How to Care for a Labradoodle

A Labra whoodle? A Labradoodle! A cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Standard Poodle. Labradoodles came into existence in the 1970s and are known for their lovable disposition, intelligence, trainability and low to non-shedding coat. Labradoodles make wonderful additions to households, are great with children and good guide dogs. Because of their low-allergy coats, many people who are otherwise allergic to dogs can live with these guys. Considered a healthy breed, there are a few things to know to help your Labradoodle stay that way.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Spay or neuter your Labradoodle for a longer, healthier life. Spaying your female before the first heat period will prevent breast cancer and help eliminate the risk of uterine infections. Neutering your male before age 4 will prevent testicular cancer, reduce the risk of prostate problems and curb aggression. Besides, too many Labradoodles end up at shelters and rescues because of irresponsible people who just wanted a "designer" dog and then changed their mind.
2. Vaccinate your Labradoodle regularly to prevent disease.
3. Take your "Doodle" for medical checkups at regular intervals. You can also perform monthly home exams of the skin, eyes, ears, nose, teeth and gums. Stay current on flea and heartworm preventative.
4. Have your Labradoodle's teeth professionally cleaned and scaled, usually every six months to a year is sufficient, unless otherwise recommended by your veterinarian. In addition, you might also consider brushing your Doodle's teeth.
5. Feed your Labradoodle a quality dog food with meat listed as the first ingredient and the proper balance of protein, carbs, fats, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Or if you like, you can feed a healthy homemade diet.
6. Exercise your Labradoodle regularly. Doodles are prone to hip dysplasia. Although you may not be able to prevent it, there are ways to lower your dog’s risk. Strengthening the hip muscles is important. Take your dog on two 20-minute walks per day and never push him if he appears to be in pain. Swimming is another good exercise that strengthens muscles without straining the joints.
7. Regular brushing and an occasional trimming around the eyes and chin should work for your Labradoodle's grooming. Trim the nails to a comfortable length.
8. Bathe your Labradoodle only when necessary (bathing too frequently strips the protective oils from their coat). Prevent ear infections in your Labradoodle (which they have a tendency toward due to their floppy ears) by keeping hair out of their ears and regularly cleaning with a cotton ball or Q-tip. Baby oil or a special ear solution for dogs is good; just be sure to clean gently and never insert a Q-tip in the ear canal.

Tips & Warnings

• There are sweet Labradoodles at shelters and rescues that are awaiting homes. A great source to check is the Poo-Mix Rescue website for photos of Doodles that are up for adoption, including some that are just a few months old (see Resources below). IDOG Rescue Rehome Resource (sponsored by the International Doodle Owners Group) places these dogs in homes throughout the United States and Canada.
• If you plan on buying a Labradoodle, a good information source is the IDOG website (see Resources below). They are a nonprofit organization whose mission is to place homeless Doodles and educate owners and prospective owners to ensure that they buy from reputable breeders and not pet stores.
• If you suspect hip dysplasia (which resembles the symptoms of arthritis) and can lead to arthritis, take your dog to a veterinarian for an X-ray. If hip dysplasia is the diagnosis, your vet will recommend treatment. There are over-the- counter remedies for pain, but always consult with a vet first.
• If your Labradoodle is diagnosed with hip dysplasia, consider purchasing an orthopedic bed to distribute their weight evenly and take excess pressure off joints. Also put down mats and rugs because slippery floors cause further wearing of the joints.
• If canines were allowed in the Olympics, Labradoodles would surely qualify for the high jump. Make sure you have a high enough fence!
• NEVER BUY A LABRADOODLE FROM A PET STORE! Pet stores normally get their dogs from puppy mills. If buying from a breeder, it's always best to visit in person to make sure the parents are properly cared for.