The Labradoodle is a medium-to-large-sized hybrid cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. Known for their intelligence, friendliness, and social temperament, Labradoodles are highly adaptable to various living environments and make great family pets. Labradoodles often inherit the hypoallergenic, low-shedding coat of the Poodle, which appeals to individuals with allergies. Their coats can range from wavy to curly, and they come in various colors, including cream, chocolate, black, and apricot.
Originally developed as hypoallergenic guide dogs, Labradoodles were first intentionally bred by the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia. The goal was to create a smart, sociable dog with a low-shedding coat suitable for people with allergies. While the hybrid does not yet produce consistent results in coat or temperament, Labradoodles are widely loved for their affectionate nature. Known as “Cobberdogs” in Australia, they have gained immense popularity in recent years, bolstered by social media. By 2020, they ranked as the 7th most popular dog breed in the United States, celebrated for their unique combination of intelligence, versatility, and charm.
Labradoodle characteristics
- Height: 21 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder
- Weight: 50 to 65 pounds
- Lifespan: 12 to 14 years
Coat and color variations
Labradoodles showcase a wide range of coat types and colors, reflecting the genetic diversity inherited from their Poodle and Labrador Retriever parents. Their coats generally fall into three categories: fleece, wool, and hair. Fleece coats are soft and wavy, resembling the texture of an Angora sweater, while wool coats are tightly curled, similar to a Poodle’s, and hair coats tend to be straighter and more similar to a Labrador’s. Many Labradoodles are celebrated for their hypoallergenic and low-shedding qualities, though this is not guaranteed in all individuals.
Coat colors include cream, apricot, caramel, chocolate, black, red, and silver, with some Labradoodles even sporting multi-colored or parti-color patterns. The coat type and maintenance needs can vary, but most require regular grooming to prevent matting.
Physical features and appearance
Labradoodle sizes
- Miniature: 14–16 inches tall, 15–30 pounds.
- Medium: 17–20 inches tall, 30–45 pounds.
- Standard: 21–24 inches tall, 50–65 pounds.’
Coat textures and colors
- Coat Types: Fleece (soft and wavy), wool (curly), or hair (straighter, less hypoallergenic).
- Colors: Wide variety, including cream, apricot, caramel, chocolate, black, red, silver, and multi-colored patterns.
Other physical attributes
- Build: Athletic and well-proportioned, often with a sturdy, medium frame.
- Ears: Floppy, hanging close to the head, adding to their expressive and friendly look.
- Eyes: Round and warm, typically in shades of brown or hazel.
- Tail: Medium length, often carried with a slight curl or wag.
What is an Australian Labradoodle?
The Australian Labradoodle is a specialized type of Labradoodle, originally developed in Australia, with a more established and refined lineage compared to the standard Labradoodle. Unlike the traditional Labradoodle, which is a first-generation cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, the Australian Labradoodle is bred with additional breeds in its ancestry to enhance specific traits. These additional breeds often include the English Cocker Spaniel, American Cocker Spaniel, and Irish Water Spaniel, among others. This careful breeding has resulted in a more consistent appearance, temperament, and coat type in Australian Labradoodles.
Labradoodle temperament
Labradoodles are known for their friendly, intelligent, and outgoing temperament, making them exceptional companions for families, individuals, and even first-time dog owners. They are highly sociable dogs that thrive on interaction with people and other pets, often forming strong bonds with their families. Labradoodles are naturally affectionate and enjoy being included in activities, whether it’s playing fetch, going for a hike, or simply lounging at home. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them easy to train, and they excel in obedience, agility, and even service or therapy work. However, their strong desire for companionship means they can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
Playful and energetic, Labradoodles require regular physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved. They adapt well to different living situations as long as their exercise needs are met, whether through walks, games, or structured activities. Labradoodles are generally calm indoors and make great indoor pets, but they also enjoy outdoor adventures and thrive in active households. Their friendly nature extends to strangers, making them poor guard dogs but excellent social companions. Overall, Labradoodles are a perfect mix of fun, affection, and intelligence, bringing joy and loyalty to their families.
Behavior and personality traits
- Friendly and Sociable: Enjoys being around people and other animals; forms strong bonds with family.
- Intelligent: Quick learners, highly trainable, and excels in obedience and advanced tasks.
- Playful and Energetic: Loves physical activities like running, fetching, and hiking; requires regular exercise.
