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Goldendoodles have become an increasingly popular dog breed in recent years!
They’re a beloved hybrid breed that combines the loyalty of a Golden Retriever with the intelligence of a Poodle.
These adorable doodle dogs have captured the hearts of dog lovers with their friendly personalities and fluffy, teddy bear-like appearance.
In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of Goldendoodles, their characteristics, and why they’ve exploded in popularity over the past few years.
| Goldendoodle quick facts | |
| Breed | Mixed (Golden Retrieve Poodle cross) |
| Height | 16 to 26 inches |
| Weight | 30 to 75 pounds |
| Temperament | Friendly, social, intelligent |
What is a Goldendoodle Dog?
A Goldendoodle (also known as a Groodle) is a cross between a Poodle and a Golden Retriever.
Goldendoodles were originally bred in 1989 to create a dog with the intelligence and trainability of a Poodle and the friendly, loyal nature of a Golden Retriever.
The combination of these two breeds resulted in a dog that is not only smart and easy to train but also incredibly social and affectionate.
Goldendoodles are known to be large “hypoallergenic” dog, but no dog can be truly hypoallergenic.
Dog allergies are caused by a protein found in dead skin cells, urine, and saliva. If you have allergies, a low-shedding dog can help, but not always. It’s best to speak with an allergist for advice before committing to a dog.
Goldendoodle Temperament and Personality
We know that Goldendoodles are smart and playful, but to really understand their temperaments and personalities, we have to look at both parent breeds.
Standard Poodle
The Poodle is a highly-intelligent breed, in fact, they are considered more intelligent than the Golden. Although they can be mischievous and challenging to train at times, they are quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement training techniques.
This breed is known for being big jumpers with springy legs and needs plenty of exercise to burn off all their energy.
Although Standard Poodles can be less friendly towards strangers, they grow fonder with time and love. They make great guard dogs, guide dogs, service dogs, and working dogs and are protective in nature.
Golden Retriever
Purebred Golden Retrievers are loved for their social nature and friendly demeanor. Socialization is important for this breed, as they love to interact with other animals and humans alike. In fact, they are often used as therapy dogs due to their ability to spread positivity and joy wherever they go.
While Goldens are not typically known for their guarding abilities, they make up for it with their loving and affectionate nature. They have a reputation for being extremely friendly and welcoming towards people and other animals, regardless of their species. This makes them a great choice for families looking for a loyal and loving companion.
Goldendoodle
Goldendoodles are the perfect blend between Poodles and Golden Retrievers. Let’s learn what makes the Goldendoodle unique.
Intelligent
Both Goldendoodles’ parents are intelligent and quick learners, with the Poodle being considered the second most intelligent dog in the world.
As a result, Goldendoodles are easy-to-train but need constant mental enrichment to keep up with their smart minds. Otherwise, they may get bored and destructive.
Playful
Goldendoodles are very energetic and would love to play with you all day long. They require daily exercise and are not a lazy dog.
As Goldendoodles have retriever genes, they’re always down for a game of fetch. They make excellent dogs for active people and families with children and other pets and would thrive in a fenced yard where they can run and play every day.
Energetic and Athletic
Goldendoodles are known for their high energy level and love for physical activities such as running and playing fetch. They thrive in dog sports like agility and nose work where they can work and have fun.
However, they are also very adaptable and can easily transition from active playtime to relaxing and snuggling with their families. This balance of energy and relaxation makes them great companions for people who enjoy both active and laid-back lifestyles.
Affectionate
With strong genes from the Golden Retriever parent, Goldendoodles are incredibly affectionate and love to cuddle with you and other animals.
Just make sure to work on socialization early to avoid separation anxiety—like their Poodle parent, Goldendoodles don’t like being alone for long hours on end.
Calm
The Goldendoodle is quite energetic, but not as active as a Labradoodle, and tends to have a calm demeanor. With proper training and socialization, Goldendoodles can be great companions for those seeking a loving and gentle dog.
Read our full guide on Goldendoodles vs Labradoodles to learn the differences between these two dogs.
Appearance
A Goldendoodle can come in a variety of different colors and coats.
Goldendoodle colors
Goldendoodles typically come in the colors black, brown, apricot, cream, grey, and red. Rare Goldendoodle colors include:
- Parti: Blend of two colors, usually black and white or brown and white.
- Black/white or tuxedo: Black hair with white chest.
- Sable: Sable refers to a coat color where individual hairs have a mix of colored bands, typically with a darker base and lighter tips.
- Merle: A mixture of grey, silver, and bluish-silver.
