Miniature Labradoodle

A Miniature Labradoodle is a hybrid dog; the offspring of a Miniature Poodle and a Labrador Retriever. Combining these two popular breeds yields a lovable and versatile dog, with the best traits of both.

History of the Miniature Labradoodle

In 1988, Wally Cochran of the Royal Guide Dogs in Australia received a request from a woman needing a guide dog which would not exacerbate her husband's dog allergy. Since Poodles are low allergy dogs, Wally sent saliva and hair samples to the husband for testing. All samples aggravated the husband's allergies. Wally then suggested crossing a Poodle with a Labrador. One of the puppies from the very first litter was tested and this time, did not worsen the husband's allergies. Thus the Labradoodle, or "Doo" was established. It has become popular as a guide and service dog. In 1998 the miniature size was introduced through selective breeding. Poodles come in three varieties; Toy, Miniature and Standard. the Mini is the medium size variety, so using it in the breeding program allowed Doodles to be downsized.

Types

The Miniature Labradoodle can be divided into three different types: the Early Generation, the Multigen and the Australian. The Early Generation is the offspring of a toy or miniature Poodle and a Lab. The Multigen is the offspring of two Labradoodle parents. The Australian type is similar to the Multigen but includes some other breed strain, usually a Cocker Spaniel.

Description

The miniature version is usually between 14 to 17 inches tall at the withers, or the tallest part of the shoulder. It has either a woolly coat similar to a Poodle, or a fleece coat similar to the undercoat of a dog. Dogs with either coat should not shed. The Labradoodle comes in a variety of colors, including: *Black

Silver
Chocolate
Cream
Red
Apricot

The goal of reputable Miniature Labradoodle breeders is to develop a low allergy dog.

Behavior

While the breed is still in development, certain attributes appear in most Labradoodles. They are intelligent, friendly and very trainable. They are usually good with families and children. Since both parental breeds were originally water retrievers, they are fond of water and are strong swimmers.

Health Issues and Care

Like its parents, a Miniature Labradoodle may suffer from hip dysplasia, a genetic malformation of the hip socket. It also may suffer from eye conditions, such a Progressive Retinal Atrophy. Luxating patellas, or dislocating kneecaps, can also be common in a Labradoodle.

Like any drop-eared dog, you should pay close attention to ear hygiene and health. The coat should be brushed weekly or more often as needed and fully groomed once a month. Regular vet examinations and dental treatments are recommended for all dogs.

Adopting a Doo

Remember that the Miniature Labradoodle is not yet a recognized breed; instead it is a hybrid in development. It does not yet "bred true", meaning that the offspring do not display consistent traits. It is important, therefore, to only adopt from a reputable breeder. Look for a breeder who has the parents on-site so you can verify the parentage. Breeders have begun a registry system, such as the Australian Labradoodle Association of America.

The Labradoodle combines many of the best attributes of its parents. While still a work in progress, the Doo has a place in the heart of many of its devotees.