1. Are Labradoodles and Goldendoodles really non-shedding?
Sometimes. These are hybrids, and the shedding varies by generation and by specific dog. In
general, the likelihood of shedding is lower in the F1B Labradoodles and multigeneration
Labradoodles. Many dogs in those generations are extremely low to non-shedding. Be aware
that even 'non-shedding' dogs do lose hair, just as you do! But it tends to come out during
brushing and bathing, as opposed to falling on the floor or coming out on your clothes when
you hug them!

2. Do Labradoodles and Goldendoodles need much grooming?
This also varies by generation and coat type. F1 Labradoodles with the more 'labby' (hair) coats,
like our Cider, require almost no grooming at all. F1 Doodles with the fleecier coats, or F1B and
multigeneration doodles, require brushing frequently, ranging from every other day to once a
week. They also need to have their coats trimmed or thinned every month or every other
month. Those dogs that do not shed, meaning their hair does not fall on the floor, do tend to
matt more easily, as the dead hair remains in the coat until brushed out.

3. Labby coat, fleecy coat, how do I decide what I want?
A labby (hair) coat is very low maintenance as far as brushing and grooming time. They do,
however, usually shed some. The fleecier coats are OFTEN (not always) lower shedding, but
require more grooming time to avoid matting. So you have to decided where you want to
spend your money or time, cleaning hair from your home and clothing, or grooming your dog.
If you get a dog you WILL spend money and time, there's no free lunch!

4. Are Labradoodles and Goldendoodles really hypoallergenic?
Sometimes. Dog allergies can be to dog hair/dander, or they can be to dog saliva. If the
allergy is to saliva the breed of dog doesn't make any difference. With hair/dander allergies, the
F1B and multigen labradoodles are more likely to be allergy-friendly than the F1 Labradoodles.
F1 Goldendoodles are more often allergy-friendly than F1 Labradoodles. However, we do not
recommend F1 Labradoodles OR Goldendoodles for families with allergies. The chances of
reaction are just unacceptably high. For those families with dog allergies we recommend an F1B
or multigen Labradoodle or Goldendoodle.

5. How important is health-testing of a puppy's parents?
This is a very personal choice. Many puppies from non-tested parents will never have a
problem. However, we do know that there are health problems of genetic origin (here is an
article on Genetics/Health Testing in Labradoodles and Goldendoodles) that Labradors, Golden
Retrievers, and Poodles all share. Different sizes of dogs are at risk for different disorders. For
example, minis hardly ever suffer from hip dysplasia, because there is so little weight placed on
their joints. Many breeders are more flexible in their hip testing requirements for minis for this
reason. But health problems can and do occur in Doodles, and in some cases can be very
expensive and emotionally devastating. Testing doesn't guarantee the problems will not occur,
but it increases the chances your puppy will be healthy. However, breeders who health-test
often charge more for their puppies and often have waiting lists. Everyone has to balance for
themselves the expense and time of a puppy from health-tested parents vs the expense and time
of a dog with a significant health problem.

Information about
Westwood
Labradoodles