The Labradoodle is a hybrid cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. There are several generations of Labradoodles that will determine the size, color, coat types, and facial features, which makes it slightly harder to aesthetically distinguish the breed. The breed was first created in Australia, where the Royal Guide Dog Association of Australia was attempting to create a hypoallergenic service dog.
The F1- First Generation Labradoodle can be a mix of a purebred Labrador bred to either a Standard, Miniature, or Toy Poodle this will determine the size of the puppies. F1 Labradoodles tend to shed less than a purebred Labrador, however some F1s look incredibly similar to the “all American family dog,” even the smaller size pooches. This is a huge benefit to families looking to reduce the amount of hair that is shed throughout the house but wanting to maintain the classic look.
F1b Labradoodles are typically a purebred Poodle bred back to a F1- First Generation Labradoodle. These are known as the least shedding Labradoodle mix because of the 75% Poodle genes. Generally the coat is very soft and fleece like, giving the F1b Labradoodle a teddy bear look.
F2- Second Generation Labradoodle puppies are the offspring of both parents being F1- First Generation Labradoodles. Multigeneration Doodles include pups from multiple generations of Labradoodles, parents, grandparents, etc. Australian Labradoodles are traditionally Multigeneration.These are generally the result of a breeder’s personal preference to having the personalities of Labradoodles in their homes over their purebred gene counterparts.
Keep in mind that no matter the generation, Labradoodles do come in different sizes, ranging from Miniatures weighing 15lbs to Standards exceeding 60lbs. Confirm with your breeder the size of your puppy’s parents to make sure the full grown size of your puppy will work for your home and lifestyle. There are are also three types of Labradoodle coats, which look very different, especially when full grown, but can even be noticeable as puppies: hair, fleece, and wool. Be aware that even within the same litter, some Labradoodle pups may have a more Poodle-like hypoallergenic coat, while others may have a double-coat that will shed.
Not only are Labradoodles cute and affectionate, but they are also highly intelligent and obedient., making them easy to train. Because of their heritage, Labradoodles are great at agility, hunting, search and rescue, and as service dogs, in addition to making the perfect designer family pet.
Average Height: Miniature 14-17 inches, Medium 18-21 inches, Standard 22-26 inches
Average Weight: Miniature 15-35 lbs, Medium 35-50 lbs, Standard 50 + lbs
Labradoodle
