Ever thought of what it would be like to have a mix of the cute and sassy Poodle and your friendly local Retriever? Say no more. The fancy Goldendoodle name is a cross between a Poodle and Golden Retriever. As its name suggests, the Goldendoodle is a crossbreed and a designer dog that has grown in popularity over the years.
Goldendoodle is also known as the Groodle. They have been proven to be versatile working dogs and an excellent family dog. Hence, throughout their lifetimes, they can provide the most gentle and most intelligent companionship any pet can ever give.
You don’t know which traits from its different-breed parents will get passed on to the pup. So if you’re looking into adopting or buying a Goldendoodle puppy, you have to understand and be ready for its unpredictable characteristics. In this comprehensive guide to the Goldendoodle, The Furry Companion will lay down all the things you need to know when planning to adopt one or if you’re interested in knowing more about the breed.
Table of Contents
The Growing Popularity of Goldendoodle
The Goldendoodle is one of the youngest and newest of the “Doodle” or Poodle mix breeds. The breeding of Goldendoodle aimed to create a larger Doodle with a low-dander and low-shedding coat and the friendliness and intelligence of the Golden Retriever.
The breeding of Goldendoodle began in the 1990s after the popularity of the Cockapoo and the Labradoodle. As the Goldendoodle is still a young cross, most pups today are the result of first-generation breeding between Golden Retriever and Poodle mixes. As of now, breeding rarely occurs between pairs of Goldendoodles.
“Simply breeding a Standard Poodle to a Golden Retriever producing a first generation of mixed pups does not qualify the litter as a recognized new breed. Creating a new breed requires careful, purposeful breeding. It took a while to create the new breed of dog called “Golden Doodle”,” says Lynn Buzhardt, DVM.
Many dog owner communities believe that the Goldendoodle’s popularity will rise to the top and may surpass the other Doodle breeds. However, despite its popularity, especially in Australia, there is still no breed club or registry for the Goldendoodle.
According to Stanley Coren PhD., DSc, FRSC, “the Poodle is frequently entered into the mix to provide a non-shedding coat quality and a presumed hypoallergenic trait to the resultant pups.”
Size
Goldendoodles vary in sizes. As they are still a relatively young breed, there is no breed standard that breeders aim to follow. Hence, there is no guarantee that your Goldendoodle puppy will fall into the desired weight range. However, Goldendoodles usually come in three sizes: miniature, small standard, and large standard.
- Miniature Goldendoodle: They are the result of a cross between a Miniature or Toy Poodle and a Golden Retriever. Their average size ranges from 13 to 20 inches in height and 15 up to 35 pounds in weight.
- Small Standard Goldendoodle: The average height is 17 to 20 inches, and the average weight is 40 to 50 pounds.
- Large Standard Goldendoodle: The average height is 20 to 24 inches and can weigh 50 to 90 pounds.
Goldendoodle Temperament and Personality
A Goldendoodle’s attitude is affected by many factors. It may depend on several things, including heredity and the amount of training and socialization it receives. To evaluate the Goldendoodle pup, it is vital to meet at least one of the parents to make sure that they have gentle temperaments that you can be comfortable with. Doing so is also helpful in evaluating what a puppy will be like when it grows up.
In general, Goldendoodles are amiable and highly social dogs, overflowing with positive personality traits. Goldendoodles are intelligent and easy to train and have an accepting nature. With proper training, Goldendoodles can be highly obedient and loyal. They enjoy learning and may likely astound you with how quickly it can learn.
With its gentle and affectionate trait, Goldendoodles make an excellent family companion. Since they are curious and enjoy human company, Goldendoodle pups are usually willing to approach people and be held by them. They also generally get along well with children as well as with other dogs and family pets.
Like every other dog breeds, the Goldendoodle needs early socialization. Expose them to different sights, sounds, and experiences at an early age. Doing this can ensure that your Goldendoodle will grow up as a well-rounded dog. Although not known to have any aggressive traits, Goldendoodle puppies need proper socialization to avoid growing up shy or fearful.
Even at eight weeks old, they can absorb everything that you teach them. By the time that it is 10 to 12 weeks old, you can enroll it in a puppy kindergarten class. Other activities you can do to improve a Goldendoodle’s social skills are taking it to busy parks, inviting visitors over, and going on strolls around your neighborhood.
Note, however, that the Goldendoodle is not a watchdog. It is not suitable for guarding as it is not a noisy breed. It may not even alert you even if someone knocks on the door.
Both Poodle and Golden Retriever are smart breeds. Beginning socialization and training for Goldendoodles at a young age using positive reinforcement can be the start of having your best lifelong companion.
Goldendoodle Care
As they are social dogs, the Goldendoodle should not live away from the family. A Goldendoodle can suffer from separation anxiety if left for too long. Separation from owners can also lead to destructive behavior and other personality problems.
