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What is a Doodle?
A 'doodle' is a nickname given to a number of types of dogs that have 'poodle' in their genetic mix. These include Australian
Multi-generational Labradoodles, first generation Labradoodles, and first generation Goldendoodles.
Australian Multi-generational Labradoodle:
The Australian Multi-generational Labradoodle is a pure breed (although not yet recognized) created in Australia (hence
the use of 'Australian' in the name). Australian Multi-generational Labradoodle are breed to other Australian Multi-generational
Labradoodle (hence the 'multi-generational' part of the name). And at the base of this lovely breed is a Labrador
Retreiver and a Standard Poodle (Labrad-Oodle). However, in order to ensure
a consistent non-shedding coat and to influence size, the genetics of other breeds have been added along the line through
careful and selective breeding. These include the Cocker Spaniel, Irish Water Spaniel,
Curly Coated Retreiver. The breed has defined standards related to
coat type and colour, as well as size, body structure, etc.... that are maintained by the Australian Labradoodle Association. Australian
Multi-generational Labradoodles have three size standards; small, medium, and standard. For further information on the
breed standards see: (www.ilainc.com/australianldbreedstandard.html). They also have soft, wavy, long, non-shedding coats that need to be groomed several times a year. There have been a number of interesting articles about these 'designer dogs'. Click here for an article in National Geographic and here for an article in Reader's Digest. National Geographic Channel created a video, which you can see by clicking here. Animal Planet also created a video, which you can see by clicking here. First Generation Labradoodle: First generation Labradoodles
are a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Standard Poodle. They are a lovely
dog, although quite different from an Australian Multi-generational Labradoodle. The coat and size of a first generation
Labradoodle can vary, but generally, they tend to be a little taller and a little thiner than a Labrador Retriever, thanks
to their Standard Poodle genes. Their coat is often wiry, not very soft, and fairly straight and short (almost
terrier like), although they may need to be groomed once or twice a year. Some Labradoodles shed, while others do not.
First Generation Goldendoodle: First generation
Goldendoodles (F1) are a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Standard Poodle. Backcrossed
Goldendoodles (F1B) are a F1 Goldendoodle and a Standard Poodle (25% golden retriever/75%
poodle). Also a very lovely dog. They too tend to be taller and thinner than a Golden Retriever and, in fact, taller and thinner
than a first generation Labradoodle. Thanks to the soft long coat of the Golden Retriever, Goldendoodles tend to have
long, soft hair, that grows fairly rapidly. Thanks to the Poodle, they have lovely waves in their hair. Goldendoodles
generally need to be groomed several times a year. Most Goldendoodles do not shed, however, on occassion one may
meet a Goldendoodle that does (personally, I have not).
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