What do you get if you cross a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle? A Labradoodle.
A Labrador Retriever Poodle mix is an adorable, medium-sized, mixed-breed dog. It’s a crossbreed from two of the best-loved purebred dog breeds in the world; the purebred Labrador Retriever and the purebred Poodle.
A Labrador Retriever Poodle mix blends the best of both of the parent breeds; enthusiasm, intelligence, and a love of all things fun. It’s lovable, good-tempered, and your best friend, a family pet or companion for any type or experience of a dog owner. The Labradoodle puppy is happy and energetic.
The Labradoodle is a hybrid dog; it’s not a purebred dog breed, as a hybrid dog is not a ‘dog breed’. Therefore, as a mixed-breed dog, the Labradoodle is not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
This relatively new type of designer dog is recognized by the Designer Dog Kennel Club, in the United States.
Designer dogs, or ‘Boutique dogs’, come in a variety of colors and coat types, depending on the inherited parent breeds’ genes and from which one they obtain the biggest majority.
How Long Do Labradoodles Live For?
Lifespan 12-14 years for Male and 10-14 years for Female Dogs.
The Poodle Mixes lifespan is another of the many bonuses of buying a Doodle as your newest family member. It’s been proved that mixing a pure-bred dog with a Poodle results in Hybrid Vigor.
Hybrid Vigor is the increased vitality and longevity that is often seen in hybrids ( crosses between two different breeds of plants or animals). It is thought to be caused by the heterosis effect, which is when the offspring of two different breeds are more fertile and healthier than either parent.
Hybrid Vigor aids in the extended longevity of your Doodle, particularly in larger Doodle breeds, as the Poodle’s genetics help to minimize problems such as bone density that lead to hip issues later on.
Other factors, such as the amount of exercise your dog gets, the quality of food you feed it, and the quality of care it receives from a Veterinarian all play a role.
On the whole, Doodles have a longer life expectancy and fewer health concerns than most Pure Breeds.
HOW TO HELP YOUR DOODLE LIVE A LONG & HEALTHY LIFE
One of the most important things you can do for your Doodle is to provide it with a good diet and plenty of exercise. Feed your dog high-quality food, and make sure it gets plenty of exercise – at least 30 minutes per day.
Regular vet checkups are also important, as they can help catch any health problems early on.
KNOWN HEALTH ISSUES IN LABRADOODLES
What hereditary problems and health issues can a Labrador Retriever Poodle mix suffer from?
Hip Dysplasia – a degenerative growth abnormality common in both parent breeds. Hip dysplasia is a malformation of the joint, where the ball at the top of the limb does not fit properly into the socket and the ligaments attaching it are weak. This allows excess movement of the fitting causing eventual stiffness and pain.
Elbow Dysplasia, also degenerative, abnormal growth and development, causing malformation and weakening in the joint; can lead to arthritis or breakage.
There is no cure; pain management and anti-inflammatories may be prescribed by the Vet.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) – this is a genetic condition where the retina in the eye degenerates and it can lead to vision loss if not diagnosed and treated early.
Epilepsy – a neurological condition, often inherited, causing mild to serious seizures. Can affect balance and gait and the dog’s general behavior leading up to a seizure; Needs treatment.
Other health issues include allergies – food, inhalant or contact allergies, affecting the skin, and hypothyroidism – a thyroid gland condition that can cause energy, skin and hair problems, and Diabetes.