A lamb-like terrier with a curly, non-shedding coat that belies a bold, athletic spirit. Bedlington Terriers are graceful, charming companions that can sprint like a whippet and cuddle like a lap dog.
The original designer dog, a Labrador Retriever-Poodle cross bred for low-shedding guide dog work. Labradoodles are intelligent, energetic, and famously friendly — ideal for active families with allergies.
Quick Answer
Choose Bedlington Terrier if you want more apartment-friendly. Choose Labradoodle if you want easier to train and better with kids.
Bedlington Terrier
Attribute
Labradoodle
Size
Weight
Height
Lifespan
Trainability
Energy
Good with Kids
Shedding
Grooming
Apartment
Health
Price
Bedlington Terrier is less expensive to own annually.
Bedlington Terrier
Labradoodle
Both breeds cost a similar amount upfront — $1,500–$2,500 for a Bedlington Terrier versus $1,500–$4,500 for a Labradoodle. Where the real cost differences emerge is in ongoing expenses.
Labradoodle needs more exercise; Bedlington Terrier is lower-maintenance.
Bedlington Terrier
Labradoodle
Energy Level
Exercise Needs
Apartment Friendly
The Labradoodle needs slightly more exercise (4/5) than the Bedlington Terrier (3/5), but neither breed is at an extreme. Both have high to moderate energy levels, so the difference in your daily routine will be modest — perhaps an extra 15-20 minutes of activity for the Labradoodle.
Labradoodle is the larger breed; Bedlington Terrier is more compact.
Bedlington Terrier
Labradoodle
Weight (kg)
Height (cm)
You'll notice the size difference immediately. The Labradoodle stands 43–61 cm (17–24 in) tall and weighs 15–30 kg (33–66 lbs), making it considerably larger than the Bedlington Terrier at 38–44 cm (15–17 in) and 8–10 kg (18–22 lbs).
Bedlington Terrier is calmer; Labradoodle is more energetic.
Bedlington Terrier
Labradoodle
Playfulness
Barking Level
Energy
The Bedlington Terrier and Labradoodle bring very different personalities to the table. Bedlington Terriers are gentle, spirited and charming, while Labradoodles tend to be friendly, energetic and intelligent.
Labradoodle tends to be the healthier breed overall.
Bedlington Terrier
Labradoodle
Lifespan (years)
Health Robustness
Both breeds have comparable lifespans — 11–16 years for the Bedlington Terrier and 12–15 years for the Labradoodle. You can expect a similar length of companionship from either breed, all else being equal.
Labradoodle is generally easier to train.
Bedlington Terrier
Labradoodle
Trainability
Intelligence
The Labradoodle has a slight training edge (5/5 vs 4/5). Both respond to positive reinforcement, but the Labradoodle tends to catch on a bit faster.
Labradoodle is better suited for families with children.
Bedlington Terrier
Labradoodle
Good with Kids
Good with Dogs
Strangers
The Labradoodle has a slight edge with children (5/5 vs 4/5). Both breeds can do well in families, but the Labradoodle's friendly temperament gives it a small advantage around young kids.
Both breeds have similar grooming needs.
Bedlington Terrier
Labradoodle
Shedding
Grooming Needs
Both breeds shed at the same rate (1/5), so fur management will be identical for either choice. Neither breed will leave much hair around the house.
Neither breed is objectively "better" — it depends on your priorities. Choose the Bedlington Terrier if you value more apartment-friendly (4/5) and lower exercise needs (3/5).
Question 1 of 3
Do you have children at home?
Choose Bedlington Terrier if...
Choose Labradoodle if...
Looking for more options?
The Labradoodle is generally better with children, scoring 5/5 compared to the Bedlington Terrier's 4/5. The Labradoodle is one of our top-recommended breeds for families.
The Labradoodle is easier to train, scoring 5/5 versus the Bedlington Terrier's 4/5. The Labradoodle's forgiving nature makes it ideal for beginners.
A Bedlington Terrier puppy costs $1,500–$2,500 while a Labradoodle costs $1,500–$4,500. Annual maintenance runs about $1,270 for the Bedlington Terrier and $1,610 for the Labradoodle. The Labradoodle costs more to maintain annually.
The Bedlington Terrier lives 11–16 years on average, while the Labradoodle lives 12–15 years. Both breeds have similar lifespans. Proper diet, exercise, and regular vet care help maximize lifespan for either breed.
The Bedlington Terrier is better suited for apartments (4/5) compared to the Labradoodle (3/5). The Bedlington Terrier is one of our top picks for apartment living.