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Are they all so high energy?

21K views 36 replies 27 participants last post by  DoodleLeeDoo 
#1 ·
I have been reading websites for over a month. I have scoured the web for information. I have been diligent in my research. But I have just read some of the posts here and I am confused.....

My understanding was that the Labradoodle was a good family dog. Good with kids and highly intelligent. Sweet natured and loveable. GREAT! Sounds like what we want.

But to read about these extreme high energy, mischief making pups is making me second guess our decision. I know that all pups are going to have a lot of energy as I have had dogs before. But to hear about thousands spent on training classes and dogs that tear up the yard or bark incessantly is a bit disconcerting.

PLEASE don't anyone get all mad and defensive with me for asking about this trait in Labradoodles. I know we are going to fall in love with our dog. We are going to consider her a member of the family. I can't imagine the grief someone goes through at the thought of having to give up their dog. But a lot of the threads here are about pups that are tough to manage.

So, with all due respect, and I do mean that, please let me know if the reality is that Labradoodles are high maintenance in the puppy stage. Because that is the impression I am gathering here.

It took me a long time to convince my husband we are in the right place for a dog. He has allergies and although I have had dogs all my life, my husband has not. We have a dog living with us now, but she is very old and only wants to lay around all day. So he is excited and we are eager to adopt. But these dogs are very expensive and I want to make the right choice. Training is absolutely on our list but thousands of dollars???

Please help me make the right decision. Are these isolated incidents or are Labradoodles difficult for the first year or two? I would especially appreciate hearing from people who have raised other types of dogs from puppyhood on this subject.

Thank you all so much. I am just trying to best the best decision for our family and the puppy.
 
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#2 ·
Like all breeds, you are going to find differences in personalities and energy levels with each puppy. The key to success is exercise. A tired puppy is a good puppy. If you take the time, you will have a great dog. Their energy level is really no different than other breeds. They do have a lot of energy, but are the sweetest dogs ever.
 
#3 ·
I recently had the same decision to make as you do now. After much consideration and research on all kinds of dogs big and small. I came to the conclusion that there was not one breed out there that didn't have a "negative" trait. I was concerned about the high energy as well. From day one we have crated our puppy when we are not around. This includes when I am upstairs cleaning and he is downstairs. He's in his crate. This is for his safety as much as it is the safety of our belongings. In the beginning we did have an issue with him and nipping. I have three kids 8, 10 and 13 (talk about high energy). The hardest part for us was training the kids on how to react to the puppy when he misbehaved. I'm no expert but I believe the most important thing is to have everyone in the house be consistent with his/her training.
 
#4 ·
In my experience, my high energy, busy chewer and slightly crazy labradoodle pup was a total opposite of our previous calm poodle pup. BUT this is only anecdotal and could just be the difference in two different temperaments.

We were actually looking for a "different" dog. We had lived with a standard poodle and did not want to replace her. We wanted a dog who loved to exercise and play. Boy, did we get one!

Deb
 
#5 ·
Napa's been a real sweetie. I remember hearing all the stories and was scared myself, but I lucked out and got the most even tempered pup. However, he's not been without his share of problems. Napa needed surgery early on for something that's not common in Labradoodles, or even dogs for that matter. Both of his growth plates stopped working in his forearm, which is usually only seen when dogs decide they want to fly off decks and what have you.

So, I'd strongly suggest insurance. Also, what I would do is to try to meet the dam and sire of the puppy you're looking at. I didn't meet mine personally, but I met relatives of my dam. I'd also ask for descriptions of what their dog was like as a puppy, plus the breeder should have an idea of which pups in their litters were terrors and which ones were more even kilter.

But the one thing I've learned is to NOT let them get bored. Even though Napa wasn't much of a problem through his puppyhood, if he felt that he wasn't getting enough attention, he'd FIND a way to get OUR attention. So we lost a few wooden poles- mostly kitchen supplies that I had bought for various people. He's made his own signature on an umbrella. But, I reiterate, that was from us NOT paying ATTENTION to him. Napa's also very smart, and was very easy to train- so no thousands of dollars here. But I'm not going to say that Napa's the norm, either. We lucked out with him, and really couldn't have asked for a better dog! Even though it turned out alright for us the first time, the next time I'd adopt a pup, I want to know the parents, and really know the pups- either in person, or from detailed descriptions of the pup growing up.

So, I'm not sure if this has helped.... but my advise would be to really know the parents. We also wanted a Therapy dog, so we looked for breeders who were breeding that temperament- which helped....

p.s. I don't blame you for wanting to avoid the hyper dog temperament. Some people are meant for a pup with that personality, and some aren't. You need to match the pup's temperament with your own for peacefulness. If we had gotten a really energenic pup, we would have had issues. Napa fit perfectly because he was willing to sit with us while we did our school work, but still wanted to play and run around when we were interested in being active and done with school work!
 
