Harmony Labradoodles: Premier Australian Labradoodle Breeders in Georgia

Are you searching for reputable labradoodle breeders who prioritize health, temperament, and breed standards? Look no further than Harmony Labradoodles, a family-owned breeding operation located just outside of Commerce, Georgia. As proud partners of the Australian Labradoodle Association of America (ALAA), Harmony Labradoodles stands at the forefront of ethical breeding practices and exceptional dog care.

Meet the McClures: Passionate Labradoodle Breeders

The McClures, the dedicated owners of Harmony Labradoodles, have seamlessly blended their love for dogs with their experience as educators to create a breeding program focused on producing high-quality Australian Labradoodles. Their journey into the world of labradoodle breeding began with a deep appreciation for these intelligent, affectionate, and hypoallergenic dogs.

As educators and high school sports coaches, the McClures bring a unique perspective to dog breeding. Their commitment to education extends beyond the classroom and into their breeding practices, ensuring that each puppy is well-socialized and prepared for its forever home. This educational approach sets Harmony Labradoodles apart, as they not only raise exceptional puppies but also provide comprehensive support and guidance to new owners.

The Harmony Labradoodle Family

At the heart of Harmony Labradoodles are their beloved miniature Australian Labradoodles: Minnie Pearl, Posie, and Puddles. These dogs serve as the foundation of their breeding program and embody the exceptional qualities that make Australian Labradoodles such sought-after companions. Each of these dogs has been carefully selected for their outstanding temperament, health, and conformity to breed standards, ensuring that their puppies inherit the best traits of the breed.

Why Choose an Australian Labradoodle?

Australian Labradoodles offer a unique combination of traits that make them ideal family pets:

1. Outstanding Temperaments: Known for their friendly, outgoing nature and adaptability to various living situations. These dogs are excellent with children, other pets, and people of all ages.
2. Hypoallergenic Coats: Perfect for allergy sufferers, reducing the likelihood of allergic reactions. While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, Australian Labradoodles are renowned for their low-shedding, allergy-friendly coats.
3. Non-shedding: Minimal shedding means less cleanup and better air quality in your home. This characteristic makes them ideal for people who want a clean home without constantly battling dog hair.
4. Extreme Loyalty: Develop strong bonds with their families and are eager to please. Australian Labradoodles are known for their devotion to their human companions and their desire to be an integral part of family life.
5. Intelligence: Highly trainable and excel in various roles, from family companions to service dogs. Their quick learning ability and problem-solving skills make them a joy to train and live with.

The Australian Labradoodle Advantage

While many labradoodle breeders focus on various types of doodles, Harmony Labradoodles specializes in Australian Labradoodles. Here's what sets them apart:

Multigenerational Breeding

Australian Labradoodles are the result of careful, multigenerational breeding since the 1980s. This long-term breeding approach has allowed for the refinement of desirable traits and the reduction of less desirable ones.

Consistent Traits

Unlike first-generation crosses, Australian Labradoodles have more predictable appearance and temperament. This consistency is crucial for families who want to know what to expect from their new furry family member.

Health-Focused

Rigorous health testing ensures healthier puppies with fewer genetic issues. Harmony Labradoodles, in line with ALAA standards, conducts extensive health screenings on their breeding dogs to minimize the risk of hereditary health problems.

Versatility

Suitable for various roles, including family pets, therapy dogs, and service animals. The Australian Labradoodle's intelligence and adaptability make them excellent candidates for a wide range of roles beyond just being a family companion.

The ALAA Difference

As ALAA partners, Harmony Labradoodles adheres to the highest standards of breeding and ethical practices. The Australian Labradoodle Association of America (ALAA) is dedicated to the well-being of the Australian Labradoodle breed and promotes responsible dog companionship.

