White Labradoodle: Expert Review Of This Rare Colored Dog

The white Labradoodle is a cross between a white Standard Poodle and a white Labrador Retriever. This Australian-developed hybrid breed combines the gentle, friendly nature of the Lab with the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle. 

White Labradoodles have a fluffy, soft, white coat that can be wavy or curly like a Poodle’s or straight like a Lab’s. Their affectionate, energetic temperament makes them great family dogs and companions. 

While quite rare compared to other colors, the white Labradoodle has become popular for its stunning snowy coat and for being non-shedding and hypoallergenic. With training and care, these smart, sociable dogs make wonderful additions to active households.

What is a White Labradoodle?

Origin and genetics

The Labradoodle breed comes from Australia. People mixed a Labrador Retriever and a Standard Poodle to make this dog. They wanted a pet that did not cause allergies. A White Labradoodle is just such a mix but with white fur.

It’s cool because white is not common for Labrador Retrievers, only for Poodles! With just some small gene changes, we get a new breed of Australian labradoodle dog!

Inherited coat color

The color of a white Labradoodle comes from its Poodle parent. The lighter-colored Labrador Retriever passes on this trait. This thing happens because of genes the puppy gets when it is born.

There is no pigmentation in the fur of white Labradoodles. That’s why they are white. The White Spotting gene makes this happen. Labradors do not have an S gene. So, if you see a white Labradoodle puppy, know that it got its color from the Poodle side!

The Mystery of the White Coat

The white coat of a labradoodle can be quite mystifying, with its unique appearance and specialized traits that set it apart from other coat colors.

Unique appearance and traits

White Labradoodles shine with a unique appearance and traits. Here is what sets them apart:

1. A snowy coat: This white fur comes from their Poodle parent and makes them stand out.
2. White Fur: They are a mix of Labrador Retriever and Poodle, both known for their light fur coats.
3. Abstract or Mis-Marks: Some dogs have a base coat color with white mis-marks giving them a unique pattern.
4. Inherited Traits: Their look results from dominant genes or certain features from the parent breeds.
5. Parti or Piebald Coat: Dogs with two copies of the insertion gene often have an all-white, parti, or piebald coat, marking another special trait of this breed.
6. Crossbreed Results: The blend of Labrador and Poodle genes brings about exciting combinations in their appearance.

Health Considerations for White Labradoodles

White Labradoodles have unique health considerations linked with their distinct coat color, including risks, common issues, and required care management practices. 

Risks and common health issues

White Labradoodles face health risks just like any other dog breed.

1. Hip dysplasia is a big worry for them.
2. They can also get heart problems called nutritional dilated cardiomyopathy.
3. Cancer is another threat because their parent breeds, the Labrador Retriever and Standard Poodle, are prone to it.
4. Blood vessel disease, or hemangiosarcoma, is a risk too.
5. Eye issues can come from their curly coats if they are not groomed well.
6. Regular check-ups with the vet can catch these problems early.

How to care for a white Labradoodle?

Here are some tips for caring for a white Labradoodle puppy or dog:

1. Groom them regularly. White coats need consistent brushing and combing to prevent matting. Bathe and trim as needed. Many owners use professional groomers every 6-8 weeks.
2. Brush their teeth daily. White fur around the mouth stains easily. Regular brushing prevents tartar buildup as well.
3. Clean their ears weekly. Flopped ears like the poodle are prone to infections. Gently wipe inside ears with a vet-approved cleanser.
4. Trim nails often. Light nails are easier to clip without hitting the quick. If they click on floors, they are too long.
5. Use sun protection. White dogs are prone to sunburn. Limit time outside during peak hours. Apply dog-safe sunscreen to ears and nose 30 mins before going out.
6. Feed high-quality food. Follow portion guidelines to prevent obesity. 
7. Ensure they get daily exercise. Walks, playtime, or training sessions will help manage energy levels.
8. Enroll in obedience training. Socialization and manners are essential for this intelligent, energetic mix. 

With proper care, grooming, training and love, a white Labradoodle will be a wonderful, lifetime companion! Let me know if you have any other care questions.

Choosing a White Labradoodle

Choosing a white Labradoodle is an exciting process, but it’s crucial to ensure that you select a reputable breeder and determine whether this unique breed fits your lifestyle. 

How do you select a reputable breeder?

Here are some tips for selecting a reputable breeder when looking for a white Labradoodle puppy:

• Ensure the breeder does all the recommended OFA health testing on the parent dogs. Required tests include hips, elbows, eyes, and DNA for PRA-PRCD progressive retinal atrophy.
• Ask for documentation of the health testing results and verify the information on the OFA database.
• Look for breeders from the Australian Labradoodle Association of America (ALAA). This indicates dedication to the breed.
• Choose an experienced breeder who has been breeding for several years, not someone breeding their pet dogs. 
• Ask to meet the parent dogs in person. Evaluate their appearance, personalities and the breeder’s facilities.
• Good breeders will have a waitlist and take the time to ask you questions to ensure their puppies go to good homes.
• Avoid breeders who have multiple litters available, push for sales, or won’t let you see where the dogs live.
• Expect to be put on a waiting list. Reputable breeders rarely have white Labradoodle puppies immediately available. 
• Ensure the breeder provides a health guarantee contract and is willing to take back dogs if needed. 
• Ask for references from previous puppy owners and follow up to learn about their experiences.

