Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Important Facts About Australian Labradoodle Puppies North Carolina Pet Owners Need To Know

By Judy Sullivan


When a Labrador Retriever is bred with a Poodle, the resulting hybrid dog is known as a "Labradoodle", and more specifically those from Australia, are called the Australian Labradoodle. This dog makes a terrific family pet since it is very smart, friendly, and rarely sheds, which is good news for allergy sufferers. It's a good idea however if before adopting Australian Labradoodle puppies North Carolina dog lovers find out what is involved in caring for this animal.

Originally bred in Australia in the 1980's these dogs were the result of breeder Wally Conron uniting a Labrador Retriever with its pleasant disposition with a low-shedding Poodle. They soon became very popular as guide dogs to assist blind people and those with other mental or physical limitations.

These dogs can be somewhat of a surprise to breeders as their characteristics may vary considerably. The size of the animal depends on the size of the Poodle used in breeding, males are generally taller and heavier than females. Three types of coats are possible; fleece which is wavy, wool which is curly, and less commonly, hair which is straight and less desirable because it sheds. Colors may be solid or patterned in these shades; chalk, silver, black, red, apricot, parchment, cream, cafe, gold, and chocolate.

A versatile and easy-going animal, they are wonderful playmates for children and get along well with other pets. They train easily, but it's important to assert oneself as "pack leader" early on so the animal does not try to outsmart its owner. Australian Labradoodles are gentle, very loyal, and eager to please.

It's important that this dog gets enough exercise every day and may act up if it doesn't. Having a decent sized yard to romp around in is best, but even in an apartment it can be content provided it is taken for a long walk several times daily. They like to play fetch and other interactive games with humans, and also enjoy swimming, which they have a natural affinity for, if there is a pool.

Although they can be considered healthy in general, there are some disorders Australian Labradoodles are prone to. The main threats are progressive retinal atrophy and hip dysplasia, these should be screened for before breeding a dog. However with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine veterinary care, they can live to be 13 to 15 years old.

It's necessary for the dog to be taken for grooming care regularly too, especially the ones with curly coats. In between appointments, daily brushing is important to prevent the animal's non-shedding fur from getting matted. A visit to a professional dog groomer every month is recommended, and two or three times yearly it should be trimmed.

The Australian Labradoodle is considered a hybrid, not a breed, a fact which some breeders are trying to change, as they believe this dog is a breed in its own right and should be seen as such. There are two types of Australian Labradoodle puppies North Carolina dog owners may adopt, those from a direct Poodle/Lab cross, and those from two Labradoodle parents, even though the former are idealized for their greater diversity, either pup can be a great family dog.




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