- Affectionate: Thrives on attention and enjoys cuddling or being near family members.
- Adaptable: Comfortable in various living situations, from apartments to large homes, if properly exercised.
- Good with Children: Gentle and patient, making them excellent family dogs.
- Eager to Please: Motivated by praise, treats, and positive reinforcement during training.
- Prone to Separation Anxiety: Can become anxious or destructive if left alone for long periods.
- Calm Indoors: Relaxed demeanor at home when exercise needs are met.
- Non-Aggressive: Friendly toward strangers, making them more social than protective.
Training and socialization
Early socialization and positive reinforcement training are crucial due to their intelligence and potential stubbornness. Of course, their intelligence allows them to pick up commands quickly, so early training is key to establishing good behavior from the start. Use praise, treats, and affection to reward desired behavior. Labradoodles respond well to positive reinforcement, and this approach will keep them motivated and engaged.
Training tips:
- Be Consistent: Consistency is crucial in training. Use the same commands and routines to avoid confusion. This helps your Labradoodle understand what is expected of them.
- Keep Training Sessions Short and Fun: Labradoodles are intelligent but can lose interest if training sessions are too long or repetitive. Keep sessions short (10-15 minutes) and engage with varied activities.
- Mental Stimulation: Incorporate puzzle toys, obedience training, and interactive games into their routine to challenge their mind. A bored Labradoodle can become restless or destructive. Once basic obedience is established, teach more advanced commands or tricks. Their intelligence makes them excellent candidates for agility training, fetch, or scent games.
Labradoodle care
As with all dogs, it’s important to keep up your Labrador Poodle mix’s regular veterinary checkups to detect any health concerns early. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy.
How to groom a Labradoodle
- Brushing: Brush 2-3 times a week (daily for curly coats) to prevent tangles and matting. Use a slicker brush and a metal comb for thorough grooming.
- Bathing: Bathe every 4-6 weeks or as needed. Use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo to maintain coat health.
- Trimming: Trim the coat every 6-8 weeks to keep it manageable. Focus on areas prone to matting, like behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail.
- Ear Cleaning: Check ears weekly for dirt or wax buildup. Clean gently with a vet-approved ear cleaner to avoid infections.
- Nail Clipping: Trim nails every 3-4 weeks or when you hear clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail clipper or grinder to prevent overgrowth.
- Teeth Brushing: Brush teeth 2-3 times a week using dog-safe toothpaste to maintain oral hygiene. Never use human toothpaste as it is toxic for dogs!
- Eye Care: Wipe around the eyes as needed with a damp cloth to remove tear stains or debris.
Check for skin issues
- Inspect Regularly: As you groom, check their skin for any signs of irritation, redness, or bumps. If you notice anything unusual, consult a vet.
Flea, tick, and parasite control
Keep up with flea and tick prevention treatments, especially if your Labradoodle spends much time outdoors. Regular grooming allows you to spot parasites early.
Early acclimation is key
Getting your Labradoodle accustomed to grooming procedures from a young age makes the process easier and more enjoyable for both of you. Handle their paws frequently, examine their mouth and ears, and reward them for good behavior during grooming sessions. This positive foundation sets the stage for stress-free veterinary exams and handling throughout their lives.
Feeding and nutrition
An ideal Labradoodle diet should be formulated for a medium breed with medium energy. Aussiedoodles need to stick to a healthy diet, as overeating can cause weight gain and associated health problems, especially if adequate exercise isn’t offered.
As with all dogs, the Labradoodle’s dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and will continue to change into their senior years. You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Aussiedoodle’s diet, as there is far too much variation among individual dogs–including weight, energy, and health–to make a specific recommendation.
- Adult Portions: Feed an adult Labradoodle based on their weight, size, and activity level. On average, a medium-sized adult (30-50 lbs) Labradoodle will need about 2-3 cups of dry food per day. A larger dog (50-60 lbs or more) may need 3-4 cups per day. A Mini Labradoodle may only need 1-1.5 cups per day.
- Adjust According to Activity Level: Highly active Labradoodles, especially those engaged in agility training or long runs, may need more food than less active ones. Always monitor their weight and adjust portions accordingly.
