Labradoodle

Get to Know Labradoodles

• Purpose-Bred for Service: The Labradoodle was originally bred in Australia in the 1980s to be a hypoallergenic guide dog. They were intended to combine the Labrador Retriever’s temperament with the Poodle’s low-shedding coat.
• Non-Shedding Coats: Labradoodles have non-shedding coats. Although it cannot be guaranteed that they are hypoallergenic, they are a good bet for people with allergies, as they are less likely to emit dander when they take on the curly coat of their Poodle ancestors. However, their coats can range from curly, wavy, or straight. Regardless, Labradoodles require regular grooming.
• Friendly and Sociable: Labradoodles are known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them excellent family pets. They get along well with children, other pets, and strangers, making them versatile companions.
• Highly Trainable: Labradoodles are intelligent and eager to please, inheriting the trainability of both parent breeds. They excel in obedience training and can perform a variety of tasks, making them suitable for service and therapy roles.
• Variety of Sizes: Labradoodles come in a range of sizes, depending on whether they are bred from a Standard, Miniature, or Toy Poodle. This variety allows them to fit into different living environments and family dynamics.

Breed History

The Labradoodle is a relatively modern hybrid breed, first developed in the 1980s in Australia as a cross between the Labrador Retriever and the Poodle. The primary goal was to create a low-shedding guide dog suitable for individuals with allergies. Combining the friendly and trainable nature of the Labrador Retriever with the Poodle's intelligence and curly coat, the Labradoodle quickly gained popularity as a versatile and affectionate family dog. Today, Labradoodles are celebrated for their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and variety of coat types.

Personality and Behaviour

• Friendly and Sociable: Labradoodles are known for their friendly and outgoing nature. They are excellent with children, other pets, and strangers, making them ideal family pets and social companions.
• Intelligent and Trainable: Thanks to the Poodle's influence, Labradoodles are highly intelligent and eager to please. They excel in various dog sports, obedience training, and agility. Their natural desire to learn and make their owners happy makes them a joy to train.
• Gentle and Affectionate: Labradoodles are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They form strong bonds with their families and thrive on human companionship. They enjoy cuddling and being close to their owners, making them excellent lapdogs.

Care

• Exercise: Labradoodles are moderately active dogs that enjoy daily exercise. A mix of mental and physical stimulation is ideal. This could include a daily walk (30-60 minutes), play sessions in the yard, or interactive toys. Labradoodles thrive on variety, so mixing up activities will keep them engaged and happy.
• Grooming: Labradoodles come in a range of coat types, including curly, wavy, and straight. Their coat can vary from low to high shedding, depending on the Poodle percentage in their genetic makeup, and can be allergy-friendly, though not completely allergen-free. Regular brushing (at least a few times a week) is essential to keep their coat free of tangles and mats. More frequent grooming is required for those with curly or wavy coats. Occasional baths, ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care are also important aspects of their grooming routine.
• Training and Socialization: Due to their intelligence and eagerness to please, Labradoodles respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. Early socialization is crucial to help them become well-adjusted adults. They should be exposed to different environments, people, and other animals to reduce the risk of fearfulness or behavioral issues. Patience and consistency in training are key to harnessing their full potential.