Five good reasons to own a Labradoodle

While the cockapoo is currently the most popular hybrid dog breed in the UK, the Labradoodle is quite possibly the best known, and the hybrid dog type that has been around in large numbers for the longest period of time.

Many hybrid breeds such as the Labradoodle and the cockapoo are now outstripping many pedigree dog breeds in the popularity stakes, and for good reason – when a hybrid crossing is performed with two good quality parent dogs and with an eye to improvement, your hybrid dog may possess the best of both worlds in terms of the core traits of the parent breeds.

People that own Labradoodles each have their own reasons for picking a dog of this type – but if you’re considering buying or adopting a Labradoodle and you’re still not quite decided, read on! In this article, we will share five good reasons to own a Labradoodle dog.

1. They can be found in a range of sizes

A Labradoodle is bred by crossing a poodle and a Labrador retriever, or by crossing two Labradoodles, or a Labradoodle and one of the two parent breeds. The Labrador retriever is a medium to large dog breed, while poodles come in three sizes – toy, miniature, and standard – with the toy poodle being very small and the standard quite large.

This means Labradoodles come in sizes ranging from medium to very large, depending on the poodle size used in the breeding. This size variety offers plenty of options to suit your living situation and lifestyle.

2. They may be a good pick for people who suffer from allergies

One of the original intentions behind breeding Labradoodles was to create assistance dogs with the skills and intelligence of their parent breeds, but with coats that shed less and are less likely to trigger allergies in sensitive people.

The poodle coat is wiry and tightly curled, which means it sheds very little hair. Instead, the fur tends to tangle and is caught in the growing coat until grooming removes it. Because of this, Labradoodles with poodle-style coats often shed less allergenic proteins into the environment.

While no dog is entirely hypoallergenic, Labradoodles that inherit the poodle coat are among the best suited for allergy sufferers.

3. They benefit from the advantages of hybrid vigour

Most pedigree breeds have been selectively bred over generations to maintain uniform breed traits, often leading to a limited gene pool. This can increase the risk of hereditary health problems within the breed.

Hybrid breeds like Labradoodles benefit from hybrid vigour, which means the mixing of genes from two different breeds often increases overall health and reduces the chances of breed-specific health issues. This generally means Labradoodles tend to have robust health and may live longer than some purebred dogs.

4. They are very intelligent dogs

The poodle ranks second in canine intelligence, surpassed only by the Border Collie, while the Labrador retriever ranks seventh. This means Labradoodles inherit high intelligence and trainability from both parent breeds.

They are natural entertainers and quick learners, capable of mastering numerous commands and skills. Their eagerness to learn and pleasing nature means they can excel in training and may even become excellent working or sporting dogs.

5. They are highly personable and very adaptable

The Labrador retriever is known for being a real people-pleaser, and the poodle is outgoing and enjoys human company. Combined, Labradoodles tend to be among the friendliest and most social dog types you'll meet.

They enjoy being part of family activities and are typically tolerant and playful with children. Labradoodles adapt well to various living arrangements, whether it be a busy household or quieter lifestyle, and usually get on well with other dogs.

Are you a proud Labradoodle owner? What made you choose this wonderful breed? Share your story in the comments!