Finding a responsible, ethical breeder is crucial to getting a happy, healthy white Labradoodle that will be a wonderful companion! Let me know if you need any other tips.

Is a white Labradoodle right for you?

You may love white Labradoodles. They have snowy coats and look pretty. This dog breed is very friendly, too. But keep in mind that these dogs need a lot of care. Their coat needs grooming often.

Getting this type of dog also means you want an active, smart friend. White Labradoodles are great for people who train their pets to do tricks or tasks. If this sounds good to you, then a white Labradoodle might be the right fit!

Coat Color Genetics

Dive into canine genetics to understand how the Labradoodle inherits its unique white coat and learn about factors like albinism, dilution gene, and premature graying that influence this enchanting snowy color.

Albinism

Albinism is a rare health issue in dogs. It happens when a pup can’t make melanin. Melanin gives color to a dog’s fur, skin, and eyes. In pups with albinism, they lack this color in their bodies due to gene issues.

As such, they have white coats and light-colored or even blue eyes. While it might look cool, there are downsides too. These pups often have trouble seeing well and may not hear at their best.

They also show more than normal sensitivity to sunlight, which can lead to an increased chance of skin cancer if not managed properly.

Dilute gene

The dilute gene plays a big part in coat color. It can make dogs have light or soft colors. It is like a paintbrush that turns black or brown into shades of gray, blue, or very pale brown.

This change happens at the D locus in dog genes because of a mutation. Many versions of this gene can create these lighter colors or even affect red hues by lightening phaeomelanin.

Premature graying gene

The genes of a Labradoodle play a big role in how their coat looks. One gene that has an impact is the premature graying gene. This gene can make a Labradoodle’s hair turn gray or blue early. The Poodle parent often passes down this special trait.

A white Labradoodle may also get its light color from the dilute gene. This same gene can give the dog’s coat a gray or blue tint too. Sometimes, lack of certain things in their body like ferritin, calcium, and vitamin D3 can cause early graying too.

The Temperament of White Labradoodles

White Labradoodles tend to have wonderful friendly, affectionate temperaments inherited from both the Poodle and Labrador Retriever breeds. Here’s some information on their typical temperament:

• Intelligent – They are very smart, attentive dogs who are eager to please and responsive to training. The Poodle side gives them high working intelligence.
• Energetic – White Labradoodles are energetic, especially as puppies. They require a good amount of daily exercise and mental stimulation. Activity levels may vary depending on the exact mix.
• Playful – These dogs are playful and fun-loving. They enjoy playing games, learning tricks, or playing fetch with their family. Proper exercise prevents destructive behavior.
• Friendly – White Labradoodles are extremely sociable, outgoing dogs. They get along very well with people and other pets when properly socialized.
• Affectionate – They thrive on human companionship and bonds closely with their family. They enjoy being with people and receiving lots of love and attention.
• Loyal – Once bonded, these dogs become very loyal and devoted to their owners. They want to be true family members.
• Even-tempered – With early socialization and training, white Labradoodles develop a very adaptable, easygoing temperament. They tend to be patient dogs.
• Happy – Well-bred Labradoodles have a joyful zest for life. They have an enthusiastic spirit and positive outlook.

Training a white Labradoodle

Training a white Labradoodle takes effort, but these dogs are quick learners due to their intelligence. Here are some steps and tips:

1. Start training early: Getting your Labradoodle used to commands when they’re young is best.
2. Use positive reinforcement: Give treats or praise when your dog does well.
3. Be consistent: Make sure everyone in the home uses the same commands.
4. Take it slow: Don’t rush the process; allow your dog to learn at their speed.
5. Train daily: A little training each day goes a long way.
6. Include socializing as part of training: Meeting other dogs and people helps build good behavior.

Differences in temperament from other colors

White Labradoodles show the same temper as other Labradoodles. That means they are kind, friendly, and smart. They love to play and spend time with their human family. There is no change in how they act because of their coat color.

A white coat does not make them behave differently from dogs of different colors. So, if you choose a white Labradoodle, expect to have an affable and affectionate pet!

Grooming and Care

Delve into the world of maintaining the pearly sheen of a white Labradoodle’s coat, including tips on proper grooming techniques and important details about their specific care needs.

