Labradoodles are gaining popularity lately, thanks to their cute, loving, and adorable personalities. They are the perfect family dogs out there and can easily fit into the apartment lifestyle too. Are you a fan of Labradoodles too? Do you have a baby at home or expecting one? Are you worried about the dynamics between your baby and a Labradoodle?
Labradoodles are great with babies and are generally considered one of the most loving categories of dogs. All credit goes to the loving and friendly nature of Labradors and the intelligent and loyal personality of poodles, which creates a very baby-friendly Labradoodle.
Keep reading to find out more about this breed and to help you answer are Labradoodles good with babies.
Are Labradoodles Good With Babies
A hybrid of a Labrador and a Poodles gives you a dog that is cute, fluffy, playful, friendly, and very loving. Labradoodles can get along very well with both humans and other animals. They have a strong personality that separates them from the other breeds.
Some of the reasons why Labradoodles are good with babies are the following:
Labradoodles Like To Play
A Labradoodle is always on the move. They love fun and frolic all the time. This is especially true if they are still a puppy. Otherwise, with time, Labradoodles may become more reserved and quiet like one of the parents-Poodle.
The playful nature and curiosity of Labradoodles can make them a good pair with your baby. Their cheerful personality can make your baby attracted to the creature that’s in front of him/ her. Once your baby is comfortable with the Labradoodle, you can even take them outdoors and let them play together in the park.
It can be a good idea to bring in some toys that your baby and the Labradoodle can enjoy. However, if your Labradoodle is still a puppy, then you may need to monitor its interaction with your baby. Also, the excitement and playfulness of Labradoodles may lead to unintentional accidents while playing with the baby. It is advised to never leave the two alone unless they are super comfortable with each other.
Labradoodles Can Be Hypoallergenic
Now, this should come as good news to those who fear that their babies may be allergic to dogs. Labradoodles were originally bred to be hypoallergenic service dogs. Though Labradors are known to be heavy shedders, Labradoodles mostly get their poodle parent’s hypoallergenic, fluffy, and soft coat.
Most of the Labradoodles that have a wavy or curly coat are hypoallergenic. They barely shed and are therefore totally safe to be kept around babies. They don’t need much grooming time, and a good brushing once or twice a week will do the job.
Also, if you have older kids at home, then you can teach them how to brush the dog. It can be a good way to impart values of responsibility at a young age.
You just have to make sure you get the right generation to be sure you get a hypoallergenic Labradoodle.
Labradoodles Are Patient
One of the most important traits you need in dogs when you have a baby at home is “patience”! Babies can be quite a handful, even for parents, so you can imagine when they are around impatient dogs. But, you don’t have to worry about that when you have a Labradoodle at home!
Labradoodles are kind and very patient with kids. They don’t mind their ears or tail being pulled sometimes. In fact, they can become quite playful when babies try to annoy them. They are not aggressive and will welcome a tight hug from your baby anytime.
However, it is always better if an adult is around them just to be on the safer side. You never know when your baby may become super annoying!!
Labradoodles Are Very Responsible.
By being a responsible dog means Labradoodles may surprise you by actually taking care of your baby when you are not around. Once your Labradoodle forms a strong bond with your baby, she/he will feel responsible for taking care of the baby.
You may be surprised by the way your Labradoodle acts protective when a stranger is around your baby.
Labradoodles Are Affectionate
Labradoodles inherit the sweet, affectionate, and gentle nature of Labradors. They like cuddling up with their owners or just like to sit next to them. They love to show their care and affection towards their masters.
You may be surprised to see your baby cuddled up and taking a nap with your doodle. Once your doodle feels comfortable with your baby, she/he is going to shower your baby with lots of love.
How Do I Introduce My Labradoodle to My Baby?
Now, are you wondering how do I introduce my Labradoodle to my baby? Well, don’t worry because we’ve got you covered. As mentioned above, Labradoodles are friendly and intelligent, so there isn’t much hard work at play here. Follow the steps mentioned below to do it the right way!
Familiarize the Labradoodle With the Baby
This should happen when the baby is still inside. Dogs are able to sense your baby just by sniffing your tummy. You should allow your Labradoodle to do that so that she/he becomes familiar with the baby. They may even lick your tummy if they become excited- don’t stop them from doing that!
Prepare Your Labradoodle
Once the baby is home, you don’t know how your day’s schedule is going to be. This includes your Labradoodle too. Labradoodles are friendly and kind, but they may react differently when their daily routine changes.
To prepare your dog for such change, you can do the following:
- Change feeding times by delaying it for an hour or two.
- Change exercise times by going for a walk in the evening instead of the morning.
- Change your sleep routine by not waking up at the same time every day.
- Introduce your Labradoodle to the baby’s room before the baby arrives.
Baby’s Arrival
When you first bring the baby home, you should be the first one to meet the baby. That is because your doodle will be super excited to see you after a long time. It is important that the excitement energy is released prior to being introduced to the baby.
Allow the Labradoodle to smell the baby and get used to the scents. Since your doodle is already familiar with the scent, she/he may even start licking the baby.
- Keep up the routine
Don’t neglect your Labradoodle once the baby arrives. Always leave aside some playtime with your Labradoodle every day. You need to continue doing your daily routine with your Labradoodle, like going for walks, playing catch, or some cuddling time.
Try to include the baby during your time with your doodle. Your Labradoodle should get used to your baby around them always.
- Include your Labradoodle in all activities
To make your doodle more comfortable with the baby, include him/her in all your daily activities pertaining to the baby. For example, when you are changing the diapers, feeding the baby, or putting the baby to sleep, keep the Labradoodle close to you always.
Do Labradoodles Get Jealous of Babies?
Yes, there are high chances that your Labradoodle may get jealous of your baby. However, this isn’t the case only with Labradoodles but with any other dog. Labradoodles get very attached to their owners and may always crave their attention.
When there is a new member in the house who has taken their owner’s attention altogether, there are chances they may not like it. Hence, it is always a good idea to always keep your Labradoodle by your side when you’re with the baby.
In short, whatever you do, your Labradoodle should not feel left out. She/he must get the same attention as before, but maybe this time with a new face in the house.
How to Bring a Labradoodle Home to a Baby?
If you have a baby at home and thinking of getting a Labradoodle, then you should take extra precautions. Doodle puppies can be super active and excited all the time. It is important that you get all information about your doodle from the breeder. Here are a few questions to start with:
- How is the dog’s temperament?
- Is the dog friendly with kids and adults?
- How does the puppy feel being left alone?
- Have you sold any Labradoodle puppies to families with children?
- How is the puppy with other animals?
A reputable breeder will be able to give you answers to all these questions immediately. The social and mental development of a puppy depends largely on how the breeder has nurtured the pup. Therefore, it is always recommended that you get a puppy from a reputable puppy always.
Conclusion
If you are in two minds about getting a Labradoodle with a baby at home, then don’t worry. Labradoodles are fun and loving creatures, and with the right time and technique, they can gel very well with babies.
It is important that you give enough time to your doodles along with the baby. Also, make sure that your Labradoodle is obedient and responds to basic commands like sit, stop, eat, and others. An obedient pet will listen to you when you want to teach him/her how to interact with your baby.
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