For those of you keen on buying a Labradoodle, you’ve surely observed some kind of strange letters before the word “Labradoodle.” For instance, people say F1 Labradoodle, F1B Labradoodle, or F2 Labradoodle. I’m certain you’ve likely wondered “so what does F1, F1B, and F2 mean?” Well, these letters and numbers represent different Labradoodle Generations.
Since the Labradoodle is a hybrid of the Poodle and Labrador Retriever, the level of Poodle genetics and Labrador Retriever genetics can vary significant. In general, Poodles are more curly, nonshedding, and are more hypoallergenic than the Labrador Retriever. This is why many people prefer a Labradoodle generation with more Poodle genetics. In this article, we will help you translate what these abbreviations mean and we will assist you with narrowing down the different Labradoodle Generations that is right for you. This is by far the most in-depth Labradoodle Generations Guide on the internet.
Labradoodle Generations Reference Guide
Understanding the different Labradoodle Generations is easy once you comprehend what the letters and numbers mean. To easily understand, I will break down the meaning of a F1B Labradoodle:
- F1B Labradoodle: The “F” letter represents Filial Hybrid. This basically implies that your dog is a crossbred and not a purebred dog. Since all Labradoodles are a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, each generation will begin with the letter “F”.
- F1B Labradoodle: The number “1” represents the generation number of the dog. In our case, the number “1” represents a first generation Labradoodle. This means that this dog is the first offspring between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle.
- F1B Labradoodle: The letter “B” represents the word Backcross. Backcross is an extravagant term that basically implies inbreeding back to a purebred dog. Ordinarily for Labradoodles, this implies inbreeding back to a 100% Poodle for hypoallergenic and non-shedding purposes. An F1B Labradoodle is a cross between a F1 Labradoodle and a 100% Poodle.
For reference, here are the Labradoodle Generations that I will examine in this guide. This is only a reference guide of the most popular Labradoodle Generations, because there are many different types of generations. This simply represents amount of Poodle genetics and Labrador Retriever genetics that a specific Labradoodle Generation is supposed to have.
- F1 Labradoodle: 50% Labrador Retriever and 50% Poodle
- F1B Labradoodle: 25% Labrador Retriever and 75% Poodle
- F1BB Labradoodle: 12.5% Labrador Retriever and 87.5% Poodle
- F2 Labradoodle: 50% Labrador Retriever and 50% Poodle
- F2B Labradoodle: 37.5% Labrador Retriever and 62.5% Poodle
- F2BB Labradoodle: 18.75% Labrador Retriever and 81.25% Poodle
- F3 Labradoodle or Multi-Generation Labradoodles: F3 is 3rd generation (50% Labrador Retriever and 50% Poodle) while Multi-Generation Labradoodle typically means a backcross between several generations of Poodle. Multi-Gen Labradoodles are usually at least 60%+ Poodle genetics.
Tip: People typically want a Labradoodle Generation that has more Poodle hereditary qualities because they are nonshedding and more hypoallergenic than a Labrador Retriever.
Almost always, Labradoodles are going to be backcrossed with a Poodle for the hypoallergenic and nonshedding qualities. However, there are some situations where a breeder can backcross with a purebred Labrador Retriever. If they backcross with a 100% Labrador Retriever, a F1B Labradoodle would be 25% Poodle and 75% Labrador Retriever. In any case, this is uncommon with a reputable breeder, but it should be noted. It’s best that you check with your breeder if you have any questions.
F1 Labradoodle
F1 Labradoodle genetics: 50% Labrador Retriever and 50% Poodle
A F1 Labradoodle (50% Labrador Retriever and 50% Poodle) is the original Labradoodle generation that is a cross between a purebred 100% Labrador Retriever and a purebred 100% Standard Poodle. The outcome of an F1 Labradoodle is 50% Labrador Retriever and 50% Poodle since this dog will inherit exactly half of the genes form each parent.
The F1 Labradoodle is a great Labradoodle that the vast majority of pet owners consider when they hear the expression “Labradoodle”. In any case, F1 Labradoodle hereditary qualities can shift widely which will influence what they look like. Since only “50%” of the genes come from the Poodle, it’s virtually impossible to say which genes will be dominant and which genes will be recessive. For example, some F1 Labradoodles can have coats that shed, while some F1 Labradoodles are non-shedding. Likewise, these coats can be smooth or flat like the Labrador Retriever or wavy like the Poodle.