The Goldendoodle may grow large, and they may require room to move around. They are usually not recommended for apartments and may prefer a home with a fenced yard.
Goldendoodles generally have a moderate activity level, and they usually require about 20 to 30 minutes of daily exercise, which can be in the form of a walk or active playtime. Goldendoodles are athletic enough to do dog sports such as flyball, rally, and agility. They’re also known for their love of water, so you can bring your Goldendoodle along when swimming.
Health
All dogs, whether they are purebred, crossbred, or mixed, are prone to certain health conditions and may develop genetic health problems. As a Goldendoodle dog owner, it is essential to be aware of any diseases that your dog can get if you’re considering having one.
If you’re buying a puppy, find a breeder who will show you health clearances from both of the puppy’s parents. Heath clearances will prove that a dog has been screened and tested for genetic defects and deemed healthy for breeding. It also helps in knowing which particular condition is not prone to the dog. Do not entertain breeders who tell you that the mixed breed is 100 percent healthy and has no known health conditions. It is crucial to find a reputable dog breeder who will be open about the health problems in the mixed breed.
In Goldendoodles, you can confirm health clearances by checking the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) website. You can check for conditions such as hip or elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and von Willebrand’s disease.
Goldendoodles may have the same health problems as Standard Poodles, Miniature Poodles, or Golden Retrievers. There is also a chance of genetic diversity from mixing breeds, which may lower the chance of developing certain diseases. But genetic variation can make it difficult to predict for a mixed breed dog.
Allergies are also common for a Goldendoodle, such as food allergies, contact allergies, and inhalant allergies. Treatment of these allergies may vary according to cause and may include medications, dietary restrictions, and change in their environment. As a dog owner, you have the power to protect your Goldendoodle from acquiring the most common health problem.
But according to Jimmy Murphy, DVM, “by simply being a mixed breed dog they possess “hybrid vigor.” In short, this means that by combining genetics, there is less chance that a mixed breed animal will inherit breed-specific negative predispositions such as allergies, hip dysplasia and cancer.”
Feeding Your Goldendoodle
The recommended daily amount of food for Goldendoodles is one to four cups of high-quality dry dog food daily. It is recommended to feed them into multiple small meals instead of a large one since they easily suffer from gastric torsion or bloating.
It is important to note that how much your dog eats can depend on its size, age, activity level, and metabolism. The quality of dog food you feed him can also make a huge difference in his overall health.
If you’re unsure if your Goldendoodle is overweight, conduct an eye test and a hands-on test. Assess your dog by measuring his waist. Place your hands on his back with your thumbs along the spine, and your fingers spread downward. If your dog is not overweight, you should be able to feel his ribs without pressing hard. If you can’t, you should start going out for more exercise with your dog and giving him less food.
Grooming Your Goldendoodle
Depending on the dominant gene, Goldendoodles can have different types of fur. Some bear more resemblance with a Poodle, with wavy to curly coat, or a shaggy retriever. Some fall somewhere in between. Their coat is usually about two to three inches in length.
They have long hair on the body, tail, legs, and ears, and the hair on the head and muzzle is usually shorter. Goldendoodle coat can be black, white, copper, golden, cream, or apricot. The golden coat is often the standard coat color, which tends to lighten with age.
Coat Grooming
Although considered a non-shedder to light shedder, the Goldendoodle is not low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. For easier maintenance, owners generally opt to clip the coat every eight to twelve weeks. Brush your Goldendoodle at least once every week using a slicker brush like Pro Slicker Brush for single- or double-coated dogs.
Bath
They require a bath only when it’s absolutely necessary. Giving them baths more than what is recommended can dry out their coat and skin of essential oils and moisture.
Teeth
Your Goldendoodle’s overall hygiene can improve by brushing its teeth regularly. Brush your Goldendoodle’s teeth at least three times a week to remove tartar and the bacteria that comes with it. Daily brushing is also ideal for preventing gum diseases and bad breath.
Nail Trimming
Nail trimming is essential to prevent painful tears and other problems. Trim your Goldendoodle’s nails once or twice a month if it doesn’t wear naturally. It is vital to have prior knowledge before trimming your dog nails as they have blood vessels in them. Cutting too short can cause bleeding and pain. It is best to ask a vet or a groomer for pointers if you’re not experienced in trimming dog nails.
Ears
Ear infections are a common problem in Goldendoodles. Make sure to keep the ears dry and clean, especially after a bath or swimming. Check your dog’s ear weekly for redness or a bad odor, which can indicate infection. Report any issues or symptoms immediately to your veterinarian.
Its ears should be checked weekly for redness or a bad odor, which can indicate an infection. When checking your Goldendoodle’s ears, wipe them out with a cotton ball soaked in mild, pH-balanced ear cleaner to prevent infections. Keep in mind to clean only the outer ear, not the inner ear.
