Photo: Rollo (Multi-gen Labradoodle (left), Ruapehu F1b Retradoodle (Groodle/Goldendoodle) (right)

Doodle, what a weird word and and even stranger name for a dog type. But names are names so we'll go with it. So Doodle in dog language means anything crossed with a poodle. The list is endless with the crosses but we will stick with the ones that we breed.

Retrodoodle (Goldendoodle / Groodle) Labradoodle Australian Labradoodle Double Doodle

RETRODOODLE / GOLDENDOODLE / GROODLE I'll bet you are scratching your head with all the oodle. Well relax, all of the ones listed above are the same cross. Golden Retreiver cross poodle mix. In New Zealand it is refered to as a Retrodoodle (which I think sounds coolest), while in Australia the same dog would be called a Groodle and in America and maybe other countries they are known as a Golden Doodle or Goldendoodle. Either way and what ever you call them the cross is the same and the breed (cross breed) is amazing.

LABRADOODLE Probably the simplest of the three. Labradoodle is as simple as it sounds. A cross with both Lab and Poodle. This is probably the simplest name, but the most complex breeding to get a type (certain look). Because of the vast difference in coat type these two breeds leave the most variation in their progency. We are very careful to breed for health, temperament and type to keep to a standard. Many poeple who know our dogs can almost pick them on the street. XOX

AUSTRALIAN LABRADOODLE You'd think it was just a Labradoodle from Australia. Ahhh... No. In Australia they have been working hard to "perfect the breed" to make it smaller, softer and family friendly. They started this with crosses including breeds such as Labrador Retriever, Poodle, Water Spaniel, Curly Coat Retriever, and English and American Cocker Spaniel and maybe more... Then narrowed down the breeds to the present day mix of Labrador, Poodle and the Cocker Spaniel.

DOUBLE DOODLE Just when you think you had it figured out there's another! Double Doodles are crosses with Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever and Poodle, so esentially it is a Goldendoodle (Retrodoodle / Groodle) Cross a Labradoodle.

It all seems very complicated. I'll try quickly to simplify it for you. When researching what oodle is best for you and your home, research the purebred breeds (ie: Golden Retriever) and note the difference there. After that, talk to the breeder about the parents and their ethos in their breeding program concerning health, type and temperament. See if the breeder has other dogs in your area and meet up to get a feel of the type they are breeding. Social media and oodle Facebook pages are ideal for asking questions of the masses. Remembering to check your sources.

I am passionate about our dogs and breeding program and about helping people understand and pick the best puppy to fit their home.