Mini Australian Labradoodle Info: Pictures, Temperament & Traits
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| Height: | 14–16 inches |
| Weight: | 15–25 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 12–15 years |
| Colors: | White, cream, chocolate, black |
| Suitable for: | Families with children, active and affectionate owners |
| Temperament: | Outgoing, friendly, good with children, highly intelligent, gets along with other pets |
Many of the reasons people look for a new pet companion is to add them to their household as a member of the family, and being such a big commitment, people will want to know everything they can about different breeds to ensure they make the best choice for them and their family.
This article will include everything you need to know about the Mini Australian Labradoodle to see if they will be a good fit for you.
The Mini Australian Labradoodle is a mix of many different breeds, as you can probably tell from both its name and look. The Labradoodle characteristics can easily be identified by its short, curly fur. They have deep brown or yellow eyes that are very puppy-like and inviting. Its unique look is a result of a mix between the Labrador Retrievers, Miniature Poodles, and Cocker Spaniels.
Mini Australian Labradoodle Characteristics
Mini Australian Labradoodle Puppies
The Mini Australian Labradoodle is very similar to other puppies in the sense that they will be high-energy, friendly, and sociable. These dogs are known to be highly intelligent and, therefore, easy to train. As puppies, it is generally advised to start training and obedience classes around 8 weeks old so that they will learn to be well-trained dogs as they get older. Training will be relatively straightforward and will avoid any destructive behaviors down the line.
Because they are a rare mix, especially the minis, it will be a bit more of a search to find this breed. Be prepared to spend quite some time searching for this unique mix.
3 Little-Known Facts About the Mini Australian Labradoodle
1. They come in three sizes.
This breed actually has two additional sizes that they may be depending on how they are bred. Because of their unique mix, they can be very small in size (considered “mini” as referenced in this article). However, they can also be bred in two bigger sizes based on their unique mix. For example, both Poodles and Labradoodles can be bred in smaller versions. They are also bred as moderately sized (or average) and can be “standard” sized dogs. This is very similar to Poodles being mini or standard in size and weight.
2. They are a mix of more than three breeds.
The unique coat, color, and personality of the Mini Australian Labradoodle come from its diverse mix of dog breeds. As mentioned previously, you can even tell from their name that they are a mix of the Poodle, Labrador, plus both the English and American Cocker Spaniel. All four breeds are part of the most active dog breeds.
3. Originally bred for the visually impaired.
Perhaps the most interesting fact about the Mini Australian Labradoodle is their origin story. According to resources, the first crossbreed of this dog was originally intended to be a guide dog for a visually impaired family member in the 1980s. It was a mix of dog breeds that were low shedding, so their coat care would be less intensive than other dogs.
Temperament & Intelligence of the Mini Australian Labradoodle
Are These Dogs Good for Families? 👪
The Mini Australian Labradoodle is a great option for families, and this includes those with children. They are friendly, sociable, and have a moderate level of activity. This means they will love playing and being active with their owners and children but won’t be too overly stimulated, which can result in a rambunctious dog knocking over small children or an expensive vase!
Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets?
This breed is very friendly so they will generally get along with other pets. Due to their sociable nature and intelligent minds, they won’t shy away from the possibility of new furry friends. They are known to enjoy mentally stimulating games and activities, so they would be curious to encounter another dog or even another pet. With proper training, this breed isn’t known to be aggressive or territorial either.
Things to Know When Owning a Mini Australian Labradoodle:
Food & Diet Requirements 🦴
The Mini Australian Labradoodle requires different types of diets depending on the size. For example, the miniature-sized version of this breed will not need the same amount of food in a day as its regular-sized counterpart. Sources say that the general rule for feeding your dog is to measure 25–30 calories for every pound of your dog’s weight, which can vary depending on their activity level or whether they are on a specialized diet by a veterinarian. Be sure to look at ingredients for the existence of by-products or fillers that could be a hit to their health.
Exercise 🐕
These dogs have both Poodle and Labrador in their genetics, which are both known for higher activity levels. Generally, three walks per day is the standard for exercise to keep them on a regular routine and have ample time for a bathroom break. Around thirty minutes or more per walk is required for this dog breed. In addition, allowing them some free play time occasionally will give them the freedom to run around in a larger space.
Training 🎾
As mentioned, the Mini Australian Labradoodle is highly intelligent and responds well to commands and training exercises. Training from a young age will result in a very obedient adult dog that won’t take long to understand your prompts while training them. Teaching them to listen to you is easy with this breed, as they are loyal and will do anything to please their owners. Rewarding them when they follow commands with treats or affection will also work well with this breed.
Grooming ✂️
Because of the mix between Poodle, Cocker Spaniel, and Labrador, your mini pup may require different methods of grooming depending on the type of coat they end up having. More Poodle-like coats will be short and dense, which might not shed as often but will require regular grooming to avoid matting or dust and dirt becoming entangled deep in their fur. This breed will need professional visits to ensure complete grooming needs are required.
Health and Conditions 🏥
Serious Conditions:
This breed is known to be prone to quite a few genetic diseases that can affect their joint and bone growth (for example, hip dysplasia).
Minor Conditions:
A few minor conditions that could affect the Mini Australian Labradoodle are common ailments such as issues with their eyes, or retinas to be exact, which can result in vision impairments or blindness as they get to older years. Additionally, it is always important to consider regular mouth health checks and vet visits for overall check-ups.
Male vs Female
The Mini Australian Labradoodle does not have much distinction between health issues that can affect one sex over the other. The above-mentioned health issues can equally affect both male and female dogs over time and will depend highly on their daily health practices.
Final Thoughts
The Mini Australian Labradoodle has a very interesting look that may not be easily identified at first glance. Their easy-to-spot Labradoodle may be where most people stop when trying to pinpoint their breed, but little know that this dog is actually part Cocker Spaniel. Its diverse coat colors, the similarity to Poodle coats being low-shedding, and its active and friendly nature make this dog breed a good option for a variety of future owners. Whether you live by yourself in a condo or in a large home with children, this dog has the personality to fit both.
As long as the Mini Australian Labradoodle gets ample exercise, a lot of love, a healthy diet, and gets to use their intelligence to be a good boy, they will end up being one of the best dog companions you can choose from!
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Featured Image Credit: Darcy Jardine, Shutterstock
