What is an Australian Labradoodle?
I started researching Australian Labradoodles before my first litter was born in 2010. My knowledge has been gleaned from hours of internet research, genetic results observed in my dogs, and good ole lore learned from breeders over the last decade.
The Australian Labradoodle is a hybrid cross between the Labrador Retriever, English and American Cocker Spaniels, and the Standard Poodle. There is information that the Irish Water Spaniel was also used in the original breeding program in Australia; that breed is very diluted in our dogs today. There is NO Australian Cattle Dog in there! They were initially bred in Australia in the 1980s to create a hypoallergenic guide dog that also had the gentle nature and trainability of the Labrador Retriever.
When the dogs started to appear in the USA, and breeding programs began, the gene pool was very small, so some programs used Poodle and Cockapoo to expand the genetic diversity without introducing shedding. Others started creating what I call "American Labradoodles," a direct cross of only Labradors and Poodles. The American programs also used all sizes of Poodles to modify the size of the modern-day Labradoodle.
Here are a few benefits of owning one of these fantastic Australian Labradoodles
1. Australian Labradoodles are known for their low-to-no-shed coats. This make them an excellent choice for families with allergies. They also tend to be very intelligent and easily trained, making them a joy to live with.
2. Another big plus for Australian Labradoodles is their hybrid vigor. This means that they are often healthier and have fewer genetic health problems than either purebred Labrador Retrievers or Poodles. They have a slightly longer lineage than the American Labradoodles, and I see a much more predictable size, coat, and temperament.
3. The Australian Labradoodle is not a recognized breed with the AKC (yet). This greatly benefits the dogs' health and temperament. Why? Because we can breed based on the qualities in answers one and two above all else.
4. When looks judge a breed type, many programs throw all else out the window, including health, longevity, and personality. Australian Labradoodles are prized for their temperaments. If you have ever talked to me about this, you've likely heard me say, "If I don't want to live with them, no one else does either." Those dogs may be beautiful but not breeding quality. I have not had an Australian Labradoodle with a poor temperament in a generation.
If you are considering owning a dog, an Australian Labradoodle may be the perfect breed. They are no/low-shedding, low/no dander, intelligent, and affectionate. They make great family pets and can be trained as service and therapy dogs. The Australian Labradoodle lines, created as service dogs, are well suited for many types of therapy. I have seen many dogs become therapy companions to aid children with Autism; possibly, their intuitive urge to please helps them with the Autistic.
The Australian Labradoodle is a unique new breed that is gaining in popularity. These dogs are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, as well as their intelligence and ability to learn quickly. They make great pets for families with children and are perfect for people who lead active lifestyles.
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