Smart, social and full of beans — Labradoodles were practically made to be trained. But even with their eager-to-please nature, this hybrid breed comes with quirks that can challenge even experienced dog parents. Think bursts of energy, distraction overload, and the occasional stubborn streak. 

In this guide, we break down how to train your Labradoodle in a way that works with their unique temperament. From early socialisation to the surprising role nutrition plays in focus and behaviour, we’ll help you lay the foundations for a happy, well-mannered pup. 

Read more: Labradoodle breed insights: care, personality, and expert tips

Labradoodle temperament and trainability

Labradoodles are bright, sociable, and often bursting with energy. They tend to inherit the Labrador's desire to please along with the Poodle's intelligence, which usually makes them a joy to train. However, their high energy levels can sometimes lead to distractions, especially in younger dogs.

They respond well to positive reinforcement and consistency. Training a Labradoodle can be very rewarding if approached with patience and a playful attitude.

Health considerations that can affect training

Labradoodles may inherit health issues from either parent breed. Common concerns include:

• Skin sensitivities and allergies: Labradoodles may be prone to skin allergies or sensitivities, leading to itching, redness, or irritation. Such discomfort can distract them during training and affect their well-being. Regular grooming and a diet containing vitamin E, zinc and ingredients with antioxidant properties can help maintain healthy skin.  

• Joint conditions: Joint issues, including hip dysplasia, can impact a Labradoodle's mobility and willingness to participate in physical activities. Providing a complete and balanced diet with high-quality protein and rich in omega fatty acids, maintaining an appropriate exercise routine and a healthy weight can support your pup's joints. 

Always keep an eye out for signs your dog might be uncomfortable, in pain, or unusually disengaged, and consult a vet if needed. 

Read more: Hip dysplasia: how your dog's diet can help

How real food fuels your Labradoodle's focus

Just like us, dogs learn best when they’re feeling healthy, balanced and energised. Diet plays a big role in your pup’s ability to focus, stay calm, and retain information.

Labradoodles benefit from:

• Steady energy sources like butternut squash and purple sweet potato, have a low glycaemic load and help release energy slowly. 

• Essential fatty acids like DHA and EPA (omega-3s from fish, mussels, or fish oil), support brain health and development, memory, and learning. 

• Fresh, bioactive nutrients from ingredients like blueberries and shiitake mushrooms support immunity, skin health, and overall wellbeing. 

“A fresh food diet packed with brain-boosting nutrients supports your dog’s ability to learn and adapt. Omega-3s, especially DHA, are critical for memory and cognitive function.” 

– Dr Alex England, Lyka Veterinarian, BVetMed MANZCVS (Small Animal Veterinary Practice)  

Learn more about Dr Alexander England and his veterinary experience.

All Lyka meals are formulated by Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionists to provide complete and balanced nutrition for learning, growth, and everyday health. 

Read more: What do Labradoodles eat? Breed-specific nutrition tips

Read more: Fuelling your dog’s focus: how nutrition impacts your dog’s training 

Exercise first for improved focus

Labradoodles need a lot of exercise to stay balanced and focused. A good play session or brisk walk before training can help take the edge off their energy, leading to better concentration.

Go for:

• Active games like fetch or frisbee

• Off-leash time in a secure area

• Walks that include opportunities for sniffing and exploring

An exercised Labradoodle is often a calmer, more attentive dog — just make sure they’re not overstimulated or overly fatigued before training. 

Training tips for Labradoodles

Training a Labradoodle is a fun and fulfilling experience, especially when you embrace their playful spirit.

Keep sessions short, sweet, and full of positive vibes. Here’s what works best:

Positive reinforcement 

This is the gold standard for training. Marking good behaviour with rewards like praise, affection, treats, or continued interaction, teaches your pup how to behave and supports a strong and positive relationship. 
 
Double up on rewards to mark excellent responses from your Labradoodle, like praise and a pat, or praise and a treat. 

Find their favourite motivator 

Discovering your pup’s hierarchy of high-value rewards is a great way to keep your Labradoodle motivated. Is it a nibble of roast chicken, their favourite squeaky toy, or playtime with you? 

Lyka’s Piggy Training Perks are a high-value, low-calorie treat that’s designed to keep your pup motivated and rewarded during training.  

Train at the right time 

Sometimes dogs don’t have the energy or desire to learn, especially if they’re too tired, too full, or hot and bothered. 

Mental enrichment through training can be tiring for dogs, so find the right time to train and stop if you notice your dog starting to lose focus or fatigue. 

Stay consistent 

Consistency is key to training. Not just in setting your expectations, but in using the same verbal and non-verbal cues. 

Be playful and engaging 

Labradoodles can pick up on your mood. Keep your sessions fun and your positive energy will be contagious. 

Watch their body language 

If your pup starts to show signs of stress or tiredness, give them a break. If they’ve reached saturation point, it can be counterproductive to persevere. You can always come back to the training at another point. 

Training your Labradoodle puppy

Labradoodle puppies are bouncy, curious, and eager to learn. House training is usually top of the list, followed closely by socialisation and basic obedience cues like sit, stay, and leave it.

Focus on: 

• A regular toilet routine. 

• Positive crate training for safe sleep and downtime. 

• Early, controlled socialisation with people, dogs, and new environments.   

Labradoodles are sensitive to tone and energy, so stick with force-free methods that build trust and confidence.

Read more: Force-free puppy training: what the experts want you to know  

Training your adult Labradoodle

Just because your Labradoodle’s out of puppyhood doesn’t mean the training stops. In fact, ongoing mental stimulation is essential to keep their mind sharp and behaviour balanced.

This might look like:

• Reinforcing polite greetings at the door

• Learning new tricks or games

• Adjusting to life changes, like moving house

• Training for mobility support, like using a ramp in senior years

Dogs have neuroplasticity, meaning their brains adapt and change making them lifelong learners. Keep training light and engaging and celebrate progress, no matter how small. 

When to call in a trainer or behaviourist

Not sure if your Labradoodle’s quirks are just stubbornness — or something deeper?

A trainer is your go-to for obedience, manners, and routine behaviours. A qualified behaviourist, on the other hand, is best for issues like:

• Reactivity

• Anxiety or phobias

• Aggression

• Resource guarding

They work closely with your vet to address underlying causes and create a tailored plan. The earlier you seek support, the easier it is to create lasting change.

“If training your dog is very challenging, it may be worth considering a trainer or a behaviourist. A trainer can help you identify what may be triggering their behaviour and show you how to help your dog cope in those situations. The solution may be as simple as reframing what we expect from our dogs and our behaviours around them.”

— Laura V, qualified dog behaviourist

New to Lyka? Let’s rethink dog food together

Training your Labradoodle is a journey — one that requires consistency, creativity, and compassion. Whether you’re navigating house training with a stubborn puppy or teaching your senior dog new routines, every small win is a step toward a calmer, more connected life together.

And remember, a well-fed brain is a trainable brain. Supporting your Labradoodle’s learning with fresh, real food meals helps unlock their full potential.

Lyka nourishes hundreds of Labradoodles across Australia – from energetic pups to seniors in their golden years – they’re all thriving on Lyka.