- Phantom: two distinct colors on the dog, with one color being above the eyes, on the muzzle, chest, and feet, and the other color being on the body (think a German Shepherd)
Goldendoodle coats
Typically, Goldendoodles have coats that are wavy to curly, but can have straighter hair like the Golden Retriever’s coat as well. It’s near impossible for a breeder to predict what a puppy’s coat will look like as an adult, and your Goldendoodle’s coat may change as they grow.
Size
Goldendoodles range in size and are usually 16 to 26 inches and weigh 30 to 75 pounds. You can also get Miniature Goldendoodles, which are bred with Miniature Poodles.
Goldendoodle Generations
There are three main different generations of Goldendoodles. Each generation is slightly different:
- F1 or first generation: F1 These are a mix between a purebred Golden Retriever and a Poodle. This generation is unlikely to shed, however, since they have 50% Golden Retriever genes, you can still end up with a dog that sheds slightly. Highly allergic pet owners shouldn’t go for this generation and should seek out different generations.
- F1B: This generation is the mix between a purebred Poodle with an F1 generation Goldendoodle. Since F1Bs have more Poodle genetics, they are less likely to shed than an F1 Goldendoodle and will likely have a curlier Poodle coat.
- F2: F2 These result when two Goldendoodles are bred together. F2s are similar to F1s and aren’t the best for people with intense allergies. This generation may shed, similar to F1 Goldendoodles.
Where to Find a Goldendoodle Puppy
Breeders
When searching for Goldendoodle breeders, it is essential to find an ethical breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of the dogs. An ethical breeder will conduct health screenings and genetic testing to prevent the passing of hereditary diseases to the puppies.
They will also provide a comfortable living environment for the dogs, and socialize them to become well-behaved and friendly companions.
Additionally, they will be transparent about their breeding practices and answer any questions potential buyers may have.
Goldendoodle puppies from a reputable breeder usually cost around $2,500 to $5,000.
Rescue
Your other option isto adopt an adult dog from Doodle rescuesnear you. Adoptions are typically more affordable (less than $1,000) and you can give a loving home to a dog in need.
Grooming
Since Goldendoodles don’t shed, they require regular at-home grooming and trips to a professional groomer to keep their coat healthy. They need daily brushing and you can expect to spend 30 minutes a day brushing their hair.
If all that brushing doesn’t sound like something you want to do, you’ll need to keep your Goldendoodle shaved to prevent mats.
There are plenty of Goldendoodle haircuts you can choose from to ensure your Goldendoodle always looks their best!
Health Conditions
Well-bred Goldendoodles won’t have many health issues but all dogs can get ill, even when bought from a responsible breeder. Goldendoodles are prone to the same health conditions that their parents have, including:
- Hip dysplasia
- Skin irritation
- Hyperadrenocorticism
- Canine hypothyroidism
- Ear infections due to their floppy ears
- Food allergies
- Bloat
Stay up to date on vet visits and vaccinations to keep your Goldendoodle healthy and to avoid the above health issues.
Life Expectancy
Goldendoodles have a long life expectancy and can live a long and happy life for up to 10-15 years.
Should I get a Goldendoodle?
The Goldendoodle is a popular hybrid breed that brings together the best traits of its parents. They are known for their friendly and social nature, as well as their high energy levels and adaptability.
Whether you are looking for a companion, a therapy dog, or a service dog, Goldendoodles can be a great choice.
FAQs
Typically Goldendoodles don’t shed, however, some do and it simply depends on the parents.
Generally, no; they would rather friend a stranger than alert the family about it. If you are looking for a guard dog, it’s best to look for a different type of dog. Despite the training a Goldendoodle will receive, their genes are not made to guard the house.
Goldendoodles are cuddly and affectionate and love to be close to their families.
Goldendoodles are great with kids and families. They make great family pets and enjoy having someone to play with them and keep them busy.
No, Goldendoodles are not purebred dogs and are not recognized by the AKC but they are part of the Goldendoodle Association of North America.
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Veterinary Disclaimer: travellingwithadog.com is not a substitute for veterinary advice and does not intend to provide any type of veterinary advice for your animals. Please consult your vet for any questions you have regarding your pets health.
About the Author:
Dana owns a Sheepadoodle and a rescue merle Labradoodle. Her first dog growing up was a white Toy Poodle and she’s loved dogs ever since. She has years of experience fostering dogs and has helped find homes for a variety of different breeds, both large and small! After seeing so many dogs end up unwanted and in shelters, she began blogging about different dog breeds (specifically Doodle dogs, since that’s what she knows best) to help people make informed choices when adding a new member to their family.
When Dana’s not brushing her Doodles’ hair (it takes a lot of time for two!) you can find her playing nose work games and fetch with her two amazing pups.
Learn more about her here.