Why Labradoodle’s Are Great With Kids?

As dog lovers, we’ve all heard the horrifying stories of children being mauled, or worse by their pet dogs.

No parent wants to think their family pet would ever harm their little children, but it does happen and, for this reason alone, parents are more selective than ever about the type of breed of dog they adopt or purchase.

One of the most commonly selected breeds of dogs by parents with children is the Australian labradoodle, originally bred in the 1980s by the Australian Guide Dog Association in response to the need for guide dogs for people with pet allergies.
The Australian labradoodle, a mix between the labrador and the poodle, is said to have been bred for the lab's loyalty, gentle nature and trainability combined with the low-allergy coat of the poodle.

Due to their good nature, Australian labradoodles can make some of the best family pets possible. And, there seems to be little difference between the male and female labradoodles with this respect. In some dog breeds, males do take the dominant role, which can make them aggressive and unpredictable with children and their owners on occasions.

But with the Australian labradoodle, experts suggest that the males and females have very similar temperaments.

But temper is not the only issue at play, and play is the key word here: Australian labradoodles are a mix between the labradore and the poodle, which implies they are high-energy and need lots of attention and love. Some breeders suggest that if you do not want a super-active dog, that you consider a second generation labradoodle, which means both parents are labradoodles.

First-generation Australian labradoodles are said to be well-tempered and loyal but, just like any dog, they will require some training. Labradoodles are very intelligent and loving, but they do need attention. If they are not properly trained, like any dog, they may act out when left alone and begin barking, chewing on your property or other destructive behavior.

But just because the Australian labradoodle is so even keeled with kids, doesn’t mean they should be left alone with small children. That goes for gown Australian labradoodles and puppies alike.

All the experts and breeders suggest that specific play time is established each day for kids to interact with their labradoodle that involves chasing a toy or going to the park on a leash (when old enough) and other quiet but interactive activities. They recommend that kids don’t scream and chase their Australian labradoodle puppies around the house because the anxiety can create distractions that may interfere with training.

Australian labradoodles come in different sizes, which makes it possible for parents with kids to be someone selective about the type of dog they adopt or buy. Just as labradors and poodles come in different sizes, so too does the Australian labradoodle.

For parents who do not want a large dog, they may consider seeking out an Australian labradoodle breeder that can offer them a puppy whose parents were on the smaller size. This is an especially good idea for anyone who lives in an apartment or small house.

Kids should always play with their dogs under adult supervision until they at least well into their teens. It’s tempting to let a puppy sleep with a toddler and let them run and play in the yard together. But as is the case with any dog, the Australian labradoodle may jump or get excited with your little ones and inadvertently scratch or even knock down a small child.

So, if you’re looking for a good-tempered and loyal dog for your family and small children, there is no better choice than the Australian labradoodle. Just know that dogs of all breeds need owners who are willing to set the boundaries and take responsibility for their training and any special needs.