Raising a dog is a responsibility from the outset, as you need to invest time and effort in its care and upbringing. It is much like caring for a baby, tending to its need for nutrition, attention, and everything else.
For a first-timer, the workload may sound overwhelming, specifically if you bring home a high-maintenance breed. But the effort is worthwhile because you get a loving and faithful companion for a lifetime.
Statistics show that 38% of American households have canine pets. It indicates that a lot of people are keen to commit to the responsibility. However, pet parents must choose their breeds wisely, ensuring a match with their expectations and lifestyle.
Labradoodles are a high-maintenance breed because these dogs have high energy levels and thick coats that require diligent grooming. But they make an ideal option for first-time dog owners because they combine the best of the breeds they originate from.
They bring together the workability and intelligence of the Labrador and the good looks of the Poodle.
If you are keen on buying a Black Labradoodle, you should be extra ready to give your best to grooming and care. Knowing the key facts keeps you ahead of the commitment.
Let us share a comprehensive guide a first-time Labradoodle owner can rely on.
Understand the Genetics and Temperament
Labradoodle is a mixed breed, with a combination of 35% Labrador Retriever and 65% Poodle. It is a loving, family-friendly dog that goes low on allergies.
You can find them in a range of colors, with black and white Labradoodles being the most common and popular ones. Since the breed is a mix, it can have the looks and characteristics of both the parent breeds.
Here are the key facts about the genetics and temperament of a black Labradoodle:
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Appearance
When it comes to appearance, the hair of a Labradoodle decides its looks. The animal may have wavy, straight, or curly hair. These dogs are around 20-25 inches tall and weigh between 50-75 pounds, with females being smaller than their male counterparts.
You may find them in colors like black, white, cream, brown, and even red. Your black Labradoodle may even change its color down the line due to genetic factors, though true ones retain it during their adult lives.
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Hypoallergenic
Although no canine is allergen-free, Labradoodles are relatively hypoallergenic. It means you can bring it home even if someone in your family has allergies. Although the breed is hairy, it hardly sheds or releases dander that may cause allergies.
A good grooming routine can make these pets even better as it eliminates dirt, dust, and dead skin cells from the animal’s body.
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Temperament
Labradoodles are intelligent and loving, making them a trainable addition to your lifestyle. If you have questions and doubts about how to start leash training a puppy from scratch, you need not stress out with this breed. You can expect to housetrain it within 4 to 5 months. Consistent training and positive reinforcement ensure an even better response.
According to Dreamy Skies Dog Training, leash training should begin as early as possible. It prevents obesity, promotes mental stimulation, and helps with socialization. Newbie pet parents can enlist the help of a professional dog trainer if the task seems too much to them.
Bringing home a mini black Labradoodle is an excellent idea if you have a young family with kids. These dogs are playful and friendly, so they bond well with your loved ones and visitors. Their curiosity keeps them and their companions busy because they like playing games and participating in activities.
Pay Attention to Lifestyle and Exercise
Understanding the personality and temperament of your black Labradoodle gives you a good start as a first-time pet parent. But you must dig deep to know their exercise needs and align them with your lifestyle.
Paying attention to them is the key to raising a happy and obedient pet. Here are some facts worth knowing:
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Socialization
The breed responds well to socialization because it is inherently friendly. Try socializing them from a young age to develop friendly behavior toward people and other pets.
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Exercise
Since Labradoodle is a high-energy breed, it does well with adequate exercise. Target at least an hour of exercise every day, with activities like walking, running, and swimming. These pets thrive in outdoor spaces, so you may need to take them to a park if you don’t have a spacious backyard.
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Mental Stimulation
Besides plenty of physical exercises, your black Labradoodle needs a lot of mental stimulation. The breed is inherently intelligent, and training it to recall is a breeze.
Keep your pet busy with new activities because boredom can lead to behavioral issues down the line. Canine sports are an excellent option because they offer a mix of physical and mental stimulation.
Know the Dietary Requirements
Knowing the dietary requirements of your canine companion is crucial to ensure optimal nutrition and good health. Scientific research indicates that an adult canine’s daily diet can comprise 50% carbohydrates by weight, with 2.5–4.5% coming from fiber.
A minimum of 10% should come from protein and 5.5% from fats. That sounds a bit complicated for beginners, but you can learn the ropes over time.
Since the dietary needs of your black Labradoodle depend on its age and size, they may vary over the years. At any point, you should provide a high-quality, protein-rich diet to your canine companion.
Doodles also require healthy fats, minerals, vitamins, and fiber to be healthy. Prioritize items such as chicken, beef, turkey, fish, grains, fruits, and vegetables for an optimal mix.
As a first-timer, you may want to show extra love by feeding your pet frequently and from your plate.
But experts recommend feeding twice a day to prevent overeating and encourage a healthy appetite. Portion control is another way to manage the diet of your black Labradoodle and prevent obesity. Also, avoid extra treats and snacks to reward them for good behavior.
You need to restrict your pet’s diet for optimal growth because growing too fast increases the risk of joint problems.
