What Makes Black Australian Labradoodle Puppies So Special?
- Megan McLoughlin
- May 2
- 3 min read
There’s something about a black dog that turns heads. Maybe it’s the shiny coat. Maybe it’s the way they look like a little shadow following you around the house. Whatever it is, black Australian Labradoodle puppies have a presence that is hard not to fall for.
At Cream Puff Labradoodles, we get lots of questions about black puppies. Here’s what makes these pups so unique, from their genetics to their signature glow.
The Science Behind the Shine: Eumelanin & Black Coats
A quick genetics lesson (we promise to keep it simple!):
The reason black Australian Labradoodle puppies have that deep, rich color is because of a pigment called eumelanin. It's the same pigment that gives us humans dark hair and eyes. In dogs, it’s responsible for black and dark brown coat colors.
Whether or not eumelanin shows up as black or something lighter depends on the dog’s genes. Specifically, we’re looking at something called the B locus:
If a puppy gets the dominant B gene, eumelanin is expressed as black.
If it gets two recessive b genes instead, that eumelanin shows up as chocolate.
So, when you're holding a black puppy, you're literally looking at the expression of eumelanin in its purest form.
How Black Australian Labradoodle Puppies' Coats Can Change Over Time
Some black Australian Labradoodle puppies grow into a softer, silvery version of themselves, a transition which is so beautiful to see. Their coats can lighten to shades of charcoal or smoky gray, especially around the face and legs, creating a multi-tonal, almost magical look. This transformation is thanks to the progressive graying gene from their Poodle side, and while not every black pup goes through it, the ones who do end up with a coat that’s just as stunning, just in a different, more dynamic way.
Others hold onto that deep, velvety black coat for life. (Hello again, eumelanin!) When the pigment stays fully expressed without any graying influence, you get that rich, dramatic color that stays just as striking in adulthood as it was in puppyhood.
At Cream Puff, we take great pride in our deep understanding of Australian Labradoodle genetics and the nuances of coat color. With years of experience, we’ve become experts at identifying which black lines are more likely to fade into silvery or charcoal hues and which are more likely to retain their deep, rich black color. This knowledge comes from careful breeding practices, where we focus on producing puppies that meet specific color and coat expectations. Whether you’re looking for a puppy with a dynamic, multi-tonal coat or one that holds onto that striking, velvety black for life, we can guide you toward the perfect puppy based on your unique preferences. Our goal is to ensure you find not only the ideal temperament but also the coat color you’ve always dreamed of.
How to Keep a Black Coat Looking Its Best
Black coats are eye-catching, but they do take a little maintenance to stay sleek and shiny, especially with the plush, textured coats Australian Labradoodles are known for.
Here’s how to keep that gorgeous black fur in it’s best condition:
Brush regularly to avoid mats and tangles (especially if they have a curly or wavy fleece coat)
Use gentle, coat-safe shampoo to keep their fur soft and healthy
Limit long sun exposure, since black coats can absorb more heat
Groom them regularly, every 6-8 weeks
Wipe their face and paws daily - lighter debris like dust and pollen can show more on dark coats
The good news? A well-maintained black Labradoodle looks like a walking velvet throw pillow, you just can’t help but want to curl up next to it.
Thinking About Bringing Home a Black Puppy?
There’s something timeless about a black dog, especially one with the smarts, softness, and charm of an Australian Labradoodle. Whether their coat stays dark as night or lightens over time, their presence leaves a mark. If you're ready to welcome one of these beauties into your home, we’re here to help you take the first step.
