The origins
of the Australian Labradoodle
A fascinating idea and story!
The Australian Labradoodle is a recent breed, born in the 1980s thanks to Wally Conron, a breeder for the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia. He crossed a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle to create a guide dog suitable for blind people suffering from allergies. The Labrador was chosen for its stable temperament and ability to work, while the Poodle contributed its hypoallergenic coat.
Only one puppy in the litter, Sultan, had the qualities we were looking for: a calm temperament and a non-allergenic coat. This success encouraged other breeders to continue developing the breed with Cocker Spaniel infusions. Today, only the Labrador, Poodle and Cocker Spaniel are WALA-approved breeds.
As a result, the Australian Labradoodle has evolved from a simple Labrador-Poodle cross into a breed in its own right, with standards defined by the WALA (Worldwide Australian Labradoodle Association). Unlike the standard Labradoodle, the Australian Labradoodle is multi-generational, with physical and behavioural traits stabilised over the generations.
This breed is characterised by its intelligence, trainability, sociability and need for human interaction. Their wavy or curly coat is generally hypoallergenic, and comes in a multitude of colours, from cream to black to two-tone shades. Available in several sizes, from miniature to standard, it can be adapted to different types of household.
Today, the Australian Labradoodle is very popular as a pet, assistance dog, therapy dog and sometimes working dog. Its rigorously controlled development by specialist breeders has enabled it to maintain high standards in terms of health, temperament and physical characteristics.
Breed characteristics
Originally conceived as a hypoallergenic service dog, the Australian Labradoodle combines the best qualities of its ancestors and offers a unique combination of characteristics that make it a valuable companion for many families.
Temperament
The Australian Labradoodle's temperament is enchanting, with its balance, joie de vivre and great adaptability. They are gentle, friendly and loyal companions. He loves to cuddle and accompany his family on all sporting or leisure activities.
Intelligent and quick-witted, Australian Labradoodles are quick learners that excel at education and training. Whether it's basic commands or more complex exercises, they show a natural ability to understand and carry out instructions. This ability to learn makes him an ideal partner for a variety of dog sports and activities, such as Agility, scent work, or even therapy disciplines. As well as being an excellent pupil, this mental and physical stimulation is essential for his overall well-being, helping to maintain his balance and happiness on a daily basis.
He relishes walks, outdoor play and family adventures. Their enthusiasm makes them excellent playmates, always ready to take part in any activity involving their loved ones.
Sociable and friendly, Australian Labradoodles generally get on very well with all members of the family, including children and other pets. Their open, adaptable nature means they fit in well in a variety of environments and lifestyles. Whether in an urban environment, where they can adapt to flat life and city parks, or in a rural setting, where they can enjoy the great outdoors, they adjust easily and quickly become a central member of the household. Its ability to form strong bonds with humans and other animals further enhances its appeal as a family dog par excellence.
All in all, the Australian Labradoodle is a deeply affectionate and incredibly intelligent dog, bringing a touch of happiness to its owners' lives. Its loyalty, sociability and adaptability make it an ideal companion for families, single people and even those living in a community with other animals. Always ready to share moments of tenderness and joy, they are the perfect companion for anyone looking for a loyal, cheerful friend who is always ready to join in the adventure.
However, he will need to be with you on a regular basis - he hates to be away for too long - so if your lifestyle or job takes you away from home all day, don't bother, this dog is not for you!
Sizes
Australian Labradoodles vary in size, but are generally classified into three categories: miniature (around 35-43cm at the withers), medium (around 43-53cm at the withers), and standard (around 53-63cm at the withers). They have a well-proportioned body, with an elegant, sporty appearance.
Colours
The Australian Labradoodle is distinguished by an impressive variety of coat colours, offering many options. The most common solid colours include black, white, chocolate, coffee, lavender, caramel, red, apricot, gold and cream.
As well as solid colours, there are two-tone variations, such as the tuxedo pattern (coloured coat with white markings on chest and legs), the brindle pattern (dark stripes on a lighter background, creating a tabby effect), the ghost pattern (dark coat base with lighter markings on specific areas such as eyebrows, muzzle, chest and legs), and finally, the parti pattern (predominantly white coat - at least 50% - with brightly coloured patches) offering a striking contrast. These coat variations add a unique touch and a special charm to each Australian Labradoodle.
Illustration
The different coat types
The Australian Labradoodle can have three types of coat texture: wool coat, fleece coat and hair coat.
The wool coat is dense and looks like sheep's wool. It forms tight curls and is often hypoallergenic, making it ideal for allergy sufferers.
The fleece coat is softer and more supple. It can vary from slightly wavy to more curly, offering a silky, light texture to the touch. It is also hypoallergenic and easy to maintain.
The straight hair coat is closer to traditional dog hair. It is less dense, can be smooth or slightly wavy, and is generally less hypoallergenic than the other types.
Unique companions for sensitive people
At Doodles de Gaia, we breed mini and medium-sized Australian Labradoodles, with beautiful coats and mostly hypoallergenic. They shed very little or not at all, making them perfect companions for sensitive people. Although these qualities are specific to the breed, they cannot be 100% guaranteed.