Goldendoodle
Complete Breed Guide

Overview

Temperament and Behavior

The Goldendoodle is smart, friendly, social, and family-oriented. They tend to follow their nose wherever it leads them, so a fenced-in yard is a must. Goldendoodles are always ready for a game, especially if it involves fetching or tapping into their natural retriever instincts. These dogs don’t bark much and like to make friends with strangers, so they’re more likely to be companions instead of protectors.

Coat & Grooming

The Goldendoodle’s coat is a cross between the Golden Retriever and Poodle coat, having fine hair that can be curly or straight. Depending on the Poodle influence, Goldendoodles can come in a wide variety of colors, including white, tan, chocolate, black, red, silver, or a mix. They may shed very little or a bit more based on whether their Poodle side or Golden Retriever side is stronger. No matter what kind of coat they may have, plan on brushing your Goldendoodle regularly and clipping it every few months.

Lifestyle & Living Conditions

Goldendoodles are the quintessential family dog. They’re eager to please and get along well with children, other animals, and strangers. These pups are social and love being around people, so they do best with families that are home a lot. Because of their craving for companionship, Goldendoodles should always live inside and never been banned to the backyard.

Exercise & Activity

The Goldendoodle requires an average amount of exercise. Most enjoy swimming, daily walks, and playtime. With Golden Retriever in their genes, these dogs do well at games that involve retrieving, like fetch and Frisbee. Goldendoodles also make great therapy dogs, so if your pup is on the low-key side, consider getting them involved in that type of activity to keep them busy while fulfilling their craving for being around people.

Health Considerations

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Anne McClanahan, DVM

Four Lakes Veterinary Clinic, Madison, WI

Resident, ACVB · Fear Free Elite Certified

Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, von Willebrand's disease, bloat, Addison's disease, allergies. Note: With the increase in breeding of these newly popular dogs, I see much more behavioral and other health issues in practice. Finding a good breeder who breeds with temperment and health of the dog is crucial for all breeds but potentially more for this and other breeds growing in popularity.

Breed descriptions and health information are provided for educational purposes only and should not replace consultation with a licensed veterinarian. Individual dogs may vary in temperament and health.