Australian Labradoodle Temperament
Are Australian Labradoodles affectionate and cuddly dogs?
Yes. Most Australian Labradoodles are very people-focused, cuddly dogs who want to be wherever their family is. The flip side is that they need to be taught early that being alone for a while is okay.
What does "velcro dog" mean?
It means a dog who wants to be wherever you are. Australian Labradoodles tend to follow their people from room to room, lie at your feet while you work, and lean against your legs when you stand still. Some people would find that a lot. Most of our families love it.
Why are they so affectionate?
The breed was built from people-focused breeds, mainly Labrador, Poodle, and Cocker Spaniel. The early Australian programs were also aiming for gentle dogs suited to assistance and therapy work. Add many generations of choosing friendly, steady parents, and you get a dog who likes being close to people.
There is even some science behind those long looks. A 2015 study found that when dogs and their owners gaze at each other, oxytocin rises in both of them. In other words, that stare really is a bonding moment.
Is a velcro dog a problem?
It can be if he never learns that being alone is okay. So what do you do? You teach it early, in small steps.
- Start with short absencesLeave the room for a minute, then come back calmly. Slowly stretch the time.
- Keep goodbyes boringA big emotional exit teaches him that leaving is a big deal.
- Use the crate as a safe spotOur puppies nap in a crate from about 4 weeks old, so it already feels familiar.
- Give him something to doA stuffed chew toy or puzzle gives him a job while you are gone.
Are they gentle with kids?
In our experience, yes. Our three kids help socialize every litter, and the puppies learn early what kids sound like and how they move. However, no dog should be left alone with small children. Teach kids to let a resting dog rest and to pet gently.
Do they get along with other pets?
Most do well with other dogs and can live with cats when introduced slowly. Early socialization helps a lot.
Does color affect how cuddly they are?
No. A red puppy and a tricolor puppy from the same litter are just as likely to be cuddly. Pick the puppy whose personality fits your home.
When is the next litter?
Puppies go home at 8 weeks old. Click here to see when our next litters are due.
Common questions about Australian Labradoodle temperament
Are Australian Labradoodles cuddly?
Most are. They tend to follow their people from room to room and settle right next to you when you sit down.
Do Australian Labradoodles get separation anxiety?
Any people-focused dog can. Practicing short absences from the start, and giving him a crate he likes, makes a big difference.
Are they good with kids?
Generally, yes. They are usually gentle and patient. Always supervise young kids and teach them how to treat a dog.
Do they bond with one person or the whole family?
Usually the whole family, although many dogs have a favorite.
Does coat color affect personality?
No. Color and temperament are not linked. Pick the puppy whose personality fits your home.
Ready for a cuddle buddy?
Meet our parent dogs and apply when you are ready.
Related reading: the honest cons of owning an Australian Labradoodle and the most mellow doodle breed.
Sources
- Nagasawa M, et al. (2015). Oxytocin-gaze positive loop and the coevolution of human-dog bonds. Science 348(6232).
- Texas A&M University School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. The Puppy Timeline: A Socialization Guide.