We are Katelyn & Kristen Hurley, the dedicated hearts behind Potomac Australian Labradoodles. My (Katelyn’s) journey with Australian Labradoodles began back in 2003 when, as a young teenager, I was captivated by a neighbor’s new puppy from Australia. This sparked a lifelong passion, leading me to connect with a global community of enthusiasts and eventually bringing home my first Labradoodle, Mel, affectionately known as “Melly Belly Doodle”.

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As the breed gained popularity in the U.S., I continued to deepen my involvement in the Labradoodle community through high school and college. After graduating college and moving into my first dog-friendly condo, I welcomed Tenley and later his half sister, Harper, two Labradoodles that became integral parts of my life. When I met my now-wife Kristen in 2018, it was our shared love for these dogs that deepened our bond. Kristen’s instant connection with the dogs mirrored my own passion, and together we navigated the joys and sorrows of pet ownership, including the heartbreaking loss of Tenley.

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This loss led us to Chili, a retiring breeding dog who unexpectedly brought us into the world of breeding. Chili was still young and had only had two small litters, so the breeder agreed that let her have one more litter that we would whelp & raise. Chili’s final litter, born in the summer of 2022, marked the beginning of our foray into the breeding side of the community that we loved. Driven by the demand from those who fell in love with Chili’s puppies and who shared our passion for the breed, we decided that starting our own breeding program was inevitable at this point. In 2024, our program took root with Basil, a chocolate Australian Labradoodle from Chili’s daughter Sage’s litter, who became the foundation of our breeding line.

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Today, Kristen & I continue to foster this loving breed, sharing our lives with dogs that not only bring joy to our family but to so many others. At Potomac Australian Labradoodles, our mission is to breed healthy, happy puppies that carry the gentle temperament and joyful spirit the Australian Labradoodle is known for. Join us on our journey, and perhaps find a new furry member to add to your family!