Costs

What Does an Australian Labradoodle Really Cost?

An Australian Labradoodle is cheerful, intelligent, and of course, a wonderful companion. Before bringing a puppy home, it's important to think carefully about the costs involved. Many people only consider the purchase price but forget the additional expenses that come later. In this article, we break it all down so you can start your new adventure well prepared.

Purchase Price

The first major expense is usually the purchase of the puppy itself. If you choose a reputable breeder, you'll get a puppy that is well-socialized and vaccinated — and that’s not all. Your pup will also come with the proper documentation. Often, you'll receive a small starter kit as well, such as a bag of food, a familiar toy, or a brush.

Food

An Australian Labradoodle needs high-quality food to grow up healthy and stay full of energy. This can include kibble, fresh meat, or a combination of both. Don’t forget the cost of training treats, snacks, and the occasional chew.

Grooming

Grooming includes dental and ear care, trimming nails, and the occasional bath. You’ll need supplies like a toothbrush, dog toothpaste, ear cleaner, nail clippers, and dog shampoo. Their coat also requires attention. Many people take their Labradoodle to a professional groomer every 6 to 12 weeks. If you prefer to do it yourself, you’ll need brushes, a comb, scissors or clippers — and a bit of skill. Also important: worm treatments and flea and tick prevention.

Veterinary Care

Dogs need regular visits to the vet for vaccinations and checkups. These are recurring costs you need to plan for. You might also need to keep a health booklet or tablets at home.

Training

A puppy class is a great way to learn together. Your Labradoodle will become familiar with other dogs and different situations, and you’ll learn how to communicate clearly and positively with your new friend. Some owners also enroll in obedience training afterward. It helps strengthen your bond and is a fun activity to do together.

Other Costs

There are also some expenses that many people don't consider at first. We've listed the most common ones:

• Supplies
  You'll need essentials like food and water bowls, a harness, leash, dog bed, playpen, toys, and possibly a GPS tracker. For transportation, think of a bike trailer, car crate, dog seat, or safety belt. Also consider replacements — like a harness that gets too small, a broken bed, or worn-out toys. Especially during the first year, replacements may be frequent.
• Spaying or Neutering
  Not every dog is altered, but many owners choose to have the procedure done. It’s a one-time expense you can save for in advance.
• Insurance
  Vet costs can sometimes be unexpectedly high. A pet insurance policy can offer peace of mind. When choosing a plan, make sure to check what’s covered and what the deductible is.
• Dog Walker or Pet Sitter
  If you’re not always home, or if you go on vacation without your dog, you’ll need someone to care for them. This could be a dog walker, boarding facility, or a pet sitter. Prices vary, but it’s wise to include them in your budget.
• Toys
  Australian Labradoodles are smart and need mental stimulation. Regular playtime is important, so don’t forget to budget for games and puzzles like sniff mats.
• Travel Gear
  Planning to travel often with your Labradoodle? Then you’ll need travel accessories like a strong leash, seat belt or car crate, collapsible water bowls, and a travel bottle. Some owners opt for a bike trailer or GPS tracker. What you need depends on how active you are together.

Smart Budgeting

Luckily, you don’t need to buy everything at once. Many items can be purchased later — or second-hand. If you're handy, you can do much of the grooming yourself. Still, there are recurring costs you’ll need to plan for. Saving money is possible, as long as it doesn’t come at the expense of food, care, or health. An Australian Labradoodle may come with a price tag — but they give back so much more.