Black Labradoodle: Complete Guide, Photo and Tips

A Black Labradoodle puppy slicing through water with ease is an impressive sight on a sunny day. It is impossible not to be charmed by the elegance and sparkle of such a dog! The Black Labradoodle’s charisma and good looks have won over people from all around the world.

The excellent personality of Labs and the hypoallergenic coat and intelligence of the Poodle are brought together in these smart hybrids. The breeds friendliness and ability to adjust to different situations make them great pets for everyone, from families to single people and older people.

Let’s have a look at why this breed is so popular.

What is a Black Labradoodle?

A Black Labradoodle is a crossbreed dog with a striking black coat. Like all Doodles, it comes from pairing a Labrador Retriever with a standard Poodle.

Three basic colors define Labradors: chocolate, yellow and black. Conversely, Poodles have a wider variety of colors, including grey, apricot, black and white.

The Black doodle dog comes from the dominant black gene in both the parent breeds. Still, color genetics can be complex, and it is not always clear-cut how a puppy’s coat will turn out.

To raise the possibility of producing black Labradoodle offspring, breeders may match a black Labrador with a black Poodle. Most of the puppies in such a litter will probably have black coats.

History of the Black Labradoodle

In his 1955 autobiography, British sprinter Donald Campbell quipped that his dog was a Labradoodle ‘since he is a mixture of a Labrador and a poodle, all black with thick curly hair!’ Our question is, before breeding a Labrador retriever and Poodle in the 80s, did Australian breeder Wally Conron know the word for this ‘mix’?

Wally raised Labrador guide dogs as part of his job. He was the Royal Guide Dog Association of Australia’s breeding manager.

Because her husband was allergic, a blind Hawaiian woman needed a guide dog that would not shed. Wallace thought it would be easy to teach a minimal-shedding Poodle as a guide dog. Over three years, he attempted to train thirty-three poodles, but all failed. The Poodle was for sure not a guide dog!

Then Wally thought of another option. He crossed his best Labrador guide dog with a standard poodle. The Poodle’s coat was perfect, and he wanted the softness and trainability of the Lab. One of the three labradoodle puppies from the first litter, ‘Sultan,’ was eventually a guide dog to the woman in Hawaii for ten years and possessed all the qualities Wally desired.

The development of the Australian breed

Following Wally Conron’s first efforts, other breeders added breeds such as the Irish Water Spaniel and Curly-Coated Retriever, as well as more Poodle and Labrador lines, broadening the gene pool.

Commonly found in both Poodles and Labradors, the black color in Labradoodles developed through the transfer of dominant black genes from both of them. Selective breeding for coat color and texture improved the breed even more, producing Labradoodles with many looks, including whole black coats.

Physical Characteristics

True Black colored Labradoodles usually have black or dark brown eyes, which accentuate their charming look. Their black nose, lips, and eye rims also create a consistent look. Their unique appearance stems from even their dark paw pads and toenails. Their skin color is usually dark as well.

Australian Black Doodles vary somewhat from American ones. Australian Labradoodles with more varied genetic backgrounds—including breeds like the Irish Water Spaniel and Cocker Spaniel—have more consistent coats and temperaments.

Often first-generation hybrids, American Labradoodle coat type and personality may vary. Both varieties, though, have the intellect and appeal that define Labradoodles as such beloved pets.

Black Labradoodle vs Other Labradoodle Colors

Dark-furred doodle are notable for their glossy, jet-black coats, which usually hold their color for their lives.

Chocolate Labradoodles, on the other hand, could fade with time to a lighter brown or café tone. While Parti Labradoodles show a mix of white and other tones, including black or brown, Cream Labradoodles have a silky, pale coat ranging from off-white to light gold, providing a patchy, unusual look.

Color and temperament

Coat color has no direct bearing on the temperament of the pup. Whatever their color, all Labradoodles are renowned for their friendliness, intelligence, and trainability.

Nonetheless, coat type—curly, wavy, or straight—may affect shedding and grooming, indirectly influencing how owners view their dog’s personality. For instance, a Black Labradoodle with a curly coat may need additional care, which would help improve the link between dog and owner.

Temperament & Personality

Labradoodles have warm and caring personalities. They are the ideal dogs for a family setting. They are quite good with kids and may even like the cat!

Because they are so intelligent, Labradoodles will observe and learn quickly. They also respond well to training and make excellent service dogs. Labradoodles can even assist with small tasks around the house, such as putting the washing into the machine or fetching a newspaper. They naturally enjoy having a purpose!

Swimming, fetching, and learning new tricks keep them entertained and involved. Puppies do not like to spend much time alone. Therefore, early independence training is vital.

Exercise & Activity Needs

Labradoodles are active and relatively ‘high maintenance’ dogs. They need their exercise, and they need it every day. Keep this in mind when considering adding this breed to your family.

