The Labradoodle
Developed in Australia in the 1970’s by Wally Cochran, the first Labradoodle was originally a cross between the Poodle and the Labrador, but it has been developed over the years with several other breed types, English and American Cocker Spaniel/Poodle crosses, Irish Water Spaniels, Wheaton Terriers and Curly Coated Retriever. The Australian Labradoodle was bred to develop certain desirable characteristics like low to non-shedding coat, low allergy coat, and lack of doggie odor. Also, despite that international fame and popularity the Labradoodle cannot yet be described as a dog breed because is still under development.
Breed Group
Designer Dog or Hybrid Dog
Size
At this time, accurate predictions of sizes are still slightly conflicting. However, the 'Ideal' size for the three sizes of Labradoodles may be:
Miniatures = 14 - 17 inches tall (at shoulder)
Mediums = 18 - 21 inches tall (at shoulder)
Standards = over 21 inches tall (at shoulder)
Weight
Miniatures = less than 30 lbs
Mediums = 35 – 48 lbs
Standards = 50 - 65 lbs
Color(s)
The color range of the Australian Labradoodle includes chalky white, apricot/gold, brown, black, red (can fade somewhat with age), silver, smokey blue, caramel, chocolate and café.
Coat
The Labradoodles possibly non-allergenic single coat types are still very irregular and showing a combination of multiple types. However, as the genetic values stabilize coat texture can be anywhere from wiry to soft, relatively straight, wavy, or curly.
Life Expectancy
About 10 - 15 years.
Personality
The Labradoodles like any mixed breed can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in one or the other crossed breed. However they are generally knows as a healthy, non aggressive and robust breed. Highly sociable and joyful the Labradoodles are extremely intuitive and quick to learn unusual or special tasks.
Care
Make sure to buy a Labradoodle that does have genetically tested parents and if possible a health guarantee! The Labradoodles is easy to care, a scissor trim three or four times a year will suffice.
Training
Keen to learn the Labradoodle is easily trained. Their intelligence makes them well suited for guide dogs, therapy dogs, and other assistance dogs for people with allergies to fur.
Activity
Labradoodles are energetic and love water sports!