Origins of the Australian Labradoodle and other Doodle Breeds

Let’s first talk about Australian Labradoodles (ALDs) and how they got their name.R\

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Reading with an Australian Labradoodle

The ALD is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, with a splash of Cocker Spaniel is added to soften the coat and create a healthier structure. Although the word Labradoodle can be traced back to the 1950s, the Labradoodle became popular in the late 1970s when Australian service dog breeders found the perfect combination of breeds to serve as an allergy-friendly service dog.

The Labrador Retriever dates back to at least the 1600s when European fishermen on the Labrador Peninsula in Newfoundland trained dogs to dive and retrieve fish, gear (and even their hats) from the icy ocean waters. Impressed by their skill, British hunters trained these the breed to retrieve ducks. The Labrador Retriever is known for its gentle nature, loyalty, zest for life, and love of people.

The multi-generation ALD is pedigree, with a long ancestry of health-tested parent dogs. Did you know the ALD is one of the healthiest breeds according to pet insurance companies? One reason for this is the dedication of ALD breed clubs to educating their members on health testing parent dogs and the importance of seeking genetic diversity, which goes hand in hand with overall vitality and well-being.

The Australian Labradoodle has a strong drive to bond with humans and is proven to be a loyal and loving companion. While they enjoy a walk around the block, a hike in the forest, or game of fetch, they are just as happy laying at your feet while you work on your computer. Let them ride shotgun to get coffee, and they are glad just to be with you. Whether cuddling on the couch or following you around in the garden, they are in their happy place.

The Aussie Doodle

Although the name is similar, the Aussie Doodle is an Australian Shepherd dog crossed with a Poodle Shepherd dogs were imported from Europe to herd sheep in the American West. A cousin breed was exported from Britain to Australia to help with herding on the plains there. Some of these dogs were imported to the Western USA, and thus the name. These hard-working and authoritative dogs were put to work herding other animals, such as cattle. They are able to keep even a bull in line.

The Aussie Doodle is a high-energy dog and can be a challenge to train, and thus best left to more experienced dog owners. Because of its strong herding instinct, is not recommended for homes with children. Because their energy level is high, Aussie Doodles can be fun for active people.

Fun fact: The merle gene comes from herding dogs. Investigation of DNA proves it  has only been in other in breeds for 20 years or so. Any breed of dog that is merle had to have been crossed with a herding dog somewhere in the pedigree. 

The Bernadoodle

The Bernadoodle is a Bernese Mountain Dog crossed with a Poodle. The Romans crossed the Mastiff with a black and tan dog to use as guard dogs for their troops as they crossed the Alps to attack Switzerland. The soldiers also used the enormous strength of the breed to move their cattle, which traveled with them to provide food. Named for Bern, Switzerland the Swiss adopted the Berner to herd cattle on dairy farms. They also made great guard dogs and were strong enough to pull heavily loaded carts, filled with milk, cheese, or textiles:

The Bernadoodle thus has a strong herding instinct, which can lead to dangerous chasing behaviors if not trained. They like to round up moving objects, which includes traffic or children unless trained to resist this instinct. While an intelligent and loyal dog, the Berner can exhibit destructive behavior if bored. or not exercised enough.

The Bernadoodle and Aussie Doodle are just two of the newer doodle crosses. Though allergy-friendly like the Australian Labradoodle, their temperaments are not the same.

Breeding the ALD for gentle and friendly personality traits

Just as important as physical health, honest breeders of the ALD carefully select breeding stock for traits people have grown to love: Friendly, amiable, confident, happy-go-lucky, and loyal as a shadow. The Labradoodle is eager to please and easy to train, a great choice for people of all kinds, including children.

Labradoodle in a city park.

They enjoy a walk around the block, a hike in the forest, or a game of fetch, but are just as happy laying at your feet while you join a Zoom call on your computer. Let them ride shotgun to get coffee, and they are glad just to be with you. Whether cuddling on the couch or following you around in the garden, they are in their happy place.