Size does matter for these dogs! Smaller Labradoodles, like black mini Labradoodles, require less exercise than their bigger counterparts. However, they still need daily walks to release energy and prevent boredom. Full-grown Black Labradoodles will need more intense workouts to meet their higher energy levels.

‘What exercises will my Labradoodle enjoy?’

• Walking or jogging: Perfect for bonding and everyday workouts.
• Swimming: Labradoodles love water!
• Fetch: Burn calories while searching for sticks. The ‘fetch’ game is also ideal for teaching your dog obedience.
• Hiking: Labradoodles are adventurous, and they enjoy exploring!
• Puzzle toys: When they must be indoors, puzzle toys can keep Labradoodles engaged for hours.
• Tug-of-war: Use a rope toy or an old towel to play with your dog.
• Playdates: Even dogs need friends! Socializing with other dogs means exercise and is also great for mental health.

Training The Breed

It is fulfilling to train black Labradoodles as they are so intelligent and interested in their surroundings. In fact, because Labradoodles can learn and carry out tasks so well, many of them are used as support dogs.

The best way to train a Doodle is by regular praise and by socializing them early with other dogs, cats and people.

Common behavioral issues that may arise in the black breed include:

• Separation anxiety,
• Excessive barking,
• Jumping on people and
• Resource guarding.

Owners can prevent this by giving them consistent exercise, training them early, stimulating them with games, and setting clear boundaries of what is acceptable and what is not.

Grooming & Coat Care

Should you choose a Black Labradoodle, it means to commit to a grooming schedule. Let’s face it: those amazing coats won’t take care of themselves! The good news is, thanks to their Poodle DNA, Black Labradoodles don’t shed as much. However, you still need to brush them regularly as their curly coats can mat fast.

Aim to brush your dog at least three times per week to keep their coat tangle-free and looking sharp. After all, who wants a walking mop for a dog?

Unless you are courageous enough to handle the clippers yourself, professional grooming every six to eight weeks is strongly advised. Although home grooming is doable, be ready for fur in places you did not know fur could go! In either case, your companion will appreciate you keeping them looking (and feeling) their best.

Do Black Labradoodles Turn Grey Over Time?

Yes, some Black Labradoodles can go somewhat grey with age. It is because of an inborn “dilute” gene. These dogs might have a full black coat fading to silvery grey. Their Poodle genes help to explain this. Poodles are often known for their coats getting lighter as they age, and they brought this to the table in the genetic mix of the Labradoodle.

But natural color changes also play a role. As they get older, Black Labradoodles may ‘turn grey’ just like humans. It is often notable around the face and nose of the dog.

Not all Black Labradoodles will undergo this transformation, however! Some will keep their rich dark coat throughout their lives.

Health & Lifespan

Common Health Issues

Common health concerns in this breed may include:

• Allergies (skin or food-related)
• Hip dysplasia
• Eye problems, such as cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
• Ear infections
• ACL injuries
• Epilepsy
• Bloating.

These issues can sound overwhelming. The good news is, however, that responsible breeding and regular vet care can help lower the risks of these issues in your Doodle.

Let’s look closely at a few of these issues.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia in Black Labradoodles can occur when the bones in the dog’s hip joint don’t fit together properly. It can be painful and lead to difficulty in walking. The poor dog will experience stiffness, have trouble getting up and down stairs, and have difficulty getting up. Over time, this condition can get worse.

Treatment options range from weight management and physical therapy to medications or surgery in severe cases. Always choose a breeder who screens parent dogs for hip health to minimize the risk.

Eye problems

Labradoodles are prone to common eye issues, including cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and glaucoma. Some of these conditions can lead to vision loss if untreated. Regular eye exams for parent dogs and routine checkups for your Labradoodle can help catch and manage these problems early.

Ear Infections

Black Labradoodles often have long, floppy ears. It means moisture and debris can get trapped, leading to ear infections.

Symptoms can include:

• The dog shaking its head a lot.
• The dog scratching at his ears.
• Swelling or redness in the ear canal itself.
• The dog’s ears smell.

To prevent infections:

• Clean your pup’s ears regularly with a vet-approved solution.
• Keep a towel handy after a bath or swimming, and dry off those ears!
• Get the dog to a vet if you see these signs of irritation mentioned above.

ACL Injuries

Very active or (on the other side of the spectrum) overweight Labradoodles are at risk for anterior cruciate ligament injuries, which affect their knees. What’s scary is that your dog can be fine one day and injured the next. Look for limping, difficulty bearing weight on a leg, or stiffness. Severe cases may require surgery to steady the joint.