#6 ·
Thank you all so much. Both for the honest replies and for not getting mad at me. I agree that it will be best to go with a breeder who is experienced at matching temperament. That is key for us. I would love to get a rescue or rehome dog but finding the right one may be harder than starting with a puppy!

This is all good information so keep it coming!
 
#7 ·
Cissy....with some rescues, the dogs are fostered first, and you might get some tips from the foster parents. I got to meet Rumor's foster Mom and learned a lot about him. But he did end up acting different with me. Think it's just because he bonded with me more than her. She said I would have trouble with him letting me groom him, but he's gentle and calm as a kitten during grooming.

Good luck on your search in whatever you decide.

I try never to judge, especially when you're asking the right questions, and any kind of dog ownership is a life time commitment not to be made on a whim. Feel free to ask away!! :wink:
 
#8 ·
I believe puppies tend to be high maintenance no matter the breed, but the thing that has impressed me so much with our labradoodle is how smart he is. Of course you are going to hear all the "issues" here we have with our doodles and not hear as much about how wonderful our dogs are. Our now 4 1/2 month old we rescued when he was just 8 weeks old and we've had some issues early on with crazy biting, which I've discussed at length on this forum, but never discussed how he went in his crate without a problem from day one and how he has always slept through the night and was so easy to housetrain. He is the most WONDERFUL dog and has doodled his way into our hearts! My small children 5 and 2 crawl all over him and he adores them. He is absolutely a fabulous family dog! I agree with everyone here that excercise and training are so important! You will not get a perfect dog, but if you are prepared to work with your new pup you will benefit greatly from a fun, comical, loveable, loyal pet that doesn't smell or hardly shed! So I hope this gives some perspective. Good luck with your decision! :D
 
#9 ·
We've had two foster dogs and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend either one. The good thing about an older puppy is that they are a known quantities. With 8 week old puppies, no one knows for sure about their temperaments, coats, size, etc.

Both of the foster dogs that we had were under a year old and had basically no training. Once they learned the rules, they became wonderful companions.

Good luck with your search!

Deb
 
#10 ·
Before I bought my F1 Tuesday, I met her mom,a super mello Lab and then her dad, a super mello Poodle. Tuesday was more wirery as a pup but mellowed out considerable by 2.
I have since found out that with her having field Lab in her, it is expected for her to be a bit more hyper...the trade-off being that they are more intelligent. That being said, when I bred her, I used a poodle that was mello, has produced several service dogs, and is "guaranteed" to produced calm, non-hyper pups. I love the personality of the puppy I kept as well as everyone else that bought these pups. Next litter I will not be able to use him as he is 11 now, but am using his brother that has the same qualities. This was a great breeding, all are smart and non-hyper....but then again, are puppies, so are playful.
Buy from someone that KNOWS their dogs, and spends the time with them so that they can pick one that fits YOU.
Exercise is importatant for ANY large dog as well as expecting chewing until 2 years of age.
Yes, we have had alot of little incidences but nothing major. It is all part of the process of teaching him what you expect from him, just like teaching a human child right from wrong.
These dogs really are people pleasers!!
 
#11 ·
gene said:
She said I would have trouble with him letting me groom him, but he's gentle and calm as a kitten during grooming.
Gene, after the last time you trimmed Rumor , if he's still calm - you REALLY do have a strong bond! (tee hee!!) :wink:

Seriously, though Cissy, you are wise to be asking these questions beforehand. I can't think of anything much more heartbreaking than having to find a new home for a dog that just doesn't work out. You have gotten some good advice so far, and from my own experience with Tyke, I have found my doodle to be a highly intelligent, incredibly loving dog, who is willing to lay at my feet all day long in the office. If she is a bit "hyper" after work, it's understandable. I make a point to set aside time before work, at lunch, and after work to make sure she has plenty of time to burn off that energy. The upside of all that energy is that you have a dog who's willing to do almost ANYTHING with you (hiking, running, boating, whatever!) Find a breeder or a rescue group and be honest with them about your lifestyle, and you just might find the best dog you've ever had!!
 
#12 ·
I have to agree with what everyone is saying! If anything, I think Labradoodle puppies are almost easier to live with than some other breeds of dogs BECAUSE they are so easy to train. I still can not believe how quickly our puppy caught on. I have to say the first two weeks were stressful and very trying but as it began to click it was so rewarding!

