Australian Labradoodles as Pets
Do Australian Labradoodles Make Great Pets?
Yes, for most families. Australian Labradoodles are usually friendly, gentle, easy to train, and low-shedding. The trade-offs are regular grooming, a higher price up front, and a dog who wants to be with you most of the day.
What makes them good pets?
- They like people. Most Australian Labradoodles want to be with their family and get along with visitors.
- They are easy to train. They are smart and eager, which helps with house training and manners.
- They are low-shedding. Their coats hold loose hair until you brush it out, so your house stays cleaner.
- They come in useful sizes. Our minis run 15 to 25 pounds and our mediums run 26 to 50 pounds.
- They are predictable. Because they are multigenerational, puppies tend to grow up like their parents.
Are they good with kids?
In general, yes. They tend to be gentle and patient. Our three kids help socialize every litter, so our puppies are used to kid noise before they go home. However, no dog should be left alone with small children. Teach kids to be gentle and to leave a resting dog alone. Our article on the best dogs for families with young kids goes into more detail.
How much exercise and attention do they need?
A good daily walk, some play, and a few minutes of training most days. They are not high-strung, but they are people dogs. So what happens if they are left alone all day with nothing to do? They get bored, and bored dogs find their own fun. If you work long days, plan for a midday walk or daycare.
What about health?
Health starts with the parents. Every one of ours is tested and cleared for OFA hips, elbows, and eyes, plus a full Orivet genetic panel. That lowers the odds of passing on inherited problems, though it is not a promise that nothing will go wrong. Read more in how long Australian Labradoodles live.
What is the honest downside?
Grooming. A low-shedding coat has to be brushed at home and professionally groomed every 6 to 8 weeks for the life of the dog. They also cost more up front than most dogs. With that said, families who are ready for those two things usually find them very easy dogs to live with. We wrote about all of it in the honest cons of owning an Australian Labradoodle.
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 Labradoodles as pets
Do Australian Labradoodles make good family pets?
Yes, for most families who can keep up with grooming and daily exercise. They are usually friendly, gentle, and easy to train.
Are Australian Labradoodles good with kids?
Generally, yes. They tend to be patient and gentle. Always supervise young kids with any dog.
How much exercise do they need?
A good daily walk plus some play and a little training most days. Minis need a bit less than mediums.
Can they live in an apartment?
Yes, if they get daily exercise and are not alone for long hours.
Who should not get an Australian Labradoodle?
Anyone who cannot keep up with grooming, who is gone long hours every day with no plan for the dog, or who wants a guard dog.
Think one might fit your family?
Meet our parent dogs and apply when you are ready.
Related reading: which coat color is hardest to find?