

Frequently Asked Questions
- FAQ

What is an Australian Cobberdog?
The Australian Cobberdog is a purebred dog in development created by Beverley Rutland-Manners.
It is the ethical evolution of the Labradoodle , developed specifically as a therapy dog with a predictable temperament and hypoallergenic coat.
Officially registered with the MDBA, she combines the best of multiple breeds into an exceptional family dog.
What is the difference between an Australian Cobberdog and a Labradoodle?
While the Labradoodle is an unregulated hybrid , the Australian Cobberdog is a developing purebred with MDBA registration.
Offering predictability in health, temperament, and physical characteristics , it's the improved version that guarantees all the original benefits of the Labradoodle, but with ethical genetic control . [Learn about our ethical breeding history.]
Are Australian Cobberdogs suitable for people with allergies?
Yes, Australian Cobberdogs have hypoallergenic coats with minimal to no shedding . They're ideal for families with dog hair allergies. Their single-layer, woolly coat drastically reduces allergens. [Learn more about their characteristics] .
Are Australian Cobberdogs suitable for people with allergies?
Yes, Australian Cobberdogs have hypoallergenic coats with minimal to no shedding . They're ideal for families with dog hair allergies. Their single-layer, woolly coat drastically reduces allergens. [Learn more about their characteristics] .
What health tests do you perform before selling a puppy?
At Althea Crownwood, we perform over 30 genetic tests on all our breeding stock. We transparently display results for hip, elbow, eye, and hereditary diseases. Each puppy comes with a pedigree and full health certificate.
Do you ship Australian Cobberdog internationally?
Yes, we arrange secure international shipping to both Europe and many other international countries .
For our puppies to travel internationally, we must ensure they are well cared for at all times, ensuring their physical and emotional well-being, as well as access to assistance at all times . [Contact us to learn more.]
What is the adoption process like?
At Althea Crownwood we understand that adding an Australian Cobberdog to your family is a very special and important decision .
That's why our adoption process is completely personalized and includes an initial contact form, a personal interview to learn about your lifestyle, and then the reservation of the most suitable puppy for you.
Our puppies come from Australian lines certified by the MDBA and ACS, and are bred under an ethical program that prioritizes the health, temperament, and emotional well-being of each puppy.
What is the approximate price?
At Althea Crownwood, we don't publish fixed prices because every puppy is unique and their value reflects our comprehensive ethical breeding program.
We understand this may be a first question, but it's crucial for us to clarify that our approach doesn't compete on price, but rather on quality and guarantees. We're aware that there are more affordable options, but our breeding standards—which include certified Australian lines, premium feed, early socialization, and ongoing veterinary checkups—justify the investment.
Our philosophy is simple: we don't breed more, we breed better. The ultimate cost is the consequence of guaranteeing the genetic and emotional excellence that defines a true Australian Cobberdog and ensuring its health now and throughout its life.
If our philosophy resonates with you and you're looking for a life partner with these guarantees, we invite you to contact us . We'd be happy to explain our process to you in a transparent manner.
How big does an adult Australian Cobberdog get?
There are three official sizes : miniature (up to 10 kg), medium (10–20 kg) and large (over 20 kg).
At Althea Crownwood, we primarily work with small to medium- sized dogs, ideal for family or therapy homes due to their balance of agility and serenity. Meet our Cobberdogs
What documentation do you provide with the puppy?
Each puppy is delivered with:
Official pedigree
Microchip and European passport
Genetic testing of parents
Veterinary health certificate
Vaccination and deworming schedule
Transition guide and personalized advice
Contact and advice throughout your life
How do you socialize the puppies before delivery?
At Althea Crownwood, we understand that true socialization goes far beyond meeting people or other animals.
During their first few weeks, our puppies experience real-life experiences that prepare them to navigate confidently and with curiosity in any environment.
We gradually expose them to different sounds, smells, textures, and urban and natural stimuli. We go out with them to the center of Madrid, take them to the beach, the mountains, or new environments depending on the occasion, and we accompany them on their journey to discover the world just as their future family will.
For us, socialization means that the puppy can go anywhere we go, adapting calmly and confidently .
This early work results in balanced, stable and secure dogs, capable of fully enjoying family, therapeutic or assistance life.
Can I visit your facilities before adopting?
Of course! At Althea Crownwood, we love having you meet our beloved furry friends in person. We want you to see how they live, how they're raised, and feel the connection that exists between them and our family.
However, it's important to note that we are not a facility, but rather a family home , where each puppy is raised as part of our daily lives. Therefore, we maintain a strict health and hygiene protocol for both our adult dogs and puppies.
Whenever possible, we encourage in-person visits following these measures. If you can't make it, we'd be happy to arrange personalized video calls or send you photos and videos so you can experience its surroundings, development, and character firsthand.
Transparency and trust are the foundation of our work , and we want every family to feel part of Althea Crownwood from the first contact.
What diet do you use at Althea Crownwood?
At Althea Crownwood, we take care of every detail of our dogs' well-being, and nutrition is a fundamental part of this. From their earliest days, our puppies receive a diet specifically tailored to their growth stage, made with high-quality , natural ingredients and no artificial additives . This promotes balanced development, a strong immune system, and a healthy, shiny coat.
