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What Makes an Australian Labradoodle

Learn about the history, temperament, coat types, and breed standards that define the authentic Australian Labradoodle.

Breed Origins

The Australian Labradoodle is a purpose-bred dog originally developed in Australia to create a low-shedding, allergy-friendly companion. Bred from Labrador Retrievers, Poodles, and Cocker Spaniels (both American and English), the breed was developed to serve as service and therapy dogs, with a consistent temperament, coat type, and structure across generations.

Breed Standard (According to ALAA & WALA)

The Australian Labradoodle breed standard is a detailed guide developed to ensure consistency, sound structure, and the preservation of the breed’s ideal traits. Below is an overview of the key elements that define an authentic Australian Labradoodle, based on guidelines set forth by the ALAA (Australian Labradoodle Association of America) and WALA (Worldwide Australian Labradoodle Association).

 

These traits are more than just aesthetic — they represent the physical, behavioral, and temperamental qualities that make this breed exceptional as family companions, therapy dogs, and service dogs.

 

At Cardinal’s Crossing, we use these standards to guide our breeding practices with purpose and integrity. Take a look at what makes this breed so uniquely wonderful.

A large caramel Australian Labradoodle, a medium black Australian Labradoodle, and a large black Labradoodle sit side-by-side

Size:

  • Miniature (14–16")

  • Medium (17–20")

  • Standard (21–24")

Bodhi, a medium black Australian Labradoodle sits on the outside steps looking at the camera.

Coat Types:

Fleece (soft, wavy) or Wool (tighter curl); low to non-shedding

A close-up side profile of Bodhi, a black Australian Labradoodle.

Eyes:

Large, expressive, almond-shaped, and set well apart

A close-up side profile of Bodhi, a black Australian Labradoodle.

Weight:

  • Minis: 15–25 lbs

  • Mediums: 30–45 lbs

  • Standards: 50–65 lbs

Bodhi, a medium black Australian Labradoodle sitting on a stone patio looking up at the camera happily.

Temperament:

Sociable, clever, intuitive, emotionally connected to people

A close-up of a large black Labradoodle, a medium black Australian Labradoodle, and a large caramel Australian Labradoodle.

Colors:

Cream, chocolate, red, black, gold, apricot, phantom, parti, and more

Black Australian Labradoodle standing in a free stack pose on grass, showing structure and wavy fleece coat.

Structure:

Balanced, athletic, slightly longer than tall, with medium bone

Bodhi, a medium black Australian Labradoodle running alongside Milo, a large caramel Australian Labradoodle.

Movement:

Light, springy gait; confident and joyful

A big white X in the center of a black background inside a white frame pictured on a living room wall.

Disqualifiers:

Aggression, straight coat, shedding coat, poor eye contact

The Heart Behind Our Standards

At Cardinal’s Crossing, our commitment to the Australian Labradoodle runs deeper than appearance — it’s rooted in purpose, legacy, and a promise to do right by the breed.

In honor of Max, my first service dog and the inspiration behind our program, we approach every breeding decision with care, compassion, and integrity.

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We are proud to uphold the integrity of the breed by aligning our practices with the standards set by the ALAA and WALA — ensuring each dog is not only well-structured and healthy, but also emotionally attuned and purpose-driven.

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From our foundation stud Bodhi to every future pairing, our dogs are raised with love, extensively health tested, and intentionally selected to preserve the traits that make Australian Labradoodles exceptional — as loyal companions, therapy partners, and working service dogs.

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Health, Structure, and Predictability Matter

Following breed standards helps ensure every Australian Labradoodle not only looks the part but also acts and thrives as intended. These guidelines help breeders select dogs with the correct temperament, health, and structure — ultimately improving the breed and providing families with predictable, joyful companions.

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