Big Rock Labradoodles
About Us
Australian Labradoodle Puppies
From Our Home to
My name is Alana Holst, and together with my husband Brent, our Niece Andrea, and her husband, Christian, form Big Rock Labradoodles. We’re a family-run Australian Labradoodle breeding program established in Alberta, Canada, in 2011. Our commitment is to breed exceptional animals, educate new owners, and ensure these precious creatures receive the life, love, and attention they deserve. One of our primary goals is to make the transition from our loving home to yours as easy as possible for both you and your new family member.
Our Story
Discovering My Love for the
I have always had a love for animals, especially dogs. However, my journey with Australian Labradoodles began when I found myself married with three wonderful boys. Unfortunately, one of my boys was allergic to dogs. Thus, the quest began for a family-friendly, allergy-friendly dog to complete our family.
I researched several breeds that fit the criteria of being allergy-friendly, but there was always something about each breed that didn’t quite fit. Throughout my research, I kept coming back to the Australian Labradoodle, and I absolutely fell in love with this breed. What impressed me even more was their natural tendency towards service and therapy work. It wasn’t long after we welcomed our first puppy, Big Rock’s Gingersnap, into our home that I knew I had to have a second one! #canthavejustone
Following My Passion
After much consideration, research, and soul-searching, I realized that while being a wife and mother was fulfilling, I also wanted something for myself. I yearned to lead a life devoted to something I was truly passionate about. It became clear that creating a breeding program and becoming active with the Australian Labradoodle Association of America (ALAA) was the path I needed to take to fill my time and my heart.
The journey into the breeding program was slow to start as I had much to learn, but over time, our doodle family began to grow significantly.
Expanding to Serve More Families
In 2017, Big Rock Labradoodles expanded to include a second location in Spruce Grove, AB, under the care of our niece, Andrea Rowe, and her husband Christian. They make up the team at our Northern location. We found that we were serving so many families from Grand Prairie, Fort McMurray, Northern British Columbia, and Saskatchewan that having a presence near Edmonton would greatly benefit our Northern families.
Meet Andrea and Christian
Andrea’s lifelong connection with animals began when her family welcomed their first dog, Christy, into their home when she was seven years old. Christy became more than just a pet. Together, they played dress-up, held talent shows, and even started a pet photography business. Christy’s exceptional intuition made her an unwavering source of comfort and companionship for Andrea, fostering her enduring passion for animals.
From the age of thirteen, Andrea embarked on a diverse career working with animals in various settings, including a pet boarding kennel, grooming salon, pet store, veterinary clinic, and even a laboratory. These experiences formed a strong foundation for her understanding of animal care. Her academic pursuits at the University of Alberta further enriched her knowledge, culminating in a B.Sc. Specialization in Animal Biology in 2014.
When I approached Andrea with the opportunity to become an associate breeder in 2018 for Big Rock Labradoodles, she couldn’t resist. It was a chance to spend her days working with puppies and enjoy the freedom of being her own boss.
Today, Andrea, along with her husband, Christian, and their two children have wholeheartedly fallen in love with this breed and eagerly anticipate the opportunity to introduce you to these affectionate and endearing dogs!
Our Homes
Home at Big Rock Labradoodles
At Big Rock Labradoodles our dedicated family and team collaboratively nurtures puppies throughout their journey, from birth to the moment they become a part of your family.
Our puppies are raised within the comfort of our homes, allowing them to become acclimated to everyday noises such as the laughter and play of children, clattering dishes, the hum of vacuum cleaners, and even the occasional door slam. This immersive environment ensures that, by the time you bring your new Wonderful Woofie home, they will be well-socialized, unphased by typical daily occurrences, and overflowing with cuddles and love.
Mission, Promise, and Vision
Our Dogs, Your Family, Our
Our Mission Is to enrich lives and create lasting connections through the love and companionship of the exceptional Standard-Sized Australian Labradoodle.
Our Promise Is to be transparent and supportive with all those we work with while providing the best care to our pups.
Our Vision Is to give people the chance to experience this amazing breed while ethically upholding the Australian Labradoodle lineage.
About Us
When your pup comes from Big Rock Labradoodles, you're choosing a breeder who values ethics, health, and the well-being of every furry bundle we bring into the world. Get to know us and see why a pup from us means you're choosing a lifetime of love and quality care.
Our Code of Ethics
We aim to maintain the highest standards, blending science, top-tier veterinary care, and a whole lot of love to raise healthy, well-socialized pups. Learn more.
Health Testing
We consider our dogs as family members. That's why we put in time and effort to make sure your new furry family member stays healthy in the long term. Learn more.
Our Holistic Approach to Neutering
Our neutering policy prioritizes puppy health and is based on extensive research — balancing the benefits of mature neutering. Learn more.
