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- How do I choose a breeder?
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If your doodle breeder has records for at least three generations it is a pretty safe bet that you have found a good one. A good breeder will be willing to impart their knowledge of the breed and dogs in general to you even if you do not buy from them. A reputable breeder adheres to breeding regulations which can be found on this website and they should be willing to form a relationship with prospective new owners. A responsible breeder will ensure the puppies go to a good home so expect to be scrutinised before buying and taking on this huge responsibility.
- How important are health checks?
VITAL. Do not buy a puppy from a breeder who cannot produce hip score certificates and current eye certificates. Check out the potential health problems in this website.
- I have an allergy - would a doodle suit me?
There is no guarantee that any dog would suit a person with an allergy. A labradoodle can be born with different coat types - the hair coat, fleece coat and wool coat - depending on the generation and/or backcrossing (see ‘What do the codes mean?). Allergies can be to coat, hair, scurf or dander, dust, saliva or other factors. However, some breeders believe that the nearer the doodle coat is to the poodle's, the more allergy friendly it is likely to be.
- What is their temperament?
They are intelligent, affectionate and docile. Trainable, active and playful. Good with children of school age - no baby or toddler should ever be left alone with a dog of any breed.
- Do they moult?
It is impossible to know what you will end up with as a coat variation is possible within one litter. A hair coat sheds in varying degrees, but a wool coat should not shed or produce body odour.
- How big do they grow?
Our Labradoodle puppies are first generation by a pure-bred standard poodle so are expected to be slightly taller than our pure-bred Labrador bitch - possibly growing to a height of 23"-26" to the shoulder. They will be of a lighter build to a show Labrador as our Dam is of working strain and therefore of a more slight build.
- Are they active dogs?
Yes, once their hips have formed properly. Their roots are from two originally working strain water dogs so should be excellent swimmers. They make superb gundogs and retrievers and would happily take part in agility and working trials. A very versatile breed.
- What do the codes mean?
The number denotes the generation of cross. F1 is a first cross Labrador with a Poodle and are the foundations of the breed. F2 would be a second generation cross and an F2B would be a second generation doodle back crossed with a pure-bred poodle. This may be done to improve the coat type if a curlier coat is required.
- Is it a recognised breed?
By the general public YES - by the Kennel Club NO. However, the Doodle may be registered with the Kennel Club on the Activity Register.
- Shall I buy a dog or a bitch?
The temperament of the Labradoodle is not gender related. Both make excellent pets. The disadvantage with a bitch is that she comes in season twice a year. The disadvantage with a dog is that if allowed, he will mark his territory. We recommend that if you do not intend to breed, that you have your doodle spayed or neutered as your vet advises.
- How long will a doodle live?
Between 13-15 years on average.
- What colour are Doodles?
Chalk, Cream, Gold, Caramel, Red, Black, Silver, Blue, Chocolate, Cafe, Lavender, Parchment, Parti (at least 50% white), Phantom, Abstract, Sable, Brindle and Multi-Patterned.
