An f3 Labradoodle is also often called a multigenerational Labradoodle. Usually, an f3 Labradoodle will be bred from two second generation Labradoodles. But check with your breeder, as some multigenerational Doodles may differ in parentage.
If your f3 Labradoodle has two f2 Doodle parents, their traits can still be unpredictable. So, if you’re looking for a Labradoodle with more Poodle characteristics, speak to your breeder.
F3 Labradoodle puppies can make great pets for families that have plenty of time to play, train, and exercise with their dog.
What Does f3 Labradoodle Mean?
Labradoodle generations can be confusing if you’re new to the mixed breed scene! But, we’re here to break down the term “f3” so you know exactly what to expect.
The letter “f” stands for “filial hybrid”. So, this simply means a mixed breed dog. The number 3 refers to the level of generation you’re dealing with.
Some breeders will use the term f3 to market their Labradoodle puppies. But, others may call their f3 Labradoodles “multigenerational” or multigen.
Multigenerational Labradoodles
The term “multigenerational Labradoodles” can refer to any Labradoodle beyond a second generation mix. But, some breeders may restrict the term to any Doodles beyond a third generation mix.
Because “multigenerational” is a term that applies to any Labradoodle after a certain level of breeding, the balance of Poodle vs Labrador DNA can really differ from one dog to the next.
So, make sure you know exactly what f3 Labradoodle means for your breeder. This will help you know what traits you can predict.
Labradoodle Generations
A third generation is pretty far down the list. So, how does it compare to other Doodle generations? Let’s take a look.
| Parent 1 | Parent 2 | Mix % | |
| f1 Labradoodle | Labrador Retriever | Poodle | 50% Lab, 50% Poodle |
| f2 Labradoodle | f1 Labradoodle | f1 Labradoodle | 50% Lab, 50% Poodle |
| f3 Labradoodle | f2 Labradoodle | f2 Labradoodle | 50% Lab, 50% Poodle |
As well as f1, f2, and f3 generations, some breeders will backcross Labradoodles with purebred Poodles, to create f1b, f1bb, f2b Labradoodles, and so on.
Remember, some breeders will differ in f3 Labradoodle breeding. Some may even consider an f2 Labradoodle and f1b Labradoodle cross to be an f3 Labradoodle mix.
So, find out exactly what breeds have parented your Labradoodle puppy.
Why Do Labradoodle Generations Matter?
Mixed breed dogs can be quite unpredictable, especially when they are first generation mixes. This is because puppies can inherit any traits from either parent!
So, if you’re looking for certain traits, you might need to look for later generation mixes.
For instance, if you want a Labradoodle with a Poodle’s wool coat, you may need to choose an f3 Labradoodle, or even a Labradoodle that has been backcrossed to a purebred Poodle.
Just remember that mixed breeds can be unpredictable. So, even if you choose an f3 Labradoodle in the hopes of getting a low shedding coat, that Labrador DNA could shine through and give a Labrador-type coat!
f3 Labradoodle Information
The predictability of an f3 Labradoodle dog will differ depending on exactly which breeds your breeder uses.
If they use two second generation Labradoodles, your puppy will still have equal levels of Labrador and Poodle DNA. So, they may still be quite unpredictable.
However, if your Labradoodle has been backcrossed to a Poodle at some point, they may be more likely to have a Poodle coat.
In general, the best way to predict how mixed breed puppies will turn out is to take a look at the two parent dogs.
If your breeder is breeding two f2 Labradoodles with very similar coats, it’s likely your puppy will inherit the same!
Are f3 Labradoodles Hypoallergenic?
One of the major reasons that people want Labradoodles is for their low shedding coat. This breed is often called hypoallergenic, since many people don’t suffer from dog allergies around Labradoodles.
However, in truth, no dog breed is truly hypoallergenic. The proteins that cause dog allergies can be found in your dog’s saliva, dander (skin flakes), and urine.
So, if your dog sheds their fur, they may be more likely to shed dander, which will trigger allergies.
The Poodle coat has tight curls that trap shedding fur and dander, which can cause matting and prompt the need for increased grooming.
But, not all f3 Labradoodles are guaranteed to have a Poodle coat. They may be more likely to have the fleece or hair coats also found in Labradoodle mixes.
Will Low Shedding Dogs Cause Allergies?
A Labradoodle with a Poodle wool coat may trap shedding dander before it falls onto your carpets. But, there’s still no guarantee that they won’t trigger your allergies.
Especially because you would have to spend more time grooming them, and dematting any tangles in their fur.
In fact, some people with allergies may find that some individual dogs don’t trigger their allergies, even if they’re a high shedding breed.
The best way to know if an f3 Labradoodle is going to trigger your allergy symptoms is to spend some time with the dog before committing and bringing them home.
Alternatively, choose a Labradoodle that has been backcrossed to get a Poodle coat, and get someone else in the family to do the grooming!
Are f3 Labradoodles Good Family Pets?
For the right family, an f3 Labradoodle can make a great companion. But, it’s important to remember that this will grow to be a large, energetic dog with lots of mental stimulation needs.
Coming from two working dogs, this mix will be very intelligent and able to pick up training well. Positive reinforcement training is a great way to build a strong bond, along with some reliable commands!
As well as training, owners must socialize their f3 Labradoodles well to encourage confidence, and that typical friendly, affectionate personality.
And, there is still some natural variation in f3 Labradoodle puppies. So, you may need to tweak their care needs to suit their individual traits. For instance, learning how to care for their exact coat type.
f3 Labradoodle Puppies
Labradoodles are very popular! So, you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding f3 Doodle puppies for sale. But, it’s important to ensure you choose a reputable breeder.
When puppies are as popular as this, puppy mills and backyard breeders often rise up to make a quick profit. Puppies from these places may be less healthy, and may be more likely to have behavioral problems.
So, put plenty of research into choosing your breeder. Ask lots of questions, meet the puppies and mother dog in person, and make sure to see evidence of health testing.
If there are any particular traits that you are looking for, like a curly Poodle coat, speak to your breeder about this.
And, remember that f3 Labradoodles may also be called multigenerational Labradoodles by some breeders. Some breeders may differ in how they achieve a third generation mix.
So, you may want to ask questions about exactly how your breeder achieves their third generation puppies.
f3 Labradoodles – A Summary
Breeders may differ in how they create f3 Labradoodles. But, no matter what, you can expect this mix to be energetic, affectionate, and quick to learn.
It’s worth speaking to your breeder about how they achieve their third generation Labradoodle puppies. This way, you can potentially predict certain traits, such as low shedding fur.
Do you have an f3 Labradoodle at home? We would love to hear your experience with them!
References and Resources
- Ali, M. (et al), ‘Genetic Analysis of the Modern Australian Labradoodle Dog Breed Reveals an Excess of the Poodle Genome’, Plos Genetics (2020)
- Vredegoor, D. (et al), ‘Can f 1 Levels in Hair and Homes of Different Dog Breeds: Lack of Evidence to Describe Any Dog Breed as Hypoallergenic’, Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (2012)
- Butt, A. (et al), ‘Do Hypoallergenic Cats and Dogs Exist?’, Annals of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (2012)
- Howell, T. (et al), ‘Puppy Parties and Beyond: The Role of Early Age Socialization Practices on Adult Dog Behavior’, Veterinary Medicine: Research and Reports (2015)