Is there follow-up after adoption?
Yes, and not only that — at Althea Crownwood we believe that giving away a puppy is the beginning of a shared story .
We love staying in touch with each family, supporting their first steps , and continuing to watch the little ones who were once part of our home grow.
We're always available to answer questions about education, adaptation, or health, but above all, to celebrate each stage of your life together.
Every puppy that leaves Althea Crownwood takes a little piece of our essence with them, and for us, continuing to be part of their story is a true privilege.
What makes Althea Crownwood different from other breeders?
At Althea Crownwood, we never speak about other breeders; we prefer to let our dogs , our work , and our dedication speak for themselves.
Our difference lies in the ethics, authenticity , and deep respect with which we raise each litter.
All of our dogs are directly descended from the breed's founding lines, carefully selected in Australia. These include Tempie , who was the companion and staff dog of Beverley Rutland-Manners (founder of the Australian Cobberdog and Labradoodle), Lio , who comes from Tegans — the breed's co-founder and pioneer breeder—and Aira , who is from Lovelocks Australian Cobberdogs, led by Lisa Foster, a former MDBA committee member and current president of the Australian Cobberdog Society , among others.
Each of our dogs has proven genetics , complete health tests and an exceptional temperament , the result of breeding focused on well-being, early socialization and emotional connection.
We do not seek to be the best through competition, but through consistency : doing things with heart , with rigor and with a real commitment to the future of the breed.
That is the essence of Althea Crownwood.
Is the Australian Cobberdog really hypoallergenic?
This is undoubtedly one of the most important questions for families with allergies.
The answer, according to the standards of the Master Dog Breeders and Associates (MDBA), is clear:
👉 No dog is 100% hypoallergenic.
However, the Australian Cobberdog is recognized as one of the most hypoallergenic breeds in the world, thanks to its unique genetic characteristics that minimize allergens in the environment.
The Scientific Reality of Cobberdog Coat
✅ Doesn't shed: Unlike most breeds, the Cobberdog retains its coat, which is very similar to human hair. This drastically reduces the spread of allergens.
✅ Produces less Can F1 protein: the main cause of allergic reactions, present in saliva and dandruff. Cobberdogs have much lower levels.
✅ Continuous fiber coat: Grows consistently and without seasonal shedding cycles, maintaining a cleaner, more stable environment for sensitive individuals.
MDBA Studies and Recognition
The MDBA, the official body that regulates the breed, confirms that:
98% of people with mild to moderate allergies live with Cobberdogs without any noticeable reactions.
In cases of severe allergies, an individual cohabitation test is recommended.
Regular brushing every 2–3 days keeps allergen control at optimal levels.
Our advice at Althea Crownwood
After much research on families with allergies, we can say that:
“9 out of 10 allergic families live with our Cobberdogs without symptoms.
The remaining 10% only require a short adaptation period with specific guidelines.”
Each family receives our personalized support and advice to ensure a full and healthy life together.
Transparent conclusion
Is the Cobberdog the ultimate solution for all allergies? ❌ No.
Is it the most reliable breed for families with allergies? ✅ Absolutely yes.
Final recommendation
If you suffer from allergies, we recommend:
Conduct a live-in test with one of our adult specimens.
Consult with your allergist to assess your specific case.
Maintain frequent brushing to ensure a clean, allergen-free environment.
Why the Cobberdog and not just the Labradoodle?
The Cobberdog is n't just another crossbreed : it's a developing breed with clear standards. Unlike the massive and variable Labradoodle , the Cobberdog strives for predictability in temperament, low shedding, and therapy ability, while maintaining traceability and genetic control.
What is the temperament and behavior of the Australian Cobberdog?
Empathetic and sensitive : they detect emotional changes and connect with people quickly.
Intelligent and quick learners : they respond very well to positive reinforcement.
Balanced and patient: ideal with children, the elderly, and in therapy settings.
Moderate energy: They enjoy playing but also domestic calm.
At Althea Crownwood, we select dogs based on temperament: we look for dogs that combine curiosity with emotional stability, suitable for families and assistance projects.
What is the Australian Cobberdog's coat like?
Hypoallergenic and functional
Coat types: curly, wavy or woolly (all oriented towards low shedding).
Recommended practical length: 7–12 cm at the body.
Shedding: Minimal or non-existent in most specimens; reduced odor.
Grooming: Brushing 2–3 times/week, professional bathing every 6–8 weeks, clipping every 10–12 weeks.
What is early socialization and education?
Socializing with people isn't enough: for us, socialization includes urban noises, textures, smells, and real-life environments. We take our puppies to the city center of Madrid, the beach, the mountains, and everyday spaces so they can learn to adapt with confidence. This produces more confident dogs with less anxiety about change.
Is the Cobberdog right for my family?
Ideal for: families with children, people with hair sensitivities, therapy or assistance projects, and active households seeking an affectionate and trainable companion.
Not ideal for: Families looking for a decorative dog, who cannot dedicate time to socialization/stimulation, or who are unwilling to maintain regular basic care.







