Goldendoodles provide years of fun and friendship. These lovely hybrids, half golden retriever and half poodle are sought after for their low-allergen coats and friendly attitudes. They are bright canines who get along well with children and other dogs.
Characteristics of the Goldendoodle
Goldendoodles fit very well with busy families and individuals. They are fast learners and eager to be trained. To be happy, this breed requires a lot of activity and mental stimulation.
Breed Appearance
Like a cross between golden retrievers and poodles, you’d think Goldendoodles would only be blonde. However, they come in as many hues as poodles. These curly-haired puppies have wide-set, oval eyes and are available in various colors, including tan, apricot, and black.
A miniature Goldendoodle is the offspring of a miniature or toy poodle and a golden retriever. These canines typically range from 13 to 20 inches in height and weigh from 15 to 35 pounds.
They stay little; many people mistake full-grown Goldendoodles for puppies. These little canines believe they are the larger 50-pound Goldendoodle equivalent.
A small standard Goldendoodle is 17 to 20 inches tall and weighs 40 to 50 pounds on average. The large standard Goldendoodle is 20 to 24 inches tall and weighs 50 to 90 pounds on average.
Temperament
Goldendoodles form strong attachments to their owners, unlike other more independent breeds, and may develop separation anxiety if left alone for an extended period. They mirror your activity level and are equally content to play fetch in the yard as they are to snuggle up to you for a snooze.
They are perfect guide dogs and their Poodle and Golden Retriever relatives. Their intellect, gentleness, and amiable demeanor make them excellent for service dog work.
Although training often begins as a puppy, adults do well with training. Because of their intelligence and athleticism, Goldendoodles are also a lot of fun in dog sports. You may advance to agility, dock diving, and other activities with your doodle dog once you’ve learned the principles of obedience.
Personality
You shouldn’t rely on your Goldendoodle as a security dog because strangers are all kind to them. They don’t make much noise, so if someone arrives at your door, they won’t bark to alert you.
Some get trained to do various activities, including barking at “intruders.” However, the exhilaration of meeting a new individual may get the best of them.
Living Needs
Goldendoodles are often calm and quiet. They don’t make good watchdogs since they’re so friendly. Even if someone knocks on the door, they may not respond by barking.
They don’t fare well in apartments, despite being sociable and quiet. Goldendoodles thrive in yards where they can run and play. That’s not to suggest you can’t leave them in a kennel or outside. They develop strong attachments to their families and may experience separation anxiety.
When left alone for an extended period, their curiosity might get the best of them. And they have the potential to be destructive if the mood strikes.
If you must go for an extended period, it is advisable to prepare them and provide them with toys to keep them amused. Allow them to feel calmer by leaving a television or radio on so they may stay connected to others while you’re away.
Life Expectancy
Hybrid Goldendoodles may have health problems as they get older. While many Goldendoodles can live for 10 to 15 years, breeders cannot guarantee any dog’s health.
Recognizing the need for frequent examinations and maintaining open lines of communication with your veterinarian is critical to your dog’s health and well-being.
Goldendoodle Care
Let’s take a look at the main things you need to know about caring for your Goldendoodle:
Training and Exercise Needs
Training should begin as soon as they arrive at their new residence. Potty training will include monitoring their food and drink consumption, developing a pattern, and employing positive reinforcement.
Teach them how to enter and exit their container on their own. Goldendoodles become devoted to their owners, so they may become worried and misbehave if you leave the house without them.
Train them to enter their box and provide them with toys to entertain themselves while you are away.
Energetic Goldendoodles thrive in fenced yards with plenty of room to run and play. These sociable dogs need at least 30 to 60 minutes of vigorous, involved playtime with their owners every day.
Don’t leave them alone in the pool to play since young puppies may tire rapidly and have difficulties getting out.
Socialization
Like all other dogs, Goldendoodles require early socialization. Socialization training helps you and your pet buddy form a relationship. Exposing pups to a range of experiences teaches them that they do not need to be afraid when their environment changes.
Well-rounded dogs are at ease in their surroundings and react well to behavioral instruction. Providing your dog with a range of experiences can help it develop behavioral baselines.
According to the American Kennel Association, socialization during the first three months of a dog’s life will shape its temperament for the rest of its life. Socialization can start as early as three weeks of age.
Before a puppy leaves their care, reputable breeders begin the socialization process.
