60-85 lbs
22-25"
North America, Australia
A booming breed currently gaining wide popularity in North America and Australia, the Goldendoodle can easily be considered one of the more popular hybrids due to their loving, docile and sweet nature. This loyal companion is a large, energetic dog and is a cross between the Standard Poodle and the Golden Retriever. These hybrids can generally be suited to all sorts of households so long as they have the opportunity for plenty of walks, runs and playtime. The Goldendoodle is a high-maintenance breed and will need to be groomed by a professional groomer every 8 to 12 weeks.
The Poodle can be either standard, miniature or toy according to the American Kennel Club, and they are classified as a non-sporting dog. This highly intelligent breed joined the roster of the AKC in 1887 and was once the most favored dog in North America. With origins in Germany, it was really the breed enthusiasts of France that developed this high energy canine into one of the most clever breeds found today. They have worked as a waterfowl hunter and a circus performer, and today top the charts at obedience and conformation trials. Another excellent hunter and retriever of waterfowl, the Golden Retriever originated in Scotland before making their way to North America in the early 1900s. Known for their proficiency as a helpmate to hunters both in the water and on land, their talents have only multiplied over the years. Their personality and keen mind allow them to continue to work as a therapy dog, service dog, in drug and arson detection, and one must remember that above all, they are a wonderful companion. One can either have a Goldendoodle that is a cross between the two purebred parent breeds; a hybrid which is a cross between 25% Retriever and 75% Poodle or a cross between two Goldendoodles.
Appearance often depends on what kind of Poodle your Goldendoodle is a mix with. In general, the Standard Goldendoodle is 23 to 29 inches in height, and they will have round, broad skulls, long muzzles, and dark, oval-shaped eyes. Eyes are most often brown but in rare occasions can be blue or green. Their coats can either be rather messy looking, loosely curled, or slightly smoothed over, but this is dependent on the cross. They are often described as shaggy teddy bears. The body of this attractive hybrid tends to be long, well built and muscular. If your four-legged friend takes on more of the Retriever characteristics then they will likely have a deep chest, wide stance, and a thick, muscular tail.
The Goldendoodle can have either a thick Retriever like coat (this may not be hypoallergenic) or a loosely curled coat (hypoallergenic). As these dogs have a dense, double coat that is highly prone to matting or trapping of dirt, they require a lot of grooming. These busy canines should have their coats brushed with a slicker brush a few times a week in order to prevent mats from forming. Generally, a professional trim is required every 8 to 12 weeks. With a coat that constantly grows, you will need to to make sure that the fur around their eyes, hind end, footpads and ears is trimmed on a regular basis. These dogs have floppy ears and you should monitor for ear infections, particularly if your dog is a swimmer or is highly active. As with all dogs, teeth cleaning should be done weekly when possible in order to prevent dental disease.
Hybrids are typically a “work in progress” which means it’s hard to pinpoint exact behavioral traits common to the breed since they are still quite new and standards are not nailed down. For the most part, owners and breeders of this hybrid say Goldendoodles tend to be easy to train and are loving companions that do well with both children and other pets. However, socialization at puppyhood is important, especially if you have very young children at home who have yet to learn when a dog has had enough play. Supervision between all dogs and young children is a must. These dogs often aren’t guard dog material and can be quite friendly when a stranger approaches. Nevertheless, every dog is different and some Goldendoodles may not take well to strangers, other pets or children. Introductions when your dog is a pup and regular times of socialization are key.
These pooches are highly active and energetic and will thrive in stimulating environments where they can play not only with their owners but also with other dogs. They are best suited to active families who will be able to play games such as flyball and fetch. Some Goldendoodles may enjoy swimming games as this activity caters towards the instinctual retrieving ability of the Golden. These dogs will enjoy mental stimulation through agility courses and constant training as this is something most enjoyed by the Poodle breed. Due to their dense, double coated fur, these dogs do best in cooler to temperate climates. However, despite their size and energy level, they can do well in both urban and rural areas so as long they have enough space to run and play.
