The breed known as the ‘Labradoodle’ is unique in many ways. However, with an explosion in popularity of all breeds ending in ‘-oodle’ these days, it pays to know the difference between a curly-haired fourth generation and a miniature parti… and everything in between.
The only thing you need to know about labradoodles first is that there are a number of different sizes. While the Miniature Labradoodle can grow up to 16 inches, the Medium Labradoodle can reach a height of 20 inches and the Standard Labradoodle can grow between 21 and 24 inches tall.
Labradoodles also generally come in two coat types: the woolly coat and the curly coat. Fleece-coated Labradoodles have a loose curl or wave and do not shed. The Curly-Coated Labradoodle (sometimes also known as the wool coat) displays a tighter curl that sits closer to the body and also doesn’t shed.
There are also a large number of color variations available in the modern Labradoodle. These include layers of black, chalk, cream, gold, red, and chocolate, which is important to note, they should be a uniform color throughout. Caramel, brown, apricot and ghost are also available, all of which can have different pigments in the coating. A partial coat can be any color with patches of a variation of white.
An Australian breeder has also created a new variation of the labradoodle through careful breeding, known as the Paddy Melon Labradoodle – this handsome little dog is purposely bred to be the smallest labradoodle specimen, at just 10-11 inches tall. The Paddy Melon labradoodle is currently only bred in the red and parti color variations.
Of course, despite its small size and new kid on the block status, the Paddy Melon Labradoodle still exhibits the best qualities of a Labradoodle. It is marketed as a perfect combination of the affectionate and loyal nature of the Labrador Retriever combined with the hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle. Like older Labradoodle types, they are naturally intelligent and have a predisposition to be easily trained. They are also very active dogs with docile temperaments, making them the perfect family pet, and the Paddy Melon Labradoodle is even more suited to owners with small homes.
Not to be confused with a ‘toy dog’, these one-of-a-kind Labradoodles are more than just a smaller version of the labradoodle breed, and it’s important that you don’t be fooled into thinking any small dog will do the trick.
No matter the size or color, our Labradoodle puppies’ temperament is always consistent and friendly, and they grow into loyal, family-oriented dogs that display longevity and hybrid vigour.
As with any family pet, it’s imperative to always purchase your dog from a respected breeder to ensure you get a true Labradoodle with the correct coloration, health standards, and temperament. You should also always ensure that your puppy or dog comes with all legal documentation, preferably including a breeding history showing exact lineage.