Origins of the Labradoodle
The term “Labradoodle” was first used by Donald Campbell in 1955 to describe his dog, a Labrador Retriever–Poodle cross.
The use of a Labradoodle as a guide or assistance dog did not become widely known until 1989, when Australian breeder Wally Conron introduced the cross to the Royal Guide Dog Association of Australia in Victoria. His aim was to combine the Poodle’s coat with the gentle nature and trainability of the Labrador Retriever, in the hope of producing a guide dog suitable for people with allergies.
Today, as with other mixed-breed dogs, Labradoodles are not recognized as a pure breed by major kennel organizations such as the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) or, in France, the Société Centrale Canine (SCC).
Technically, the Labradoodle originated as a cross between two established breeds rather than as a newly recognized pure breed. However, since 2010, the AKC has allowed owners of mixed-breed dogs to register them through an alternative registration program and obtain an AKC identification number.
Over time, dedicated Australian Labradoodle organizations have been established, including the Australian Labradoodle Association (ALA), founded in 1998, the Australian Labradoodle Association of America (ALAA), founded in 2004, and the Worldwide Australian Labradoodle Association (WALA).
These organizations maintain registries and pedigrees, establish breeding standards and codes of ethics, and promote responsible breeding practices with a strong focus on health, genetic diversity and the preservation of established Australian Labradoodle bloodlines.
In France, there is currently no equivalent national breed organization comparable to these international Australian Labradoodle associations. This makes it particularly important for future owners to carefully consider a breeder’s health testing, pedigrees, breeding practices and affiliation with recognized Australian Labradoodle organizations when choosing a puppy.
Breed caracteristics
The Australian Labradoodle
An Elegant and Natural Appearance
The Australian Labradoodle is a well-balanced, athletic and beautifully proportioned dog. Their appearance is both elegant and relaxed, with fluid, balanced movement.
Their expressive face is part of their unmistakable charm: soft, attentive eyes, floppy ears and a bright, engaging expression give them the wonderfully gentle look that is so characteristic of the breed.
A Temperament That Makes All the Difference
This is probably what made us fall in love with the Australian Labradoodle more than anything else.
Sociable, joyful, intelligent and deeply people-oriented, they naturally form strong bonds with their families. Attentive and intuitive, they learn quickly and love being involved in everyday family life.
Their temperament and willingness to learn make them wonderful family companions, while also making them well suited to assistance, emotional support and therapy work.
Three Sizes
The Australian Labradoodle comes in three sizes, with no intended difference in overall appearance or temperament. Height is measured at the withers.
Miniature
30 cm to under 43 cm
Medium
43 cm to under 53 cm
Standard
53 cm to 71 cm
Weight varies depending on the size and individual build of each dog.
A Beautifully Soft Coat
The Australian Labradoodle's coat is one of its most appealing characteristics. It can range from relatively straight to beautifully wavy or softly curled and requires regular grooming and maintenance.
Fleece
Soft and silky, with a texture reminiscent of Angora fiber. It can be straight, wavy — wavy fleece — or form beautiful, loose curls. It is generally considered a low-shedding coat.
Wool
Denser, with a texture similar to lamb's wool. It forms spiral curls that can range from loose to tighter and is considered very low shedding.
What About Allergies?
The Australian Labradoodle is particularly appreciated for its low-shedding coat, which may be better tolerated by some people with dog-related allergies.
However, sensitivity varies from person to person, and no dog can be considered 100% hypoallergenic.
For anyone with a known dog allergy, we always recommend spending time with Australian Labradoodles before considering welcoming a puppy into your family.
