Australian Labradoodle Puppies

Photo of Australian Labradoodle

The Australian Labradoodle (ALD) is a carefully bred mix of the Labrador Retriever, Poodle, and Cocker Spaniel. Some older bloodlines may also include the Irish Water Spaniel and/or Curly-Coated Retriever. This breed originated in Australia during the 1980s and was specifically developed for service and therapy work.

It's important to clarify that the Australian Labradoodle does not include any Australian Shepherd (Aussie) in its lineage. Additionally, it should not be confused with the American Labradoodle, which is simply a cross between the Labrador Retriever and Poodle.


Australian Labradoodle At a Glance

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Australian Labradoodle At a Glance

  • Size: 14 to 24 inches, 15-65lbs
  • Lifespan: 12-15 years
  • Energy Level: high
  • Coat: Soft, dense, and can be wavy or curly. It is low-shedding, making it a great choice for allergy-sensitive individuals.
  • Shedding: light
  • Hypoallergenic: Yes
  • Dog Group: Other/Unknown
  • Common Nicknames: Aussie Doodle, Aussiedoodle

Australian Labradoodle Breed Guide

Learn more about Australian Labradoodles

  • Temperament

    Australian Labradoodles are friendly, intelligent, and affectionate dogs, making them excellent family pets, therapy animals, and companions. They are naturally sociable, getting along well with children, other pets, and new people, while their intelligence and eagerness to please make them highly trainable and suited for activities like obedience, agility, or service work. These dogs have a playful and energetic side, enjoying outdoor activities and regular exercise, but they also have a gentle and calm demeanor, which adds to their suitability as therapy or assistance dogs. Loyal and affectionate, they form strong bonds with their families and thrive on human companionship. Adaptable and tolerant, Australian Labradoodles can adjust to various living situations, whether in a house with a yard or an apartment, as long as their physical and social needs are met. Their patient and loving nature makes them a fantastic choice for households with children or other animals, embodying a perfect mix of affection, intelligence, and energy.

  • Health

    Australian Labradoodles are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be predisposed to certain genetic conditions. Responsible breeding practices significantly reduce the risk of these issues, but it’s essential for prospective owners to be aware of potential health concerns.

    Common health considerations for Australian Labradoodles include hip and elbow dysplasia, which can affect joint function, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), a genetic eye condition that can lead to vision loss. They may also be prone to allergies, ear infections (due to their floppy ears), and certain skin conditions. Additionally, they can develop issues like addison's disease, von Willebrand's disease, or epilepsy, though these are less common.

    Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, proper grooming, and an active lifestyle play a significant role in maintaining their health.

  • Activity Level

    Australian Labradoodles are an active and energetic breed that thrives on regular physical and mental stimulation. They have moderate to high activity levels and require daily exercise, such as brisk walks, runs, playtime in the yard, or games like fetch. Many enjoy activities like swimming, hiking, or agility training, making them excellent companions for active individuals or families.

    While they have plenty of energy to burn, they’re also adaptable and know how to settle down when they’ve had enough exercise. Without proper activity, they can become bored, which may lead to undesirable behaviors like chewing or excessive barking. Engaging them in interactive games or training sessions not only keeps them physically fit but also satisfies their intelligent and curious nature.

  • Grooming

    Despite their low-shedding nature, Australian Labradoodles require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and free of tangles or mats. Their soft, dense coats need brushing at least 2-3 times a week and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks to maintain their shape and texture. Routine care should also include cleaning their ears to prevent infections, trimming their nails, and brushing their teeth to support overall health. Bathing is recommended as needed, especially if they get dirty during outdoor activities, but frequent baths should be avoided to prevent drying out their skin.

  • Shedding

    Australian Labradoodles are known for being low-shedding, which makes them a popular choice for individuals with allergies or those looking for a cleaner home environment. Their low-shedding coat is a result of their Poodle ancestry, but it’s important to note that no dog is truly hypoallergenic, as allergens are also present in dander and saliva. While shedding is minimal, the type and amount of shedding can vary depending on the coat type, with wavy or curly coats shedding less than straighter coats.

  • Appearance

    Australian Labradoodles are known for their adorable, teddy bear-like appearance and come in three sizes: standard, medium, and miniature, with heights ranging from 14 to 24 inches at the shoulder and weights between 15 to 65 pounds, depending on their size category. Their coats are one of their defining features, typically being soft, wavy, or curly, and low-shedding, which makes them a popular choice for allergy-sensitive households.

    They come in a variety of colors, including cream, apricot, red, chocolate, black, caramel, and parti (a mix of two or more colors), with some even having unique patterns like phantom or tuxedo markings. Their expressive, round eyes are usually brown or hazel, and their noses often match the color of their coat. They have floppy ears, a well-proportioned body, and a gently wagging tail that adds to their friendly and approachable demeanor. Overall, Australian Labradoodles have a charming, balanced appearance that complements their delightful personality.

  • History

    The Australian Labradoodle’s history dates back to the 1980s in Australia, where they were intentionally bred to create a hypoallergenic guide dog. Wally Conron, a breeder for the Royal Guide Dog Association of Australia, began the crossbreeding project by mixing a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle in an effort to combine the Labrador’s temperament with the Poodle’s low-shedding coat. The goal was to develop a service dog suitable for individuals with allergies.

    Over time, other breeds, such as the Cocker Spaniel, Irish Water Spaniel, and Curly-Coated Retriever, were introduced to further refine the Australian Labradoodle’s temperament, coat texture, and size. These dogs were carefully bred for their friendly, intelligent, and versatile nature, making them exceptional therapy and assistance animals. Today, the Australian Labradoodle is celebrated as a loving family companion and service dog, with its popularity extending well beyond Australia.