Health Concerns
With the right care, this breed can live about 13-15 years. With any breed, there are health concerns that owners should watch out for. Many dogs, including Australian Labradoodles are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. This occurs when the joints don’t make a snug fit with the bones. This can result in lots of pain and potentially lameness. This breed is also at risk for retinal atrophy and blood clotting disorders. As far as breeds go, this is a pretty healthy one, so you shouldn’t have to worry much about genetic diseases. Labradoodles often have allergies to food and environmental factors that can make them feel uncomfortable. However, these can be fixed with a change in diet or allergy medication from the vet. Dogs with floppy ears are prone to ear infections, so it’s important to regularly clean a Labradoodle’s ears. Moisture gets trapped easily, so if your dog is going to spend time in the water, make sure to dry their ears afterward.
Behavior and Temperament
This is a very energetic breed. They make fine apartment dogs, but they need plenty of exercise. If this breed lives in an apartment or stays in a small home all day, they will require at least one long walk per day. Homes with fenced in backyards are great for Australian Labradoodles because they love spending time outside in the sun. The extra room gives them some space to stretch their legs and run around. If you plan on keeping your Australian Labradoodle outside, consider allowing them to spend time inside too, because they are companion dogs. They aren’t especially needy, but they want to be around their people most of the time.
These are intelligent dogs with a high capacity for learning. With practice, Australian Labradoodles can become proficient in a large number of commands. They can be sensitive at times, so make sure your expectations for their behavior are clear. They get easily excited, so it may be necessary to train them to not jump on houseguests or how to sit and stay when they are over stimulated. They can occasionally be rowdy, but they are sweet and have the best intentions. The importance of obedience training cannot be stressed enough, though, because they are known to be sneaky and try to outsmart the owner if they think they can get away with it. Don’t let this dog get bored, because the games they create to entertain themselves can be destructive to your property.
This is a good family dog because it gets along well with others. They are very child-friendly and gentle with kids. Because they’re so big, you’ll want to keep an eye on them around small children because they may knock over a toddler if they’re playing. Australian Labradoodles are also fine in homes that have other dogs. You won’t have to worry about them getting into fights with your other pups.
Australian Labradoodles are sweet, intelligent dogs that make terrific family pets. Their coat sheds so rarely, that you won’t have to worry about constantly cleaning your furniture and clothes, and they don’t trigger much of an allergic response in humans. They can also make excellent guide and comfort dogs if they receive the proper training. This is a dog that can return the love you give it, tenfold.