Your vet can help you tailor an ideal diet according to your doodle’s size, weight, age, and health condition.
Go the Extra Mile With Grooming
Labradoodle coat type varies according to their genetics. But bringing home a black one means you may need to do a bit more for grooming. After all, dust and dirt can shine on a black coat.
Although the breed is less likely to shed, it does require regular maintenance. Grooming requirements depend on the length and type of coat, but you should be ready to invest some time in it.
If your pet has a wavy topcoat, it may require a grooming session daily. A soft fleecy undercoat gets matted easily, so be sure to brush it at least a few times during a week.
Labradoodles do not require frequent bathing, so a monthly schedule is good enough. Remember to take it to a groomer two or four times a year for a haircut. That’s all you need to raise a good-looking and tidy black Labradoodle.
Besides brushing and bathing, oral care is another aspect of canine grooming. Brushing its teeth regularly prevents dental issues like gum disease and tooth decay. You want your pet to have healthy teeth in the long run, right?
Get Your Bonding Right
A Labradoodle is an ideal family pet, with its affectionate, outgoing, and eager-to-please temperament. While the breed isn’t aggressive, your pet can get too excitable and have its mad moments.
Your kids will love it for its sociable and energetic nature because it makes the pet a great companion.
But young children not accustomed to boisterous dogs may find it a little intimidating in the beginning. Yet bringing home a black Labrador puppy is a good idea because you can get your bonding right when it’s still young.
Spend quality time with the pet and encourage your family to do the same.
You may supervise its initial interactions with children and other pets, but overall, Labradoodles are among the safest dog breeds for families. Good bonding is also about not leaving the animal alone too often because these dogs enjoy having people around.
Be Aware of Potential Health Issues
Did you know that more than 60% of dogs are obese and overweight? That’s what statistics suggest.
Most breeds are prone to obesity, and Labradoodles are no exception. But this isn’t the only health issue your canine companion can come across. As a beginner, you need to be aware of the potential health issues for the breed.
Here are the ones to watch out for:
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Joint Dysplasia
The condition is common in several breeds, including the Labradoodle. Canine Joint Dysplasia refers to the abnormal growth and development in hip or elbow joints.
In most cases, it is treatable with physical therapy, but serious ones may require surgery. Timely diagnosis and intervention can make a difference.
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Progressive Retinal Atrophy
PRA is a group of conditions that slowly degrade the retinal cells, leading to a decline in canine vision over time. It may even cause blindness.
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Ear Infection
Ear infections are common in Labradoodles because these dogs have long and floppy ears. They can easily get infected, causing pain, discomfort, and itching.
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Epilepsy
While epilepsy affects only 0.75% of the canine population, Labradoodles are a high-risk breed. It is a neurological disorder that causes sudden and repeated seizures and requires treatment with prescribed medication.
You must consult a vet sooner than later if you notice epileptic symptoms in your pet.
Regular vet checks are essential for all dogs, including Labradoodles. Also, ensure that your breeder did their due diligence with DNA tests on the puppy’s parents to check for genetic abnormalities.
It is the foremost thing you should do to bring a healthy black Labradoodle home. Besides keeping an eye on health issues, check the diet and feeding habits of your pet to prevent weight woes in the long run.
Keep Separation Anxiety at Bay
Most dogs thrive in the company of humans because they are inherently attuned to it. Raising a healthy and happy black Labradoodle requires you to watch out for the signs of separation anxiety at all times.
The breed is extremely loyal and loves being with its family. However, the downside of extreme loyalty is that it makes them prone to separation anxiety.
Your absence can make your furry companion feel abandoned, neglected, and sad. It may even show behavioral issues like aggression and tantrums if you stay away for a prolonged period.
Excessive barking or howling, drooling, self-licking, frequent urination, shivering, and attempts to escape are a few other symptoms to pay attention to.
Fortunately, it is easy to resolve the situation by spending more time with your pet. Commit to a daily session of petting, take it for long walks, and ensure someone is always around.
You can hire a pet sitter if you need to leave for work or holidays. Another good way to deal with separation anxiety is to train your Labradoodle puppy for alone time from a young age.
Learn the Lifespan Facts
Like humans, pets have a lifespan, and even the healthiest ones die. Although losing your canine companion is the last thing you want to think about, you must have realistic expectations.
The average lifespan of a black Labradoodle is about 12-15 years. Factors such as gender, size, generation, and genetics can affect its lifespan.
You can do your bit to increase your pet’s life expectancy by taking good care and ensuring optimal health.
Follow the basics such as following its nutritional requirements, keeping checks on its weight, ensuring regular exercise, and staying on top of vet appointments.
Key Takeaways
A black Labradoodle makes an excellent canine companion because of its warm, loving, and docile temperament. But you must do your bit to give your pet the TLC it deserves.
Knowing the facts regarding its grooming, nutrition, potential health issues, and bonding gives you a good start as a first-time pet owner.
Follow this comprehensive guide to get a great start with your black Labradoodle and build a bond worth cherishing. Raising a happy and healthy pet comes as a bonus!