As it was already stated - exercise is very important. Puppies act out when they are bored and they need alot of attention! It took us a few weeks to find out how to tire out our puppy in a healthy way that was not stressful for us (tearing up the yard, biting, nipping, jumping). My #1 recommendation for puppy exercise is to have him/her play with other puppies (and puppy friendly dogs) - it works wonders.

I highly recommend puppy kindergarten as young as possible - the owners learn just as much as the puppies and everyone is dealing with the same issues (biting, jumping, crate-training, etc.).
 
#13 ·
Cissy, sounds like you are asking all the right questions! I think everyone has said what I have to offer, but here it is anyway :lol: ...

Find a great Breeder (if you go this route): they know what their breeding dogs are really like, they can get pretty close in matching you with your new pup... visit the site if you can... meet the parent dogs, I think you can really tell what traits your pup may have...

I think all pups can be crazed! Sometimes it the owner, sometimes it's the dog... No matter what the breed...

My 2 doodles have not been too destructive... they are 10 and 4 months right now, and have detroyed very little in the house...

The are smart, very smart so they learn quickly... potty training was incredibly simple for both pups...

We are in puppy school again ( for Della) and this time as was the last time (with Lucas) our doodle is one of the quickest to learn and to settle down from the excitement of class in general. Other breeds in the class... lab, chihuahua, dachound, giant schnauzer, chow, papillion, cavalier king charles spaniels, Rott and various mix breeds...

They do need exercise and attention, but they are awesome sweet dogs!

Oh... One of mine is more mouthy than the other... but is getting much better....

Also... Although I have had a couple dogs growing up, this is my first time as an adult and this is my husbands first time to have a dog... so we are not nearly as experienced dog owners as many, but we understood what it meant to own a dog, and totally committed before we brought one home.
 
#15 ·
Cissy...HI !

1. all puppies come with different temperaments regardless of the breed just as people all have different personalities as well.

2. I'd say reading on the breeds and their known traits is great to trying to matching up what you want in a family pet.
HOWEVER seeing and/or learning the temperament of the puppy's parents is a good thing. If the parents are laid back hopefully so will be the puppies.

3. Max (LD) was a breeze to raise, Peanut (GD) was the curious exploring type with more energy than me some days hahaha until she was 11mos old . then she just slowed right now, but always has been easy going, sweet as pie and needed Gentle soft training.

4. All Puppies will have high energy times during different stages and also need exercise along with attention otherwise it's pentup energy

5. Training is key with breeds of dogs Known to have high intelligence such as the Doodles as they come from breeds that are very intelligent
I have found that minimal daily training really does make a BIG difference in my doodles being more content, eager to please and also makes us bond closer.
I paid $115 for an 8 week formal OB class....money well spent!!
BUT doing it at home is KEY ...as it's like going to school where the teacher gives you the tools and examples to learn that you do at home and practice furthers the learning.

6. Some dogs are known for stubborness, others for hunting, some for being very people oriented, others sensitive

then there's the low to nonshedding coats of doodles which for some of us with allergies is a godsend.

If you read up on labrador retrievers and/or golden retrievers and poodles
you'll see what is being mixed together.

7. I'd say it sounds MORE like you're doing your homework and asking a good question of us doodle owners.
i've fostered so many dogs over past 30years ....for me, the labradoodle and golendoodle are the best :D

Good luck and let us know if you decide on a doodle or not :D
 
#16 ·
My poodles have been far mellower than most of my labs, although I'm sure there are exceptions to every rule. There are field labs which are more energetic by design so they can run during hunting or field trials. Then there are the more mellow "show" line labs that are much less energetic. So even within Labs there is a real difference.
Within a single litter there are bound to be pups that favor one breed more than the other, and as stated by someone else, a breeder should be able to tell you which pups are which way.
Some people prefer high energy dogs, some prefer a couch potato. When you're talking to breeders about their pups be sure to tell them which would fit best in your home. They should be able to help you choose the right pup for your family.
 
#17 ·
They are all different! We got Sadie at 12 weeks. The first month or so she chewed shoes (our fault for leaving them out), the baseboard in the kitchen (my fault for not crating her while I was upstairs), and a sofa pillow or two.
I've hear HORROR stories about some dogs chewing walls, table legs, couches, etc. NOT doodles, just dogs in general. Sadie isn't like that AT ALL.
We've always had appropriate chew toys around and she learned VERY quickly (I'd say by 5 months) what was for her and what wasn't.
Now, at seven months, I trust her when I leave the house for an hour or so. I can leave shoes, books, anything but food :wink: laying around and she's fine.
Puppies are puppies and the first 3-4 months of their lives are HARD no matter what.
I don't think doodles are any more energetic (in general) than other dogs, and some are downright lazy.
The crate will be your best friend!
 
