Overview
The Labradoodle was first bred in Australia as a guide dog for people with allergies, and it has become one of the most popular family dogs in Britain. A Labrador crossed with a Standard or Miniature Poodle, it tends to be friendly, clever, energetic and keen on people, with a coat that sheds less than a Labrador's and needs more looking after.
Because it is a cross, individual dogs vary a lot in size, coat and temperament. Some are calm; many are bouncy, mouthy adolescents until three or four. Most are easy to like and easy to walk, provided they get enough to do.
Exercise and walking needs
Seventy-five minutes a day or more across two walks, with off-lead time and something to retrieve or find. Both parent breeds are working dogs and the cross has their energy and brains. A Labradoodle that is only walked on the lead will find its own entertainment.
The coat holds water and mud, so a swim means a wet dog for a long time. Young dogs need their distances built gradually; both parent breeds are prone to joint problems.
On the walk
- Recall: Usually good, because the dog wants to be with people, with the Labrador exceptions of water and food.
- Pulling: Bouncy rather than relentless, and strong when young. A harness and a calm pace work best.
- Other dogs: Playful and sociable, sometimes too full-on for calmer dogs. Good in groups that like to play.
- Water and mud: A Labradoodle in a pond is a Labradoodle in a pond for the rest of the day. Choose routes with the groom schedule in mind.
- Mouthing: Many carry things and mouth hands when excited. Give it a toy to hold.
Tips for professional walkers
- Bring a toy to retrieve and use it to settle the bounce early in the walk.
- Check the coat for burrs, grass seeds and matting after walks in cover; the owner will thank you.
- Dry the ears after swimming and look inside; the hairy ear canal is prone to trouble.
- Ask about size and energy for the individual dog rather than assuming from the breed name.
- Keep treats modest; the Labrador appetite is usually in there.
What to ask the owner
- Which Poodle parent, Standard or Miniature, and how big is the dog expected to get?
- When is the next groom, and are there routes or water to avoid before it?
- Any joint history, and any limits on ball-chasing or jumping?
- Any ear problems after swimming?