Increase your dog in puppy training classes. Enroll your dog in puppy training classes. They will learn how to respond to basic commands. They also gain mingling with other canines and humans in unfamiliar settings.
Grooming
Goldendoodles sweat less than dogs that do not have poodle DNA. Those with “dog allergies” prefer this breed. The smaller the dog, the less hair loses and accumulates around the house. Expect more fur in your home if your Goldendoodle is of the larger breed.
If you take them to the groomer for a shorter trim, their coat needs brushing every six to eight weeks. Brush their dense, wavy coats once or twice a week to eliminate dander and hair as their coat naturally grows.
While no dog is entirely hypoallergenic, these adorable, active puppies may be an excellent alternative for people with moderate allergies.
What You Need to Know About Goldendoodle Health
These dogs are prone to many health issues, so it’s critical to know what to watch for.
The following are the most prevalent health problems in Goldendoodles:
- Progressive retinal atrophy: Some dogs may go blind as their eyes deteriorate over time.
- Von Willebrand’s disease: This blood disorder causes clotting problems in dogs.
- Patellar Luxation: Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap falls outside the femoral groove. Joint issues are relatively common among hybrid dog breeds.
- Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism in dogs with lethargy and hair loss is treatable. But unfortunately, it is uncurable.
- Hip dysplasia: In smaller breeds, the ball joints may dislocate.
- Allergies: Your Goldendoodle may have food allergies, as demonstrated by skin irritation and gastrointestinal issues.
- Ear Infections: Ear infections in puppies with downturned ears are caused by yeast overgrowth, mites, and allergies.
Nutrition and Diet
Feed your Goldendoodle twice a day; 1 cup of dry food for every 15 pounds of dog is a fair rule of thumb. If they are training hard, they may require additional meals.
Changing diets might cause stomach distress. Try to limit them to one type of protein at a time. If you have any concerns regarding food allergies, see your veterinarian.
F1 and F1B Goldendoodles may be allergic to ingredients such as wheat, grain, dairy, beef, soy, eggs, chicken, and lamb. Dog foods produced by salmon and duck digest more easily.
The Goldendoodle’s History
The Goldendoodle has been around since the 1960s, although it was not recognized as a “hybrid” breed until the 1990s. The Goldendoodle came about through the combination of the sociability of golden retrievers and the intellect of poodles.
Because they are “hybrids” or “designer dogs,” neither the Westminster Dog Show nor the American Kennel Club recognizes the dog breed. There are no “doodle” dogs among the 174 breeds recognized by the AKC, including Labradoodles and Schnoodles.
FAQ
Read on to learn the answers to some popular questions regarding the Goldendoodle.
Is the Goldendoodle hypoallergenic?
When poodle genes getadded to the mix, the likelihood of a hypoallergenic puppy increases. Because all dogs sweat and have dander, the phrase “hypoallergenic” is a bit misleading.
Will a Goldendoodle make an excellent family dog?
Goldendoodles make excellent family pets. They are incredibly loving, gentle, and patient. These teddy bear puppies are therapy canines that help the handicapped.
Is it possible for Goldendoodles to get along with other dogs?
Goldendoodles like older dogs, particularly pups, for attention and love. Slowly introduce older dogs to your new puppy, either by keeping them apart in various sections of the home or separate crates.
Allow them some time to become accustomed to each other’s fragrance. After that, allow dogs to be in the same room together. Treats will go a long way toward smoothing out the introduction.
What should I do first if I want to adopt a Goldendoodle?
Before deciding on a puppy, take a thorough look at the breeder. The Goldendoodle Association of North America can help you find a reliable breeder. They will assist you in locating someone who supports healthy breeding techniques.
How much does a Goldendoodle cost?
According to a Pet Parent survey by Rover, 81% of people planned to spend $500-$2000 on their first Goldendoodle puppy. Up to 62% found those initial costs were about accurate for how much they paid.
But another 32% indicated the initial expenditure for a puppy was substantially greater.
Pet parents claimed they spent $50-$149 per month on Goldendoodle toys, food, and pet care. Another 21% reported they spent more than $150 per month.
On the high end, the initial cost plus monthly expenses, the first year with a Goldendoodle is around $3,800.
Final Thoughts
When you’re ready to invest in a cuddly companion, read up on how to provide your Goldendoodle with the mental and physical stimulation they crave. These fast learners are eager to be trained and should provide many years of joyful friendship with your family.
