about the breed
DNA Testing — Identification
DNA testing is one way to verify a puppy's parentage. It gives a family confidence that the stated mother and father really are the dog's parents.
DNA testing for every puppy
We DNA-test every puppy in our Australian Labradoodle breeding program. We have done so consistently, without exception, since 2009.
DNA testing matters because it establishes whether your puppy really comes from the declared mother and father.
Is it really that important? Yes. You want to be certain that what the pedigree states matches reality.
Trust, but verify
Years of work have opened my eyes to the world of dog breeding and breeders in general. Until someone shows me the appropriate documentation, I believe in maintaining a healthy degree of caution.
More than once, I have seen or heard about breeders' schemes and been shocked. When associations fail to introduce appropriate checks, they effectively allow this to continue.
I believe every reputable association should require DNA testing for all puppies, whether intended for breeding or simply as beloved companions.
That is why Australian Labradoodle associations such as ALFA-Europe uphold these rules. Many other canine organizations resisted introducing these requirements for their breeders, only adopting them in recent years. Why? Transparency and reliable pedigrees should be a priority.
VHL laboratory and parentage verification
We carry out our Australian Labradoodle puppies' DNA tests at Dr. van Haeringen Laboratorium B.V. (VHL) in the Netherlands.
Every Labradoodle registered with ALFA-Europe has a unique VHL number. After receiving a saliva or blood sample from a puppy, the laboratory can reconstruct the line's family tree.
If everything matches, the association is notified and issues the puppy's pedigree. A mismatch in parentage results in exclusion from the association.
This should have been standard practice from the moment such tests became available. On the other hand, it gives Australian Labradoodle associations an advantage over other canine organizations.
Dogs, ancestry and identification
Continue exploring
The Coefficient of Inbreeding — Why genetic diversity matters.
Breed Associations — The organizations and standards behind the breed.
Health Testing — Health examinations, genetics and well-being within the breeding program.