Australian Labradoodle Owner’s Guide
Is it finally time to adopt a dog? Choosing a breed is a hard task and one that can take a lot of research. There are likely to be a few breeds that catch your eye. But have you considered the Australian Labradoodle? This is a hybrid breed that combines the best traits from some popular breeds that you will be familiar with. Let’s take a closer look at the Australian Labradoodle.
What is an Australian Labradoodle?
First of all, you may be wondering what breeds are combined to create the Australian Labradoodle. This is a pooch that is a combination of the English Cocker Spaniel, Poodle, Labrador and American Cocker Spaniel. This crossbreed was originally bred so that it could be a guide dog for those with visual impairments. But due to their friendly and fun temperament, they have also become a popular family dog. They can have a height of 14 to 24 inches, as well as weighing somewhere between 15 and 65 pounds.
Do They Have a Good Temperament?
As a crossbreed, the Australian Labradoodle is known for having a combination of great characteristics. This means that they often appeal to families and those with children. For example, most Australian Labradoodles are friendly and affectionate, which is said to be inherited from the Labrador. In addition, they are playful and enthusiastic just like the English Cocker Spaniel. They are also intelligent and learn quickly like the Poodle. This means that you can enjoy having a well-rounded furry friend.
When it comes to being social, you will find that most Australian Labradoodles are curious and friendly with other animals. Of course, this is something that you have to expose your Australian Labradoodle at an early age. For example, allowing your canine to socialize with other pups is going to be beneficial. They can learn how to interact and know the best ways to make new furry friends. In addition, exposing your Australian Labradoodle to new people will mean that they like socializing and will not become apprehensive or suspicious of strangers.
Do They Need a lot of Exercise?
If you are looking for a lazy dog, this is not going to be the Australian Labradoodle! This furry friend is going to love a lot of exercise during the day. In fact, since they are bred from active breeds, they are going to need physical exercise to keep them relaxed and content at home. Therefore, you need to be able to offer your Australian Labradoodle at least 45 minutes of exercise every day. This can be going walking, hiking or running so that this pooch at expend some energy. You can also take them to the park and play with a ball.
Of course, you cannot forget about mental stimulation too. The Australian Labradoodle is a smart canine and they like to be challenged. You can provide this by introducing them to new environments and through regular training sessions. You want to challenge their brain and make them think. This can also happen through toys and puzzles with treats. Again, an Australian Labradoodle that is entertained is going to prevent destructive behaviors in the home.
Do They Need a lot of Grooming?
The Australian Labradoodle is going to require some grooming. But it will depend on what type of coat they have whether this is going to be a little or a lot. For example, Australian Labradoodles with long fur are going to need brushed on a weekly basis. This is going to help prevent tangles and knots that become uncomfortable for your pooch. They will need some trips to the groomers but not a lot. There will also be some shedding.
If you find that your Australian Labradoodle has a fleece type coat, they are going to have more demanding maintenance needs. This means more brushing and weekly baths. In addition, you will need the funds to have your furry friend groomed every four to six weeks so they can look good.
Grooming around the eyes is going to be important for the Australian Labradoodle. If this hair stays long, it can lead to eye infections and it can also affect their vision. Ensure that you clean your canine’s eyes on a regular basis and that hair is not allowed to hang over the eyes.
Where Do You Find an Australian Labradoodle?
The Australian Labradoodle is becoming a popular breed that a lot of families want to bring into their home. If this sounds like a furry friend you would like, you will be wondering where you can find an Australian Labradoodle. The first place to start looking is the local animal shelter. Here, you are going to find a lot of dogs that need a home. This might include an Australian Labradoodle. They will not be the most common breed that you find at a shelter but it is not impossible to find one.
Another place to look for an Australian Labradoodle is online. There are often people that try to re-home their dogs on the internet. In addition, there are rescue organizations that might be able to help you in your search for an Australian Labradoodle. Again, you can do a good deed and give a home to a dog that needs one. At the same time, you can enjoy having a loving companion.
The last option you have if you really want an Australian Labradoodle is to buy a puppy from a breeder. This will take more time than you think as you will have to do your research to find a respectable breeder and visit the premises before you agree to buy a puppy. If you are buying your Australian Labradoodle from a breeder, you can expect there to be a high price tag. These canines can cost anywhere from $1200 to $3000. This is going to vary depending on the breeder and the colors available. Make sure that you do not support puppy mills or purchase canines from a pet store.