#18 ·
I am with Annmarie. Training is KEY!!! And I have Cacao my chocolate Labradoodle, and we just got Beau our Goldendoodle. And Cacao is very hiper manly in the morning when she is just woke up. But sometimes when people come to the door but we are working on that. Beau is helping with that. Beau is really sweet and (((GREAT))) he is helping Cacao settle. Beau and Cacao are really GREAT together. Beau helps show Cacao to seat when I say it the first time. And he gets a treat. So she will do it. I guess I am saying two doodles is easier then one for us. They help with the extra energy. I am not saying get two doodles but for me it has been only three days with Beau and Cacao is being a much better dog. But ask me in a few weeks and I can tell you how it is going.


by the way Beau is 11months old, Cacao is 6 months old.
 
G
#19 ·
Maya is my first dog so take what you will from what I say. So far I have spent $300 on training classes for Maya. Since I didn't have a dog before I needed help in learning on how to train her. I could have stopped after the last class as she had her basics but I want to do therapy work with her and possibly rally so she needs advanced training that I could certainly do at home but I like classes so that is what we do.

She is 12 mos old now and really has been a pretty easy pup to raise. She has destroyed very little (under $75 worth of stuff). She had free reign of the house at 7 mos when I was gone. Since the first time I left her at home alone uncrated she has been an angel. She does get a lot of playtime with other dogs though. All my friends have dogs so she gets a play date at least 3 times a week.

As most have said be honest with your breeder and tell them you want a laid back pup. Give the breeder as much information on what your perfect pup would be to help ensure you get the pup you want.
 
#20 ·
Wow!! I am feeling a lot better now. Thank you all so much for taking the time to be so helpful.

The exercise part should be easy as both my husband and I are home all day. Long walks sound great and we have two huge dog parks near our home so socialization should not be an issue.

I guess I will be visiting here often as you have all helped convince me that a Labradoodle is the best dog for us! I am sure I will have more questions before and after we adopt.

THANK YOU!!!!
 
#21 ·
gene said:
Like all breeds, you are going to find differences in personalities and energy levels with each puppy. The key to success is exercise. A tired puppy is a good puppy.
This says it all!

My 2 cents is: If you have ANY doubts about being able to provide the environment and training this type of dog needs (retrievers, poodles, any combination of the two), think about getting a smaller, more docile breed. Also, if you don't have significant experience owning/training a larger dog, please be honest with yourself about whether you can emotionally survive the first difficult year.

Carol and I have owned/raised so many large, high energy dogs between us, that nothing Ozzie can do would be new or a challenge. I think that's why he's doing so well. So far I've spent $35 for one leash walking clinic.
 
#22 ·
whether a doodle or another breed..training is a must..there s no getting around it..

Toby is at both end s of the spectrum..he s high energy..but, about a half hr. at the dog park will be enough to tire him out..then home for a light
meal and a nap..then after a big lunch he nap s again..then the evening
run at the dog park when the big lab s show up and he run s again for
an hr.. :lol: ..and by time the sun start s to dusk he about had it..

he s a standard..but, you may want to consider a medium or mini..

and because they are very smart..they will learn quickly according to their maturity..and because hey are smart they will look for trouble if
given the opportunity :oops:
 
#23 ·
I remember having 1001 REASONS Why NOT to get a dog
my kids pestered me for 5years with Dave aiding them.

so i got two doodles instead :wink: :D :D
 
#24 ·
I was a complete novice/idiot when we brought Holly home at 8 weeks old. I had never had a dog before, due to my allergies/asthma, but have wanted one for years. All I can say is that she is just a delight, so sweet, silly, good-natured, smart and fun. Yes, there were some trying times, but they don't last long. I haven't invested in any formal training for her (yet)-- but will probably do so soon for things like leash pulling and recall.

Yes, she is pretty high-energy-- but it sounds like your family will be a good fit with a Doodle. If an owner were more sedentary or disabled, I could see how having a high-energy/exercise-needing Doodle could be a problem. But if you have kids, and like to walk/run/play outside, then you're golden. :) I have a 7 yr old and an 11 yr old and we will all go outside with Holly and throw frisbees, play soccer, fetch, tag, etc. I also take her for a couple walks a day, once in the morning and once in the evening, and try to play with her in the afternoon outside. Exercise is key! On the days I am busy and not home, she will be a little crazy in the evenings, but nothing too wild-- she just runs around the house and falls asleep later than usual. But if she gets her walks and her playtime, then she in nice and mellow in the evenings. :) Good luck!!
 
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