Australian Cobberdog
The Australian Cobberdog is a carefully developed breed, originating from the Labradoodle, which itself is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. The Cobberdog was specifically bred to enhance the positive traits of its parent breeds, such as intelligence, hypoallergenic coat, and a friendly, sociable temperament. Known for its adaptability and affectionate nature, the Cobberdog makes an excellent therapy or assistance dog, as well as a loving companion for families and individuals alike. The name "Cobberdog" fittingly means "friend" in Australian slang, reflecting the breed's loyal and loving nature.
Australian Cobberdog Facts & Characteristics
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Origin | Australia |
| Bred for | Therapy and assistance dog, companion |
| Size | Medium to large, 33 to 63 cm (height), 6 to 42 kgs depending on size category |
| Weight range | 6 to 42 kgs depending on size category |
| Colours | Various colors including chocolate, cream, black, apricot, and gold |
| Life expectancy | 12 to 15 years |
| Coat | Fleece or wool-like coat, low shedding, requires regular grooming |
| Temperament | Affectionate, intelligent, gentle, sociable |
| Exercise requirements | Moderate, enjoys playtime and daily walks |
| Best suited for | Families, therapy work, individuals seeking a loyal companion |
| Apartment friendly | Yes, can adapt well to apartment living if given sufficient exercise and mental stimulation |
Personality
Australian Cobberdogs are known for their gentle, friendly, and intuitive nature. They are highly social dogs that thrive on human interaction and form strong bonds with their families. Cobberdogs are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them highly trainable and well-suited for therapy work or assistance roles. Their calm demeanor makes them great companions for children and adults alike, and they tend to get along well with other pets.
Grooming
The Australian Cobberdog has a soft, often curly or wavy coat that is low-shedding and hypoallergenic, making it a good choice for allergy sufferers. Regular grooming is essential to keep their coat in top condition, with brushing a few times a week to prevent matting. Depending on the coat type, some Cobberdogs may require regular trims to keep their fur manageable. Regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care should also be part of their grooming routine to maintain overall health.
Feeding
Feeding an Australian Cobberdog requires a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Cobberdogs are generally active dogs, so their diet should support their energy needs without leading to weight gain. Portion control is important, and it’s recommended to divide their daily food intake into two meals. Fresh, clean water should always be available to keep them hydrated and healthy.
Common Health Concerns
Australian Cobberdogs are generally healthy, but they can be prone to some inherited conditions from their parent breeds. One common concern is hip dysplasia, where the hip joint doesn’t fit properly, leading to arthritis and mobility issues. They may also be at risk for progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), an eye condition that can lead to vision loss.
Another potential issue is elbow dysplasia, which can cause pain and lameness in the front legs. Additionally, Cobberdogs can sometimes develop allergies or skin conditions, which may require dietary adjustments or special care
Did you know?
The Australian Cobberdog was specifically bred to be the ultimate therapy and assistance dog, with many Cobberdogs having an innate ability to sense and respond to human emotions, making them exceptional companions for individuals with special needs!
Australian Cobberdog FAQs
Are Australian Cobberdogs hypoallergenic?
Yes, Australian Cobberdogs are considered hypoallergenic, thanks to their low-shedding coats. They were specifically bred to minimise allergens, making them a good choice for people with allergies. However, it’s important to note that no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic, and individual reactions can vary.
How can the Australian Cobberdog be considered a real breed if it's a mix of other breeds?
The Australian Cobberdog is considered a real breed because it has been selectively bred over generations to consistently produce dogs with specific traits, such as a hypoallergenic coat and a calm temperament. Although it originated from a mix of breeds like the Australian Labradoodle, the Cobberdog now exhibits stable and predictable characteristics, making it a recognised breed by certain registries focused on its development.
What is the difference between Australian Labradoodle and Cobberdog?
The main difference between an Australian Labradoodle and an Australian Cobberdog lies in their breeding purpose and development. While both share common ancestry, the Cobberdog was selectively bred from the Labradoodle to enhance certain traits, such as a more consistent hypoallergenic coat, a calm temperament, and suitability for therapy work. The Cobberdog is also recognised as a distinct breed, whereas the Labradoodle is typically seen as a hybrid.
How much does an Australian Cobberdog cost?
The cost of an Australian Cobberdog can vary depending on the breeder, location, and lineage of the dog. On average, you can expect to pay between AUD $4,000 to AUD $8,000 for a Cobberdog puppy. Prices may be higher for dogs with specific traits or pedigrees.
Do Australian Cobberdogs like water?
Yes, Australian Cobberdogs generally enjoy water, especially given their Labrador Retriever ancestry, which is known for its love of swimming. Many Cobberdogs enjoy water-related activities and can be good swimmers, but as with any dog, individual preferences may vary.