F1 Labradoodles do inherit a health advantage that is called Hybrid Vigor. This implies the Labradoodle will be healthier than any one purebred Poodle or purebred Labrador Retriever. This is because inbreeding between purebred dogs causes the same hereditary deformities between the dogs that don’t breed outside of their race. Since Labradoodles are crossbred between two different purebred dogs, they will aqcuire stronger genes and be more healthy than a purebred Poodle or purebred Labrador Retriever.
F1 Labradoodle Traits
- Coat Type: Varies (Straight, Wavy, or Curly)
- Hypoallergenic: Varies
- Non-shedding: Varies
- Hybrid Vigor: Yes, it has the most noteworthy Hybrid Vigor characteristics.
F1B Labradoodle
F1 Labradoodle genetics: 25% Labrador Retriever and 75% Poodle
The F1B Labradoodle (25% Labrador Retriever and 75% Poodle) is a cross between a F1 Labradoodle (half Poodle and half Golden Retriever) and a purebred – either a 100% Poodle or 100% Labrador Retriever. Almost always, a F1B Labradoodle is a cross between a F1 Labradoodle and a 100% Poodle because of the a non-shedding and hypoallergenic features from the Poodle genetics. Since a F1B Labradoodle is a blend between a F1 Labradoodle and a Poodle, it is called a Backcross and thus the reason behind calling it an F1B Labradoodle. The F1B Labradoodle is the most common generation of Labradoodle that breeders make because it is a relatively simply combination of dogs that are first generation.
The F1B Labradoodle is regularly known as a Hypoallergenic Labrador Retriever since it acquires many different Poodle characteristics that are great for people with allergy sensitivities. Since the F1B Labradoodle is also 75% Poodle, it commonly has the wavvy and non-shedding coat that numerous pet owners are looking for
However, the main downside of a F1B Labradoodle is that you will have to spend time grooming them because they don’t shed fur. This means that if you have an F1B Labradoodle you will regularly have to brush them and give them haircuts. I wrote a really in-depth article on all the different types of Labradoodle Haircuts that will give you some motivation. If you don’t regularly groom your F1B Labradoodle then they will get tangles and mattes in their fur. If they do get tangles and mattes then you will have to completely shave them to the skin.
F1B Labradoodles likewise have some medical advantages of being Hybrid Vigor, which implies that it will be more advantageous than their purebred parent dogs. Since F1B is in fact the “second” generation of Labradoodle, it loses a few genetic qualities of being Hybrid Vigor. Each ensuing age of cross breed dog loses a portion of the original Hybrid Vigor characteristics that they received.
F1B Labradoodle Characteristics
- Coat Type: Wavy or Curly
- Hypoallergenic: Mostly hypoallergenic.
- Non-shedding: Mostly non-shedding.
- Hybrid Vigor: Yes, yet less so than F1 Labradoodles in light of the fact that they are the second generation doodle.
F1BB Labradoodle
F1BB Labradoodle genetics: 12.5% Labrador Retriever and 87.5% Poodle
The F1BB Labradoodle (87.5% Poodle and 12.5% Golden Retriever) is a cross between a F1B Labradoodle (75% Poodle, 25% Labrador Retriever) and a 100% Poodle or 100% Labrador Retriever. Most breeders will commonly decide to breed the F1B Labradoodle with a 100% Poodle to make the Labradoodle considerably more hypoallergenic and non-shedding. Since this is the second Backcross with a thoroughbred Standard Poodle so it gets a second “B” in its name and is alluded to as a F1BB Labradoodle.
A F1BB Labradoodle is the most hypoallergenic and non-shedding of all the first generation Labradoodles because of the enormous amount of Poodle hereditary qualities. This implies the F1BB Labradoodle will very likely have a wavy or curly coat that should be brushed almost every day and given a haircut every couple months. In addition, the F1BB Labradoodle is the best generation for individuals with pet hypersensitivities and would prefer not to get dog fur all over the ground or on their clothes.
Since a F1BB Labradoodle is in fact the “third” generation Labradoodle, it will have less Hybrid Vigor characteristics from the F1 Labradoodle or F1B Labradoodle. Sometimes, F1BB Labradoodles are viewed and classified as Multi-Generation Labradoodles (AKA Multi-Gen Labradoodles) since they are past the second generation of dog breed.
