Origin Australian Labradoodle History: Discover the Roots of Doodle Breeds

Let’s first talk about Australian Labradoodles (ALDs) and how they got their name.R\

Read Time: 775 words - 3 minute read

Reading with an Australian Labradoodle

The ALD is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, with a splash of Cocker Spaniel added to soften the coat and create a healthier structure. Although the word "Labradoodle" can be traced back to the 1950s, the Labradoodle gained popularity in the late 1970s when Australian service dog breeders discovered the perfect combination of breeds to serve as an allergy-friendly service dog.

One of the ALD's parent dogs, the Labrador Retriever, dates back to at least the 1600s when European fishermen on the Labrador Peninsula in Newfoundland trained dogs to dive and retrieve fish, gear (and even their hats) from the icy ocean waters. Impressed by their skill, British hunters trained this breed to retrieve ducks. The Labrador Retriever is renowned for its gentle nature, unwavering loyalty, zest for life, and affectionate disposition towards people.

The multi-generation ALD's pedigree has a long ancestry of health-tested parent dogs. Did you know the ALD is one of the healthiest breeds according to pet insurance companies? One reason for this is the dedication of ALD breed clubs to educating their members on health testing parent dogs and the importance of seeking genetic diversity, which is closely tied to overall vitality and well-being.

The Australian Labradoodle has a strong drive to bond with humans and is proven to be a loyal and loving companion. While they enjoy a walk around the block, a hike in the forest, or a game of fetch, they are just as happy lying at your feet while you work on your computer. Let them ride shotgun to get coffee, and they are glad just to be with you. Whether cuddling on the couch or following you around in the garden, they are in their happy place.

The Aussie Doodle

Although the name is similar, the Aussie Doodle is a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle. Shepherd dogs were imported from Europe to herd sheep in the American West. A cousin breed was exported from Britain to Australia to help with herding on the plains there. Some of these dogs were imported to the Western USA, and thus the name. These hard-working and authoritative dogs were put to work herding other animals, such as cattle. They can keep even a bull in line.

The Aussie Doodle is a high-energy dog and can be a challenge to train, and thus best left to more experienced dog owners. Because of its strong herding instinct, is not recommended for homes with children. Because their energy level is high, Aussie Doodles can be a great fit for active individuals.

Fun fact: The merle gene comes from herding dogs. Investigation of DNA proves it  has only been in other in breeds for 20 years or so. Any breed of dog that is merle must have been crossed with a herding dog at some point in its pedigree. 

The Bernadoodle

The Bernadoodle is a crossbreed between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle. The Romans crossed the Mastiff with a black and tan dog to use as guard dogs for their troops as they crossed the Alps to attack Switzerland. The soldiers also utilized the enormous strength of the breed to move their cattle, which accompanied them to provide food. Named after Bern, Switzerland, the Bernese Mountain Dog was adopted by the Swiss to herd cattle on dairy farms. They also made great guard dogs and were strong enough to pull heavily loaded carts, filled with milk, cheese, or textiles:

The Bernadoodle thus has a strong herding instinct, which can lead to dangerous chasing behaviors if not trained. They like to round up moving objects, which includes traffic or children, unless trained to resist this instinct. While an intelligent and loyal dog, the Bernese Mountain Dog can exhibit destructive behavior if left bored. or not exercised enough.

The Bernadoodle and Aussie Doodle are just two of the newer doodle crosses. Although allergy-friendly, like the Australian Labradoodle, their temperaments differ.

Breeding the ALD for gentle and friendly personality traits

Just as important as physical health, honest breeders of the ALD carefully select breeding stock for traits people have grown to love: Friendly, amiable, confident, happy-go-lucky, and loyal as a shadow. The Labradoodle is eager to please and easy to train, making it an excellent choice for people of all ages, including children.

The Australian Labradoodle's history is rooted in Canada, with the Labrador Retriever, in Germany, and with the Poodle, which was bred as a water retrieving dog. Additionally, the Cocker Spaniel, bred to hunt the woodcock in the UK, also contributed to the development of the Australian Labradoodle. These three breeds were intentionally mixed in Australia to create a perfect pet and service dog.

Labradoodle in a city park.

They enjoy a walk around the block, a hike in the forest, or a game of fetch, but are just as happy laying at your feet while you join a Zoom call on your computer. Let them ride shotgun to get coffee, and they are glad just to be with you. Whether cuddling on the couch or following you around in the garden, they are in their happy place.