Aussiedoodle Lab Mix: A Comprehensive Guide

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Posted Nov 2, 2024

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The Aussiedoodle Lab Mix is a unique and lovable breed that's gaining popularity worldwide. They're a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Labrador Retriever, making them a perfect blend of intelligence, energy, and affection.

These dogs are highly intelligent and trainable, thanks to their Australian Shepherd heritage, which makes them a great choice for first-time dog owners or experienced trainers alike.

Their medium to large size, ranging from 18 to 24 inches tall and weighing between 30 to 60 pounds, makes them a great companion for active families or individuals who love the outdoors.

Their short to medium-length coats require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling, but they shed relatively little compared to other breeds.

Physical Characteristics

The Aussiedoodle Lab mix is a unique breed, and its physical characteristics can vary greatly. They can weigh anywhere from 40 to 80 pounds.

Their height can range from 18 to 25 inches, with females typically being smaller than males. Their coat type and color can be unpredictable, but they often inherit the merle or piebald genes from their Australian Shepherd parent, resulting in striking eye colors like bright blue, soft green, or deep brown.

Their ears are always wooly and floppy, and their noses are big and round.

Appearance

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Aussiedoodles can have a wide range of coat colors and textures, including soft-but-scruffy tricolor coats and tight, fluffy curls.

Their expressive round eyes can be bright blue, soft green, light amber, or deep brown, and some dogs even have heterochromia, a condition that produces two eyes of different colors.

Aussiedoodles can have round heads, short muzzles with occasional mustaches, and big noses, and their ears are always wooly and floppy.

Toy Aussiedoodles can weigh under 20 pounds and stand about 14 inches tall, making them perfect for racing around the coffee table.

Miniature Aussiedoodles can weigh around 30-40 pounds and stand about 20 inches high, making them great running partners.

Standard poodle Aussiedoodles can weigh up to 75 pounds and stand about 25 inches tall, making them quite athletic.

Aussiedor coats can be a mix of their Australian Shepherd and Labrador Retriever parents' coats and colors, with common colors including brown, cream, black, tan, and brindle.

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They usually have short to medium length coats and shed quite a bit, so they're not recommended for people with allergies.

Aussiedors require regular brushing, ideally 3-4 times a week, to prevent matting and keep their coat healthy.

They also need occasional baths with a mild shampoo to keep their coat clean and healthy.

Aussiedors have a water-resistant top coat and a warm undercoat, making them resilient in rain and snow.

Their coat type can vary, with some having short fur like a Labrador Retriever and others having medium-length fur like an Australian Shepherd.

Regardless of coat type, Aussiedors will shed, so regular brushing is essential to prevent matting and keep their coat healthy.

Size

The Australian Shepherd Lab Mix is a medium size dog, weighing in at 40 to 80 pounds.

They can range in height from 22 to 25 inches at the shoulder, although some may be smaller or larger than average.

Females are usually smaller than males, but there's no way to predict what size a hybrid dog will be since you can't know which parent breed they'll take after.

In terms of height, you can expect your Aussiedor to grow anywhere from 18 to 22 inches in height.

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Temperament and Personality

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Aussiedoodle Lab Mixes are known for their love of water and retrieval, making them natural athletes who thrive on outdoor adventures and high-energy activities.

They're loyal and loving dogs, adoring people of all ages, which is why they make terrific family pets. Their eager-to-please nature makes them easy to train, but early training is essential to bring out their optimal qualities.

Aussiedoodles are highly intelligent, so professional training is a must to keep them engaged and out of trouble. They'll find a job to do if you don't provide one, like sorting trash or unrolling toilet paper rolls!

They're happiest with a lot of social interaction, physical exercise, and mental enrichment, making activities like Frisbee and canine sports a great outlet for their energy. If left alone too long, they might develop separation anxiety.

Aussiedoodles were originally bred to herd livestock, so they may still have strong herding instincts, which can lead to protective behavior. With positive reinforcement-based training, you can teach them to ignore fast-moving things and come to you on cue.

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Their high energy levels mean they need regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and frustration. Under-exercised Aussiedoodles can become destructive, so plan to train and entertain your high-energy companion.

Aussiedoodles are sensitive dogs that don't react well to harsh training techniques, so use positive reinforcement methods to shape good behavior. With early socialization and training, they can become well-mannered family dogs that thrive on attention and affection.

Care and Living Needs

An AussieDoodle Lab mix needs regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They have a lot of energy, so daily walks, playtime, and mentally stimulating toys are a must.

Aussiedoodles can be great companions for families who live in apartments, as long as they get plenty of exercise every day. However, they do need a good plan for regular physical activity.

Because of their athletic Australian Shepherd characteristics, an AussieDoodle Lab mix can jump high, so you'll need to consider the type of fencing necessary at home or leash training for public areas.

Living Needs

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Aussiedoodles can thrive in apartments as long as they get plenty of exercise every day, but a yard or acreage is not necessary for their well-being.

