As passionate ALAA labradoodle breeders, we at Harmony Labradoodles understand the importance of choosing the right breeder for your future furry family member. The Australian Labradoodle Association of America (ALAA) sets the bar high for ethical breeding practices and exceptional dog care. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore why ALAA labradoodle breeders stand out and what makes ALAA labradoodles so special.
What is the ALAA?
The Australian Labradoodle Association of America (ALAA) is dedicated to protecting and promoting the well-being of Australian Labradoodles. As an organization, the ALAA believes that educated owners make the best companions for these lovable dogs. They strive to be the leading source of information about the breed, offering valuable resources to both breeders and owners.
The ALAA's Mission
The ALAA's primary goals include:
- Cataloging helpful information about Australian Labradoodles
- Providing networking services to breeders and owners
- Promoting responsible dog companionship
- Making a positive difference in the Australian Labradoodle community
The History of ALAA Labradoodles
To truly appreciate ALAA labradoodles, it's essential to understand their rich history:
Origins in the 1980s
The story of the Australian Labradoodle began in the 1980s when Wally Conron, a breeder working with the Royal Guide Dog Association of Australia, sought to create a hypoallergenic guide dog. He crossed a Labrador Retriever with a Standard Poodle, resulting in the first Labradoodle.
Refinement of the Breed
Following this initial success, two pioneering breeding programs in Australia, Tegan Park and Rutland Manor, took up the mantle. They further refined the breed, focusing on enhancing desirable traits such as temperament, coat quality, and overall health.
Introduction of Cocker Spaniel Genes
What sets ALAA labradoodles apart is the careful infusion of Cocker Spaniel genes. Australian Labradoodles carry DNA from Labradors, Poodles, and either American or English Cocker Spaniels. This unique combination contributes to their exceptional characteristics and distinguishes them from other "doodle" breeds.
Why Choose an ALAA Labradoodle Breeder?
When looking for your perfect furry companion, choosing an ALAA labradoodle breeder offers numerous advantages:
1. Adherence to Strict Breeding Standards
ALAA labradoodle breeders follow a comprehensive code of ethics that ensures the highest standards of breeding practices. This includes:
- Proper housing, feeding, and care for all dogs
- Breeding with the soundness of the Australian Labradoodle in mind
- Providing clear instructions to new owners about dog care and welfare
- Offering to take back and rehome any dog from their program if needed
2. Focus on Health and Genetic Testing
ALAA breeders are committed to producing healthy puppies. They conduct extensive health testing on their breeding dogs and keep detailed records of genetic health information. This commitment helps minimize the risk of hereditary health issues in ALAA labradoodles.
3. Multigenerational Breeding Expertise
Unlike many other "doodle" breeds, ALAA labradoodles are the result of careful, multigenerational breeding since the 1980s. This long-term approach has led to more consistent traits in temperament, coat type, and overall appearance.
4. Verified Pedigrees
The ALAA maintains a comprehensive database of pedigrees and health testing for registered dogs. This meticulous record-keeping ensures that each ALAA labradoodle has a verified lineage, tracing back to the founding dogs from Australia.
The ALAA Labradoodle Advantage
ALAA labradoodles offer a unique combination of traits that make them ideal family companions:
Outstanding Temperaments
Known for their friendly, outgoing nature, ALAA labradoodles are adaptable to various living situations. Their gentle disposition makes them excellent family pets, therapy dogs, and even service animals.
Hypoallergenic Coats
One of the most sought-after features of ALAA labradoodles is their hypoallergenic coat. This makes them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers, reducing the likelihood of allergic reactions.
Minimal Shedding
ALAA labradoodles are renowned for their low-shedding coats. This characteristic means less cleanup around the house and improved air quality, especially beneficial for those with allergies or asthma.
Intelligence and Trainability
These dogs are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them exceptionally trainable. Whether you're looking for a family pet or a working dog, ALAA labradoodles excel in various roles due to their quick learning abilities.
ALAA Labradoodle Sizes and Coat Types
ALAA labradoodle breeders offer a variety of sizes and coat types to suit different preferences and lifestyles:
Sizes
- Miniature: 14-16 inches (35-42 cm) at the shoulder
- Medium: 17-20 inches (43-52 cm) at the shoulder
- Standard: 21-24 inches (53-63 cm) at the shoulder
Coat Types
ALAA labradoodles can have either a fleece or wool coat type:
- Fleece: Can be wavy or curly
- Wool: Always curly
Both coat types are known for their hypoallergenic properties and minimal shedding.
The ALAA Breeding Philosophy
ALAA labradoodle breeders adhere to a carefully considered breeding philosophy that prioritizes the health and well-being of the breed:
Open Stud Books
The ALAA has chosen to keep its stud books open, allowing for the development of new lines using registered Labradors, Poodles, and Cocker Spaniels. This approach helps expand the gene pool and minimize inbreeding, promoting the overall health of the breed.
Breeding to the Standard
ALAA breeders work towards an established breed standard, focusing on improving temperament, coat quality, and structure. This consistent approach helps ensure that ALAA labradoodles maintain their desirable traits across generations.
Health Testing and Record Keeping
ALAA breeders are committed to extensive health testing and meticulous record-keeping. This dedication to transparency and genetic health helps produce healthier puppies and allows potential owners to make informed decisions.
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Caring for Your ALAA Labradoodle
When you bring home an ALAA labradoodle, proper care is essential to ensure a long, happy, and healthy life for your new companion. The Australian Labradoodle Association of America (ALAA) sets high standards for these dogs, and proper care helps maintain their exceptional qualities.