Labradoodle family compatibility
Labradoodles are widely regarded as one of the best family dogs, thanks to their friendly, gentle, and adaptable nature. They form strong bonds with all family members, including children. Labradoodles are naturally patient and tolerant, which makes them particularly well-suited for families with young children. Their playful energy matches well with active households, as they enjoy games, outdoor adventures, and engaging in family activities. At the same time, their affectionate and loving temperament means they’re equally happy to relax and cuddle after playtime. Labradoodles also tend to get along well with other pets, including cats and other dogs, fostering a harmonious household environment.
These dogs thrive in family settings where they can receive plenty of attention and interaction, as they are highly social animals. They are particularly compatible with families who can dedicate time to regular walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation. Labradoodles are known for their loyalty and eagerness to please, making them highly trainable and easy to integrate into the family dynamic. However, they don’t do well in households where they are left alone for long periods, as they may develop separation anxiety or destructive behaviors.
Labradoodle health issues
Labradoodles are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they’re prone to certain health conditions. Not all Labradoodles will get any or all of these diseases, but it’s important to be aware of them if you’re considering this mixed breed. Here are a few conditions to watch out for:
- Ear Infections: These can plague Labradoodles because of their floppy ears. The ears trap moisture and should be regularly checked.
- Hip Dysplasia: This is an inherited condition in which the thighbone doesn’t fit snugly into the hip joint. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but others don’t display outward signs of discomfort. X-ray screening is the most certain way to diagnose the problem. Either way, arthritis can develop as the dog ages. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred.
- Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, this is also a degenerative disease. It’s believed to be caused by abnormal growth and development, which results in a malformed and weakened joint. The disease varies in severity: the dog could simply develop arthritis, or they could become lame. Treatment includes surgery, weight management, medical management, and anti-inflammatory medication.
- Epilepsy: This is a neurological condition that’s often, but not always, inherited. It can cause mild or severe seizures that may show themselves as unusual behavior–such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding–or even falling down, limbs rigid, and losing consciousness. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. It’s important to take your dog to the vet for proper diagnosis–especially since seizures can have other causes–and treatment.
- Allergies: Allergies are a common ailment in dogs, and the Labradoodle is no exception. There are three main types of allergies: food allergies, which are treated by eliminating certain foods from the dog’s diet; contact allergies, which are caused by a reaction to a topical substance such as bedding, flea powders, dog shampoos, and other chemicals; and inhalant allergies, which are caused by airborne allergens such as pollen, dust, and mildew. Treatment varies according to the cause and may include dietary restrictions, medications, and environmental changes.
- Diabetes Mellitus: This is a disorder in which the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels. A diabetic dog will eat more food to try to compensate for the fact that glucose (sugar) isn’t getting into the cells to burn for energy because of improper levels of insulin in the body. The dog will lose weight because food is not being used efficiently. Symptoms of diabetes are excessive urination and thirst, increased appetite, and weight loss. Diabetes can be controlled by diet and the administration of insulin.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): This is a family of eye diseases that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina. Early in the disease, affected dogs become night-blind; they lose sight during the day as the disease progresses. Many affected dogs adapt well to their limited or lost vision, as long as their surroundings remain the same.
- Hypothyroidism: This is a disorder of the thyroid gland. It’s thought to be responsible for conditions such as epilepsy, alopecia (hair loss), obesity, lethargy, hyperpigmentation, pyoderma, and other skin conditions. It is treated with medication and diet.
Labradoodle rescue and advocacy
Labradoodles are often brought home without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. Many end up in the care of shelters or rescues because of this. It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Labradoodles because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Labrador Retriever or Poodle breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:
Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support.
On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues.
How much are Labradoodle puppies?
The cost of Labradoodle puppies can vary widely depending on factors such as breeder reputation, geographic location, lineage, coat type, and size. On average, Labradoodle puppies typically range from $1,500 to $3,000 when purchased from a reputable breeder. However, prices can go higher—up to $4,000 or more—for puppies with highly desirable traits, such as multi-generational Australian Labradoodles with hypoallergenic coats or rare coat colors. Miniature Labradoodles may also command a higher price due to their increasing popularity.
In addition to the purchase price, it’s essential to factor in the costs of initial vaccinations, spaying or neutering, microchipping, and routine care. Alternatively, adopting a Labradoodle from a rescue organization or shelter may cost significantly less, typically ranging from $200 to $500, and offers the opportunity to provide a loving home to a dog in need. Always ensure you’re dealing with ethical breeders or reputable rescue organizations to avoid supporting puppy mills or unethical breeding practices.
