Wally Conron, an Australian breeder, first developed the breed in 1988 when he crossed the Labrador Retriever and Standard Poodle for the Royal Guide Dog Association of Australia in Victoria.
His intention was to combine the low-shedding coat of the poodle with the gentleness and trainability of the Labrador, and to provide a guide dog suitable for people with allergies to fur. Sultan, a dog from this litter, displayed all the qualities Conron was seeking and worked as a guide dog for a woman in Hawaii for ten years.
Breeders in Australia have gone on to develop the Australian Labradoodle which also includes spaniels in the mix for early generations of the breed. These dogs have a breed standard and consistent looks and temperament. They are low shedding and many allergy and asthma sufferers find them suitable to live with. They are a wonderful family dog and adaptable to diverse circumstances. Labradoodles come in standard (large), medium, and mini size.
