Frequently Asked Questions
While some come to us having fully researched exactly what type of pup they are looking for, others have lots of questions. This page is meant to help answer your most pressing questions. Feel free to contact us further if you don’t see your question answered here. Thanks!
What is the origin of the Australian Labradoodle?
The development of the Australian Labradoodle began with a blind woman who needed a guide dog but couldn’t have any of the breeds typically trained for such service due to her husband’s allergies. She knew of a breeder in Australia and asked him to see if he could develop a breed that would possess the desired qualities.
The breeder focused on crossbreeding the English Labrador, known for its intelligence, with the Standard Poodle, prized for its allergy-friendly coat. The addition of the Cocker Spaniel introduced a sweet and affectionate temperament. He mailed clippings of various pairings back to her (for her husband to sniff); when they found one that worked, the Australian Labradoodle was born!
Why is it considered “multigenerational?”
Contrary to other “doodle” breeding that is happening these days, breeding of Australian Labradoodles is closely monitored and controlled. Australian Labradoodle breeders are always looking to refine and stabilize the desirable traits (such as great temperaments and beautiful conformation) over several generations. By breeding an Australian Labradoodle with an Australian Labradoodle, we have a great deal of consistency in our puppies. We know the lineage of these dogs and are confident in what we are passing down to the pups.
Other “doodle” breeders are hoping that when they pair first generation crosses (F1), they will get the “best of both breeds”…but often that is not the case.
As a matter of fact, they are not even considered “Australian Labradoodles” until the fourth generation (F1/F2/F3/F4/A5/A6/A7/A8). At Lakeshore Labradoodles, our puppies are at least eight generations away from the original Poodle pairing.
How is the Australian Labradoodle different from all the other “doodle” mix dogs that seems to have become so popular recently?
When considering the Australian Labradoodle versus other “doodle” mix dogs like the Golden Doodle or Berniedoodle, it’s essential to examine their foundation breeds and temperaments. These differences can play a significant role in choosing the perfect companion for your lifestyle.
Australian Labradoodles have a unique background. They come from hunting dogs that have a natural inclination to work closely with their masters, often side by side. This history has instilled in them a strong sense of loyalty and a desire to please their human companions. In contrast, many other “doodle” breeds originate from herding dogs, which are accustomed to being out in the fields with other animals (not humans) and so they tend to be more independent and self-reliant.
Which kind of “doodle” is right for me?
The breeding of Australian Labradoodles, Goldendoodles, and Bernedoodles shares some similarities due to their “doodle” lineage, but there are also significant differences in the breeding practices and goals for each of these hybrid breeds. Here’s how the breeding of Australian Labradoodles differs from the breeding of Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles:
- Foundation Breeds:
- Australian Labradoodles: Australian Labradoodles have a more diverse and complex lineage compared to Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles. They were initially developed using a combination of the English Labrador Retriever, Standard Poodle, and Cocker Spaniel. Over time, other breeds like the Irish Water Spaniel and Curly Coat Retriever were introduced to further refine the breed’s characteristics.
- Goldendoodles: Goldendoodles are a cross between the Golden Retriever, which has experienced a lot of troubles with cancer, and the Poodle. The foundation breeds for Goldendoodles are relatively straightforward, resulting in a blend of the two parent breeds.
- Bernedoodles: Bernedoodles are a mix of the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle. Similar to Goldendoodles, Bernedoodles have a simpler genetic background derived from two primary breeds.
- Temperament and Characteristics:
- Australian Labradoodles: Australian Labradoodles tend to have a more people-oriented, loyal, and eager-to-please temperament. Their history as service dogs and hunting companions has bred a strong desire to work closely with humans. They are known for being highly trainable and sociable.
- Goldendoodles: Goldendoodles inherit characteristics from their parent breeds. They are often friendly, intelligent, and affectionate, with the Golden Retriever’s sociable nature and the Poodle’s intelligence and hypoallergenic coat traits.
- Bernedoodles: Bernedoodles usually exhibit a mix of the Bernese Mountain Dog’s gentle and affectionate nature and the Poodle’s intelligence. They are often described as friendly and good with families.
- Coat Types:
- Australian Labradoodles: Australian Labradoodles have primarily fleece and wooly coat types. These coats are typically low-shedding and can be suitable for individuals with allergies.
- Goldendoodles: Goldendoodles often have wavy or curly coats, which can be low to moderate shedding, depending on the generation and specific dog. Some may also have straighter coats.
- Bernedoodles: Bernedoodles usually have wavy or curly coats, similar to Goldendoodles. Coat shedding can vary depending on the generation and specific dog.
- Breeding Standards and Associations:
- Australian Labradoodles: The Australian Labradoodle Association of America (ALAA) and other recognized organizations establish breeding standards and ethical practices for Australian Labradoodles. Reputable breeders adhere to these standards to ensure the health and well-being of the dogs.
- Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles: While there may be some standards and responsible breeders for Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles, these breeds do not have as extensive or established a set of guidelines and associations as Australian Labradoodles.
- Generations:
- Australian Labradoodles: Australian Labradoodles often have multigenerational pedigrees, with breeders striving to refine and stabilize desirable traits over several generations.
- Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles: These breeds may have different generations, ranging from first-generation (F1) crosses between a Poodle and the respective parent breed to multigenerational crosses. The generational status can impact coat types, shedding, and other traits.
When do I need to put a deposit down?
Once we identify a particular litter, the deposit would be due at that time.
What type of health testing do you do?
We do rigorous health testing for all of our breeding parents and list the testing results on each individual dog’s page. OFA hips, elbows, eyes, etc, as well as DNA/genetic screening for degenerative and hereditary diseases.
Do you do termperament testing?
Yes, we have a professional trainer come in to evaluate each pup individually in order to give guidance when it comes time for placements. Some past clients have had particular service needs and have spoken to the trainer to ensure they are getting the best pup for their specific needs.