To help prevent ACL injuries:

• Don’t let your furry friend get overweight!
• Regular exercise is vital. Be sure to include low-impact exercise such as swimming, too.Don’t overexcite the dog during play or exercise.
• Joint supplements can help.

Lifespan

Here is one way to think about it: every healthy meal, belly rub, and walk will add to the years you’ll have your Labradoodle with you. It will also help to take your Doodle to the vet regularly.

A typical lifespan for Black Labradoodles and other varieties in this breed is about 12-15 years.

Preventative Care Tips for your Black Labradoodle

• Monitor your dog’s overall health by getting it to the vet regularly.
• It is fun to brush a dog’s teeth! It can prevent dental disease, and most dogs enjoy the attention.
• Just like for humans, a balanced diet is key. Don’t feed your dog table scraps.
• Exercise, exercise. Labradoodles need lots of walks and playtime.
• A weekly look at the ears of your dog can prevent infections.
• Supplements for joint health may be a good idea in this breed.

Are Black Labradoodles Hypoallergenic?

Black Labradoodles are often considered hypoallergenic.

However, please keep in mind that no dog can be completely free of allergens. The Poodle lineage of Labradoodles gives them a low-shedding coat, which means there is less dander (the trigger for allergies).

But coat type plays a role. Some Labradoodle coats shed more, especially if the hair is more straight. Curly coats can be more friendly on allergies. Should you suffer from allergies, consider spending some time with a Black Labradoodle before committing. It should give you a good idea of whether this particular breed is a good fit for you.

Do Black Labradoodles Overheat in the Sun?

It is a fact that black dogs absorb more heat than dogs with lighter coats. There is, therefore, a good chance that your Black Labradoodle may not take heat well. Although they love being outside, keeping them cool when temperatures rise is vital to prevent overheating.

Fortunately, Black Labradoodles love water! Their Labrador background gives them a tremendous passion for swimming, which, of course, is the perfect way to cool off. On hot days, why not let them splash in a kiddie pool?

Coat Colors and Variations

Although their solid black coats are much loved, Black Labradoodles can also come in a range of exquisite patterns.

• The Parti Labradoodle (also called the Black and White Labradoodle) has black and white patches.
• The Merle Labradoodle’s coat has an interesting, marbled effect.
• The Phantom (not of the Opera!) is black with tan or creamy markings.
• The Sable Labradoodle has black-tipped hair over a light background and
• The Wolf Sable has a distinctive black-grayish blend.

Again, this is DNA at play. The Labrador Mom or Dad in the mix is the one providing the solid color, whereas the Poodle parent backs the patterns. Although Labradoodle breeders often select for distinct features (or traits), the outcome of the litter may still differ.

How Much Does a Black Labradoodle Cost?

A Black Labradoodle may cost between $1,800 – $2,800+. The price of your Black Labradoodle puppy is determined in part by the breeder’s reputation, lineage, and where the puppy is from.

Cheap breeders and puppy mills are never a good idea. They skimp on health checks and quality and the result is often a dog with health- and other problems.

Learn more about Mini Labradoodle Pricing.

Do Kennel Clubs recognize Black Labradoodles?

At the moment, the American Kennel Association does not ‘recognize’ Black Labradoodles as they are a mixed breed. It is unlikely that this will change soon. Organizations like the Australian Labradoodle Association do, however, acknowledge them.

Pros and Cons of owning a Black Labradoodle

Pros

• One advantage is the striking appearance of these dogs. They stand out wherever they go.
  Many Black Labradoodles inherit the Poodle’s hypoallergenic, low-shedding coat, which is perfect for those with allergies.
• Highly clever, they make training simpler and more fun for owners.
• Black Labradoodles are friendly and social. They get along with kids, other dogs, and cats and will happily receive visitors.
• These dogs come in many sizes.

Cons

• Particularly if curly or wavy, their coats need consistent brushing and grooming to prevent matting.
• Energy Levels: Daily exercise is something these active dogs demand, which could be difficult for less active owners.
• Cost: Black labradoodle purchases and upkeep can be costly, particularly if they come from renowned breeders.
• ‘Don’t leave me alone!’ Labradoodles in black may grow anxious if left alone for extended lengths of time. They really love company.
• Some black coats could fade with time to a charcoal or grayish tone, which could disappoint some owners.

Conclusion

You can’t go wrong with a Black Labradoodle. These dogs are equal parts class and chaos! One minute, they’re gliding through the water like a canine Olympian swimmer; the next, they’re rolling around in something smelly.

But that’s the beauty of owning a Black Labradoodle. They will keep you on your toes and fill your heart with joy. They will be the envy of the neighborhood, outsmart your kids, and be the ones who somehow manage to convince you that sleeping with a 50-pound dog is a fantastic idea.

In the end, life with a Black Labradoodle won’t ever be perfect, but it’s certainly entertaining!