Labradoodles are consistently ranked in the top 10 off all dog breeds in the UK, and as such are one of the most popular crossbreeds in the UK, and a favourite of many households.

So what is a Labradoodle?

The term Labradoodle is used interchangeably to describe several different crossbreeds, so it is important to clarify which is which.

The so called ‘British Labradoodle’ is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, which can be either a miniature or standard size poodle.

The ‘Australian Labradoodle’ is very different, as this crossbreed is often a multi-generational crossbreed mixed of up to 6 parent breeds, which can include the Labrador Retriever, Poodle (miniature or standard), English cocker spaniel, American cocker spaniel, Irish water spaniel and Curly coated retriever.

The Labradoodle was first bred in Australia in 1989, and then from 2003 onwards the popular British Labradoodle began to gain popularity in the UK with more breeders producing this specific cross breed.

For the purpose of this article we are going to focus on the British Labradoodle, so all information below will be focussing on this distinct cross between a Labrador Retriever and miniature or standard Poodle.

An F1 Labradoodle is a 50:50 cross between a purebred Labrador Retriever and a purebred Poodle. Whether a miniature or standard Poodle is used as a parent often determines the size of the offspring, with miniature poodles generally creating smaller sized offspring than standard poodles.

An F1b Labradoodle is often referred to as a poodle backcross, this means that an F1 Labradoodle was bred with a purebred Poodle to create a 75:25 Poodle to Labrador Retriever mix. Meanwhile, a F2 Labradoodle is a second-generation Labradoodle which means both parents are F1 Labradoodles.

The numbering system continues with the number following the letter F representing the number of generations down the line from the original cross bred parents. The F1, F1b, F2 labelling system is important to understand, so you know which genetics the Labradoodle you are purchasing is likely to have. The breeder can give you this information and answer any questions you may have.

Why are Labradoodles so popular?

Labradoodles rose to popularity in the UK as highly affectionate, playful family pets with a good temperament and trainable nature. As a cross between two of the nation’s favourite pedigree breeds, it is no surprise that the Labradoodle is a popular family pet.

Are Labradoodles good for people with allergies?

BritishLabradoodles can be highly unpredictable when it comes to coat shedding. The early generation (F1,F2) breeds are thought to have a higher risk of having a high shedding coat as they are closest to the pure-bred Labrador Retriever which has a regularly moulting high shedding coat.

F1b generations can be lower shedding as they genetically have a greater amount of Poodle than Labrador Retriever, but this is not a guarantee. 

In general, compared to other cross breeds we have discussed in this series, namely the Cockapoo and Cavapoo, Labradoodles are less ideal for those with allergies and are still likely to have a high shedding coat. Australian Labradoodles are different, as they have been purposely bred with a number of different breeds to try and achieve a lower shedding coat, but when specifically talking about the British Labradoodle, they are unlikely to be the best choice for someone with allergies to pet fur.  

Are Labradoodles easily trained?

Yes, due to being a crossbreed between the Labrador Retriever, a working dog with a nature aimed at pleasing their owner and the Poodle, a highly intelligent working breed, Labradoodles can be easily trained with the right advice and guidance. They are highly intelligent and switched on, so do need consistent training and boundaries to ensure they reach their full potential and get the mental and physical stimulation they need to thrive.

Are Labradoodles good with children?

Labradoodles are generally considered great family pets and a popular choice for families with children. They have an incredibly playful nature and often enjoy forming close bonds with young people and joining in regular play. They have a generally friendly nature and are trainable so can be excellent choices for families. It is worth noting that for young children under 5years old, Labradoodles can be inquisitive and full on so they may find them too bouncy and excitable for their small size.

Like with all interactions between children and animals it is vitally important they are supervised at all times to ensure that both the child and the dog remain safe and comfortable, as even the most friendly dog can react negatively if provoked or scared.

Do Labradoodles require grooming?

Yes, Labradoodles require regular grooming to keep their coat in good condition. Because they are a cross breed they take certain elements of their fur condition from the Labrador Retriever and certain parts from the Poodle, and this can vary significantly between individuals. Generally speaking, moulting fur it known to get trapped inside the coat and not exfoliate as easily as it does in some pure-bred dogs, so it’s important they are brushed regularly to relieve this excess fur and prevent uncomfortable knots or matts forming in the coat.

Do Labradoodles suffer from separation anxiety?

Yes, like other popular cross breeds such as the Cavapoo and Cockapoo, Labradoodles can be prone to separation anxiety. This is largely due to their affectionate people loving nature and want to stay with their human family who they have formed a tight bond with.

The good news is certain techniques can be built into their training to get them comfortable with being left alone for specified time periods and prevent separation anxiety occurring in the first place. It is important to be familiar with these techniques when first training your dog as prevention is always easier than cure. That being said if your dog is suffering with separation anxiety there are techniques that can be used to help them and you work through this.

You can read more about separation anxiety and things that can be done to help and prevent it here.

Do Labradoodles need regular walks?

Yes, Labradoodles need regular walks to keep them fit and healthy and ensure they get the mental stimulation they need. As the offspring of traditionally working breeds, they have a high exercise tolerance and thrive being outdoors and exploring the environment.

It is important to note if you have a young dog that exercise should always be built up slowly in puppies following guidance of your veterinary surgeon to ensure you don’t cause unnecessary stress or strain to growing bones and joints. If you have any questions about the specific exercise requirements of your pet, please consult your veterinary surgeon who can give you tailored advice for your individual dog’s needs.

Do Labradoodles need a specific diet?

Labradoodles need a nutritionally balanced diet to ensure their long-term health. Whilst breed specific blends are available for some pedigree breeds, generally a high quality nutritionally balanced dog food that is for the appropriate life stage of your pet is good enough. If your pet has other underlying health conditions, for example allergies or renal disease, then your veterinary surgeon may suggest an alternative diet to help manage these conditions. If you are unsure what would be suitable for your pet, please consult with your veterinary surgeon.

Summary:

  • British Labradoodles are a crossbreed formed from the Labrador Retriever and the Poodle
  • They are great family pets who are highly affectionate and playful
  • Labradoodles require regular grooming and exercise to keep them healthy
  • Labradoodles can still shed their coat so may not be an appropriate choice for those suffering with allergies to pet far