Understanding Australian Labradoodles: From First-Gen to Multi-Gen

When it comes to Labradoodles, you might come across a variety of terms such as "F1," “F2,” "backcross" or "multi-gen" which may get a little confusing. Our experts break down what each of these terms means and how they impact the breed's characteristics.

What is a Hybrid Dog? 

You’ve probably heard the term "hybrid" tossed around when it comes to dogs, but the truth is, it’s often used incorrectly. In the dog world, a hybrid technically refers to the offspring of two different species, like a donkey and a zebra (a "zebronkey") or a lion and a tiger (a "liger"). When two different dog breeds are crossed, it’s not a hybrid, it’s called crossbreeding!

First-Generation Labradoodle (F1): The Original Mix

The F1 Labradoodle is the result of crossing a Poodle with a Labrador Retriever. This is your classic first-generation Labradoodle, and it’s a 50% Poodle, 50% Labrador mix. This crossbreeding often leads to what’s called "hybrid vigor," which means the puppies may be healthier than the parent breeds. But there’s a catch: less predictability. You may get puppies with straight coats (like a Lab), curly coats (like a Poodle) or wavy coats. Shedding can also vary, and some may have more dander than others. This makes F1 Labradoodles less ideal for families with severe allergies. So, if you’re looking for F1 Labradoodle puppies, keep in mind there may be a variety of coat types and shedding potential.

Second-Generation Labradoodle (F2): A Second Chance at a Mix

An F2 Labradoodle is the result of breeding two F1 Labradoodles together. While it's still a 50/50 mix, this second-generation cross still comes with the same unpredictability as the first one. Puppies may have a range of coat types, and there’s still no guarantee when it comes to shedding or hypoallergenic qualities. So, if you’re looking for more predictability, an F2 may not be the best choice.

Backcross Labradoodles (F1b & F2b): Bringing More Consistency

F1b Labradoodle

An F1b Labradoodle is a mix between an F1 Labradoodle and a Poodle. This backcross produces a 75% Poodle and 25% Labrador mix. The goal here is to improve coat quality, specifically to get the hypoallergenic, non-shedding coat of a Poodle. F1b Labradoodles are more likely to have a curly or wavy fleece coat, and the breed’s characteristics become more predictable. These dogs are usually a better choice for families with moderate to severe allergies.

F2b Labradoodle

An F2b Labradoodle is the result of breeding an F1 Labradoodle with an F1b Labradoodle. This is technically the first multi-generation cross in the Labradoodle family, and it introduces more predictability in terms of coat type and shedding. F2b Labradoodles are often non-shedding and more allergy-friendly.

Multi-Generational Labradoodles: Consistency Over Time

A multi-gen Labradoodle has been bred for three or more generations, consistently refining traits like coat quality, personality and size. At this stage, we have more control over the passed-down traits, so these dogs tend to be highly consistent in their appearance, temperament and hypoallergenic qualities. Multi-gen Labradoodles are often the best choice for families seeking a reliable, non-shedding, allergy-friendly dog.

Australian Labradoodles: 30+ Years of Crossbreeding

An Australian Labradoodle is a specific type of multi-gen Labradoodle selectively bred for over 30 years. Not only does it involve Poodles and Labradors, but it also includes other breeds such as the Irish Water Spaniel, the American Cocker Spaniel, the English Cocker Spaniel and the Curly-Coated Retriever. This crossbreeding has helped enhance qualities like coat texture, temperament and size.

Australian Labradoodles are generally shorter, stockier and have a more compact muzzle compared to the American Labradoodles. Because of their well-established breeding lines, they tend to be incredibly consistent, shedding very little (if at all) and being more hypoallergenic. These dogs make fantastic family pets.

The Australian Labradoodle is the foundation of our breeding program at The Labradoodle Corral. 100% of our program is multi-generational Australian Labradoodles. Have a look at all our available Labradoodles for sale.

Contact the Labradoodle breeding experts in Wisconsin at Labradoodle Corral for all your cross bred puppies available for adoption.