The fact that the Labradoodle continues to gain in popularity is not shocking. It’s a cross between a Poodle and a Labrador Retriever. Both of these breeds are friendly, smart, and moderately active, making Labradoodles a great family choice.
The Labradoodles Origin
Originally this mixed breed was bred in Australia. A woman named Pat Blum expected to find a dog that would not offer allergies to her husband. She reached out to Wally Conron in 1989, who was in charge of Australia’s Royal Guide Dogs Association.
Wally oversaw the breeding program, resulting in the first purposeful crossbreeding between a Labrador Retriever and a Standard Poodle.
In the first litter was born a Labradoodle called Sultan. He was all that Pat had wished for, with a wonderful personality ideal as a guide dog for work. Many breeders soon saw how well Sultan was doing his job, and the popularity of this hybrid exploded.
Quick Facts About Labradoodles
- Height: 12 to 30 inches
- Lifespan: 12 to 14 years
- Weight: 15 to 100 lbs
- Group: not applicable
The Personality in Labradoodle
This mixed breed is intelligent and caring. With kids, they’re nice and you can expect them to make friends with everybody they meet. Furthermore, their coats are hypoallergenic, so they can still be part of your family even if you or your loved ones are allergic to the breed. These dogs are happiest when they spend time with the people they love.
Temperament of Labradoodles
Whether you’ve got a Labradoodle at the moment, or you’ve connected with one before, and you’re thinking about getting one, bear in mind that this breed is not consistent. Such dogs have a lot to offer, but when breeding them there is not enough temperament continuity to know exactly what to expect, unlike purebreds with a unique personality package.
How To Groom a Labradoodle?
There are three kinds of coats in this crossbreed.
The wool coat – Just like a lamb or a puddle. It’s got thick hair.
The fleece coat – It has loose curls and is light and free-flowing.
The hair coat – Can be wavy, curly, or smooth, sometimes matching the coat of a Labrador.
Coats of Labradoodles need a regular routine of grooming and brushing. This will keep their coat free of mats and ensure that they remain healthy.
Here are the following tips:
1. Give a good comb, ear washing and nail cleaning to your Labradoodle every week.
2. Remember to check your armpits, neck, under and behind your ears.
3. Part of the coat’s hair and brush from the base in small sections. Otherwise, they may end up matting just above the skin.
Labradoodles ‘ Health Concerns
All dogs can potentially develop genetic health problems, through mixes, crossbreeds, or pure breeds. This is the same as people who can inherit illnesses as well.
Here are a few more health issues to be conscious of:
1. Labradoodles are susceptible to health problems of miniature poodles, standard poodles or Labrador Retrievers.
2. There is a risk that these dogs have a reduced chance of developing hereditary diseases by adding genetic diversity between two different breeds.
3. Labradoodles are prone to ear infections, so, especially after wet outdoor activities, be sure to keep them clean and dry.
4. These dogs are also at risk for dysplasia of both hip and elbow.
How to feed Labradoodle?
Feed and dietary needs can differ depending on the size of a Labradoodle. The standard size will be 40 to 100 lbs, 30 to 40 lbs medium size and 15 to 35 lbs miniature size. Below is a regular recommendation for calories for each body.
- Miniature – 220 Cal
- Standard – 850 Cal
- Medium – 500 Cal
Cost of Owning a Labradoodle
This breed can cost up to $1800, which is perhaps surprising given that they are mixed dogs. Reasons why people are willing to pay the highest price for these dogs:
- Genetic tests
- Screening
- Trustworthy breeders
Conclusion
This breed, as you can see, is a great addition to any home. They’re smart, friendly dogs, and they’re likely to fit in with your family as long as you’ve got the time to play and exercise. Do you have a Labradoodle? Leave a comment below and let us know and check back for tips and information that are more dog-friendly!