Apricot Labradoodles: The Ultimate Guide for Dog Lovers

Introduction

Labradoodles have captured the hearts of dog enthusiasts worldwide since their inception in the late 1980s. Combining the best traits of Labrador Retrievers and Poodles, these clever, affectionate dogs come in many colors – but perhaps none is more enchanting than the apricot Labradoodle.

With their warm, glowing coat and sunny disposition, apricot Labradoodles are a rare treat in the dog world. If you‘re considering adding one of these beauties to your family, this comprehensive guide will tell you everything you need to know, from their history to their care requirements and beyond.

The History of Labradoodles

The Labradoodle story began in 1989 when Australian breeder Wally Conron of the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia received a unique request. A blind woman in Hawaii needed a guide dog, but her husband was highly allergic to dogs. Conron had the innovative idea to cross a Labrador Retriever with a Standard Poodle, hoping to create a dog with the Lab‘s friendly, trainable nature and the Poodle‘s low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat.

After much experimentation, Conron successfully bred the first Labradoodles – Sultan, Harley, and Brandy. Interestingly, Harley was an apricot color, making him one of the progenitors of today‘s apricot Labradoodles. The trio went on to become successful service dogs, and their story quickly spread.

Labradoodles exploded in popularity throughout the 1990s and 2000s. In 2004, there were an estimated 3,800 Labradoodles in the United States alone. By 2020, that number had skyrocketed to over 100,000 worldwide. Celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Tiger Woods, and Christie Brinkley sang the breed‘s praises, further fueling their popularity.

What Makes Apricot Labradoodles Special?

Apricot is one of the rarest and most eye-catching Labradoodle colors. Ranging from a light peachy cream to a deep reddish-gold, no two apricot Labradoodles look exactly alike. The color comes from a recessive gene, meaning both parents must carry it to produce apricot puppies.

According to a color analysis of over 4,000 Labradoodles, only 2.4% were apricot, compared to 15.6% black, 13.7% chocolate, and 6.9% cream. This scarcity means apricot Labradoodle puppies often come with a premium price tag and longer wait times.

While their color is certainly captivating, it‘s important to remember that coat color does not impact a Labradoodle‘s health, temperament, or overall suitability as a pet. These dogs still exhibit the same wonderful qualities that have made Labradoodles so beloved:

Friendly, outgoing nature
High intelligence and trainability
Adaptability to various living situations
Low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat
Excellent skills as service and therapy dogs

Finding a Reputable Apricot Labradoodle Breeder

If you‘ve got your heart set on an apricot Labradoodle, be prepared to do your research. Because of their rarity, unscrupulous breeders may attempt to cash in by charging exorbitant prices or making false promises about coat color.

To find an ethical, reputable breeder, keep these tips in mind:

Look for breeders who health test their dogs for genetic conditions common to Labs and Poodles, such as hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. They should provide proof of testing and explain how they select breeding pairs.
Avoid breeders who always have puppies available or let you pay online without screening. Responsible breeders have carefully planned litters and want to ensure their puppies go to suitable homes.
Be wary of breeders who charge significantly more for apricot puppies or make grandiose claims about the color being "rare" or "exotic."
Visit the breeder in person to see their facility, meet the parent dogs, and observe the puppies‘ living conditions. The dogs should be well-socialized, friendly, and kept in clean, spacious quarters.
Ask for references from previous puppy buyers and the breeder‘s veterinarian. A good breeder will be happy to provide them.

How Much Do Apricot Labradoodles Cost?

You can expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 to $4,000 for an apricot Labradoodle puppy from a reputable breeder. This cost reflects the color‘s rarity as well as the breeder‘s investment in health testing, socialization, and early training.

While it may be tempting to opt for a cheaper puppy from a backyard breeder or online seller, this can come with serious risks. These sources often skimp on health testing and proper care, resulting in puppies with behavioral issues and expensive medical problems down the line.

Caring for Your Apricot Labradoodle

Grooming

One of the main draws of Labradoodles is their low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat. However, this coat type requires regular maintenance to prevent matting and keep your pup looking their best. Apricot Labradoodles can have one of three coat types:

Hair coat: Straight or slightly wavy, similar to a Lab‘s coat. Brush 2-3 times per week.
Fleece coat: Soft, silky waves that don‘t shed much. Brush 3-4 times per week.
Wool coat: Dense, curly coat with minimal shedding. Brush daily.

