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Labradoodles are fierce lovers with teddy-bear looks and bouncy energy, and make for popular starter dogs. They are gentle with children and get along pretty well with other pets, especially felines. However, there’s a lot more to them than looks and sweetness. If you’re planning on adopting one of them, it’s good to understand their needs and quirks first.
As double-coated dogs, labradoodles are more comfortable in colder climates, which makes wintry Illinois a perfect home for them. Summers won’t be too tough either, especially if you keep the pool parties going. Keep a grooming glove handy and stock up on treats for a good life together.
In this guide, we’ll share information on how to adopt a labradoodle in Illinois. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll know the adoption process, the fees and costs involved, as well as a few essential training tips.
Labradoodle Adoption in Illinois
Adopting a dog has several benefits, but what really matters is that it helps you find a dog that truly matches your personality. As high-energy pups, labradoodles do best in active homes. If you can promise daily walks and a safe yard, they’ll happily become your roommate.
Start by looking for your furry cuddle bean in local rescues and shelters. Search online listings, ask experienced owners, or talk to professional groomers to find reliable leads. Most rescues and shelters share details of available dogs on their websites, which makes shortlisting a lot easier. Check them and read reviews before moving forward.
To adopt a dog successfully, you’ll have to prove you’re ready for it. This is why almost all organizations require adopters to submit adoption applications. Some even request one-on-one meetings and virtual home tours to make sure their dog ends up with a loving family in a safe home.
Once your application gets approved, you’ll be invited to meet the dog. Spend quality time with the doodle, and try to understand their behavior. Take mental notes on their playfulness, curiosity, and responsiveness. These details will tell you where you stand with training them.
Since labradoodles are prone to health conditions like joint issues and eye disorders, you should also check their health certificates. Also, ask the staff about the dog’s food choices and special needs (if any), so you can care for them the right way from day one.
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How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Labradoodle in Illinois?Illinois rescues and shelters have an average adoption fee of $350 for labradoodles. Sometimes it can be as low as $100 or as high as $750. Since each organization has its own policies and pricing, it’s best to ask about them before getting into other details. Labradoodles aren’t low-maintenance dogs. They have big appetites, love getting haircuts, and expect new toys as soon as the old ones wear out. You’ll need between $2,000 and $5,000 for the first year. It’ll cover for a cozy setup, high-protein kibble, and all the other shenanigans. |
How Should I Train a Labradoodle?Labradoodles, the social butterflies of the dog world, love being the center of attention. They enjoy meeting people, but can sometimes get too excited and jump on them. Early social training will keep them focused on you instead of bouncing like pogo sticks. Use a mix of indoor and outdoor activities to keep them engaged during freezing winters and sunny summers. They enjoy scent games, like hide-and-seek with treats, and agility tasks, like weaving through the poles. Hallway fetch is their favorite indoor game. Go for short and enjoyable sessions. As energetic and curious canines, labradoodles love chasing every twitching sound and quick movement. Sometimes, it can be a bit hard to control them. Since long walks are a constant part of dog ownership, you’ll have to teach your doodle to behave. Dog Academy’s Stop Your Dog From Pulling course is specifically designed for this behavior. |
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Find the Right Labradoodle in Illinois for You
Labradoodles are the kind of dogs who steal your socks and your heart at the same time. They’ll follow you into the waves and collapse on the couch like they ran a marathon. However, with cuddles and nose boops comes responsibility.
If you’re ready to be a barber, chef, and adventure buddy every day for at least the next 10 years, you’ll have a friend who never lets you feel alone.
