Why You Should Never Buy a Labradoodle
In 1989, an Australian breeder coined the term “labradoodle” to sell a mixed-breed litter. Now, breeders are churning out thousands of litters of labradoodle puppies every year, compounding the number of dogs who end up in shelters.
No one should ever buy a dog (or any animal) while tens of thousands of animals need homes. Here are more reasons why you should never buy a labradoodle puppy.
Labradoodle Health Issues
Mixing two breeds can result in animals being prone to health issues from both sides, and labradoodles are no exception.
Their floppy ears trap moisture, making labradoodles prone to ear infections and painful buildup.
They’re also sensitive to topical skin and food allergens, and in some cases need specialist diets prescribed by a vet to prevent illness.
They’re Prone to Epilepsy and Addison’s Disease
Poodles and labradors are both prone to Addison’s disease – a disorder where cortisol regulation is impaired, leading to an inability to manage stress – so it’s unsurprising their mixed offspring are also susceptible to the illness.
Labradoodles are also known to be more prone to epilepsy, which causes seizures and must be managed for life.
Like so many “designer” dogs, they’re also at risk of joint dysplasia, which can lead to arthritis and requires long-term veterinary care.
Veterinary Care Isn’t Cheap
At some point in their lives, all animals need medical attention. Still, some breeds – such as labradoodles, born of two breeds that share hereditary health issues – need more medical intervention than others.
Shelters are increasingly taking in animals surrendered due to their guardians facing money troubles. It’s vital you plan for the costs associated with bringing a companion animal home before you act.
‘Hypoallergenic’ Is an Overstatement
It’s a marketing claim, often applied to labradoodles, but no dog is truly 100% allergen-free.
While the poodle part of a labradoodle can make them less prone to shedding, allergies are often triggered by saliva or urine, meaning hair shedding isn’t the only unavoidable aspect of their “dogginess” to consider.
It’s also never guaranteed that a labradoodle won’t inherit their coat from the Labrador parent, so if you’re allergy-prone, you’re likely going to have to take antihistamines regardless of whether your dog is ‘designer’ or not.
Unburned Energy Can Become Destructive Behaviour
Like most dogs, labradoodles are energetic, social and get bored easily, meaning you need to have a lot of time and energy to keep up with them.
Unspent energy can easily lead to destructive behaviour, such as chewing, barking, digging up floors, and tearing up your belongingss.
Like All Animals, They’re a Lifelong Commitment
Labradoodles live up to 15 years. While a dog’s life is never long enough, that’s still at least a decade of forward planning you need to do to ensure you’re the right fit for a new family member.
Can you afford insurance? Vet bills? Training, toys, and a nourishing diet? Will you have the time and energy needed for years to come?
Animal companions stand by us through thick and thin, so never adopt unless you’re sure you can do the same for them.
Labradoodles in Shelters Need You!
Labradoodles are frequently abandoned and surrendered.
Even the first labradoodle breeder expressed regret for breeding these dogs, noting “There are a lot of unhealthy and abandoned dogs out there.”
Every time someone buys a dog, a shelter dog misses their chance to find a loving home.
Labra-do them a favour and adopt.
Labradoodle FAQs
What is the Downside to a Labradoodle?
Remember that every dog is an individual – and every dog deserves a loving home, regardless of their mix or background. Labradoodles are boisterous, prone to anxiety and other health issues, and not truly hypoallergenic. Unlike labradoodles and other man-made breeds, mutts are typically healthier and usually live longer than their pedigree cousins. When choosing an animal companion to adopt, don’t focus on a particular breed but meet different dogs from your local shelter. And never ever buy dogs from a breeder.
Is Adopting a Labradoodle Right for Me?
That depends. If you’ve got the time and energy to make them happy, the finances and compassion to see them through any health issues, and a solid 15-year plan that ensures you can love and protect them, no matter what, you may just be what a labradoodle in a shelter (or any other homeless dog) is looking for. When you’re ready, visit your local rescue and see who you click with. And remember – never buy labradoodles or any dogs from breeders.
Caring for Companion Animals
If you are ready and prepared to welcome a companion animal into your home, read our guide to caring for them.
Living with Companion Animals
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