In addition to brushing, your Labradoodle will need:

Baths every 2-4 weeks with a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo
Trimming every 6-8 weeks to keep coat tidy and prevent overgrowth
Ear cleaning once a week with a vet-approved solution to prevent infections
Nail trims every 2-4 weeks or as needed
Dental care, including daily brushing and professional cleanings

Feeding and Nutrition

Feed your apricot Labradoodle a high-quality, age-appropriate diet to support their growth and development. Puppies need a formula rich in protein, calcium, and other nutrients to fuel their rapid growth. Adults should eat a balanced diet that maintains lean muscle mass and healthy weight.

Avoid overfeeding, as Labradoodles can be prone to obesity. Follow the feeding guidelines on your dog‘s food and adjust as needed based on their activity level and body condition. Offer fresh, clean water at all times.

Exercise and Training

As a cross between two active, intelligent breeds, Labradoodles require daily exercise and mental stimulation. Aim for at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day, divided into walks, playtime, and structured activities. Labradoodles excel at dog sports like:

Agility
Dock diving
Flyball
Nose work
Obedience
Rally

Start socialization and training early to set your Labradoodle up for success. Enroll in a positive reinforcement-based puppy class as soon as your dog has their first round of vaccines. Practice basic obedience daily and expose your pup to various people, animals, and environments to boost their confidence.

Well-trained apricot Labradoodles can make fantastic therapy dogs, service animals, and family pets. With their friendly, intuitive nature and eagerness to please, they tend to pick up new skills quickly.

Health Concerns

While Labradoodles are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 12-15 years, they can inherit certain conditions from their parent breeds. These include:

Hip and elbow dysplasia
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Von Willebrand‘s disease
Hypothyroidism
Addison‘s disease

According to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, 12.9% of Labrador Retrievers and 12.2% of Standard Poodles are affected by hip dysplasia. Responsible breeders screen their dogs for these issues to minimize the risk of passing them on to puppies.

Keep your apricot Labradoodle healthy with regular vet check-ups, preventative care like vaccinations and parasite control, and a nutritious diet. Brush their teeth daily and provide plenty of chew toys to support dental health. Be alert to any changes in energy level, appetite, or behavior that could indicate an underlying issue.

Famous Apricot Labradoodles

While still relatively rare, some apricot Labradoodles are already making names for themselves with their beauty, brains, and big hearts:

Cedar, a therapy dog in Seattle, brings joy and comfort to children with special needs. His soft apricot coat and gentle demeanor make him the perfect companion.
Sunny, an apricot Labradoodle from San Diego, is training to be a diabetic alert dog. With his keen nose, he will help his owner manage their blood sugar levels and stay safe.
Daisy, an Australian Labradoodle, was the first apricot to win Best in Show at the 2020 Australian Labradoodle Breed Specialty Competition. Judges praised her stunning coat, friendly personality, and excellent conformation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apricot Labradoodles

Are apricot Labradoodles hypoallergenic?

While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, apricot Labradoodles tend to shed less and produce less dander than many other breeds, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers. Regular grooming can further reduce allergens in the coat.

At what age does the apricot color develop fully?

Apricot Labradoodle puppies are born a darker shade and lighten as they mature. The final apricot color is usually apparent by 6 months of age, but some dogs may continue to lighten until 1-2 years old.

Can an apricot Labradoodle be a good service dog?

Yes! Apricot Labradoodles can excel as service dogs for a variety of roles, including mobility assistance, diabetic alert, and PTSD support. Their intelligence, trainability, and friendly nature make them well-suited for service work.

Are apricot Labradoodles good with children?

Labradoodles of all colors tend to be patient, gentle, and affectionate with children. They enjoy active play but also have an intuitive sense of when to be calm and nurturing. Socialization and training are important to ensure a safe, positive relationship between dog and child.

How much exercise does an apricot Labradoodle need?

Apricot Labradoodles require at least 60 minutes of exercise per day, divided into several sessions. This can include walks, playtime, swimming, and dog sports. Mental stimulation through training, puzzle toys, and nose work is also important to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

Conclusion

Apricot Labradoodles are a rare and captivating variation of an already wonderful breed. With their warm, glowing coat and sunny personality, they bring joy and beauty wherever they go.

If you‘re prepared for the commitment of owning a high-energy, intelligent dog and can provide plenty of exercise, training, and grooming, an apricot Labradoodle may be your perfect match. Do your research to find a reputable breeder, and get ready for a lifetime of laughter and love with your new best friend.

With their versatility as service dogs, therapy animals, and family companions, apricot Labradoodles prove that there‘s so much more to these dogs than just a pretty face. They truly are the total package – beauty, brains, and heart all rolled into one adorable, apricot-colored package.