Goldendoodle Dog Breed Information

Group

Unrecognized

Weight

20-45 kg

Height

33-66 cm

Lifespan

10-15 years

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About the Goldendoodle

Reviewed by:

Dr. Cristina Alice Vulpe

Veterinarian

The Goldendoodle, or Groodle, is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. These dogs tend to display the favourable traits of their parent breeds.

They are considered a designer breed: which is the intentionally mixed breeding of two purebred parents.

The purpose of the Goldendoodle is to enhance the best traits of the parents: the lovable, playful nature of the Golden Retriever and the low-shed, hypoallergenic traits of the intelligent Poodle.

Goldendoodles are available in different sizes as the Golden Retriever parent can be crossbred with a miniature or standard Poodle.

These designer dogs are easy to train and make amazing family pets.

What is the history & origin of the Goldendoodle?

Goldendoodles were bred for the first time in 1969 as guide dogs for the blind. Only in the 1990s did these designer dogs become widely popular as pets. The breed was selected by breeders because of its low-shedding Poodle coat and the Golden Retriever’s loving nature.

The inspiration behind the Goldendoodle was the successful breeding and popularity of the labradoodle, a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. Golden Retrievers are the most popular dog in many countries, including the United States, so they were an obvious choice for breeding with the hypoallergenic Poodle.

Both Golden Retrievers and Poodles are ranked among the top five most intelligent dog breeds, and these smart genes are passed on to the Goldendoodle offspring.

The first Goldendoodles were a cross between Golden Retrievers and Standard Poodles, but since then, designer dog breeders have used smaller poodle sizes to create smaller Goldendoodles.

This breed is not recognised by the American Kennel Club, but these dogs can be registered with the American Canine Hybrid Club.

Apart from being excellent family dogs, Goldendoodles are also used as service and therapy dogs.

What is a Goldendoodle breed?

The Goldendoodle is available in three different sizes, based on the size of the Poodle parent.

These dogs have the personality traits of the Golden Retriever. They are people-oriented and loyal and have the hypoallergenic coat from their poodle parent. They are also highly intelligent because of the intelligence of the parent breeds.

The appearance of the Goldendoodle can vary greatly based on whether they are first-generation or later generations, as well as the type of Poodle used in the breeding. Although there are some common traits, individual dogs can be completely unique.

Generally, these dogs have a rounded skull, long hair with a feathered tail, floppy ears, and large oval eyes. They have a long, strong body and long legs (the length of their legs depends, of course, on the size of the Poodle parent).

Goldendoodles can be bred by crossing a Golden Retriever with a standard, miniature, or toy poodle. These produce either Large, Medium or Miniature Goldendoodles.

Learn more about: Groodle Colours

Who is a Goldendoodle best for?

Your Goldendoodle puppy will need plenty of space. This is an energetic dog breed that needs a yard to play in and get rid of its energy. They will do well with an active family who has time for daily walks or runs.

This intelligent breed is prone to boredom, and a bored Goldendoodle is a naughty Goldendoodle. They require activities that will keep them stimulated, although if properly exercised, they will enjoy a good snuggle and just chilling with their owners.

These dogs can get anxious when left alone for too long and will do best with a family where someone is home during the day – although they will be fine if left alone for a couple of hours if they have been exercised and have toys to keep them engaged.

They do well with other dogs and household pets and are also loving towards children.

Goldendoodle Grooming & Shedding

The popularity of the Goldendoodle is partly due to its lack of shedding. A Goldendoodle’s coat is considered to be hypoallergenic. They are extremely low-maintenance dogs but will still require an occasional brush to get rid of dead hair, knots and tangles.

Goldendoodle pups require a bath every few months to keep their skin moisturised.

Some of the dog’s hairs may grow a bit longer, like over their eyes and footpads, which will require a quick trim for the dog’s comfort.

If their nails are not worn down naturally, they should be trimmed. Their ears must be checked for infection and cleaned if any debris or wax buildup is noticed.

Learn more about: Groodle Grooming Tips & Styles

Do Goldendoodles bark a lot?

An adult dog is not a very barky dog, and the Goldendoodle will only bark on occasion if they are threatened or bored.

They are not the best guard dogs because of their loving nature, but individuals may bark to notify their families of a perceived threat.

