Question 1

How Do You Ensure the Health of Your Puppies?

Accepted Answer

The Australian Labradoodle is widely regarded as a naturally robust and healthy breed—thanks to thoughtful, ethical breeding practices and the intentional avoidance of exaggerated physical traits often seen in show-focused lines. Bred for temperament, function, and overall wellbeing rather than appearance alone, this breed enjoys a lower incidence of many hereditary conditions.

Here at Didgeridoodles, we take health testing very seriously. 
Every breeding decision we make is backed by extensive screening to give your future puppy the best chance at a long, healthy life.
Genetic Testing

We partner with trusted laboratories like Embark and Pet Genetics to run DNA tests on all of our breeding dogs. These simple tests help us screen for the following conditions:
 • DM (Degenerative Myelopathy) – A progressive      spinal cord disease
 • PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) – A      genetic eye disorder leading to vision loss
 • VWD (Von Willebrand Disease) – A blood  clotting disorder
 • EIC (Exercise-Induced Collapse) – Causes muscle weakness or collapse after intense activity
 • HNPK (Hereditary Nasal Parakeratosis) –      Affects skin on the nose
 • SD2 (Skeletal Dysplasia 2) – A form of      dwarfism
 • NE (Neonatal Encephalopathy) – A serious brain disorder in newborns
 • CNM (Centronuclear Myopathy) – Affects muscle  strength and tone
 • IC (Improper Coat) – Ensures proper coat type   in Australian Labradoodles

Hip & Elbow Scoring

We use BVA scoring (British Veterinary Association) to assess joint soundness:
 • Hip Scoring/Elbow Scoring- Testing on all our breeding dogs here at Didgeridoodles

What You Can Expect with Your Puppy:

• Full veterinary health check
 • Microchipped 
 • Wormed at 3, 5, and 7 weeks with Panacur
 • A three-year genetic health guarantee
 • Raised in a loving, busy home environment with other family dogs and everyday household sounds
 • Socialized with cuddles, kisses, and lots of playtime
 • Early introduction to grooming and the grooming experience
 • We incorporate Early Scent Introduction (ESI) and Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) in our puppy rearing—proven techniques that support brain development, confidence, and resilience from a young age.
 • Weaned onto a raw diet and introduced to healthy treats.

We’re proud of the care we put into every puppy—and we’re here to help you welcome a happy, healthy companion into your life.

Question 2

How do you raise your puppies?

Accepted Answer

From just three days old, our puppies begin their journey with Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) and Early Scent Introduction (ESI)—proven methods that enhance their development, improve resilience, and help shape them into calm, confident, and adaptable adults. ENS gently introduces mild stressors, promoting strong nervous system development, while ESI enhances their ability to process new scents, benefiting problem-solving and adaptability.

By two weeks, we begin toilet training and a structured socialisation programme, exposing puppies to a variety of experiences, including household sounds, grooming routines, vet check practice, car rides, and gentle interactions with other dogs and adults.

We also teach basic treat manners, ensuring puppies take treats gently. 
Our puppies even get outdoor experiences with fun buggy walks in the fresh air to safely introduce them to the outside world.

Weather permitting, they also enjoy early swimming sessions in our outdoor pool, helping them develop water confidence.

The dedication and care we put into our puppies reflect in their calm, well-adjusted temperaments, allowing them to transition seamlessly into their new homes.

We take extraordinary care to ensure each puppy is given the best start in life—with love, health, and enrichment at the core of our programme.

Because of the time and commitment we invest in raising our puppies, we ask that only those fully prepared for a puppy to continue this journey with us.

We want to ensure our puppies go to homes that will continue the love, training, and dedication they deserve. 🐾💛

Question 3

What size will they be?

Accepted Answer

Curious about the size of Australian Labradoodles? Here’s a quick guide:

• Miniature: 13 - 16" at the shoulder, weighing10 - 14kg—similar in size to a Cocker Spaniel.
 • Medium: 16 - 19" at the shoulder, weighing 14 - 19kg—comparable to a Springer Spaniel or Labrador.
 • Standard: 20" and above at the shoulder, weighing 20kg+—similar to a Golden Retriever or Standard Poodle.

Our puppies will be Medium size, as we're committed to maintaining this perfect balance!

Question 4

How is the grooming, is it easy?

Accepted Answer

You need to keep on top of it with a groom appointment every 6 – 8 weeks costing around £50 each time. 
But with your brush and some detangling spray it's pretty easy, but definitely keep on top of the brushing.

• Labradoodles can have very thick coats, and daily brushing will cut down on matting and knotting 
 • The longer you leave the coat to grow, the more care you will need to keep it tangle free

It is important to get your labradoodle puppy used to brushing at a very young age so they get used to the grooming when they are older!

Question 5

I’ve heard they get hairy ears, how do we manage?

Accepted Answer

Simply clean often and if in doubt get the Vet to clip them on your visits. Groomers can help too! If they get irritated, we can suggest a soothing ear lotion! 
Usually, itchy ears are due to poor gut health. We recommend Nutripaw pre, pro and post biotics treats as part of their healthy regime.

Question 6

What to feed an ALD?

Accepted Answer

Our Feeding Programme

From the very beginning, we’re committed to giving our puppies the very best start in life — and that begins with nutrition.
At weaning, our pups start on Nutriment Weaning Formula, and as they grow, we gradually transition them onto Nutriment Raw.

A raw diet provides balanced, natural nutrition packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients. This supports strong bone development, a glossy coat, healthy digestion, steady growth, and overall wellbeing — all incredibly important for growing pups.

We recommend to continue raw feeding throughout the first year. Then, around 12 months of age, you can choose to transition your dog.

There are many excellent brands available, and we’re always happy to offer guidance.

Our adult dogs thrive on a Canagan wet and kibble mix, which provides a nutritious, protein-rich diet to keep them healthy, energetic, and in peak condition.

We also add salmon oil to our adult dogs' meals, as it supports skin and coat health, joint mobility, and overall wellness.

Whatever you choose to feed, we always recommend looking for high protein content and premium ingredients to support your puppy’s growth and your adult dog’s long-term health.

This feeding programme works wonderfully for us, but you’re welcome to do your own research and choose what suits your dog and family best. We’re always here if you need advice!

FAQ