Some Questions and Answers

1. What are the differences between the F1 and F1b generations of labradoodles?
The F1 is half poodle and half labrador retriever. Both of these parent breeds are highly intelligent, loyal, athletic,and easily trainable. The poodle brings in a low to non-shedding coat and relief from allergies for those who are sensitive to dog dander and saliva. The F1b labradoodle is 75% poodle (more or less, depending how the genes line up for each particular dog) and brings an even greater chance of low to non-shedding hair. But, the only way to test for an allergic response to labradoodles is to pet one! I had a family with known allergies come by to visit recently and they hugged both of my doodles (F1 and F1b) without any allergic reaction.
The F1 doodle has a higher chance of being a hair coat, which is low maintenance, but tends to do some shedding and can cause more of an allergic response in some people. But, many F1 doodles have fleece coats, which need a moderate amount of grooming. My Maggie has a fleece coat and she does not mat very much at all. I brush her several times a week to keep her from looking too scruffy. She goes to the groomer every 3 months or so for a trim. It is important to keep the ears plucked and clean to avoid ear infections since they have long, floppy ears.
The F1b doodle usually has a fleece or wool coat, although some will have a hair coat. F1b's have a higher chance of hair matting and need regular brushing and more frequent trips to the groomer than the F1. The F1b coat tends to grow significantly longer than the F1. Some doodle owners choose to shave their doodles because of matting problems. Shaving also allows the doodle to be cooler in the hot summer months. My Lucy (F1b) has a very thick, wavy, beautiful coat and she does occasionally mat when her coat gets long. She needs to be brushed several times a week and she goes to the groomer every 2 months.
The personality differences in the generations is more dependent upon the parent dogs. If the parents tend to be mellow, the pups will usually inherit that quality. If the parents are hyper, the pups will tend to be busier and more challenging. The same can be said for health. Parent dogs with known good hips, eyes, hearts, etc. produce pups with a high chance of excellent health.

2. Are doodles easy to train?
Yes, labradoodles are easy to train, but owner involvement is mandatory. They need consistant training to achieve good results. Puppies need to have constant positive reinforcement for their appropriate behavior. Getting a puppy and expecting them to not chew on things or not piddle in the house is unrealistic. A lot of time is involved with teaching a puppy about the human world. Puppies need socialization from an early age to learn appropriate social skills with people and other animals. Doodles are smart and they can be destructive if not taught the proper behavior desired. Puppy obedience classes are a great way to learn how to teach your puppy correctly, and it is fun to meet other new puppy owners. Most dogs like to "have a job" and to learn. There are many different classes to take, such as agility, tricks, Rally-O, dancing, etc. Learning with your dog creates a wonderful bond between you.

3. I work full-time and I am gone all day. Is it okay to get a puppy?
Many hours alone is not okay for a puppy. The pup needs to go out several times a day at first to go potty. They need social interaction, as well. Having a friend come over to be with the pup every few hours would help, or utilizing doggy day care, after the pup has all of his shots, is an option. Another option would be to adopt an older puppy or dog that does not need as much attention as a young puppy requires.

4. How old is the puppy when it comes home with me?
I will send home pups at 8 weeks of age.

5. What vaccinations are required?
Your puppy will receive it's first 5 in 1 vaccination before it comes home to you. This includes canine distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, adenovirus, and parainfluenza. You will need to visit your vet within 72 hours and discuss future vaccinations. Most puppies receive shots every 3 weeks until 16 weeks. Until that time, do not take your puppy to the park or out to public places! Parvovirus, especially, is very contagious and your puppy will not have full immunity! Everyone wants to show off their new puppy, but you must wait for the health of your new baby. Your puppy will also be wormed 3-4 times before going home.

6. What do I need to buy before bringing my puppy home?
Here is a list of some things to buy:
Crate and pad
Adustable collar (no choke chains) and ID tag
Leash
Brush
Nail file for little nails and nail clipper for older pup
Puppy Food (use the same brand as the puppy has been eating)
Food dish and water bowl (no plastic)
Small, soft training treats
Chew toys such as Nylabone, squeaky toys without small parts, balls, bully sticks.
Poop bags and a pooper scooper
Mild puppy shampoo
Toothbrush and toothpaste for dogs
Rug cleaner such as Nature's Miracle or Pets and Kids

7.What are some good resources for doodle owners?
Goldendoodles.com Lots of information about doodles
thedoodlezoo.com Doodle owners share thoughts, stories, and training ideas
idog.biz International Doodle Owner's Group
ilainc.com Australian Labradoodle Assn. of America
annsdoodlechat.com
http://www.family-pets.com/description.html Kate's Family Pets
http://www.whole-dog-journal.com/ The Whole Dog Journal

Fun shopping resources:

doodlesport.com
cafepress.com
4dogoutfitters.com
http://www.cafepress.com/kiniart/307735 KiniArt Designs