ORIGIN:
The Labradoodle is a unique and fascinating dog which was first
bred in Australia in the 1970’s. Labradoodles are a cross
between the Standard Poodle and Labrador Retriever. The search for
a low allergy Guide Dog led to the breeding of Labradoodles. The
Labrador's easy going ways and the Poodle's smartness made for an
interesting combination, and an exciting discovery was that a percentage
of each litter had puppies which appeared to be allergy friendly.
An added bonus for the Labradoodle was the lack of shedding in some
of these puppies and the absence of a doggy smell. Later, the use
of the Miniature Poodle was introduced, and today there are three
sizes in the Labradoodle.
SIZES:
Standard: Height: 21-24 inches; Weight: 50-75 pounds; Males being
the larger.
Medium: Height: 18-23 inches; Weight; 40-55 pounds; Males being
the larger.
Miniature: Height: 17 to 20 inches; Weight: 26-45 pounds; Males
being the larger.
CHARACTERISTICS:
Labradoodles are known for their typical “Benji”
look, outstanding intelligence and trainability, low allergy coat,
low to non-shedding coat and lack of doggie odor. They are slightly
heavier than the Standard Poodle with strong front limbs. They can
have a borderline wavy coat, wavy coat or a curly (fleece) coat.
The coat should be about 4-6 inches in length. Labradoodles come
in numerous color varieties: Black, Chalk, Cream, Apricot, Red,
Chocolate, Cafe au Lait and Silver.
LABRADOODLE TERMINOLOGY:
F1 (1st Generation) – Labrador Retriever bred to a Poodle
(50% Lab, 50% Poodle)
F1’s have straight, borderline way, or wavy coats. They vary
widely as to shedding and allergy friendliness.
(*Note - 2nd Generation – F1 bred to an F1; not recommended)
F1B (3rd Generation) - F1 bred to a Poodle (75% Poodle, 25% Lab)
F1B’s have wavy, curly, or wooly coats and are low to non-shed
and are allergy friendly.
Multi Generational – F1B bred to an F1B
Multi-Gens also have a wooly or fleece coat and are non-shed and
allergy friendly.
Male or a female? Which is best for your family?
Are
you
wondering whether a male or female puppy is right for you? The
following information describes some of the traits common to males and
females and may help you decide. Keep in mind, though, that a dog
who receives an early spay or neuter (at 4-6 months of age) rarely
exhibits any of these gender characteristics. In other words, early
spay/neuter will greatly reduce or negate any gender differences.
Within the
dog world, females usually rule the roost. They are the ones
who determine the pecking order and strive to maintain that order.
They are much more intent on displaying dominance by
participating in alpha behaviors such as "humping" other dogs.
Most fights are generally between two females, both competing for
that top position. Females tend to be more territorial,
obstinate, and independent than their male counterparts. Males,
on the other hand, are usually more steadfast, dependable, loyal and
crave more attention from their family. Food is an easy motivator
for males and helps in the area of training.Give them a treat
for their positive behavior and they continue to exhibit eagerness to
please. Their acceptance of other family pets and willingness to
bond with children is definitely a plus.
Often people don't want a male as they are known for lifting their leg
and urinating on tires, trees, telephone poles, and anything else that
suits their fancy. Truth be told, if they are neutered between
the ages of 4 1/2 to 6 months of age, greatly reducing testosterone
levels, this marking characteristic rarely surfaces. In fact,
these males generally won't lift their leg to urinate nor will they
hump at all.
Females will rarely demonstrate a dominance issue with their owner.
They are sensitive and also eager to please, coming to you for
love and attention, and then leaving as soon as they've gotten their
fill. They may show cleverness or be devious in attaining their
own agenda. The female also has seasons of being "in heat" unless
they have been spayed. This heat cycle typically lasts for 22-28
days, roughly every six to seven or even eight months. During
this time a bloody discharge can be left on carpet, furniture,
concrete, or anywhere else that she may go. A walk outside during
this time can become hazardous if male dogs are in the neighborhood.
She will be depositing her "calling card" or scent to every
unaltered male in the vicinity, regardless of breed. These males
will follow you to your yard and wait for an opportune moment to
associate with your female. Many unwanted pregnancies have
occurred from these brief encounters.
The above mentioned traits are general gender characteristics of canines. They are not specific to the labradoodle breed.
Also, it is important to note that a dog that is spayed or neutered
early (between 4-6 months of age) will rarely demonstrate these general
characteristics. Thus, in all reality, both male and female labradoodles make GREAT family pets.
We feel that the best attitude to have in choosing a new pet for your
family is to have no preconceived ideas as to gender, and to just allow
yourself to come and fall in love with whichever pup seems to bond best
with you. However, we understand that only you can determine which
gender will best suit your family, so we are here to answer any
questions that you may have and greatly
desire the perfect puppy for your home.
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