F1B Labradoodle Characteristics
- Coat Type: Curly
- Hypoallergenic: The most hypoallergenic first Generation Labradoodle with 87.5% Poodle genes.
- Non-shedding: The most likely to be non-shedding out of all the first generation Labradoodle.
- Hybrid Vigor: Yes, yet less so than F1 and F1B Labradoodles in light of the fact that they are the “third” offspring of Labradoodle.
F2 Labradoodle
F2 Labradoodle genetics: 50% Labrador Retriever and 50% Poodle
F2 Labradoodle (half Poodle and half Labrador Retriever) is a second generation of Labradoodle. The F2 Labradoodle is a cross between a F1 Labradoodle and another F1 Labradoodle. The F2 Labradoodle generation produces a very wide range of Labradoodle characteristics that are similar to the F1 Labradoodle. This is due to the fact that they have a similar level of Labrador Retriever and Poodle genetics so it’s difficult to tell which genes will be dominant. In any case, most reputable breeders won’t breed a F2 Labradoodle because of the very vast range of hereditary qualities regarding coat type, coat hair, and shedding.
If you are looking to get an F2 Labradoodle, just know that they can have a straight, wavvy or curly coat. In addition, the straight or wavvy coat may be shedding or nonshedding. If the coat is nonshedding, then the F2 Labradoodle is more likely to have a hypoallergenic coat, but this also is not guaranteed.
F2 Labradoodle Characteristics
- Coat Type: Highly variable. Straight, wavy, or curly.
- Hypoallergenic: Unpredictable.
- Non-shedding: Unpredictable.
- Hybrid Vigor: Yes, however less so than the F1 Labradoodle..
F2B Labradoodle
F2B Labradoodle genetics: 37.5% Labrador Retriever and 62.5% Poodle
The F2B Labradoodle (37.5% Labrador Retriever and 62.5% Poodle) is a cross between a F1 Labradoodle (half Poodle and half Labrador Retriever) and a F1B Labradoodle (75% Poodle and 25% Labrador Retriever). After mixing the two breeds the F2B Labradoodle going to be roughly 37.5% Labrador Retriever and 62.5% Poodle.
However, a few dog breeders will decide to breed a F1B Labradoodle and another F1B Labradoodle which would bring about the F2B Labradoodle to be 75% Poodle and 25% Golden Retriever. This is less common then a F1 Labradoodle mixed with a F1B Labradoodle. You should check with your breeder if you want to know the specifics.
What we do know is that the F2B Labradoodle generation has a significant amount of Poodle qualities which brings about a generally wavy or curly coat type. This implies that the F2B Labradoodle will have less shedding and be a more hypoallergenic dog. However, sometimes it is difficult to predict the exact hereditary qualities because this is a crossbred dog type.
The F2B Labradoodle age is regularly also called a Multi-Gen Labradoodle since they are the “third” generation of dog.
F2B Labradoodle Characteristics
- Coat Type: Wavy or Curly.
- Hypoallergenic: Most likely, but there are certainly outliers.
- Non-shedding: Most likely, but there are certainly outliers.
- Crossover Vigor: Yes, yet less so than the F1 Labradoodle.
F2BB Labradoodle
F2BB Labradoodle genetics: 18.75% Labrador Retriever and 81.25% Poodle
The F2BB Labradoodle (18.75% Labrador Retriever and 81.25% Poodle) is a cross between a F2B Labradoodle (62.5% Poodle, 37.5% Labrador Retriever) and a 100% Poodle. Since this is the second Backcross with a purebred Poodle and part of the second era, it gets a second “B” in its name and is called the F2BB Labradoodle.
A F2BB Labradoodle is the most hypoallergenic and non-shedding of all the second generation Labradoodles because it has 81.25% Poodle genetics. Likewise, the F2BB Labradoodle has the second most Poodle genetics, just behind the F1BB Labradoodle (87.5% Poodle and 12.5% Labrador Retriever).
It is likely a F2BB Labradoodle will a curly coat that will need to be groomed everyday in the form of brushing. However, the good part of a F2BB Labradoodle is they are excellent dogs for individuals with serious pet hypersensitivities. It is also likely the F2BB Labradoodle will not shed any fur all over the place.
