What the... F1B? or F1? What's the difference?

What is the difference between an F1 and an F1B labradoodle?

This post will explore some practical differences, and why one or the other might be a better fit for your family.

Definitions:

F1 Labradoodles have one parent who is full (usually AKC certified) poodle, and one parent who is full (AKC) labrador retriever.

F1B Labradoodles have one parent who is F1 Labradoodle, and one parent who is full (AKC) poodle.

Pros of Both Breeds:

Both F1 and F1B combine the pleasing lovingness of the labrador with the intelligent loyalty of the poodle (or miniature poodle). They are relatively secure, very intelligent, loving, loyal, super gentle with children, and adaptable to a variety of environments. Plus they have these big puppy-dog eyes...

Cons of Both Breeds:

Labradoodles, no matter the type, need exercise. They are very intelligent, which is not always a good thing. It is important for owners to find ways to exercise their minds. Something as simple as a puzzle-bowl for feeding, or 15 minutes of training and exercise in the morning will make the difference between a content, happy pup, and a pup who is always finding trouble to channel his pent-up energy.

They are very social and need people. Not all the time, but some time, every day. Many mature labradoodles may be content to just be in the room with you in the evening, but they need to be around people. If you work 12 hour days every day, this is not the breed for you.

Why you might want an F1:

You want to breed your dog.

F1 Labradoodles are more of a clean mix of breeds: 50% poodle, 50% lab. You can breed F1B labradoodles, or australian (multi-generation) labradoodles from them. If you want to breed, you probably want an F1

You don’t particularly care what kind of coat.

F1 labradoodles are a bit of a crap shoot when it comes to coats. There are three coat types you might get, and they vary significantly in terms of shedding. It is difficult to tell until 6-8 weeks old what kind of coat your dog will have, so consult someone who knows the breed to get their opinion before deciding those waves on his nose mean he won’t shed.

Shedding is not a huge problem for you.

You are not bothered by a lightly shedding dog, or even prefer shedding over needing to groom (trim) your dog’s coat regularly.

Why you might want an F1B:

You want a perfect pet

Just the right size, just the right soft, satiny, teddy-bear coat, just the right personality, and NO SHEDDING.

F1B’s have more predictable coats. They are 95% non-shedding, and 5% very minimal shedding.

F1B’s vary more in size from 15 pound range to 20, 30, 40, or 60 pounds depending on the size of the poodles in their lines. You can select the size of the pet you prefer.