Australian Labradoodle
Also known as Australian Cobberdog · Multigenerational Labradoodle
Australia, Doodles and designer crosses
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 35–63 cm
- Weight
- 7–30 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–16 yrs
- Gentle
- Intuitive
- Friendly
- Adaptable
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Australian Labradoodle
The Australian Labradoodle is a multigenerational dog developed from Labradoodles with spaniel and other breeds added, rather than a simple first cross. Breeders working on it aim for a more predictable size, a non-shedding fleece or wool coat and a gentle temperament. It comes in miniature, medium and standard sizes.
Temperament
Typically softer and calmer than many first-cross Labradoodles, with a friendly, intuitive nature that has made it popular as a therapy and assistance dog. It is still lively, especially when young, and needs company rather than long hours alone.
Exercise
Daily walks and play suit most, with medium and standard dogs needing around an hour. They enjoy learning and do well at gentle dog sports.
Grooming
The fleece or wool coat sheds little but grows continuously and mats if neglected, so brush thoroughly every few days and book regular trims. Lower shedding can help some allergy sufferers, but no dog is truly allergen-free.
Care & wellbeing
Because the name is used loosely, ask how many generations of Australian Labradoodle are behind a puppy and which breeds are in the background. Responsible breeders health-test every breeding dog. Ears need regular checking and cleaning, and any ear odour or scratching should be seen by a vet.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 18.5 kg adult- Water
- 740 ml–1.1 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,000 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Daily brushing
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Australian Labradoodle
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
In the late 1980s and 1990s, some Australian breeders began crossing Labradoodles with each other and with English and American Cocker Spaniels, among other breeds, to fix a consistent coat and temperament. The result became known as the Australian Labradoodle, and associations formed to keep records and set standards. Some breeders use the separate name Australian Cobberdog for their lines. Work towards formal recognition continues.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Ear infections
- Patellar luxation in smaller dogs
- Addison's disease
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scoring
- Eye examination
- PRA-prcd DNA test
- Patella check
Not every Australian Labradoodle is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 12–16 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Australian Labradoodle right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Australian Labradoodle get?
Adult Australian Labradoodles typically stand about 35–63 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 7–30 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Australian Labradoodles live?
Typically 12–16 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Australian Labradoodle need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Australian Labradoodle need?
Daily brushing, plus regular professional grooming or clipping. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Australian Labradoodles easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Australian Labradoodles shed?
Very little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Australian Labradoodles good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Australian Labradoodle live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Australian Labradoodles have?
The breed can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (pra), ear infections. Not every Australian Labradoodle is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Australia
- Type
- Doodles and designer crosses
- Recognition
- Kept by its own breed associations; not recognised by the FCI or major kennel clubs