The F2BB Labradoodle age is also sometimes called Multi-Gen Labradoodle since they are technically the fourth generation Labradoodle. However, most breeders will still call it the F2BB Labradoodle instead of a Multi-Generation Labradoodle.
F2BB Labradoodle Characteristics
- Coat Type: Curly.
- Hypoallergenic: Most hypoallergenic dog out of the 2nd generation Labradoodles.
- Non-shedding: Most nonshedding dog out of the 2nd generation Labradoodles.
- Crossover Vigor: Yes, yet less so than the F1 Labradoodle.
F3 Labradoodle
The F3 Labradoodle is mostly called the Multi-Generation Labradoodle or Multi-Gen Labradoodle. This is the third era or more of the Labradoodle.
Ordinarily, the F3 Labradoodle is reproduced with a F1B Labradoodle and another F1B Labradoodle. On the other hand, you could breed a F3 Labradoodle with a F2 Labradoodle and another F2 Labradoodle. F3 Labradoodles typically contain a majority of Poodle hereditary qualities so they are good for individuals with pet sensitivities. The F3 Labradoodle coat can be wavvy to curly which makes them very good for people with pet allergies.
The term “Multi-Gen Labradoodles” simply means any Labradoodle past the second generation. This incorporates a large portion of the Labradoodle generations like the F1BB Labradoodle, F2B Labradoodle, and F2BB Labradoodle. Numerous breeders will basically list Multi-Gen Labradoodles as opposed to posting the specific generation of Labradoodle. You should ask your breeder what generation of types of Labradoodles are being crossed to get a better understanding of how your dog will look.
F3 Labradoodle or Multi-Gen Labradoodle Characteristics
- Coat Type: Generally Curly.
- Hypoallergenic: Yes.
- Non-shedding: Yes.
- Hybrid Vigor: Not usually since this is many generations later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is F1 or F2 Labradoodle better?
If your dog’s health is important to you, then an F1 labradoodle is the better choice. F1 Labradoodles have higher hybrid vigor, meaning they are healthier and less likely to encounter any health complications down the line.
Although you get a 50/50 split with F1 Labradoodles, making it challenging to determine what their coat and shedding levels will be, they are far more predictable than F2 Labradoodles. An F2 Labradoodle is the result of two F1 Labradoodles being bred, and it’s difficult to say which genes will be dominant or not.
It makes it incredibly hard to determine the coat type, hair, and shedding of the dog. Those with allergies should steer clear and opt for a more predictable dog to avoid bringing home a tiny sneezing machine! When it comes to F2 Labradoodles, we cannot guarantee if they are hypoallergenic or not.
Many breeders opt not to breed F2 Labradoodles due to the high levels of unpredictability and instead only breed F1 Labradoodles. It means it’s far easier to find and purchase an F1 Labradoodle, but we still recommend undertaking thorough research to ensure you purchase your Labradoodle from a reputable breeder.
If you are choosing between the two, the F1 Labradoodle is the better choice.
Why is my F1 Labradoodle shedding?
Your F1 Labradoodle is shedding due to the Labrador Retriever genetics it has inherited. Whether an F1 Labradoodle shed or not will vary depending on its genetics. A Labradoodle is mixed with a Labrador retriever and Poodle, with an F1 being mixed 50/50. This means there’s a 50% chance that your Labradoodle will follow its Labrador Retriever parent and shed their hair.
Before purchasing your Labradoodle, it’s worth asking the breeder what coat your puppy has. Typically curly or wavy coats on Labradoodles tend to shed far less than a flat coat. Although be mindful that in some cases, the coat can change as the dog grows and reaches maturity.
While your Labradoodle might shed, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the dog isn’t hypoallergenic, so don’t panic! The amount of hair they shed will vary depending on your dog, but there are ways to curb the shedding.
Regularly brushing your Labradoodles coat will help remove the excess hair in a controlled manner and help to de-shed them. You can purchase tools to help, but a good brush every few days should help reduce the shedding every few days.
Ensuring that your dog has the correct nutrition and is regularly washed will also help to reduce shedding. Omega 3 chews help limit the fur that your Labradoodle sheds while providing them with vital nutrients too! Collagen and other nutrients can help too, but be sure to speak to your vet before giving them to your Labradoodle.
