradoodle, consult your veterinarian first. They’ve seen it all and might even know specific dogs that work well with allergy-prone owners.

Trial Period or Fostering

If possible, try fostering a Labradoodle before committing. Even just a weekend stay can give you insight into how your body handles the dog’s presence.

FAQs About Labradoodles and Allergies

Are Labradoodles completely non-shedding?

Not quite. Some Labradoodles shed very little—especially those with wool or fleece coats—but no dog is entirely non-shedding. Even “low-shedding” dogs can still carry dander.

Do Labradoodles produce less dander than other dogs?

They can—but it depends on the individual dog. Some Labradoodles produce less dander than typical shedding breeds, but others may still trigger allergic reactions.

Can I build up a tolerance to my Labradoodle’s allergens?

Some people do adjust over time. Your immune system may become desensitized, especially with limited exposure in a clean home. But this varies greatly from person to person.

Is there a difference between F1, F1B, and Multigen Labradoodles in allergy-friendliness?

Yes. F1 (first generation) Labradoodles tend to have more coat variability. F1B (Labradoodle bred back with a Poodle) and multigenerational Labradoodles often have more consistent low-shedding coats, which can be better for allergy sufferers.

Should I get a puppy or an adult Labradoodle?

If allergies are a concern, an older dog may actually be safer. You’ll know their coat type, shedding habits, and whether they’ve triggered reactions in others. Puppies are cute—but full of surprises.

Can grooming help reduce allergens?

Absolutely. Regular brushing, bathing, and professional grooming can help control dander and loose hair. It also helps if you keep the dog’s sleeping and lounging areas clean.

Final Thoughts: Are Labradoodles the Right Dog for Allergy Sufferers?

Labradoodles can be a great match for people with mild to moderate allergies—but it’s not guaranteed. They’re not magic dogs, even if their curly coats and sweet eyes make them look the part.

Here’s the honest truth: if your allergies are severe, no dog is going to be risk-free. That said, Labradoodles—especially multi-generational ones with wool or fleece coats—are often easier to live with than many other breeds.

They offer a good balance of:

• Low shedding
• High intelligence
• Affectionate personalities
• Trainability
• Good looks (let’s be honest)

But before diving in, do your research. Spend time with the actual dog. Don’t rush the process. Allergies aren’t something you want to gamble with—especially when it comes to a 10 to 15-year commitment.

If you take the right steps, you might just find that a Labradoodle is your perfect match—fluff and all.