How expensive is it to own a Labradoodle?

A Labradoodle – part Labrador, part Poodle: 100% adorable! These pups are known for their friendly nature and curly hypoallergenic coats. However, before falling head over paws with a Labradoodle puppy, it’s important for pet-parents-to-be to consider the price tag of these furballs, as well as other initial costs and ongoing monthly expenses. 

So, are Labradoodles expensive? And how expensive is it to own a Labradoodle? In this article, we’ll break down the costs so there are no sneaky financial surprises and you can relax and enjoy your time with your new fur-ever friend. 

How much do Labradoodles cost?

Considering adopting one of these fuzzy tail-waggers and wondering “how expensive are Labradoodles?” Well, there’s not really a set price when adopting a Labradoodle from a breeder. The price can vary anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 depending on things like the breeder’s reputation, the dog’s lineage, and your location. Make sure to do your research and only buy from a reputable and responsible breeder. Of course, the other option is to adopt from a shelter - more on this later. 

Why are Labradoodles so expensive?

There are a few reasons why Labradoodles cost so much. You may need to fork out a few thousand due to breeding costs (taking care of the puppy’s health and well-being, careful breeding selection, and health testing) and the fact they’re in such high demand.

Related article: Labradoodle dog names

How much does a Labradoodle cost to keep?

Now we know how much adopting a Labradoodle might cost you, let’s take a look at the one-time costs and monthly expenses of being a Labradoodle pet parent. The costs of vet visits, supplies, grooming, training, food, and pet care can add up, so it’s important to budget to avoid any surprises.

Veterinary care

Routine vet visits are essential to keep your Labradoodle healthy. On average, you can expect to pay $200 to $600 per year for routine vet care which includes annual check-ups, vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and dog dental care. Plus, unexpected medical issues or emergencies may mean paying even more than that if you’re without pet insurance (more on that later).

Supplies

To make your new pup feel right at home, you’ll want to purchase supplies such as a dog bed, a collar or harness, a leash, some dog toys, grooming tools, food and water bowls, and a crate. Buying these supplies can cost anywhere between $200 to $500. Plus, to keep your pup mentally stimulated (and since our mischievous puppies love to chew!), you’ll need to regularly replace certain items like toys.

Grooming

With those fabulous curly coats, Labradoodles need regular grooming to prevent matting and keep them looking their best. If you opt for professional grooming, it can cost between $50 and $100 per session, and you’ll likely need to schedule appointments every 6 to 8 weeks. So, if you feel your pup superstar needs a high-quality grooming service for their coat, this can add up to $400 to $800 annually.

Training

Labradoodles are smart cookies but they still benefit from professional training, especially as puppies. Puppy training classes typically cost around $100 to $200 for a 6-week course. If you choose to go for more advanced training or private sessions, be prepared for it to cost a lot more.

Food

Feeding your Labradoodle a high-quality diet is important for their health. Depending on the size of your pooch and the type of food you choose, expect to pay between $40 and $80 per month on dog food, which adds up to $480 to $960 a year.

Pet care

If you’re a frequent traveler or have long work days, you may need to make use of pet care services such as a dog walker or pet sitter. Dog walking can cost $15 to $25 per walk, and boarding services may charge $30 to $50 per night. These costs can quickly add up, especially if you need these services on the regular.

If you travel often and need pet care, consider a membership with TrustedHousesitters. This cost-friendly option is a great alternative to boarding services as your new pup can be taken care of in the comfort of their home by a trusted pet sitter. Why not take a look at our pricing plans and save with a yearly membership?

Related article: Loveable Labrador Retrievers: Cost of care and other expenses

How much does a Labradoodle cost per month?

Wondering, “how expensive is a Labradoodle per month?” When you include food, grooming, vet visits, and pet care, the monthly expenses of owning a Labradoodle can be anywhere between $250 and $700, depending on your dog’s needs and lifestyle. Plus a bit extra for the months when you’ll be splurging on dog training, replacing chewed-up toys, or dealing with unexpected vet expenses.

Reducing the cost of a Labradoodle

There are certain things you can do to reduce these monthly expenses so the cost of owning a Labradoodle doesn’t break the bank. 

Here are some tips to help you reduce the overall cost while still giving your dog the best care:

Adopt your Labradoodle

Adopting a Labradoodle from a shelter or rescue organization not only helps out a pup in need of a home, but will cost a lot less. The cost of adopting a dog as a rescue is usually much lower than finding a puppy from a breeder, often ranging from $100 to $500. Plus, many rescues include vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and microchipping in the adoption fees, which can save you money on initial vet costs.

Preventative care

Staying on top of vet check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention can help avoid costly health conditions down the road, as well as keep your pup happy and healthy. Maintaining a healthy diet and weight for your Labradoodle can also help prevent expensive health issues such as obesity.

Pet insurance

Pet insurance may feel like an extra expense but it could save you money in the long term with unexpected vet visits and can provide peace of mind. Plans typically cost between $30 and $60 per month, depending on the coverage level.

Groom your Labradoodle at home

Why not become your dog’s personal stylist? Investing in some quality grooming tools and learning the basics of coat care, nail trimming, and ear cleaning can save you hundreds of dollars each year. To get started, check out our dog grooming for beginners guide.

Go DIY 

Instead of often buying new toys, get creative with some DIY options. Collect old t-shirts, tennis balls, socks, and ropes, and check out these DIY dog toy ideas. You can also make your own dog biscuits which can often be a healthier alternative. Have a browse of these dog food and treats recipes for some inspiration.

Got a new Labradoodle puppy? Explore the world of pet sitting with our many trusted and caring house sitters. Enjoy your time away knowing your new bundle of joy is well taken care of.