Here's why the ALAA partnership matters:

1. Verified Pedigrees: ALAA maintains a database of pedigrees and health testing for registered dogs, ensuring the authenticity of Australian Labradoodles. This record-keeping is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the breed and tracking genetic health trends.
2. Breed Standards: ALAA has established breed standards that conscientious breeders work towards, promoting consistency in temperament, coat, and structure. These standards help ensure that Australian Labradoodles maintain their desirable characteristics across generations.
3. Health Focus: ALAA-registered breeders commit to extensive health testing and responsible breeding practices. This commitment helps reduce the incidence of genetic health issues in the breed.
4. Education: ALAA provides valuable resources and education for both breeders and owners. This ongoing education helps maintain high standards of breeding and care throughout the Australian Labradoodle community.
5. Ethical Breeding: ALAA members adhere to a strict code of ethics, ensuring the welfare of their dogs and puppies. This ethical framework guides breeders in making responsible decisions about breeding practices, puppy placement, and ongoing support for dog owners.

The History of Australian Labradoodles

1980s Origins

The breed originated when Wally Conron, working for the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia, crossed a Labrador Retriever with a Standard Poodle to create a hypoallergenic guide dog. This innovative approach aimed to combine the trainability of the Labrador with the non-shedding coat of the Poodle.

Refined Breeding

Two pioneering breeding programs, Tegan Park and Rutland Manor, further developed the breed to enhance desirable traits. These breeders worked tirelessly to improve the consistency and quality of Australian Labradoodles, laying the foundation for the breed we know today.

Infusion of Cocker Spaniel

Australian Labradoodles carry DNA from Labradors, Poodles, and Cocker Spaniels (American or English), contributing to their unique characteristics. The addition of Cocker Spaniel to the breeding program helped refine the coat texture and temperament of the breed.

Decades of Development

Unlike other "doodle" breeds, Australian Labradoodles have been carefully bred over generations, focusing on temperament, coat quality, and health. This long-term approach to breeding has resulted in a more stable and predictable breed compared to first-generation crosses.

Understanding Labradoodle Types

• F1 Labradoodles: First-generation cross between a purebred Poodle and Labrador Retriever. These dogs typically have moderate- to low-shedding coats and may have sparse-hair to fleece coat types.
• F1B Labradoodles: An F1 Labradoodle bred back to a purebred Poodle. These dogs often have low- to non-shedding coats and may have hair or fleece coat types.
• Australian Labradoodles: Carry DNA from Labradors, Poodles, and Cocker Spaniels. They are the result of multigenerational breeding and exhibit more consistent traits.
• Multigenerational Australian Labradoodles: Bred from two Australian Labradoodles, ensuring more consistent traits and typically non-shedding coats. These dogs represent the culmination of decades of careful breeding.

Sizes of Australian Labradoodles

Harmony Labradoodles specializes in miniature Australian Labradoodles, but it's good to know the full range of sizes available:

1. Miniature: 14-16 inches (35-42 cm) at the shoulder
2. Medium: 17-20 inches (43-52 cm) at the shoulder
3. Standard: 21-24 inches (53-63 cm) at the shoulder

The size variation allows potential owners to choose a dog that best fits their lifestyle and living situation.

Coat Types and Colors

Coat Types

• Fleece: Can be wavy or curly, known for its soft, silky texture
• Wool: Always curly, resembling a Poodle's coat but often softer

Both coat types are considered low-shedding and allergy-friendly, though individual dogs may vary in their degree of allergen production.

Colors

Australian Labradoodles come in a wide range of colors, including: Chalk, Cream, Apricot, Gold, Red, Black, Blue, Silver, Caramel (various shades), Chocolate, Lavender, Café, and Parchment.

They can also display various patterns such as parti, tuxedo, sable, phantom, and tri-phantom. This variety in coat colors and patterns adds to the unique charm of each Australian Labradoodle.

Caring for Your Australian Labradoodle

Grooming

1. Brushing: Daily brushing prevents matting and keeps the coat healthy.
2. Bathing: Regular baths (every 4-6 weeks) keep the coat clean and fresh.
3. Professional Grooming: Schedule professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for coat trimming and maintenance.

Nail Care

• Trim nails every 2-4 weeks, including dewclaws.
• If uncomfortable trimming at home, consult a professional groomer or veterinarian.

Eye Care

• Keep hair trimmed around the eyes to prevent irritation.
• Clean around the eyes regularly with dog-safe eye wipes.
• Monitor for any signs of infection or irregularities.

