Are Labradoodles Hypoallergenic?

Who doesn’t love Labradoodles? These adorable dogs with their lovely curly coats are great companions. But are they good for those of us who suffer from pet allergies? Are Labradoodles hypoallergenic? And if not, is there something we can do to minimize the effects? Continue reading to find out!

What Makes a Dog Hypoallergenic?

You’ve probably heard the word “hypoallergenic” when referring to pets, but what does this mean? Are there any truly hypoallergenic dogs? The short answer is no, there is no such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic dog breed. Even hairless puppies can cause allergic reactions as they release dander, even without shedding fur.

So, what makes a dog hypoallergenic? Generally, hypoallergenic dogs shed less than other dog breeds. Many dog breeds also have curly or wooly coats, which efficiently trap fur and allergens until groomed. Dander isn’t the only allergen culprit though. People can also suffer from dog allergies when exposed to saliva. In other words, a hypoallergenic dog is less likely to cause allergic reactions, it is not entirely allergen-free.

Are Labradoodles Hypoallergenic?

Labradoodles have thick curly coats which trap their shedding fur and dander. They are one of the most allergy-friendly dog breeds in the world, but not all Labradoodles are the same. Since Labradoodles are mixed-breed dogs, some generations may shed more than others.

These allergy-friendly pups are sometimes low-shedders. Labradoodles are part Labrador retrievers and part poodle. Labrador retrievers have long shedding coats, so if your Labradoodle inherits many of its genes from this parent, it can have a high-shedding coat. However, poodles are best known for their allergy-friendliness. The problem with Labradoodles is there’s no way of knowing what you’ll get, unlike purebreds.

What Dogs Aren’t Hypoallergenic?

Sadly, there are many mixed and purebred dog breeds you may want to think hard about before adopting if you suffer from allergies. One of the most common allergens which cause reactions is dander. This can cause itchy and red eyes, a runny nose, and a scratchy throat. Some people also get itchy red skin or break out in hives. The severity depends on the exposure and how much of the allergen is released. Interestingly, another common pet allergy allergen is saliva. There is a protein in the saliva that causes skin rashes and reactions. Slobbering dog breeds aren’t the best options for those with pet allergies.

Listed below are some non-allergy-friendly dog breeds:

• German shepherds
• Basset hounds
• Pugs
• Saint bernards
• Boxers
• Cocker spaniels
• Siberian Huskies
• Dachshunds
• Labrador retrievers
• Chow chows

Are Labradoodles Low Maintenance?

Owning and caring for a Labradoodle isn’t for the faint of heart. This unique mixed dog breed is high-maintenance. It has many needs including physical and mental. They require a lot of exercise, attention, and patience. Grooming is also essential. While they are low shedders, you still need to brush their coats. It’s also recommended you take your Labradoodle to a professional groomer at least once every 2 months for a trim. For exercise, these playful dogs need at least 1 to 2 hours of exercise every day. You can take them for long walks, on puppy play dates, or play with them in your home. Puzzles are also a great way to challenge them physically and mentally.

About Labradoodles

Labradoodles are mixed-breed dogs with a relatively new history, especially in the United States. This adorable and loving mixed dog breed is a favorite for many. Labradoodles are very popular and it’s no surprise as to why. They are allergy-friendly, intelligent, and have little to no major health problems.

History

Labradoodles have been around since about the 1950s. The term was coined in 1955, however, this mixed breed wasn’t truly created until the 1980s. Interestingly, Labradoodles were used as a guide/service dog during its beginning. Wally Conron of the Royal Guide Dogs in Australia bred the first litter of Labradoodles in 1988. This mixed dog breed originates in Australia. Its popularity increased during the initial doodle craze. They were specifically bred for their low dander coat, making them allergy-friendly.

Size and Appearance

For the most part, Labradoodles have a standard appearance. However, their appearance does differ depending on the generation. For example, first-generation Labradoodles, which are bred from a Labrador Retriever parent and a poodle parent, vary in color, size, and coat. This mixed breed’s size and appearance also depend on the type of poodle parent. For example, some Labradoodles were bred using a miniature poodle, while others have a standard poodle parent.

Some Labradoodles are born with flat long coats without the wave pattern. Interestingly, a few Labradoodles are born with multiple coat textures. They can have flat or long coats with curly fur around their legs or tail. The color of their coats also varies and includes blue-grey, black, white, brown, cream, red, and silver. They are sometimes solid-colored, phantom, or tri-colored.

Temperament/Behavior

Labradoodles are very active and energetic dogs! They are also very affectionate. This friendly cross-breed inherits its outgoingness from its retriever parent. Labradoodles are great family dogs and thrive with small children. Training, however, is always needed and it’s easier to train a Labradoodle puppy compared to an adult. Although every individual Labradoodle has a personality, these lovely dogs are known for their vocalness. They bark, whine, and cry when bored or afraid. They also bark to get your attention when they want to play.

Labradoodles need frequent physical and mental stimulation. If they are left alone and bored, they can develop separation anxiety and become destructive. To avoid this, exercise your Labradoodle well and purchase or make puzzle toys. Labradoodles are very intelligent. It doesn’t take them long to solve puzzles. Positive reinforcement works well. They are very motivated by treats.

Health

Labradoodles generally have good health. However, they are vulnerable to certain medical conditions because of their parents. For example, Labradoodles may have hip and bone problems like hip dysplasia, which is commonly seen in poodles. Without proper care, Labradoodle can develop ear infections. Both poodles and labradors suffer from ear infections since they have long and droopy ears. If you leave moisture if your dog’s ear, an ear infection can develop. They are easy to avoid as long as you keep extra moisture out of your Labradoodle’s ears.

Apart from ear infections, Labradoodles may also have Addison’s disease. This disease is also called hypoadrenocorticism. This disease happens when your dog’s adrenal glands aren’t producing enough corticosteroid hormones. It’s very uncommon but has been detected and recorded in some Labradoodles. Poodles are one of the dog breeds most affected by Addison’s disease.

Grooming

Labradoodles are known for their beautiful coats, although the texture and length range. Without proper grooming though, your pup can suffer from rashes, infections, and matting. It’s important to properly groom your Labradoodle to decrease the chances of skin conditions.

Although you can groom a Labradoodle on your own, it’s best to go to a professional groomer. During the week, you should brush your Labradoodles fur about 2 to 3 times. If it’s short, you may get away with only brushing their fur once a week. Labradoodle puppies rarely need baths or brushing. However, after they turn 6 months, or as advised by your vet, they need baths at least once a month. Some dogs require trimming, but does this apply to Labradoodles? These fluffy pups need regular trimming, at least once every 6 to 8 weeks to avoid matting. Their nails should be trimmed about once or twice a month.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/LSOphoto