Coat care and maintenance

Taking care of a white Labradoodle’s coat needs time and effort. Here are some tips:

1. Regular grooming helps keep the coat clean and healthy.
2. Brush daily to remove any dirt or tangles.
3. Bathe your Labradoodle every six to eight weeks.
4. Use a pet-friendly shampoo that’s gentle on their sensitive skin.
5. Make sure to rinse well so no soap gets left behind.
6. Dry the coat thoroughly after each bath.
7. Trim the hair around their eyes, ears, and paws for safety and cleanliness.
8. If your Labradoodle has a fleece coat, more work is needed to maintain it.
9. Take your dog to a professional groomer if you need help with their coat care and maintenance.

How to groom a white Labradoodle?

Grooming a White Labradoodle is simple with the right steps.

1. Start by setting up a grooming schedule. Brush your Labradoodle once or twice each week.
2. During the shedding season, brush more often. This time need extra care for your pet’s coat.
3. Include a quick daily brushing in your routine. This keeps the coat neat and clean.
4. Do a deep brushing once every week. It helps to get rid of any tangles or loose hair.
5. Know that grooming needs can change based on your pet’s coat type and length.
6. Some Labradoodles may need grooming every week, while others may need it every two weeks.
7. You can also hire professional help for grooming your pet correctly.
8. Taking good care of the coat is important for your white Labradoodle’s health and look.

Where to Find a White Labradoodle Puppy

Discovering the perfect white Labradoodle puppy starts with identifying reputable breeders. It’s essential to seek out ethical and responsible sources that prioritize the health of their puppies.

• Search the Labradoodle Club of America’s breeder referral list. You can filter by state and request breeders that produce white puppies.
• Check listings on the Doodle Kisses breeder directory. They have listings for Labradoodle breeders across the US. Reach out to ones producing white litters.
• Contact reputable Labradoodle breeders such as Farview Labradoodles (Oregon), Rutland Manor Labradoodles (Virginia), Tonka Woods Labradoodles (Minnesota), and Top Shelf Labradoodles (Indiana).
• Search for local Labradoodle Facebook groups and ask members for breeder recommendations. Be clear you’re looking for a responsible breeder focused on health and temperament.
• Attend dog shows like the Eukanuba National Championship and Meet the Breeds events to connect with breeders and ask around.
• Broaden your search to include poodle breeders. White standard poodles can also be crossed with Labradors.
• Use the AKC Marketplace search tool and filter for white Labradoodle puppies. Vet any breeders carefully.
• Be prepared to travel out of state or be put on a waitlist. White Labradoodles are uncommon, so expect to wait several months for a puppy.

Adoption tips and suggestions

You can use these tips to find a White Labradoodle puppy.

1. Start by researching the breed. Understand what a Labradoodle is and why you want one.
2. Check with local dog shelters or rescue groups. They may have Labradoodles looking for a new home.
3. Look for Labrador retrievers and Poodles breeders, as they may also breed Labradoodles.
4. Make sure the breeder is good. You can ask them about their dogs’ health and care.
5. Use search tools to find puppies for adoption in your area.
6. Ask the breeder or shelter questions like where they got the dog, its age, and its health history.
7. Visit the puppy before adopting it to make sure it’s healthy and happy.

White Labradoodles in Pop Culture

Uncover the fame of White Labradoodles in pop culture, their adoration by celebrities and the buzz they’re creating on social media platforms. Dive further to explore how these snowy-coated stars charm their way into our hearts!

Popularity with celebrities

White Labradoodles became famous thanks to stars. Tiger Woods and Jennifer Aniston have these dogs. These pets often appear on social media.

The love for this breed from big names played a huge part in their fame. Celebrities set trends, and owning a White Labradoodle is one of them!

Influence on social media

White Labradoodles are stars on social media. Many influencers and Instagram celebrities share cute photos of their white Labradoodles. These viral dog photos boost the breed’s popularity online.

Social media accounts focused on pets also feature this breed often. Such pet trends make more people want to own a White Labradoodle. Even some famous faces have joined the trend!

Celebrity pet owners show off their fluffy friends too, adding to the buzz about this popular dog breed in online pet communities.

FAQs

Question	Answer
Do white Labradoodles shed?	Like all Labradoodles, white Labradoodles are considered a hypoallergenic designer breed and generally shed less than other breeds.
How big do white Labradoodles get?	The size of a white Labradoodle can vary, typically ranging from medium to large depending on the size of the Poodle parent.
What is the lifespan of a white Labradoodle?	White Labradoodles have a lifespan similar to other Labradoodles, typically living between 10 to 15 years.
Do white Labradoodles have any behavior problems?	White Labradoodles are generally friendly, loyal, and intelligent. Any behavior problems are typically due to lack of training or socialization, not color.
Do white Labradoodles have any specific health issues?	Like all Labradoodles, white Labradoodles can be prone to certain health issues. However, they are not predisposed to any health problems specifically because of their color.
Are white Labradoodles albinos?	White Labradoodles are not albinos. Their white coat color is inherited from their Poodle parent.

Conclusion

White Labradoodles are special. Their white coat is charming and eye-catching, but it’s their loving nature that wins hearts truly. They make great pets for families who like active dogs with fun traits. Owning a white Labradoodle can add joy to any home!