Dental Health

• Brush teeth 2-3 times a week (daily is ideal) using dog-specific toothpaste.
• Provide dental chews and toys to help maintain oral hygiene.
• Schedule regular dental check-ups with your veterinarian.

Exercise

• Aim for at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily.
• Activities can include walks, runs, fetch, or swimming.
• Mental stimulation through training and puzzle toys is also important.

Diet and Nutrition

• Choose high-quality dog food with good sources of protein and balanced nutrients.
• Avoid foods with artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.
• Adjust portions based on your dog's age, size, and activity level.

Health Considerations

• Regular Vet Check-ups: Schedule annual wellness exams and stay up-to-date on vaccinations.
• Genetic Health Testing: Reputable breeders conduct health tests to minimize the risk of genetic disorders.
• Flea and Tick Prevention: Use appropriate preventative treatments to protect against parasites.
• Spaying/Neutering: Discuss the best time for spaying or neutering with your veterinarian.

Australian Labradoodles as Service and Therapy Dogs

• Service Dogs: Trained to assist individuals with disabilities in daily tasks.
• Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): Provide comfort and emotional support to their owners.
• Therapy Dogs: Offer comfort and companionship in therapeutic settings like hospitals and nursing homes.

Choosing Your Australian Labradoodle

1. Research Breeders: Choose reputable labradoodle breeders like Harmony Labradoodles, who are ALAA partners.
2. Health Certifications: Ensure the breeder provides health clearances for the puppy's parents.
3. Meet the Parents: If possible, meet the puppy's parents to get an idea of temperament and size.
4. Socialization: Ask about early socialization practices to ensure well-adjusted puppies.
5. Ongoing Support: Choose a breeder who offers lifelong support and guidance.

Why Harmony Labradoodles Stands Out

1. Expertise: Years of experience in breeding and raising Australian Labradoodles.
2. Quality Assurance: Adherence to ALAA standards ensures healthy, well-bred puppies.
3. Personalized Matching: The McClures work closely with families to match them with the perfect puppy.
4. Ongoing Support: Commitment to supporting families throughout their Labradoodle's life.
5. Transparency: Open communication about breeding practices and puppy raising methods.

ALAA Code of Ethics

As ALAA partners, Harmony Labradoodles adheres to a strict code of ethics, which includes:

1. Ensuring proper care and welfare of all dogs under their control.
2. Breeding with the soundness of the Australian Labradoodle in mind.
3. Educating potential purchasers about responsible dog ownership.
4. Providing written instructions for dietary and veterinary care.
5. Maintaining proper records of breeding stock and offspring.
6. Avoiding matings known to produce life-inhibiting genetic defects.
7. Offering to take back and rehome any dog from their program if needed.

Bringing Home Your Harmony Labradoodle

1. Puppy-Proof Your Home: Secure potential hazards and create a safe environment.
2. Gather Supplies: Stock up on essentials like food, bowls, crate, bed, toys, and grooming tools.
3. Establish a Routine: Set up a consistent schedule for feeding, potty training, and exercise.
4. Socialization: Plan for early socialization experiences to raise a well-adjusted dog.
5. Training: Begin basic obedience training early to establish good habits.

Begin Your Journey with an Australian Labradoodle

Choosing an Australian Labradoodle from Harmony Labradoodles means embarking on a rewarding journey with a loving, intelligent, and adaptable companion. As dedicated labradoodle breeders and proud ALAA partners, the McClures are committed to producing healthy, well-socialized puppies that will bring joy to your family for years to come.

Whether you're looking for a family pet, a potential therapy dog, or a hypoallergenic companion, an Australian Labradoodle from Harmony Labradoodles could be the perfect match. With their expertise, passion, and commitment to the breed, Harmony Labradoodles stands ready to guide you through the process of finding and raising your ideal furry friend.

Take the first step towards bringing home your Australian Labradoodle. Contact Harmony Labradoodles today and experience the love, loyalty, and joy that these exceptional dogs bring to families across Georgia and beyond.