Grooming
ALAA labradoodles require regular grooming to maintain their beautiful coats:
- Daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling. Use a dime-sized amount of Cowboy Magic in your hand and rub it all over the coat before brushing to help detangle.
- Regular baths every 4-6 weeks. Be sure to completely brush and de-mat the coat prior to bathing to prevent matts from tightening.
- Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for coat trimming and maintenance. This includes clipping the body, shaping the feet, ears, and face, and blending any uneven areas.
- Trim nails regularly, usually once or twice a month. Don't forget the dewclaws!
- Clean ears and check for any signs of infection regularly.
- Brush teeth several times a week to maintain dental health.
Remember, Australian Labradoodles can have either a fleece or wool coat type. Fleece coats may be wavy or curly, while wool coats are curly. Each type may require slightly different grooming techniques.
Exercise
These active dogs need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy:
- Aim for at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily. However, be mindful of your dog's age and energy level.
- Include a mix of walks, runs, fetch, or swimming. Vary activities to keep your dog engaged.
- Provide mental stimulation through training and puzzle toys. Use food-dispensing toys to make mealtimes more engaging.
- For puppies, follow the rule of 5 minutes of exercise per month of age, up to twice daily. Avoid over-exercising young dogs as their joints are still developing.
- Practice the "Stop & Go Game" for leash training: stop walking when your dog pulls, and only resume when there's slack in the leash.
Nutrition
A balanced diet is crucial for your ALAA labradoodle's health:
- Choose high-quality dog food with good protein sources. Look for foods with identified fat or protein sources and avoid byproducts.
- Avoid foods with artificial preservatives, flavors, or added sweeteners.
- Adjust portions based on your dog's age, size, and activity level.
- For puppies, plan two mealtimes a day, morning and night. Avoid free-feeding.
- Use some of their daily food allowance as rewards during training sessions.
- Ensure fresh water is always available, except for 2 hours before bedtime for puppies still being housetrained.
- Be cautious with human foods - many can be harmful to dogs. Avoid giving chocolate, onions, grapes, and foods with xylitol.
Health Considerations
Regular veterinary care is essential for ALAA labradoodles:
- Schedule annual wellness exams to catch any potential issues early.
- Stay up-to-date on vaccinations following your vet's recommended schedule.
- Use appropriate flea, tick, and heartworm prevention year-round.
- Discuss spaying or neutering with your veterinarian. This can help prevent certain health issues and unwanted litters.
- Be aware of breed-specific health concerns such as hip dysplasia, eye disorders, and allergies. Regular check-ups can help monitor for these issues.
- Consider pet insurance to help manage potential veterinary costs.
- Regularly check your dog's eyes, ears, teeth, and skin for any abnormalities.
Training and Socialization
ALAA Labradoodles are intelligent and eager to please, making them highly trainable:
- Start training early, using positive reinforcement methods.
- Socialize your puppy extensively in the first 3-16 weeks of life, exposing them to various people, animals, and environments.
- Teach basic commands like "sit," "stay," "come," and "leave it."
- Use the "C.A.L.M." philosophy: Confidence in your Attentive Leadership Methods.
- Implement crate training for housebreaking and to provide a safe space for your dog.
- Attend puppy classes or obedience training to reinforce good behaviors and socialize your dog.
By following these comprehensive care guidelines, you'll be providing your ALAA Labradoodle with the best possible life. Remember, every dog is unique, so always consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice. At Harmony Labradoodles, we're committed to helping you navigate the joys and challenges of Labradoodle ownership. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about caring for your furry friend!
ALAA Labradoodles as Service and Therapy Dogs
The versatility of ALAA labradoodles extends beyond being excellent family pets. Their intelligence, trainability, and gentle nature make them ideal candidates for various service and support roles:
Service Dogs
ALAA labradoodles can be trained to assist individuals with disabilities in daily tasks. Their hypoallergenic coats make them particularly suitable for people with allergies who require service animal support.
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)
The loving and intuitive nature of ALAA labradoodles makes them excellent emotional support animals, providing comfort and companionship to their owners.
Therapy Dogs
Many ALAA labradoodles excel as therapy dogs, offering comfort and joy in therapeutic settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, and schools.
Choosing Your ALAA Labradoodle
When selecting your perfect ALAA labradoodle puppy, consider the following:
- Research ALAA-approved breeders in your area
- Ensure the breeder provides health clearances for the puppy's parents
- Meet the puppy's parents, if possible, to get an idea of temperament and size
- Ask about early socialization practices
- Choose a breeder who offers lifelong support and guidance
The ALAA Commitment to Education and Support
One of the hallmarks of ALAA labradoodle breeders is their commitment to ongoing education and support for puppy owners. This includes:
- Providing comprehensive information about the breed
- Offering guidance on training and care
- Being available to answer questions throughout the dog's life
- Promoting responsible dog ownership
The Harmony ALAA Labradoodle Difference
Choosing an ALAA labradoodle from a reputable breeder means embarking on a rewarding journey with a loving, intelligent, and adaptable companion. The ALAA's dedication to breed development, health testing, and ethical breeding practices ensures that you're getting a high-quality, well-bred puppy with a verified pedigree.
Whether you're looking for a family pet, a potential therapy dog, or a hypoallergenic companion, an ALAA labradoodle could be the perfect match for your lifestyle and needs.
Ready to start your journey with an ALAA labradoodle? Look no further than Harmony Labradoodles! As dedicated ALAA labradoodle breeders, we're committed to producing healthy, well-socialized puppies that will bring joy to your family for years to come. Contact us today to learn more about our available puppies and experience the love, loyalty, and joy that ALAA labradoodles bring to families across Georgia and beyond. Your perfect furry friend is waiting for you at Harmony Labradoodles!