FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What type of health testing does SMD do on their dogs?

All our breeding doggies have been registered for breeding with the Australian Labradoodle Association of America (ALAA) and the Worldwide Australian Labradoodle Association (WALA) after passing all health screenings. Breeding requirements such as OFA screening hips , elbows, patellas, heart, as well as a CERF eye exam performed by a canine ophthalmologist. We also have a full Essential Panel with Paw Prints Genetics performed for each of our breeding dogs. Our breeding focus is on temperament, body structure and health standards. Our goal is to produce the best puppy possible.

All of the health testing results for our dogs can be found on the "Our Dogs" page of our website.

Are SMD Puppies Healthy?

All of the health testing results for our dogs can be found on the "Our Dogs" page of our website.

How do I adopt an SMD puppy?

Our adoption process is straightforward and easy. We'll guide you through the entire process, from the initial application to the final adoption paperwork. Our goal is to make the process as smooth as possible for both you and your new pet. To get started click below 👇

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Does SMD offer a health guarantee on their puppies?

SMD guarantees the puppy is in good health, is up to date on immunizations appropriate for the puppy’s age and has had appropriate deworming at the time the Buyer takes possession. The guarantee does not include viral illness, infections improper bites, hernias, hypoglycemia, intestinal parasites, giardia or coccidiosis. It also does not include any illness due to the ingestion of foreign object, food, chemicals or physical injury. If it is determined the puppy has a genetic disorder of debilitating congenital defect within three years of purchase, the Buyer has the option to a replacement puppy from the next available litter or reimbursement of veterinary expenses related to that illness up to the purchase price of the original puppy and/or return of original puppy.

Does Southern Meadows offer grooming?

We now offer grooming service for our local pet families! At So Fetch Pup Spa we specialize in the authentic ALD cut. We know that grooming is essential for your pet's health and well-being. We offer a range of grooming services, including bathing, haircuts, nail trimming, and more. Our experienced groomers use only the best products to ensure your pet looks and feels their best. Schedule an appointment today!

How often should I groom my SMD Australian Labradoodle?

We recommend every 4-8 weeks to keep their coats looking good and maintain their super soft fleece coats. This involves regularly brushing them and bathing to keep their fur so soft, so fresh, and so clean!

What Pet Toys does SMD recommend?

We have a wide selection of pet toys and accessories to keep your furry friend entertained and happy. From chew toys to interactive mental stimulation mats and more, we have everything you need to keep your pet active and healthy. Plus, our accessories are stylish and functional, so your pet will look good while feeling good! Visit our online and Amazon store to check out our favorites.

What food does SMD recommend?

At SOUTHERN MEADOWS Australian Labradoodles, we care about your pet's health and wellness. We use Life's Abundance as they use high-quality ingredients, never been recalled, and the recipes have been formulated by a veterinarian. We researched a variety of dog foods until we found the holistic food LA produces here in the USA.

ALD Hygiene

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Grooming

Keeping your Australian Labradoodle well-groomed is essential for maintaining their overall health and appearance. Regular brushing helps prevent tangles and mats, which can cause discomfort and even skin irritations. By brushing your Labradoodle frequently, you remove loose hair, dirt, and debris, keeping their coat looking its best while also reducing shedding around your home.

In addition to brushing, routine grooming appointments play a crucial role in your dog’s well-being. Professional grooming ensures that your Labradoodle’s coat is trimmed and maintained according to breed standards, which helps with temperature regulation and reduces the risk of infections in skin folds and between the coat. Regular grooming also provides an excellent opportunity to check for any abnormalities, such as skin issues or ear infections, ensuring early detection and treatment.

By dedicating time to brushing and grooming, you not only enhance your Australian Labradoodle’s physical health but also contribute to their overall comfort and happiness. A well-maintained coat is a sign of a healthy dog and a happy pet, ready to enjoy every day with you.

Eyes

Take these three simple steps to prevent eye infections in your dog. Regular cleaning and care is a must. Keep hair trimmed away from your dog’s eyes using blunt tipped scissors. Hair that rubs against the eye can introduce bacteria, leading to infection. Keep your dog’s eyes clean by using an eye wash or pads designed to wipe away debris and gunk. Check your dog’s eyes regularly, and schedule an appointment with your vet if you detect any irregularities.

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Ears

A healthy set of ears is vital for your dog’s overall well-being. Moisture in your dog’s ears, especially after baths or swimming, can lead to bacterial and yeast infections. These infections can cause discomfort, itching, and even long-term damage if not properly addressed.

To help prevent these issues, it’s essential to thoroughly dry your dog’s ears after each bath. Our favorite method includes using Life’s ABundance ear drops, which are specially formulated to help keep ears clean and dry. Simply apply a few drops after bathing, and you’ll not only reduce the risk of infection but also promote a healthy, happy ear environment for your furry friend.

Regular ear care can make a big difference in your dog’s health, ensuring they stay comfortable and free from the complications of moisture-related ear problems.

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Nails

Keeping your Labradoodle’s nails in check can be a daunting task, but it is absolutely necessary. You must trim your dog’s nails on a regular basis, usually once or twice a month. Don’t forget the dewclaws on the inner side of the front paws! They are easily forgotten but must be trimmed like every other nail. If you do not trim them, your dog much more likely to snag them on something and tear them. A torn dewclaw is a very painful thing for your dog and often results in a trip to the vet.The frequency with which you trim your dog’s nails will vary depending on its lifestyle and activity level. If you are not comfortable trimming or feel unprepared to do so, have a groomer or vet show you how.

Teeth

Believe it or not, taking care of your dog’s teeth is as important as taking care of your own. According to the American Animal Hospital Association nearly two-thirds of dog owners do not provide the veterinarian-recommended guidelines for dog dental care. Periodontal disease the most common clinical condition in adult dogs, and most dogs have some form of the disease by the time they turn 3 years old. Just like us, dogs can experience plaque build-up if we don’t take proper care of their teeth. This turns into tartar, which accumulates around the gum lines and causes irritation, and can eventually lead to gum inflammation (gingivitis), bone/soft tissue loss, and gum disease. Bacterial infection can also lead to tooth loss and complications of the heart, lung, or kidney as your dog ages. The good news is that, with regular dental care, these diseases are preventable.

Bathing

Regular baths are essential for keeping your dog clean, healthy, and comfortable. Using a shampoo specifically formulated for dogs is crucial because these products are designed to work with your pet's unique skin pH and sensitivities. Human shampoos or generic cleansers can strip away natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.

At Southern Meadows Doodles, our favorite is Life’s ABundance dog shampoo. This product gently cleanses your dog’s coat, leaving it soft, healthy, and beautifully maintained. Life’s ABundance is formulated to preserve the natural moisture balance of your dog's skin while effectively removing dirt and debris.

Bathing Tips for a Great Experience:

Pre-Bath Brushing: Brush your dog’s coat before bathing to remove tangles and loose hair.
Water Temperature: Use lukewarm water to ensure a comfortable bathing experience.
Thorough Rinsing: Make sure to rinse all shampoo out of your dog’s coat to prevent any residue buildup.
Gentle Drying: Dry your dog with a soft towel or a pet-safe dryer on a low setting.

By incorporating regular baths with a dedicated dog shampoo like Life’s ABundance, you’re not only ensuring your pet stays clean but also supporting overall skin and coat health for a happy, comfortable companion.