What the Heck is a Labradoodle? by CS Swarens

If you are like most people hearing the term “labradoodle”, you are most likely confused. A labradoodle is a designer-dog resulting from the cross breeding of a labrador retriever and a standard poodle (crossbred dogs are often referred to as designer-dogs.) The labradoodle originated in Australia several years ago where they quickly discovered the potential to use labradoodles as service dogs.

Labradoodles have a loving and affectionate temperment. They appreciate affection and bond well with their families. They are very intelligent and tend to be quite active as well. They can become bored with repetition and enjoy alternating activities.

Labradoodles typically have curly coats but can have the straight coat of a labrador. Since labradoodles have minimal shedding they are extremely attractive to those who suffer from pet allergies. There have been claims that labradoodles do not have the typical doggie body odor.

Australian labradoodles are a multi generational cross that are typically 25% labrador retriever and 75% standard poodle. This proportion seems to guarantee non-shedding. American labradoodle breeders vary the percentages; a 50% mix puppy may shed and as such they are not the best choice for people with severe allergies.

Labradoodle puppies are selling from anywhere between $100 and $1500 depending on the standards of the breeder. Multi-generational cross puppies with health guarantees seem to sell for more than a 50% first generation litter.

Labradoodles can have the same genetic medical problems of the standard poodle and Labrador retriever, such as eye and hip problems. People shopping for a labradoodle puppy need to be careful, as with any breed, check references, view the parents of the litter, and ask for a written health guarantee.

CS Swarens is the president of Find Classifieds Online Inc. and Find a Pet Online. 800 998-7065
For additional information on dogs, cats, birds, horses, and exotic pets visit the internets pet resource http://www.findapetonline.com

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