Labradoodle frequently asked questions

Labradoodles have fast become one of the most popular cross breeds in the UK and for good reason. They are a cross between two other favourite breeds, namely a Labrador and a Poodle which means not only are Labradoodles lovely looking but they are highly intelligent and fun-loving too. If you are thinking about sharing your home with a Labradoodle and would like to know more about them, the frequently asked questions below might help you make up your mind.

How much are Labradoodles?

Because Labradoodles are so popular, a well-bred puppy can often cost a lot money. According to ourPets4Homesstatistics, you should expect to pay over £850 for a responsibly bred Labradoodle puppy. It’s important for parent dogs to have been health tested for any known hereditary and congenital disorders known to affect Labs and Poodles as this is the only way of reducing the risk of a Labradoodle puppy inheriting them.

Are Labradoodles recognised as a breed by the Kennel Club?

As yet, August 2018, the Labradoodle is not a Kennel Club recognised breed. But in time, these intelligent, highly trainable dogs could be, it just takes a lot of responsible breeding over a certain amount of time for a breed to be officially recognised and awarded Championship status.

Do Labradoodles have a doggy smell?

The majority of Labradoodles have what is referred to as “non-oily” coats which comes from their Poodle heritage. As such, they don’t tend to have a doggy smell about them. With this said, some Labradoodles have a very soft coat which means they can pick up odours from their environment.

What sort of coats do Labradoodles have?

Labradoodles have a wide range of coats and puppies in the same litter can be quite different to one another. A lot of Labradoodles in the UK have lovely, wavy coats which look very much like the coat of a Flat-coated Retriever. Other Labradoodles have coats that are lot tighter with soft curls very much like the coat of a Poodle. Some Labradoodles even have mixed coats which consist of drier, wiry hair which grows through a much softer Poodle-type down.

Do Labradoodles shed?

Some Labradoodles shed more than others which can be throughout the year, or like other breeds in the spring and the autumn. However, many Labradoodles do not shed although like all dogs, they shed dander which is dead skin.

Are Labradoodles hypoallergenic?

Although Labradoodles are considered as being hypoallergenic, there is never any guarantee that a person suffering from allergies would not have a reaction when they come into contact with a Labradoodle. The reason being that all dogs shed dander (dead skin). It is also worth noting that a dog’s saliva can trigger an allergic reaction in allergy suffers too.

Are Labradoodles hyper-active dogs?

Labradoodles like to be kept busy and have a ton of energy. Most also adore being in and around water, much like their parent breeds namely the Lab and the Poodle. They also adore playing interactive games and are never happier than when they are out and about with their owners. Labradoodles are definitely not couch potatoes.

Are Labradoodles good natured?

Labradoodles are not only very good natured, they are super affectionate and highly intelligent too. They typically inherit the loving, attentive nature of a Labrador which means they love to please, although they can be a little stubborn when the mood takes them.

How long to Labradoodles live for?

Labradoodles enjoy a long lifespan which can be anything from 12 to 15+ years especially if they are well cared for, fed an appropriate diet to suit the different stages of their lives and given lots of physical daily exercise.

What health issues affect Labradoodles?

Because Labradoodles are such a new cross-breed, more time is needed to find out if they might suffer from hereditary and congenital health issues. With this said, the general consensus is that a Labradoodle may suffer from the same conditions that affect their parent breeds, namely the Poodle and the Labrador. With this said, a lot of Labradoodles do suffer from quite sensitive skin.

Are Labradoodles trainable?

Because Labradoodles are so intelligent, they are highly trainable with the added bonus being they are always eager to please. They are, however, known to be a bit stubborn at times which is often combined with being a little “naughty”. Keeping a young Labradoodle focussed can be challenging but with perseverance and patience, they are trainable.

What is an F1, F2 and an F3 Labradoodle?

An F1 Labradoodle is a first generation cross between a Labrador and a Poodle. An F2 Labradoodle is a Labradoodle crossed with a Poodle whereas an F3 Labradoodle is a cross between another F1B or F2 Labradoodle. Anyone wishing to share a home with a Labradoodle should discuss whether a puppy is an F1 or other generation dog.