Blog
Top Dog Essentials: Treats, Toys, and Grooming Gear
One questions we often receive here at Ashford Manor Labradoodles is what products do you recommend. We have tried A LOT of products over the years! So it is worth learning from our mistakes on many different items. Let us help you make your life...
Australian Labradoodle Puppy Training: Gentle Methods, Best Books & Fun Extras
There are many theories about training your Australian Labradoodle puppy. Some trainers are well known, some have decades of experience, and others have unique approaches. Understanding the Australian Labradoodle’s Temperament The Australian Labradoodle is...
The Secret To A Calm Happy Doodle? Routine
Ashford Manor Labradoodles | Australian Labradoodle Ah, finally the long awaited longer days and more time outside have finally arrived! The smell of spring is upon us! After the winter we can quickly fill our schedules with activity, play, and excitement with our fur...
Spring Growth: How Boundaries Build the Bond
Ashford Manor Labradoodles | Australian Labradoodle Spring is in the air and all around us.With new growth comes new opportunity—not just for the world around us, but in the way we guide and connect with our fur babies. In this season, let’s grow in new ways—building...
Your Lucky Charm Has Four Paws
Every March, we celebrate luck — four-leaf clovers, pots of gold, and a little extra Irish cheer. But if you ask most families, their real good fortune isn’t found at the end of a rainbow… it’s curled up at their feet. Not Luck — Connection The bond between a family...
Irish You Understood Me
Speaking Your Dog’s Language March brings shamrocks, luck, and a little extra green. But when it comes to your Ashford Manor Australian Labradoodle, understanding them isn’t about luck at all. It’s about learning their language. At Ashford Manor Australian...
Handling Fear and Uncertainty Together
Building Confidence the Ashford Manor Way Fear and uncertainty are part of life — and they are part of raising a puppy. Whether it’s a thunderstorm rolling across Indiana, a first trip to the veterinarian, a loud garbage truck, slick flooring, new visitors, or...
Understanding Your Dog’s Body Language
Dogs communicate constantly, but not through words. Their primary language is body language — posture, movement, facial expression, and energy. Learning to recognize these signals helps owners respond appropriately and strengthens trust between dog and family. Most...
Your Dog’s Love Cues: How Dogs Show Affection
Dogs don’t express love the way humans do. They don’t rely on words, gifts, or grand gestures. Instead, dogs communicate affection through behavior, body language, and emotional cues. Once you understand these signals, it becomes easier to recognize when your dog is...
Connection Before Commands
Training matters.Structure matters. But connection is what makes everything else work. This year at Ashford Manor, our focus is on strengthening the bond that supports training — not replacing it. When an Australian Labradoodle feels connected,...
Simple Daily Rituals That Build Trust With Your Australian Labradoodle
In January, when routines reset and life slows just enough to notice what’s underneath, it’s the perfect time to focus on how trust actually grows between you and your dog. Not through commands. Not through correction. But through simple, consistent rituals...
Brain Games: Box Bonanza
🧠 Brain Game: Box Bonanza Goal: Strengthen your dog’s problem-solving skills and build confidence through a fun, scent-driven activity using your Ashford Manor delivery boxes! 🐾 What You’ll Need: 2 or more delivery boxes (or other sturdy boxes) Small, high-value...
Brain Game – Training Your Australian Labradoodle Without Using Their Name
Training Your Australian Labradoodle Without Using Their Name As dog owners, we often find ourselves calling our dog’s name over and over, especially when we want to get their attention or start a training session. However, using their name too much can become a...
Are You Sending Your Dog Secret Signals?
Did you know you may be giving your dog more commands than you ever realized? We often think training is all about spoken words like “sit” or “stay.” But dogs are masters at reading our body language — often better than they hear our...
The Leap Over Me Game — A Fun Way to Challenge Your Dog
Looking for a playful way to engage your pup’s body and mind? Try the Leap Over MeGame! This game turns you into the obstacle and helps your doodle practice focus, coordination, and confidence. How to Play 1. Sit on the ground facing a wall with one...
Can Your Australian Labradoodle Follow Commands Without Seeing You?
Did you know it’s much harder for your Australian Labradoodle to respond to your commands if they can’t see your face? Dogs pick up on a lot more than just words — they often rely on your facial expressions, mouth movement, and even subtle head gestures when deciding...
TEST YOUR AUSTRALIAN LABRADOODLE’S LISTENING SKILLS
Ever wonder if your Australian Labradoodle is actually listening to your commands or just guessing based on your tone and body language? This simple, fun test can reveal the truth — and improve your dog’s focus in the process. Step 1: Hide the Command in Random Words...
The Story of Leia
Breeding is often a joyful and rewarding experience. There’s nothing quite like watching new life enter the world and thrive. But sometimes, it can be deeply challenging and even heartbreaking. At Ashford Manor, we’ve seen the full spectrum—the good, the bad, and...