An Australian labradoodle has been known as a unique and set-apart breed from your average labradoodle. This delightful pup is bred for Intelligence, friendliness, and usefulness, with the poodle background fostering low shedding and, therefore, relatively low dander levels, making it a more hospitable breed for allergy sufferers.
Thinking about welcoming an Australian labradoodle into your family? First, consider the pros and cons of owning this breed. Our full review will provide all the insight one needs to gather on this dog before adopting it. Plus, we’ll look at primary care needs for an Australian labradoodle so you can consider how well it fits into your family’s lifestyle. Keep reading to learn more about the Australian labradoodle.
Short History of the Australian Labradoodle
In reality, the Australian Labradoodle was developed in Australia in the 1980s and was a purposeful effort to breed dogs using a planned crossbreeding program. It was an attempt by Australian breeders to create a new kind of dog by selecting the best characteristics of the parental breeds. Wally Conron started this project as an attempt to find guide dogs suitable for people who are allergic to dog hair. Of course, Australian Labradoodle guide dogs have also been trained successfully in both Australia and Hawaii. However, at this point, the non-shedding trait, inherited from the Standard Poodle, has not been bred into the breed permanently.
In North America, the trend of breeding the Labrador Retriever with the Standard or Miniature Poodle became very popular, giving birth to what would be called the Australian Labradoodle. That was not enough for the Australians, who wanted it recognized as a breed. They developed over many years with specific reasons in mind, not just another cross between a Labrador and a Poodle. That development also included other parental breeds being introduced into Labrador-Poodle lines that were already well underway.
Australian Labradoodle Breeders The Australian Labradoodle dog breed originated through breeders setting out to develop the breed by focusing on and developing desirable characteristics. The first development of the Australian Labradoodle Breed Standard was in 1997 to outline these visions. Today, the Australian Labradoodle descends from six parent breeds. They are:
- The Labrador Retriever and approved Varieties of the Standard
- Miniature and Toy Poodles
- English Cocker Spaniel
- Irish Water Spaniel
- Curly Coat Retriever.
Australian Labradoodle Size
The breeds have been mixed with diverse parent breeds because there is no single breed standard for the large Australian Labradoodle. Their oversized, beautiful coats are thick and shiny with a pretty mixture of curls or waves and their ears are surrounded by soft, curly hair. Solid yellow, tricolor, and merle coats are common, but this crossbreed has many exciting color combinations.
PERSONALITY of Australian Labradoodle
While a typical Australian Labradoodle is outgoing and friendly to people it knows, it may be aloof or act wary with strangers. Like all dogs, no matter their typical temperament, early socialization training is needed to prevent reactivity towards humans or other dogs, ensuring they can partake in several fun activities, including visiting dog-friendly places and going to the dog park. However, Without appropriate exposure, this dedicated breed can become reactive to real or imagined threats.
Regular training is one of the critical reasons for improving the quality of their lives and for you to have a more peaceful co-existence as they grow. The training regimen must consistently be of positive reinforcement and firmness. Get advice from a professional trainer if behaviors are becoming destructive or if you are observing slight improvement. This is in addition to the fact that if the dog suddenly gets aggressive, including biting the owner without provocation, it necessitates a consult with a vet to eliminate any physical reasons.
Australian Labradoodle Health
Australian Labradoodles generally maintain excellent health in well-responsible breeding. But, being a hybrid breed, certain genetic predispositions to health problems usually reveal themselves much later in the life of a Labradoodle. Crossbreeding reduces the risk of common diseases in purebred dogs, as does the designer dog breed Labradoodle. Generally, the offspring of Doodle crossbreeds have reduced chances of falling ill compared to the pure poodles or the other breed of parents. Nevertheless, very few reputable breeders of Doodle crossbreeds have emerged because the breed’s standards are not set out, and only a few organizations have made the breeders accountable.
Potential Health Concerns include:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Cataracts
- Drug Sensitivities
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Cold Tail
- Ear Infections
- Obesity
Such knowledge of possible health issues goes on to help concerned Australian Labradoodle owners take the necessary precautionary steps in guaranteeing the well-being and long life of their most loved pets. In return, their well-being and happiness over a prolonged period can be assured by regular check-ups at the vet, quality nutrition, regular exercise, and a loving environment.
Care for Australian Labradoodles
Along with the other breeds, Australian Labradoodles require daily exercise to keep them happiest. Curious as they are, a significant part of mental stimulation should be provided by rigorous daily exercise. It would be best if this included a good fifty minutes of walking per day.
They also enjoy playing many indoor and outdoor games, such as fetch and tug-of-war. It is believed that this active and playful breed would need a backyard to ease it. This energetic breed with a tendency to bark does not fit well in a flat environment; hence, it is best to provide it with a spacious area where it can easily walk and play to enhance its happiness.
Feeding an Australian Labradoodle
Australian Labradoodles are a large-sized, high-energy breed, so their diet should be appropriate according to nutritional necessity. Food-based activities are great, like snuffle mats or stuffed toys, as they are an intelligent breed and have great potential. They love puzzle toys as well.