What is the average weight & height of a Goldendoodle?

As this is a mixed breed, there is no standard size. The size of the Goldendoodle will depend on the Poodle parent.

Weight: Typically 20 to 45 kgs, but a miniature Goldendoodle can weigh 6.8 to 13.6 kgs
Height: 33 – 66 cm

Learn more about: Groodle Size & Weight Chart

Are Goldendoodles easy to train?

Goldendoodles are incredibly intelligent dogs. This makes them an absolute delight to train. They respond extremely well to positive reinforcement training methods and are very eager to please.

Goldendoodles are also excellent dogs for dog sports. They enjoy agility training, as they are able to bond with their owner while exerting some energy at the same time.

Learn more about: Groodle Training Guide – Crate, Toilet & More Tips!

How do Goldendoodles behave? A look at their temperament and personality

Goldendoodles may take after either one of their parent breeds. Generally, they are incredibly friendly, well-behaved, and intelligent dogs. They love being around people and are also great with other pets. They may require some patience with very young children, but once properly introduced, they are an excellent addition to any family.

They are horrible watchdogs since they welcome each stranger with joy.

Learn more about: Groodle Temperament & Personality Traits

Does the Goldendoodle have any common health issues?

Goldendoodles are often healthier than their purebred parents. This is because they have genetic diversity and “hybrid vigour”, which means this crossbreed has improved health and a lower risk of disease.

If well-bred by a reputable breeder who screens the breeding dogs, they have brilliant health. They do, however, still have the risk of developing genetic health problems from their parents; however, the hybrid vigour reduces the risk of these diseases developing.

Some possible health concerns for a Goldendoodle include:

Hip Dysplasia: A genetic condition that can lead to joint pain and mobility issues.
Von Willebrand’s Disease: A bleeding disorder affecting blood clotting.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: A degenerative eye condition that can lead to vision loss.
Megaesophagus: A condition that affects the esophagus and can lead to difficulties with swallowing.
Cancer: Like many breeds, Goldendoodles can be at risk for various types of cancer.
Ear Infections: Their floppy ears may make them more susceptible to infections.
Skin Allergies: These can lead to itching and discomfort.
Eye Problems: Conditions such as cataracts can occur.

Learn more about: Common Groodle Health Issues

What is the lifespan of a Goldendoodle?

Your Goldendoodle will have a life span of 10 to 15 years on average.

How much does a Goldendoodle need to be fed?

Goldendoodles are incredibly active dogs, and dogs leading an active lifestyle require proper nutrition. Vets recommend a high protein diet to keep your dog healthy and strong. This food can either be commercially manufactured, or you can try your hand at homemade food.

Since Goldendoodles are prone to skin allergies, it is best to avoid a diet containing corn, dairy, soy, or wheat. There are plenty of grain-free or wheat-free dog food brands available. If you are uncertain about feeding your dog, contact your vet for advice.

If you are training your dog with treats, make sure to take this into consideration when feeding your dog to avoid obesity.

Always make sure your dog has access to fresh water.

Learn more about: What to Feed a Groodle? Diet & Feeding Chart

How much can you expect to pay for a Goldendoodle in Australia?

The price of your Goldendoodle puppy will depend on the breeder, the parents, the generation as well as the age of the pup. Well-bred Goldendoodles can cost between $830 and $1,100.

Learn more about: Groodle Prices In Australia

Goldendoodle FAQs

Is a Goldendoodle ideal for a first-time dog owner?

Yes, Goldendoodles are perfect for first-time dog owners because of their low-maintenance coat, loving and playful nature, and trainability.

Do Goldendoodles suffer from separation anxiety?

This breed group has an average need for social interaction. Although they love their families, they will be okay if they are left alone for a few hours at a time. They do not suffer from severe separation anxiety. No dog should be left alone for too long, though, even if they are very independent.

Are Goldendoodles hypoallergenic dogs?

Yes, Goldendoodles are considered to be hypoallergenic and will be suitable dogs for allergy sufferers. This is a trait that they inherited from their poodle parent.

Will a Goldendoodle need professional grooming?

Although you can wash and brush your Goldendoodle at home, some individual dogs will require professional grooming and trimming when their coats get too long. It will depend on the coat type which your dog inherited from its parents.