The last couple of years have seen many of us welcome a new four-legged friend into our homes, as the Kennel Club saw dog ownership rise by nearly eight per cent over the pandemic.
But with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, thereās plenty of thinking to do before you select your perfect pup.
Those with active lifestyles might want to consider a larger dog, while somebody with allergies will be looking for a hypoallergenic dog.
Thereās even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Corenās book āThe Intelligence of Dogsā ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
One dog that often appears at the top of peopleās canine wishlists is the Labradoodle ā they are one of the UKās most popular crossbreeds and have a range of positive attributes that make them a great family pet.
Here are 10 fun and interesting facts about the breed.
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1. All colours and sizes
The Labradoodle is a cross between a Poodle and a Labrador Retriever, but this can lead to a wide range of different-looking dogs. Depending on the size of Poodle (toy, miniature or standard) and the colour of the Labrador Retreiver (black, yellow, chocolate, or red), the resulting puppy can come in a large number of sizes and shades.
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2. In good health
Despite what Wally Conron says, the Australian Labradoodle Association of America, insists they are "generally considered healthy dogs", although they are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases and Addison's disease.
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3. Named and shamed
Australian Wally Conron has taken credit for coming up with the name 'Labradoodle' in 1989. He wasn't a fan of the crossbreed though, being of the opinion that healthy Labradoodles were "few and far between".
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4. Not a pedigree...yet
While the Labradoodle is not yet recognised as a breed by the Kennel Club, this could change. Many pedigree dogs started life as crossbreeds and some breeders of Labradoodles are attempting to establish the breed standard, regulations and ethical requirements required.
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