Low-calorie treats like sweet potatoes should be used during training to avoid obesity. However, because every dog has different dietary needs, it would be best to check with your vet to know which type of food to supply your pet within the right proportion and which is balanced. Inquiring from your vet shall provide the kind of nutritional support needed to offer your Australian Labradoodle optimal health and well-being.
Grooming and Coat Color:
The coat of an Australian Labradoodle is elegant, curly, and fuzzy, needing moderate grooming. Since the coat of the Australian Labradoodle is inherited from its parent breeds, it grows fast. The Australian Labradoodle can come in various coat colors, including apricot, black, ivory, brown, lavender, red, and parchment. Generally, their coats are allergy-friendly, and they shed only minimally.
They will need regular checks to ensure the dirt or wax is not building up in large amounts within their hair. Brush their hair twice or thrice weekly to prevent matting and minimize too much shedding. If that becomes too much to do, given your time and energy, you might want to schedule your furry friend for regular grooming appointments, as they will need several throughout the year for maintenance trims. Well, nail care is essential for every breed of dog. Regular nail checks and trimming are essential in keeping comfort and health at a good level.
Is the Australian Labradoodle Right for Me?
It’s tough to decide whether or not to get an Australian Labradoodle. This information will help you to determine if the Australian Labradoodle is a great breed for your family:
- The Australian Labradoodle is perfect for first-time dog owners or those looking for a friendly, active, and liveable partner who is good with children and other animals.
- Consider getting an Australian Labradoodle if you want an intelligent, trainable dog, even one capable of learning advanced things, similar to service dogs.
- You will spend most of your time outdoors or doing physical exercise, and you want a friend to be with you.
- Either from personal preference or from allergies, you need a dog that does not shed a lot or produce much dander.
The Australian Labradoodle is NOT the breed for you if :
- You might be gone from the house for most or more than eight hours a day regularly or travelling a lot and not taking your dog with you. These things can be very stressful and lead to behavior problems.
- You live in an apartment with tight walls and no lawns. The tiniest Australian Labradoodles will get frustrated if there isn’t enough room to turn around.
- You cannot meet the exercise needs of an Australian Labradoodle. It requires at least thirty minutes to an hour of daily exercise, stimulation, and playtime to help ward off undesirable behaviors and dissatisfaction.
What are the Costs of Australian Labradoodles up to the Year 2024?
As of 2024, the cost of Australian Labradoodles can vary depending on various factors such as breeder reputation, pedigree, location, and demand. On average, an Australian Labradoodle puppy typically ranges between $1,500 and $3,000. Additionally, prospective owners should budget for companion equipment and supplies, which may cost a few hundred dollars.
However, beyond the initial purchase price, it’s important to consider ongoing expenses associated with owning a dog. These include food, toys, treats, medical expenses like vaccinations and check-ups, and routine care like grooming and training.
Overall, while Australian Labradoodles can bring immense joy and companionship to a household, potential owners must be mindful of the financial commitments involved in caring for them throughout their lives.
What Can I Expect My Cost of Ownership Will Be Per Month for an Australian Labradoodle?
The monthly cost of owning an Australian Labradoodle range from $245 to $470. This includes expenses for treats, entertainment, food, and preventative medications. Additionally, you should budget for monthly premiums if you enrol your Australian Labradoodle in a pet insurance policy. While grooming appointments may not be necessary every month, you should expect grooming expenses approximately every other month.
Coat of Australian Labradoodles
An Australian Labradoodle would ideally have a low to non-shedding coat. However, with the continued evolution of the breed, it is not uncommon to find more than one coat type on an individual.
Australian Labradoodles generally have one coat, which could be classified as wool, soft waves, or straight. The waves and coats themselves should not be overly tight or dense. This breed could fit most people with dog allergies, as the dog has minimal shedding capabilities. Shedding is rare in multigeneration Labradoodles except for F1, F2, and F1b, which belong to the earliest generations.
There are three kinds of textures:
- The hair coat is light to moderate with shedding, an inherited trait passed from generation to generation.
- A wool coat is denser and alike in texture to lamb wool. Wool coats form spiralling, tight or open curls, so the skin isn’t visible at all or only very slightly.
- The texture is compared to Angora goat fleece. The texture is straight to wavy to effortless curls with little to no apron.
Read Also: Mini Aussiedoodle Full Grown
What Is the Temperament of an Australian Labradoodle
Australian labradoodles have a good-tempered and friendly temperament. Such a dog is amiable and savouring the time with a family. Though this breed is prone to separation anxiety, it will definitely create a fuss when being left alone for a long time.
Australian Labradoodles are very energetic, coming from working and sporting breeds; hence, having the standard size often requires enough space for activity, which makes them perfect for families with children and a bigger living space.
Other than that, Australian Labradoodles are intelligent and pretty easy to train. They quickly pick up new commands, making it enjoyable for their owners. They also appreciate quiet evenings at home or cuddled up on the couch when the daily exercise is completed.
