A Labradoodle is a crossbred dog created by crossing the Labrador Retriever and the Standard Poodle. The impetus behind experiments with this type of cross was the desire to achieve an assistance dog that would not shed and so produce a hypoallergenic dog that is suitable for people with allergies to fur and dander.
This has not yet been reliably achieved, as Labradoodles have varying coat lengths and textures, and crosses beyond the first generation do not yield a predictable coat type. However, the coat usually remains freer from dog odors than that of some Labradors.
The Labradoodle is still under development. Strictly speaking, the Labradoodle cannot yet be described as a dog breed because it does not breed true. In breeders’ terms, breeding true means that, when two specimens of the same breed are mated, the puppies will have consistently predictable characteristics, and will resemble their parents, rather than exhibiting random characteristics of the dog breeds in their parents’ ancestries. Further, the breed standards of breeds-under-development are invariably freer, more open to interpretation, and cover more observable types than those of established or kennel club-recognized breeds.
The Labrador Retriever Club and the Poodle Club of America have both published statements against the Labradoodle.
Some breeders want to avoid making the Labradoodle into a recognized breed in the belief that genetic problems, such as the Labrador’s weak hips, will otherwise continue. By restricting breeding to F1 dogs (bred from a Poodle and Labrador rather than from two Labradoodles), it is hoped to maintain a wide gene pool.
In appearance, labradoodle hair is usually wavy and sheds less than labradors. Their color range includes white, gold, brown and black. In personality, they are generally friendly and good with families and children, they have an affinity for water and are strong swimmers. A Labradoodle called ‘Top Gear Dog’ is featured on the BBC show Top Gear.