Buying an Australian Labradoodle
We are told again and again what a minefield it is looking for an Australian Labradoodle puppy, so we have put together some help and advice to get you started as well as some Frequently Asked Questions.
FAQs
WHY DO I HAVE TO JOIN A WAITING LIST WITH A DEPOSIT?
A deposit is a commitment to a breeder that you have every intention of purchasing a puppy. The Waiting lists held by most breeders consist of customers who are committed to that breeder and have done their research and are satisfied that the breeder can provide a puppy within the time frame offered. Most breeders of the AL have many enquiries every day and it would be impossible to keep track of interested parties without such a commitment.
I CAN'T MAKE A DECISION UNLESS I HAVE VISITED THE BREEDER AND SEEN THE PUPPIES/DOGS MYSELF
Many breeders will not allow visits to their home/establishment without a reservation. Going from breeder to breeder looking for the 'right' puppy is a very outdated and irresponsible practise. You could find yourself visiting premises where disease is present and then this could be carried to another breeder via clothing for example. Parvo Virus is a deadly infectious disease in the animal kingdom and can spread like wildfire. Most reputable breeders have strict bio security arrangements in place in order to fulfil their Star Licence Rating which should actually give the buyer confidence that strict hygiene and safety standards are already in place and have been checked by the breeder's Local Authority. Viewing Days are held for customers who have already reserved a puppy and these are held at the Breeder's discretion.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I LOSE MY DEPOSIT?
A reputable breeder will refund a deposit if they let a customer down and cannot offer a puppy in a given time frame. If the customer lets the breeder down, the deposits are usually non refundable. This is the case with most items people buy in advance. Do your research before committing and take your time.
HOW DOES THE DEPOSIT/WAITING LIST WORK?
Breeders have their own systems that work for them and you will need to check with individual breeders how their system works. Generally speaking once on a waiting list, a breeder will get in touch with you when a puppy becomes available. The days of going to see a litter that isn't already reserved in advance are no longer. The Australian Labradoodle is in demand and you will rarely find a breeder who doesn't have a waiting list of several months or even years in advance.
DOES THE AUSTRALIAN LABRADOODLE NEED MUCH GROOMING?
The coat of a Genuine Australian Labradoodle does not shed and will continue to grow, so you will need to take your AL for regular professional grooming approx every 8-10 weeks from around 5-6 months of age. A puppy coat at 5-6 months of age should be scissor cut and a good groomer will be able to work to a photo if you have one available of the correct 'look'. Daily combing with a steel comb helps to keep the coat matt free and as the coat is self cleaning with natural oils, it's best to only bath if exceptionally dirty. Paw washes are recommended after muddy walks! The coat can be protected by a Doggy Coat or Equafleece when out for cold and wet walkies.
CAN I SEE THE HEALTH TEST INFORMATION OF THE BREEDING PARENTS?
Health Testing documents are the Breeder's property and so results are usually displayed appropriately on the Breeder's Website to give customers confidence. Unfortunately there are too many scams and disreputable individuals who can forge documents to fit their own needs, so breeders are able to show health testing documentation privately on View Day if required. Veterinary documentation, including microchip information and any other health documents concerning individual puppies should be included in the Puppy Pack given by the breeder on collection of the puppy.