Australian Cobberdog

Up until the creation of the Australian Cobberdog, no breed had been developed with the sole objective of having the ideal characteristics to serve as therapy and assistance dogs.

After the popularity of Labradoodles began less careful selection and a lack of breed standards led to the modern, unrecognized crossbreed.

Cobberdogs, as researchers state, are the product of continuing with the original goals of the Labradoodle project: a gentle, hypoallergenic dog with a calm demeanor and a tendency to comfort the people around them.

[9] In a 2019 interview, Conron said that he "released a Frankenstein monster" and that "[...] the biggest majority (of Labradoodles) are either crazy or have a hereditary problem."

Brandi Hunter, the American Kennel Club's vice president of public relations and communications, mirrored Conron's concerns, saying that "[...] there is a reason why we emphasize the time and research that goes into breeding purpose-bred dogs.

Over the subsequent five years, additional organizations formed and merged resulting in The International Australian Labradoodle Association (IALA).

[5] The Australian Labradoodle generally primarily has Labrador Retriever and Poodle genetics, but recent efforts by the IALA, particularly the Australian Labradoodle Association of America (ALAA), have introduced the Irish Water Spaniel, Curly-coated Retriever and the English and American Cocker Spaniel.

These additions were to increase the breed's gene pool, achieve greater health, and attempt to perfect the temperament of the dog.

The IALA made the decision to abandon certain lines and that the Australian Labradoodle was a largely complete breed.

Manners' goal was to achieve what Wally Conron had initially set out to do and breed a calm, intelligent and hypoallergenic dog.

[18] The breed's unique DNA sequence was also categorized in order to establish the validity of a purebred Australian Cobberdog.

Without regular brushing and consistent care the fleece coat is more susceptible to matting, the formation of dreadlocks, hair-borne conditions and the capture of dirt against the skin which can cause discomfort and/or chafing.

Cobberdog sizes are based solely on height as measured from floor to withers (top of the shoulder blade in quadrupeds).

[14][19] Notable distinctive features include floppy ears, standard pigmentation of nose and paw pads, an undocked tail and a non-shedding hypoallergenic coat.

The ACS breed standard states "The Australian Cobberdog is aware, smart and easy to train with a gentle will to please.

Cobberdogs are easily recognisable by their facial furnishings with a luxurious low-shedding, long fleece coat that falls in gentle waves.

The Australian Cobberdog’s head and facial expressions are a signature trait with a pleasing open face, striking eyes and a notable muzzle.

It is uncommon for an individual of the breed to be involved in a fight as a result of the dog's natural inclination to retreat from conflict.

The Cobberdog can cohabitate in some circumstances with animals such as cats, birds or rodents, although the breed is generally very curious and should be supervised to avoid unintended harm or intrusion.

These roles are greatly aided by the Cobberdog's unimposing nature, calm demeanor, and general sense of empathy.

[32][17] According to some sources, Australian Cobberdogs have an average lifespan of either 12–14 or 13–15 years, however no evidence of a meaningful and verifiable study is shown.

[33] In depth studies of the aging process specific to Cobberdogs and the effects on their activity, vitality, temperament, and/or health are yet to be published under official means.

A standard brown Labradoodle facing perpendicular to the camera with an open mouth
A standard brown Labradoodle with the desired hypoallergenic coat
An approximately 13 kg pure white Cobberdog in a seated position, facing the camera
A white small medium Australian Cobberdog from Finland
A nine-week-old Australian Cobberdog lying down
A profile view of a nine-week-old Australian Cobberdog
A closer image of a white Australian Cobberdog