Trainability

It’s no wonder his breed can be a wonder to train! Combining the extreme intelligence of the Poodle alongside the willingness to please from the loveable Labrador has produced a breed that is not only smart but, also very keen to learn. Making the breed a first-time dog owners perfect match. However, due to this loveable nature it’s very important to train your pup important doggy-manners right from the word go. They are a super friendly breed so greeting everyone with extreme enthusiasm can see this breed getting into trouble. Teach your young pup to sit when being patted and to never jump. Even though this behaviour can be very cute from a wee pup, having a larger dog jumping and running toward you at a serious pace may not be so inviting. Like with all dog breeds early training and socialisation is paramount to ensure your pup grows into a well-rounded and well-mannered dog. Consider as many sights, scenes, noises and environments as possible. Don’t’ forget to introduce them to lots of different people of all age groups as a young pup. Puppy-preschool works wonderfully and you can guarantee your Labradoodle will be the friendly pup who will greet all members of the play session with excitement.

Grooming

The breed comes in a variety of coat types. For a true Labradoodle always seek out a professional breeder with a good history of coat types and healthy dogs. The breed comes in a Fleece Coat, Wool Coat and Hair Coat. These types of coats can also give you an indication of what generation your Labradoodle is, with the hair coat normally being first generation Labradoodles (meaning they will shed and also have the normally doggy smell). The other varieties are much more popular and will have a non-smelling coat that will shed minimally. Like with all hyper-allergenic breeds please seek out the advice from your doctor and healthcare professional in regard to your allergies. Many times, it is the saliva or dander that can cause allergies and not the hair itself.

Your Labradoodle will require a good brush twice a week and possibly trimmed by a professional every eight weeks depending on your requirements and desired look. Ear care is also important with this breed so ensure you clean and dry their ears after bathing or swimming. Nail clipping and teeth cleaning is also advisable from an early age.

Exercise Requirements

These dogs love to run and excel in an active household. They are great jogging companions and simply adore a good run off leash. Their super friendly nature makes them a wonderful off-leash pets and they are sure to make endless friends down the park and at the beach. A good brisk walk run first thing in the morning followed by a decent romp off-leash in the evenings will keep your Labradoodle in tip-top shape and out of mischief during the day.

Intelligence

Combining two incredibly smart breeds has produce yet another incredibly smart dog. This can become a problem if you do not train and adequately exercise your dog. Canines are masters at making their own fun and entertainment that may come at the price of your best shoes or your neighbour’s sanity. Always ensure you have the time to exercise and train your pup. A happy, trained, exercised dog is much less likely to show signs of behavioural problems. Don’t forget to enrich your pup’s daily environment while you are at work with some clever boredom busting techniques.

Family Friendly

These dogs make wonderful family companions. They are super gentle and great with kids, however they can get into trouble for accidentally knocking over very little children so supervision, like with all dogs, is important. Always teach your children how to correctly interact with a dog, and a dog how to correctly play with a child. The Labradoodle will easily get along with other pets in the household if socialised from a young age.

Indoor/Outdoor

The Labradoodle is a people person. They love people and will not take well to being left for endless hours alone. They need to feel loved and a part of their pack (AKA you). They do require a yard to run around and stretch and play when you are not at home. Always check fences daily to ensure your pup is kept safe. These dogs are active and do well in homes with yards. For this reason; they are not suited to apartment living. Ensure your dog has good weather protection for all conditions and ample water.

Breeding

It is very important to only source your new family member from a reputable breeding establishment, to ensure your puppy is healthy. Ask all the important questions about hereditary problems and ask to see mum and dad. Contact your local breed club and research your chosen breeder. Your breeder should have proof that they regularly test their dogs for genetic diseases and to ensure that the dogs they are breeding from have sound temperaments. It may take a little more time than a quick purchase, but it can save you and your family from unimaginable heartache and pain dealing with a sick puppy.