They have a good amount of energy, which means they can handle more strenuous activity than many dogs can.

Regular walks, routine playtime, and mentally stimulating toys are essential to keep their minds active and prevent health issues later in life.

Exercise is of utmost importance for Aussiedoodles, and it's crucial to make time for it every day.

They can jump high, so this might influence the type of fencing necessary at home or leash training for public areas.

While Aussiedoodles are energetic, they're not typically prone to over-exercising, so you don't have to worry about pushing them too hard.

Feeding

Feeding your Australian Shepherd Lab Mix requires a medium-sized breed diet with high energy.

Their dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and into their senior years.

The amount of food your adult dog eats depends on their size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level.

You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Australian Shepherd Lab diet, as there is far too much variation among individual dogs.

Grooming

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Grooming is a crucial part of Aussiedoodle care, as their coats can be prone to matting and tangling.

You'll need to brush your Aussiedoodle regularly, ideally once a week, to remove loose hair and prevent mats. Depending on their fur consistency, you might need to brush them twice a week during spring and fall.

Aussiedoodles with a poodle-like coat may require professional grooming every couple of months, while those with a shorter coat might only need occasional brushing with a rubber curry brush.

Regular brushing is also a great opportunity to bond with your Aussiedoodle while checking their ears, teeth, and nails.

Health

An Aussiedoodle Lab mix can be your loyal companion for up to 12 years, thanks to their Australian Shepherd and Lab parent breeds being relatively healthy.

Australian Shepherds and Poodles, the foundation breeds of the Aussiedoodle, are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, hereditary eye defects, and epilepsy. The Poodle Club of America also notes that Poodles are susceptible to Addison's disease, bloat, and hip dysplasia.

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Proper weight management and exercise can help prevent hip dysplasia in Aussiedoodles, but it's essential to select a puppy from a breeder who's mindful of these issues and conducts regular health tests.

Aussiedoodles are also more likely to experience allergies, particularly food and environmental allergies, so regular flea and tick prevention is crucial.

Here are some common health issues to watch out for in an Aussiedoodle Lab mix:

  • Elbow dysplasia: growth abnormalities in the elbow causing painful mobility
  • Hip dysplasia: abnormalities in the hips that are painful and hinder mobility
  • Cataracts: an opacity in the eye lens that impairs vision
  • Bloat: when gas causes the stomach to be distended, putting pressure on the diaphragm

Regular veterinary checkups and a clean diet can help prevent these health issues and ensure your Aussiedoodle Lab mix lives a long and healthy life.

History and Parent Breeds

The Aussiedoodle Lab mix has a fascinating history, and understanding its parent breeds can give you a better idea of what to expect from this unique hybrid. The Australian Shepherd, a herding breed from the US, was originally bred to herd cattle and needs to stay active to be happy.

Both the Australian Shepherd and Labrador Retriever are highly intelligent and people-oriented, which is likely why the Aussiedoodle Lab mix has become so popular. The Labrador Retriever, in particular, has a rich history as a working dog, originating in Newfoundland where they assisted fishermen.

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The Australian Shepherd Lab mix's parent breeds are not only intelligent but also have a strong need for activity and mental stimulation. This means that your Aussiedor will thrive with regular exercise, training, and mental challenges.

Here are some registries that recognize the Australian Shepherd Lab mix:

  • American Canine Hybrid Club – ACHC
  • Dog Registry of America Club – ACHC
  • Designer Dogs Kennel Club – DDKC
  • International Designer Canine Registry – IDCR

History

The Aussiedoodle and Australian Shepherd Lab Mix have fascinating histories. The Aussiedoodle's origin story is a mystery, but they've gained popularity since the 1990s.

Both the Australian Shepherd and Poodle breeds have detailed lineage, as chronicled by the AKC. They're extremely intelligent and people-oriented, although they're listed in different classification groups.

The Australian Shepherd Lab Mix was bred to be a super working dog, combining the best traits of both parent breeds. This mix was likely created in the late 1990s in North America.

The Australian Shepherd parent breed was originally bred to herd cattle in the US, and they need to stay active. The Lab parent breed comes from Newfoundland, where they worked alongside fishermen.

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The Aussie Shepherd Lab Mix was bred to minimize health issues that tend to affect pure breeds, as they are often inbred. Breeders continued to create Australian Shepherd Lab Mixes as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed.

Here are some registries that recognize the Australian Shepherd Lab Mix:

  • American Canine Hybrid Club – ACHC
  • Dog Registry of America Club – ACHC
  • Designer Dogs Kennel Club – DDKC
  • International Designer Canine Registry – IDCR

Parent Breeds

The Australian Shepherd Lab mix, also known as the Aussiedor, is a relatively new hybrid breed. This means there isn't a ton of breed history to draw from, but we can learn about the history of each parent breed.

