You’ve probably heard of a Labradoodle. You may also have heard of an Australian Labradoodle. If you’ve heard of both, you may be wondering whether these are the same dogs or whether they’re different. To put it simply, yes, they’re different dogs. We’ll explain exactly why, but it ultimately comes down to the Australian Labradoodle carrying additional dog breeds in its genetic mix.
Labradoodle genetics explained
Labradoodles have Labrador and Poodle genes in their parentage and ancestry. Depending on the generation of an individual dog, it’ll have various ratios of each breed in the mix. You can read more about the concept of different generations here.
Australian Labradoodle genetics explained
Australian Labradoodles have both Labrador and Poodle genes in their mix, plus the addition of the following four breeds: the English Cocker Spaniel, the American Cocker Spaniel, the Curly Coat Retriever, and the Irish Water Spaniel.
Why were Australian Labradoodles bred?
This distinct mix dates back to the 1980s. As the story goes, Wally Conron, an Australian breeder, was contacted by a woman with a vision impairment who needed a service dog. Unfortunately, her husband was allergic to dogs. Because of his allergies, they were looking for a dog that could help her with her needs, but not set off his allergies.
Wally Conron set out to create a dog that would suit both of his customers’ needs. He initially bred Poodles and Labradors, but went on to refine the mix with the addition of the other breeds mentioned above in order to create the Australian Labradoodle.
The addition of the various spaniel and retriever DNA seems to have calmed down the boisterousness that can come with a Labrador, making this mix a more measured and mature-natured companion.
Is there a Mini Australian Labradoodle?
Courtesy of the Poodle aspect of this mix, the Australian Labradoodle comes in three distinct sizes. So yes, there is such a thing as a mini Australian Labradoodle.
Can you have a black Australian Labradoodle?
Yes! The Australian Labradoodle comes in a variety of colors thanks to their Poodle ancestors. Color variations include white, cream, fawn, apricot, red, tan, chocolate brown, blue, and black. Sometimes, you can even have an Australian Labradoodle with a few different colors in their coat.
What is the temperament of an Australian Labradoodle?
Australian Labradoodles have a wonderful temperament. They’re often described as calm, trainable, wonderful with children, and friendly. These breeds are also incredibly intelligent.
Do they make suitable service dogs?
These dogs have made a name for themselves in the service dog industry. Don’t believe us? Check out these heartwarming stories. Sometimes, Australian Labradoodles are used as seeing-eye dogs, while others may work as therapy dogs with autistic children. Others work with researchers who study doggy behavior. How’s that for versatile?
Australian Labradoodle breeders
If you’re considering an Australian Labradoodle as a pet or as a therapy dog in your life, make sure you conduct careful research in order to find a responsible and reputable breeder. This way, you’ll end up with a happy and healthy dog.
Any decent breeder will actively encourage you to come and visit their breeding kennels and meet their dogs. If they don’t want you on their property, be cautious about moving forward in purchasing a dog. Luckily, there are many reputable breeders in all corner of the world, so you shouldn’t have to travel far to adopt the dog of your dreams.
Adoption and rescue
Bringing home an Australian Labradoodle from a dog shelter is also another option. Sadly, due to their popularity, these dogs have been over-bred. Because of this, many dogs are now looking for the perfect forever homes. If you have a heart for adoption, check out the local rescues and shelters near your home. You might just walk away with the newest addition to your family!