While there’s a chance your Labradoodle will shed, you can deal with it easily, and it shouldn’t impact anyone with allergies too much.
Are F1 Labradoodle good dogs?
Yes, F1 Labradoodles are good dogs! These dogs are loyal, warm, and loving making them a wonderful addition to your home. They are friendly and get on well with children and other animals, but they can be wary of strangers (thank the Poodle gene for that).
These dogs are even used as therapy dogs for people with depression, autism, and other physical disabilities. They even make wonderful guide dogs like their Labrador parents. As F1 Labradoodles are the first generation of the breed, they have high hybrid vigor, reducing the chance of genetic conditions or inbred health complications that we see in purebred dogs.
That being said, you still need to keep your eye out for any health complications or illnesses that can affect both Poodles and Labradors. You can expect a healthy dog with a long lifespan providing you offer them a balanced diet and plenty of exercise.
While these are fantastic dogs, it’s hard to guarantee what kind of F1 labradoodle you will get. Their coat type varies between straight, wavy, and curly, and it’s difficult to predict what genes they will get as it’s split 50/50.
If you are after a hypoallergenic dog, an F1 Labradoodle might not be the best for you, as we cannot predict what coat they will have and if it will be hypoallergenic or not. You can speak to the breeder about it beforehand if you have any concerns, as they can sometimes offer more information.
While these are good dogs, those with allergies might be wary of getting an F1 Labradoodle unless you know what coat they have beforehand.
Can F1B Labradoodles have straight hair?
While they can, it’s incredibly uncommon for F1B Labradoodles to have a straight coat that would shed. Instead, F1B Labradoodles tend to have curly or wavy coats. This is due to Labradoodles being 75% Poodle, allowing them to inherit their curly or wavy coats.
These coats generally do not shed, making F1B Labradoodles hypoallergenic and perfect for anyone irritated by pet hair. While it’s fantastic news for those with allergies, these coats do require a lot of grooming! As the fur does not naturally shed, it can get tangled and matted easily.
You will need to brush them regularly to avoid tangles or matted chunks that can be uncomfortable for your Labradoodle. If their fur does get matted, you will need to shave your Labradoodle, leaving them exposed to cold air. Regularly brushing and caring for their coat can prevent this. Remember to speak to your vet or local groomer if you have any concerns.
There is still a 25% Labrador Retriever mix in an F1B Labradoodle, meaning there is a small chance that they could have a straight coat. It’s rare but not unheard of. In these cases, you will need to brush the fur regularly to prevent excess shedding and bathe your dog frequently.
A straighter coat can impact the hypoallergenic nature of the dog, so it’s worth bearing that in mind, too, although many owners have reported no issues with the fur.
Conclusion for Labradoodle Generations: F1, F1B, F2, F2B, & F3
In retrospect, I would state the best Labradoodle Generations are the ones that are the most hypoallergenic and nonshedding. This means that the Labradoodle Generation has to have a majority of Poodle genetics. My top 3 picks for the Best Labradoodle Generations are:
- F1B Labradoodle: 25% Labrador Retriever and 75% Poodle
- F1BB Labradoodle: 12.5% Labrador Retriever and 87.5% Poodle
- F2B Labradoodle: 37.5% Labrador Retriever and 62.5% Poodle
If you don’t care about your Labradoodle being hypoallergenic and nonshedding, then you should try evaluating what type of coat you want your dog to have (straight, wavvy, or curly). If you want a more wavy coat that requires a decent amount of grooming then pick a generation with more Poodle hereditary qualities. If you want a straight coat Labradoodle then pick a Labradoodle Generation that has more Labrador Retriever like a F1 Labradoodle or F2 Labradoodle.
Want to learn more information about the “Top Labradoodle Generations”, then check out the video below:
For more information about Labradoodle, check out our other articles:
Dr. Sabrina Kong graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in England in 2016 and has been working at a small animal clinic in Northern California since then. She grew up in the Bay Area and got her bachelor’s degree from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. She also became a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner through a program at the University of Tennessee.
When she isn’t in the clinic taking care of her four-legged patients, she enjoys traveling and trying new foods with her friends and her three-legged dog, Apollo. She adopted Apollo from her clinic when he was a puppy with numerous health issues. Dr. Kong truly cares about taking care of animals.