The Australian Shepherd has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century in the United States. They were originally bred to herd sheep and other livestock.

The Labrador Retriever, on the other hand, originated in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador in Canada. They were bred to assist fishermen by retrieving fish and other items from the water.

Since the Australian Shepherd Lab mix is a hybrid breed, you never know exactly how an Aussiedor puppy will turn out. But, by looking at the parent breeds, we can get an idea of the traits they might inherit.

Training 101

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The Aussiedoodle Lab Mix is a highly intelligent breed that thrives on mental and physical challenges. They are relatively easy to train, especially with positive reinforcement.

Their high IQ means they can be food motivated, so use their favorite treats to get them to perform basic commands. This mix can be stubborn at times, so be prepared to handle a dog that thinks they're the boss.

Start training your Aussiedoodle Lab Mix at a very young age, and you'll be amazed at how quickly they pick up new skills. Positive reinforcement will keep them motivated to please.

Socialization is key to softening their herding instincts and helping them interact with strangers and other pets. This will help prevent slight aggression from "protecting the flock" or anxiety from owner dependency.

Their high trainability means they can excel in agility courses and other fun activities. With the right training, your Aussiedoodle Lab Mix will be a joy to be around.

Family and Social Aspects

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If you have small kids, an Aussiedoodle Lab mix can be a great addition to your family, but be prepared for the possibility of them trying to herd your little ones, thinking they're part of their flock.

They can be very tolerant of children, but it's essential to supervise interactions between dogs and young kids to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling.

Australian Shepherd Lab mixes get along with other dogs, but it's crucial to socialize puppies to teach them how to behave and greet other dogs.

Socialization also helps them get used to people, and they're often affectionate towards strangers.

Breeding and Adoption

If the price of an Aussiedoodle Lab Mix puppy is too expensive for you, there's always the option to adopt. Not only will you find affordable dogs, but you'll have one grateful pooch on your hands.

Researching reputable breeders is crucial to avoid online puppy scams and buying from safe, responsible breeders who prioritize the dogs' well-being. Determine the parents of the puppy and ask for complete information and hopefully visit the breeder to assess firsthand the temperament and health of the parent dogs, especially the female parent.

You can find Australian Shepherd Lab Mixes for adoption through various sources, including Adopt a Pet, Petstablished, and Petfinder. If you're having trouble finding a breed-specific rescue, you can try Australian Shepherd or Labrador Retriever breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes.

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Rescue & Adoption

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If the price of an Aussiedor puppy is too expensive, there's always the option to adopt. You'll find affordable dogs and a grateful pooch on your hands, with nothing quite as pure as the love of a rescue!

Adopting an Australian Shepherd Lab Mix can be a rewarding experience. You'll have the opportunity to give a loving home to a dog in need.

There are many resources available to help you locate an Australian Shepherd Lab Mix for adoption. Here are some helpful sources:

  • Adopt a Pet
  • Petstablished
  • Petfinder

You may also want to try contacting breed-specific rescues for Australian Shepherds or Labrador Retrievers, as they often care for mixes as well.

Research Doodle Breeders Carefully

Researching a doodle breeder takes time and effort, but it's crucial to avoid puppy mills and unscrupulous breeders.

Potential owners should be cautious of online puppy scams and only buy from reputable breeders who prioritize the dogs' well-being.

When purchasing a puppy, it's essential to determine the parents' information and health status.

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Prospective buyers should ask for complete information about the parents and ideally visit the breeder to assess the temperament and health of the parent dogs, especially the female parent.

A reputable breeder will provide you with this information and allow you to meet the parents.

Don't be afraid to ask questions and trust your instincts – if something feels off, it probably is.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are aussie Lab mix good dogs?

Yes, Aussie Lab mixes are known for being intelligent, loyal, and athletic, making them a great choice for many families. With proper training, they can thrive as loving and social companions.

What is the downside to Aussiedoodles?

Aussiedoodles require regular exercise and grooming due to their high energy level and thick coats, making them a high maintenance breed. If you're looking for a low-fuss pet, an Aussiedoodle may not be the best fit.

Sources

  1. Far Hill Aussiedoodles (farhillaussiedoodles.com)
  2. Aussiedoodles Daily (instagram.com)
  3. Aussie And Me Animal Rescue (aussieandme.org)
  4. Australian Shepherd Lab Mix: Aussiedor Breed Information (caninejournal.com)
  5. Labradoodle (homeowner.com)
  6. Adopt a Pet (adoptapet.com)
  7. 22 Doodle Dog Breeds and Poodle Mixes to Melt Your ... (dailypaws.com)

Dana Mitchell

Writer

Dana Mitchell is a passionate writer with a knack for storytelling. Her articles have been featured in various publications, covering topics that bring joy and knowledge to pet owners and enthusiasts alike. With a focus on mixed-breed dogs, Dana's writing aims to educate and inspire readers to appreciate the unique qualities of these lovable companions.

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