I am 5' 6.5" so you can use that information as a guide to each Labradoodle size.
This is our beautiful stud, Jag. He is 55 lbs; a very solidly built Standard size.
This is Mazie, a solid Medium size, and one of our mamas. She weighs 34 lbs
This is Saylor, a Mini girl and one of our mamas. She is 16" tall and weighs 15 lbs. This makes her on the tall side of Mini, but she is on the lightweight side. She has a willowy build.
Labradoodle sizes can be confusing, but given the right information, they can be very simple to understand and are a very helpful tool when choosing your next family member! The Labradoodle Associations (ALCA, WALA, and ALAA) all recognize that there are three sizes of labradoodles; Standard, Medium, and Mini. “Standard,” which is the largest, was the original size, and many people still think that is the only size available, however, the wide range of sizes makes it possible for just about anyone to enjoy the blessing of a labradoodle companion.
Weight vs. Height
The size of a labradoodle, as well as all dogs, is determined by two important variables; weight and height. While weight is the most common measurement used, it can be misleading when not taking into account the height of the dog. For example, a dog who is 27 lbs can be only 16 inches at the shoulder, while another dog, also 27 lbs, can be 19 or even 20 inches at the shoulder. As you can imagine, 3 or 4 inches in height makes a big difference in the dog’s size. One is short and stocky, the other is taller and willowy. In my opinion, the height is the most important of the two variables because a taller dog gives the feeling of taking up more room.
Easy guide to size by height: Standard: 21-24 inches (53-63 cm)
Medium: 17-20+ inches (43-52 cm)
Mini: 14- 16+ inches (35-42 cm)
Easy guide to size by weight: Standard: 45-65 lbs (23-30 kg)
Medium: 25-45 lbs (11-23 kg)
Mini: 15-25 lbs (6-11 kg)
Labradoodles can range from being thin and light to solid and substantial. That explains the wide range of weights and the importance of also needing a height measurement. There are occasions when the weight of a labradoodle indicates one size and the height indicates another. Which measurement takes priority? As I stated before, I personally think the height is a more accurate indicator of the dog’s size. They have so much fluffy fur that even a lightweight dog can seem much bigger than they actually are, until you see them wet. When they are dry, their weight is not very obvious. Their height, on the other hand, determines practical things, such as what size crate they need and whether or not they can reach food on your counters. While weight is the easiest and most common indicator, height is an important variable to be considered in determining the size of a labradoodle. The best news is that because of all the size options, there really is a labradoodle for every family!
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