FAQS
Are Australian Labradoodles Affectionate?
Australian Labradoodles are seen as dedicated and affectionate to their families. They are very social dogs and relish every moment spent with their owners, thus developing close relationships with the family. They feel best outside with the owner during the day, resting with the owner on a sofa at dusk, or any time to be near their favourite family members as much as possible.
Do Australian Labradoodles Get on Well with Kids?
This active dog breed is also very submissive and hardly aggressive, making them an excellent option for a family with children. Suppose children are trained in safe and proper ways to communicate and behave around dogs. In that case, the Australian Labradoodles can become a wholesome family experience for everyone involved by actively playing and romping with every child.
Are Australian Labradoodles good with other dogs?
Generally, Australian Labradoodles get along very well with other dogs and are sociable, friendly, and affectionate; only occasionally will some have conflicts or show aggression toward dogs of similar size and species. Be sure to let the dogs meet, considering the temperament of your dog and the one you are introducing him to.
Australian Labradoodle Aggression
Australian Labradoodles are usually amiable and nonaggressive dogs with no reputation for aggressiveness. Of course, any puppy of any breed can be aggressive and show other behavioral issues that may need treatment by training. Problems can also develop from separation anxiety and long periods of being left alone, but all this can be curtailed through proper training and care.
Are Australian Labradoodles too loud?
They are not big howlers or yappers; however, they are capable of barking in the manner of any dog. When they bark a lot, it is because they are bored or lack stimulation, which is easily avoided with proper exercise, attention, and toys. Australian Labradoodles are mostly relatively calm, well-behaved dogs.
Do Australian Labradoodles have Intelligence?
Australian Labradoodles are brilliant dogs, combining the Intelligence of several intelligent breeds in their ancestry. They are quick to pick up new commands and eager to please the owner, with a great will to learn. Their high energy and willingness to follow instructions make them perfect company in a training session and outdoors.
Is the Australian Labradoodle Easy to Train?
The Australian Labradoodle is relatively easy to train due to its high Intelligence and willingness to please. They quickly pick up new commands and treasure every moment spent with their owner during training. Basic obedience training is especially vital to prevent behavioral problems and prevent the dog from taking the main role in the household, which they can often do.
Does the Australian Labradoodle Have Vigor?
Australian Labradoodles are highly active, enthusiastic, and playful dogs. They demand a fair share of exercises in one day, whether a walk, a hike, or a playtime in the backyard. Neglecting exercise can raise behavioral issues, so be informed about their highly active level and exercise demands.
Are Australian Labradoodles good apartment dogs?
An Australian standard-size Labradoodle wouldn’t be a good idea for an apartment because of its size and energy. A mini or medium Labradoodle should work out fine, depending on the size of the apartment, provided they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. Other behavior issues are often only magnified in this breed because of a lack of stimulation and exercise in an apartment setting.
Are Australian Labradoodles Good Watch Dogs?
With their sensitive and caring nature toward family members, Australian Labradoodles can be reasonably good watchdogs. They are usually sharp alert and bark at strange or suspicious activities to alert their owners. This tendency not to bark at every little noise makes them a good choice for a watchdog.
Are Australian Labradoodles Good Service Dogs?
Australian Labradoodles are considered one of the best service dogs because they are intelligent and willing to help their owner. They are also most frequently used as mobility service dogs, guide dogs, medical alert dogs, and emotional support animals. The larger size of them is perfectly fit to do such activities as guiding people with mobility problems or helping aid someone.
Conclusion
The Australian Labradoodle also combines Intelligence, loyalty, and affection, making it a very loving and excellent companion to the individual or family. Successful decades of careful breeding saw this remarkable breed become known for its hypoallergenic coat, gentleness, and versatility as a therapy and service dog.
Whether romping through the park, dispensing love to anyone who needs it, or just being a lazy soul around the house, the Australian Labradoodle has continued to prove how versatile and hardwired it is to connect with humans. It’s little wonder the Australian Labradoodle has become the darling of the dog-owning world, clinching the status of best friend and favorite pet in any number of households.
References:
- Analysis of Australian labradoodle genome reveals an emphasis on the “oodle.” (2020, September 20). ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/09/200910150330.htm
- Davis, N. (2020, September 10). Labradoodle study reveals dogs are actually mostly poodle. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2020/sep/10/labradoodle-study-reveals-dogs-are-actually-mostly-poodle
- Australian labradoodles are mostly poodle, genetic analysis reveals. (2024, April 29). Science | AAAS. https://www.science.org/content/article/australian-labradoodles-are-mostly-poodle-genetic-analysis-reveals
- Shrader, S. M., Jung, S., Denney, T. S., & Smith, B. F. (2018, November 1). Characterization of Australian Labradoodle dystrophinopathy. Neuromuscular Disorders. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nmd.2018.08.008
- Australian Labradoodle Dog Breed Information and Pictures. (n.d.). https://www.dogbreedinfo.com/australianlabradoodle.htm
