Labradoodles: The man who 'invented' them says he regrets it
- Published
You may have met a loveable, friendly, playful labradoodle in your local park, but the man who invented them says some dogs have health problems.
The man who bred the first ever labrador-poodle crossover back in the 1980s has said he made a mistake in doing so.
Wally Conron says the invention is his "life's regret" and he hasn't "got a clue" why people are still breeding them today.
This is because many people began experimenting with other crossover-breeds, which sometimes led to long-term health problems in the dogs.
The first labradoodle was created as a guide dog for a blind lady in Hawaii, whose husband was allergic to long haired dogs.
After three years of trying to find a solution, Wally came up with the idea of "a dog with the working ability of the Labrador and the coat of the poodle".
However, irresponsible breeding from "copy-cats" has caused health issues in some labradoodles and other cross-breeds.
Many owners say they are soft, cuddly, intelligent and very cute members of the family but Wally says he has seen some being badly behaved and a little "crazy".
Do you have any labradoodles in your family? What are they like? Friendly or a little mad?!
Let us know using the comments section below.
- Published25 June 2019
- Published7 June 2019
- Published18 February 2020
- Published19 March 2014