Make grooming a positive experience for your Goldendoodle with praises and rewards. Proper grooming can help you prevent and spot potential health problems early. Grooming can also be a training ground for handling veterinary exams when they become an adult. It is crucial to begin accustoming your Goldendoodle to grooming as early as when it’s a puppy.
Getting a Goldendoodle
Like other crossbreeds and designer dogs, Goldendoodles are often bought without a clear understanding of the requirements of owning one. Currently, there are many Goldendoodles in need of adoption and fostering. It is hard to distinguish disreputable breeders from reliable ones, so it is imperative to be very keen and cautious when you’re transacting from a breeder or a pet store.
There is no guarantee that you’ll purchase a puppy without a defective condition. You must do your research on crossbreeds to know what you should expect. You also need to check out the facility to identify any unhealthy conditions and ask the right questions to the breeder and your veterinarian. Your veterinarian can often refer you to a rescue organization, a reputable breeder, and other reliable sources for healthy puppies. Buy your pet this dog house to make them feel comfortable with you.
A Goldendoodle puppy’s costs depend on the breeders’ locale and whether they have obtained the required health clearances on the pup’s parents. The puppy should have come from a clean and healthy home environment. Goldendoodle pups should be vetted, dewormed, temperament-tested, and socialized to give them a healthy start in life.
Moreover, before getting a Goldendoodle, consider whether a puppy or an adult might better suit your lifestyle. Starting with a growing puppy are loads of excitement, but taking care of it comes with a lot of time and effort. An adult, on the other hand, can be less demanding than a puppy and may already have some training before adopting them.
Crossbreeding
People have been crossing types of dogs in an attempt to achieve a particular look or temperament. Some breeders claim that crossbreeds are hypoallergenic or have fewer health problems than other breeds. Others even claim that crossbreeds will carry the best traits of each breed. But in our genetics lessons, it doesn’t always work that way.
The way genes express themselves is a lot more complicated, and crossing two different breeds is not always something a breeder can control. Genetic traits sort out randomly in every dog, so there is no guarantee that you’ll get the best of both breeds.
Whatever the breed, cross, or mix, give your dog the love that it needs and deserves. All dogs are unique in their ways, and depending on how we treat them, they can be our loving companions throughout their lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Goldendoodles crazy?
Goldendoodles have high spirits! They can act hyper at times since this crossbreed came from breeds with high-energy for sports and work. Their energy is one of the most well-loved characteristics about them.
Are Goldendoodles a good dog?
Yes, Goldendoodles are good dogs. This crossbreed is intelligent, affectionate, and has high energy. Also, they are perfect for families because they are adaptable, easy to maintain, and highly trainable. This dog is ideal for those with allergies, since its parent breed, poodle, is hypoallergenic.
Are Goldendoodles high maintenance?
No, Goldendoodles are low-maintenance dogs, but they would need grooming every 8-12 weeks. Also, they would need regular coat brushing to maintain the appearance of their fur.
What is the difference between a Labradoodle and a Goldendoodle?
The main difference between the two breeds is their parent breeds. A Labradoodle is a mix of a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, while a Goldendoodle is a mix of Poodle and Golden Retriever. Also, Labradoodles have a shorter coat compared to the other. In terms of personality, the Goldendoodles are friendlier, while Labradoodles are more reserved.
Why you shouldn’t get a Goldendoodle?
Goldendoodles are expensive. You need around $1,500 to $2,500 to get one, excluding other expenses like veterinary care, vaccines, and food. Also, Goldendoodles are not 100% allergy-free. Some people still experience an allergy to these dogs.
Can Goldendoodles be left alone?
Goldendoodles can be left for a few hours but not too long. This crossbreed is a very social animal and enjoys having company. They may suffer separation anxiety if they get separated from their humans for an extended period.
Is it better to get a male or female Goldendoodle?
Dog owners say that it is better to get a male Goldendoodle because they are easier to train and affectionate. Also, male Goldendoodles are more stable as compared to female dogs. Female dogs, in general, tend to be protective of their puppies and be aggressive.
Does Goldendoodle bark a lot?
Goldendoodles do not bark a lot. This crossbreed is perfect for indoors because of their quiet personality. But this is only a generalization since each dog has a personality of its own.
Does Goldendoodle get along well with other dogs?
Actually, Goldendoodles are huge social butterflies! They love to interact and play a lot with others. However, it is best to have them trained around other dogs. They should be aware of social cues, especially when they approach or interact with other dogs in the park or while having a walk.
How Much Does A Goldendoodle Cost?
The cost of a Goldendoodle will range from $500 to $4000, depending on whether you adopt or buy one. Adoption costs typically vary from $250 to $500 per puppy. The price may also depend on other factors such as size and breed. A standard-sized Goldendoodle puppy may cost about $2,100 on average. You should anticipate spending a lot of money ($3,000 to $5,000) if, suppose, you want a multicolored and toy-sized Goldendoodle. Generally, smaller-sized Goldendoodles are often more expensive since they are more difficult to raise.