The Aussiedoodle and Labradoodle are two popular hybrid dogs. They both make excellent family pets and the main difference between them is their parentage. While the Aussiedoodle is a cross between the Australian Shepherd and a Poodle, the Labradoodle is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. Aussiedoodles can be as curly as a Poodle or have the same coat texture as an Australian Shepherd. The Labradoodle, on the other hand, is not yet achieving consistent results in coat, but the hybrid is a wildly popular and affectionate dog in the United States.
History
Having only been created for a little over two decades, Aussiedoodles have a relatively short history. There isn't a whole lot of info available about their history, other than they were initially developed in North America and have grown in popularity since the 1990s. Aussiedoodles were originally created to be companion dogs for individuals with allergies. On the other hand, the Labradoodle was created in the late 1980s in Australia to be a non-shedding guide dog for people with canine dander allergies. Today, the Labradoodle is more popular as a pet in the United States than in Australia.
Size
The Aussiedoodle comes in a variety of sizes, including Toy Aussiedoodle, Miniature Aussidoodle, and Standard Aussidoodle. The Toy Aussiedoodle measures only 10 to 12 inches in height and weighs from 6 to 15 pounds. They reach their adult size before their first birthday. The Miniature Aussidoodle is slightly larger than the Toy version, weighing 15 to 25 pounds and standing 12 to 18 inches tall. The Standard Aussidoodle typically weighs from 45 to 70 pounds and stands 19 to 24 inches tall. Each size has its own unique traits, with Mini and Toy Aussiedoodles being more energetic than their larger counterparts.
Like the Aussiedoodle, the Labradoodle comes in three different sizes, including Miniature, Medium, and Standard. Full-grown Mini Labradoodles usually measure 14-16 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 18 and 28 pounds. Adult Medium Labradoodles measure 17 to 20 inches in height and weigh from 30 to 45. Standard Aussiedoodles weigh 42 pounds or more and are over 21 inches at the shoulder. Medium and Mini Labradoodles seem to be favored more than the Standard Labradoodle.
Temperament
Aussiedoodles are generally described as friendly and loving dogs that are devoted to their family. Additionally, they are intelligent, outgoing, sweet, and patient dogs that make great members of a household with children and other pets. Furthermore, Aussiedoodles are high-energy dogs that tend to easily get bored when not given enough stimulation. And a bored Aussiedoodle is a destructive Aussiedoodle. In essence, Aussiedoodles need frequent exercise as well as mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Because they are very smart and versatile dogs, Aussiedoodles learn quickly and are easy to train.
The Labradoodle, on the other hand, is known for its outgoing nature. This designer dog is described as active, affectionate, and intelligent, particularly when they've received the right amount of exercise. What's more, Labradoodles love people as well as other animals, making them a great choice for homes with other pets and little kids. Labradoodles' High IQ makes them quick learners. They make excellent therapy and assistance dogs thanks to their affable nature.
Maintenance
The Australian Shepherd and the Poodle are known for their high energy levels, so the Aussiedoodle is very energetic and requires good exercise every day to suit their high energy level. Aussiedoodles's low-shedding coats, which can be curly, wavy, or straight, require frequent grooming to keep them smooth and free of mats. This dog also needs occasional baths, nail trims, and regular ear cleaning. Due to their high energy levels and the required upkeep on their coats, Aussiedoodles are generally deemed high-maintenance. Consequently, the Aussiedoodle may not be the ideal choice of dog for first-time dog owners.
Like the Aussiedoodle, the Labradoodle is considered a high-maintenance dog due to its high energy levels, which need to be cared for with proper exercise. Additionally, the Labradoodle coat requires good and regular grooming. As a result, Labradoodles are not recommended for first-time dog owners! The Labradoodle ranks second on the Purina list of the top 10 high-maintenance dog breeds.
Health and Lifespan
All hybrid dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems and Aussiedoodles and Labradoodles are no exceptions. Albeit they're generally deemed healthy dogs, Aussiedoodles can be prone to hip and joint dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, epilepsy, and bloat. In addition, Aussiedoodles can suffer from hyperactivity disorder and separation anxiety. Therefore, when purchasing an Aussiedoodle, it's essential to look for a reputable breeder that health tests their adult dogs.
Although generally deemed healthy dogs, Labradoodles may be prone to health issues common to both Labrador Retrievers and Poodles. These include hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and a bleeding disorder called von Willebrand's disease. Thus, you need to be cautious about whom you buy from.
Aussiedoodles can live 10 to 13 years while the typical lifespan of Labradoodles is about 12–15 years.
Price
In the U.S., Aussiedoodles puppies usually cost $1,200–$4,000, with the Australian Shepherd's defining merle patterns often being pricier. For a Labradoodle puppy, reputable breeders in the U.S. usually charge $1,500-$3,000. However, adoption fees for an adult Aussiedoodle or Labradoodle from a shelter are lower, averaging $200-$500.
Conclusion
The Labradoodle inherits the best traits from both the Labrador Retriever and the Poodle, making them intelligent, gentle, and highly trainable. In addition to making great family dogs, Labradoodles are also excellent service dogs. After all, they were bred to be non-shedding guide dogs. This makes the breed an ideal choice for anyone in need of a service animal.
The Aussiedoodle, on the other hand, combines the traits of an Australian Shepherd with the playful temperament of the Poodle. If you are looking for an energetic, affectionate, and highly trainable companion, then the Aussiedoodle is the ideal dog for you.
Related: Aussiedoodle Vs. Goldendoodle
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