Do you suffer from allergies to pet dander? You might think that means you can’t have a dog without submitting to allergy medication or shots. Actually, there is a breed of dogs that was bred specifically to work well in the home’s of allergy sufferers – Australian Labradoodles.
The Australian Labradoodle is a cross-breed between Labrador Retrievers and Poodles. The intention was to breed a dog that was intelligent and trainable as a service dog, with a dog that was non-shedding and would work in the home of an allergy sufferer. This breeding program carefully examined all dogs, using genetic testing and tracking to find dogs that had the ideal physical and temperament qualities. Over time, additional breeds were added to the mix to further strengthen the breed and ensure the physical qualities and good health of these dogs.
Unfortunately, you can’t simply breed a Labrador with a Poodle and get a Labradoodle – at least one with a non-shedding coat. If you look at the history of the Australian Labradoodle puppies, you will see that each successive generation became stronger and more likely to exhibit that ideal coat.
Labradoodles dogs have several different types of coats – a smooth, short or long hair coat that’s very similar to the Labradors, or a wool or fleece coat that is similar to the Poodles. It’s the wool or fleece coat that is most likely to be hypo-allergenic.
The wool coat – This coat is non-shedding. The wool coat is short, tight spring curls that grow outwards all over the body. This is the best coat for people that suffer from allergies or asthma. Labradoodles with a wool coat will still require brushing and clipping – but on a limited basis – perhaps two or three times a year.
The Fleece coat – The fleece coat is longer and kinky in appearance. The coat flows evenly over the dog, with long tight hair strands. The fleece coat is almost as good for allergy sufferers as the wool coat, with little shedding. Of course, this coat requires the same brushing and clipping as the wool coat.
The secret to finding Labradoodle dogs that exhibit the ideal non-shedding or hypo-allergenic coat is to look for a multi-generational dog, especially Australian Labradoodle puppies. The multi-generational approach to breeding allows for careful additions of dogs into the gene pool with a specific aim at producing the tight, non-shedding coat.
Australian Labradoodles puppies will make you forget you ever suffered from allergies. These adorable dogs will become important and constant companions. They are a great addition to any home.