
Other Names:
Labradorpoo, Labradordoodle, Labrapoo, Labrapoodle, Labbidoo
Price Range:
$500 – $1,000
Size:
Large
Dog Group:
Hybrid (Sporting and Non-Sporting)
Coat Length:
Medium
Energy:
High
Kid Friendly:
High
Life Expectancy:
12-14 years
Available in these colours:
Labradoodles come in a variety of colours, including Black, Brown, Chocolate, Cream, Red and White.
Characteristics & Tendencies:
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LOW
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MEDIUM
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HIGH
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LOW
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MEDIUM
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HIGH
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LOW
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MEDIUM
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HIGH
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LOW
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MEDIUM
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HIGH
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LOW
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MEDIUM
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HIGH
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LOW
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MEDIUM
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HIGH
APARTMENT FRIENDLY
HYPOALLERGENIC
About the Labradoodle
A Labradoodle is a crossbreed dog created by crossing the Labrador Retriever, known for its suitability as a guide dog, and the Standard Poodle, known for its reputation of having an allergy-friendly coat.
One of the first-ever breeds of Labradoodle was trained to be the service dog of a blind woman and to be their companion. After that, the Lab and Poodle cross became more famous. At this time, they are mostly known to be family pets, guide dogs, service dogs, and therapy dogs.
This teddy bear-looking dog can range anywhere from 40 to 66cm tall, and come in a variety of colours, with a curly or fluffy coat. Their appearance is characterised by their long muzzles and large, expressive eyes that are sometimes round or oval. Labradoodles are a friendly and affectionate breed, making them suitable family companions. They are rather active animals, so require regular exercise and room to run. This breed is also highly intelligent, and are highly trainable. Labradoodles always ready for adventure (and a cuddle!)
Top health issues
What are the most common health issues for Labradoodles?
- Hip Dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
- Hypothyroidism
- Diabetes Mellitus
IN DETAIL
Common Labradoodle diseases & conditions, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment in detail:
Due to their active lifestyles, hip dysplasia is not a rare occurrence in Labradoodles. Hip dysplasia is a genetic disease that causes the hip joints to form improperly and is the primary cause of painful hip osteoarthritis in dogs. It generally occurs in large or giant breed dogs, however can also occur in smaller breeds as well. It is usually affected by factors such as excessive growth rate, types of exercise, improper weight and nutrition. Symptoms of hip dysplasia may show in dogs when they are as young as four months of age, whilst for others the disease may develop in conjunction with osteoarthritis as they age. These symptoms may include decreased activity, difficulty or reluctance rising, jumping or running, lameness in the hind end, loss of thigh muscle mass, pain and stiffness. Hip dysplasia is diagnosed radiographically by the presence of degenerative changes and/or subluxation of the hip joint(s). There are multiple treatment options ranging from lifestyle modifications to surgery. These may include physical therapy, joint supplements or anti-inflammatory medications, or common surgeries such as double or triple pelvic osteotomy (DPO/TPO), femoral head ostectomy (FHO) or total hip replacement (THR).
Epilepsy describes repeated episodes of seizures, which are one of the most frequently reported neurological conditions in dogs. It is a chronic disorder affecting dogs, and may run in some families. Dog seizures may be caused by a range of factors, such as trauma, exposure to toxins, issues with the dog’s blood or organs and genetic abnormalities. Generally, the younger the dog is, the more severe the epilepsy will be. Most seizures happen when the dog is resting or sleeping, usually at night or in the early morning. Breeds that are prone include Beagles, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers and Shetland Sheepdogs. Whilst epilepsy cannot be cured, it can usually be controlled using anticonvulsant drugs. Aside from medication, other management methods include maintaining a seizure log recording the date, time, length and severity of seizures with videotapes to share with your veterinarian, blood work recommended by your veterinarian, and putting a medical alert tag on your pet’s collar in case he gets lost and needs medication.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a late onset, inherited eye disease affecting many breeds of dogs. It affects the retina, which is the picture screen at the back of the eye, and causes the blood vessels of the retina to atrophy and die. The first symptom noticed is usually dilated pupils – a ‘glow’ or increased ‘eye shine’, and the dog may appear to have difficulty seeing in the dark or dusk (“night blind”). Breeds commonly affected include Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Labrador and Golden Retrievers and Rottweilers. There is no cure for PRA, however an eye exam by a registered Ophthalmologist will diagnose the disease. DNA testing for late consent PRA is available, and is done by taking a cheek swab of your Border Collie. The PRA DNA test identifies one type of PRA, which is related to night blindness. There are another two types of PRA, for which there are currently no DNA tests available.
Hypothyroidism refers to a condition where the thyroid gland, which produces hormones, Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3), is dysfunctional and does not produce these hormones as required by the body. Common symptoms include weight gain, poor coat, reduced activity level and irritability. Diagnosis is by means of blood tests, and hypothyroidism is easily treated with an inexpensive thyroid supplement. Labradoodle owners should have their vet periodically check their dogs, especially if they show any symptoms.
