The Good Breeder Spotlight Column: Michele

From my earliest memories, I have always loved dogs and grew up with Poodles. My first dog as an adult was a black standard Poodle. We did not keep her groomed in the typical Poodle cut and were often asked “What kind of dog is that?” In the early 2000s we had her with us at a festival and we were approached by someone who asked if she was a Labradoodle. I had not heard of them but my curiosity was piqued and I started doing some research. In 2007, I made an appointment with an ALAA member breeder so my family could meet her dogs. We were instantly in love! 

The Poodle, Labrador Retriever, and Cocker Spaniel combination created the perfect companion to add to our family. Australian Labradoodles, not to be confused with Aussiedoodles, are happy-go-lucky, athletic, friendly, and snuggly. We wanted an easygoing dog that was just as happy on a hike as it was sitting on the couch with us. In the search for a responsible and ethical breeder, we learned how important it was to find a breeder who provided support to their families, education, socialized their puppies, and belonged to a breed organization like the ALAA, even if it means waiting. We developed a great relationship with our breeder and became a part of her guardian program. We loved the idea of having our pet be a part of a breeding program, and contributing to the further development of the breed. My daughter and I were present for the whelp of our dog’s first litter. Our breeder allowed us to help raise the puppies for a while, and we visited often. It was lots of fun, but also a wonderful opportunity to learn. When we became empty-nesters, I realized how much I missed having babies to raise, so we started our own small program, Cotton Creek Labradoodles, in Atlanta, GA. 

Raising puppies is a wonderful experience, but it is important to know that it is a lot of hard, physical work that can also have great heartbreak. Aside from spending time with our breeder, I attended ALAA educational conferences, watched many webinars, read books, and talked to other breeders. Getting ready to whelp a litter, whether it is the first or 10th, takes lots of preparation. I have a list of supplies to keep on hand, and have developed good relationships with my veterinarians who are reproductive specialists (known as theriogenologists). Being prepared for anything is necessary because Mother Nature has her own plans. Strong preparation helps, but not always. The worst part of breeding is the inevitable loss of a puppy despite all of your efforts.  

We take great pride in belonging to the Australian Labradoodle Association of America (ALAA) because we value an organization whose mission is to promote and protect the Australian Labradoodle breed. The ALAA has given us a network of responsible and knowledgeable breeders who support each other both personally and professionally. Most importantly, the ALAA has the oldest database of verified pedigrees for the Australian Labradoodle. Like Good Dog, the ALAA works to educate its members as well as the public. We love the support the ALAA provides to further protect the Australian Labradoodle by having a program for Pet Members. It’s really important for people to have an accurate and dedicated resource. 

The Cotton Creek Labradoodles family has brought us great joy. We love completing families by adding a lovable companion. I am proud to have created the Cotton Creek Labradoodles family. Every time they share a photo, achievement, or gratitude for their puppy, I burst with pride. There is nothing like the feeling of knowing you helped someone beat loneliness, learn to care for an animal, or complete a family.

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