Raising a Well-Behaved Australian Labradoodle Puppy: Tips from Your Breeder!
Bringing home an EverHeart Australian Labradoodle puppy is a joyful experience. Known for their friendly personalities, intelligence, and hypoallergenic coats, these puppies make fantastic family companions. However, raising a well-behaved Labradoodle requires dedication, consistency, and the right approach. As your breeder, I’m sharing essential tips to help you raise a polite and well-mannered Australian Labradoodle puppy.
Tip #1. Establish a Routine from Day One
Puppies thrive on routine. Consistency helps your Australian Labradoodle feel secure and understand what is expected.
Create a daily schedule for:
- Feeding times
- Bathroom breaks
- Play sessions
- Training practice
- Rest and nap times
Tip #2. Begin Basic Training Early
We HIGHLY recommend considering the Transition Training program we offer through our amazing trainer, Sarah…she does all the work for you! Australian Labradoodles are highly intelligent and eager to learn, so whether it be from her or from you, your puppy will be happy to get started right away.
Start with basic commands as soon as your puppy arrives home: Sit, Stay, Come, Leave-it.
Use positive reinforcement—treats, praise, and play—to reward correct behavior. Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes) to match your puppy’s attention span.
Tip #3. Socialize Your Puppy Properly (see previous blog post for more detailed info here.)
Proper socialization is key to raising a confident and well-adjusted Labradoodle.
Introduce your puppy to:
- Various environments (parks, sidewalks, pet-friendly stores)
- Different people (children, adults, seniors)
- Other friendly dogs and pets
- Everyday noises (vacuum cleaners, doorbells, traffic)
Ensure these experiences are positive and gradual to prevent fear or anxiety.
Tip #4. Use Crate Training for Success
Crate training provides a safe space for your puppy and assists with housebreaking. Make the crate comfortable with soft bedding (or try it without…some puppies prefer it this way) and toys. Encourage your puppy to enter the crate with treats and praise. Never use the crate as punishment—it should always be a positive place. Placing your puppy in their crate under many different circumstances and time frames will help ensure they don’t develop separation anxiety. So whether you’re home or away and whether it’s for a few hours or 30 minutes…the variation is key.
Tip #5. Practice Positive Reinforcement
Australian Labradoodles respond best to positive reinforcement. Reward desirable behaviors immediately with:
- Treats
- Verbal praise
- Affection
- Playtime
Avoid harsh corrections; instead, redirect unwanted behaviors toward appropriate alternatives.
Tip #6. Address Common Behavior Challenges Early
Common puppy behaviors like chewing, jumping, and nipping can be managed with consistency:
- Provide safe chew toys to discourage destructive chewing.
- Teach “sit” or “down” to replace jumping when greeting people.
- Redirect nipping by offering a toy and stopping play briefly if the puppy continues.
Tip #7. Encourage Mental Stimulation
Australian Labradoodles are intelligent and need mental challenges to prevent boredom. Incorporate:
- Puzzle toys – these are amazing! Chewy.com has them ranked by difficulty and they often have BOGO sales.
- Interactive games like hide and seek
- Training new tricks
- Scent-based activities
Tip #8. Make Grooming a Regular Exercise, whether at home or with your favorite groomer.
Regular grooming is essential for your Labradoodle’s well-being and comfort.
Start this routines early:
- Brushing the coat several times a week
- Bathing when necessary
- Nail trimming
- Regular ear checks
Make grooming sessions positive with treats and praise to build cooperation. If you’re interested, I offer grooming appointments for our local families! Text me to book your next appointment @ 419-512-4560!
Tip #9. Be Patient and Consistent
Patience and consistency are crucial for successful training. Every puppy learns at their own pace. Stay positive and persistent, and avoid punishing mistakes…this type of response can create fear in this sweet, intuitive breed. With time, your Labradoodle will understand what is expected.
Tip #10. Consider Professional Training Support
If you encounter behavioral challenges, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance. Puppy training classes and professional trainers provide structured support and help address issues early. When in doubt, take to the internet…there is so much great information out there to help with common problems. If you’re looking for a really great online training program, we recommend Baxter&Bella…you can use our code EVERHEART to get 25% off your lifetime membership.
Raising a well-behaved Australian Labradoodle puppy requires time, love, and patience. With consistent training, positive experiences, and proper care, your Labradoodle will grow into a well-mannered, loving companion.
Have tips, questions, or an experience to share about raising an Australian Labradoodle? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!