This disease is a common endocrine disease in dogs and cats, caused by relative or absolute insulin deficiency. Insulin functions to regulate glucose (sugar) levels in the bloodstream, and monitors the delivery of glucose to other bodily tissues. Diabetes mellitus is generally more prevalent in middle-aged dogs and cats, where female dogs are affected twice as often compared to their male counterparts. Predisposed breeds include Miniature Poodles, Dachshunds, Schnauzers and Beagles. Four main symptoms of the disease usually appear, which are: increased urination, increased appetite, increased thirst and weight loss. Dogs affected generally will require two insulin injections per day, and appropriate dietary management. Whilst diabetes is rarely reversible in dogs, cats may regain the ability to produce their own insulin in the pancreas.
Feeding
How much does a Labradoodle eat?
The recommended daily amount of food you should feed your Labradoodle is 1 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day. Feedings should be divided into two meals. By giving your dog two meals a day instead of one large one, you can cut your dog’s chances of suffering from bloat (gastric tension). Labradoodle puppies under six months of age should be fed three times daily; after 6 months they may be fed twice daily. By feeding on a set schedule, the dog will then go to the bathroom on a more set schedule and make housetraining easier and faster.
Shedding
How often does the fur fall off?
Labradoodles are considered to be low shedders, especially those with a fleece or wool coat. Hair coats tend to shed just as they do in other breeds, ranging from very low to average shedding. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.
Grooming
Are Labradoodles high maintenance?
Labradoodles only require an average grooming effort. Their eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. It should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. They are prone to ear infections, so take a little extra time caring for their ears. Dry and clean them after a swim, and check them once a week for dirt, redness, or a bad odour that can indicate an infection. Then wipe them out weekly with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to prevent problems.
Brush their hair about once or twice per week. It is useful to reduce shedding. Some can be clipped or trimmed every six to eight weeks to keep the coat easy to maintain. Trim nails once or twice a month if your dog doesn’t wear them down naturally to prevent painful tears and other problems.
They should only be bathed when necessary – which isn’t often, as many of the coats don’t have a noticeable doggy odour. Brush your Labradoodle’s teeth at least two or three times a week to remove tartar buildup and the bacteria that lurk inside it. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early.
Exercise
How much exercise does a Labradoodle need?
The Labradoodle can be a high-energy dog. They require about 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day and would do better with a fenced yard to expel some energy. On top of this, daily walks and trips to the dog park would keep your pup’s energy levels under control. Labradoodles also have an affinity for water and possess a strong swimming ability from their parent breeds. The breed is particularly agile and energetic as adults, and will enjoy accompanying their adults in their play and activities.
The Labradoodle makes an excellent jogging companion but also needs some time off-leash to burn off steam. In addition, they need to be intellectually stimulated; they’re smart and energetic, so if they become bored, they can become a destruction machine.
Vet Visits
How often should a Labradoodle visit the vet?
Scheduled six-monthly health check visits with your vet are important to ensure that Labradoodle is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. In these annual visits, your vet will complete a physical examination, take your dog’s temperature and check his heartbeat, among other things. Routine maintenance for your dog gives you a chance to track your dog’s growth and development and discuss any concerns with your vet, and forms a key part of preventative care. Together with your vet, you can determine and maintain a preventative health care program based on the individual needs of your canine companion.
Family Suitability
Are Labradoodles kid-friendly and sociable with humans?
Labradoodles are great as watchdogs but are not as good for protection because they are a joyful dog breed, with a typically easygoing nature and were not bred to be aggressive. On the flip side, this makes them great as family pets! However, not all are good with kids but they are friendly, playful, and devoted. They are also loyal companions to their family. Early socialisation will help your Labradoodle learn to behave well around other people and in new environments.
Trainability
Are Labradoodles difficult to train?
The Labradoodle’s parents are known for their intelligence. This makes them highly trainable and intelligent as well. They are generally quite eager to learn new tasks and are an eager-to-please breed. As with all breeds, however, early and consistent training are vitally important. Training should be easy as long as consistency and positive reinforcement are used. Training also helps keep their mischievous side at bay. They need to be mentally and physically stimulated. If they aren’t, they can become destructive and hard to handle.
Compatibility with other pets
Do Labradoodles get along with other dogs or cats?
They tend to do well around with other pets as long as they are properly and gradually introduced and trained. The parents of the Labradoodle, Labradors and Poodles, both tend to get along with cats and other dogs. If possible, bring your Labradoodle and the other animal into contact in a controlled environment and note their reactions. Socialise your Labradoodle from puppyhood, since they tend to hurl themselves headlong into canine situations without regard to the feelings of other dogs. This can lead to some problems if the unknown dog is aggressive.
Need for company
How often do they need to be around humans?
Labradoodles are very social dogs. They need a lot of social interaction and desire to be always around people. They seek out the company of their family members and are happiest when they are included as an active member of the family unit. If they are left alone, there are few precautions you will have to take. They may begin to show signs of separation anxiety such as barking or yelping when you leave the room.
There is a reason Labradoodles have been used as therapy dogs to help people that are lonely or sick. They have proven to contribute to an overall improvement of happiness, affection and wellbeing, so they also deserve affection and attention from their owners.
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