Goldendoodle Breed Description

Introduction

Goldendoodles are a cross between the Golden Retriever and the Poodle. The puppies take on the best traits of both breeds. The hybrids that result from the mating of the two are terrific family dogs that are friendly, intelligent, affectionate and easy to train. Plus, like most Poodles, they don't shed, or shed lightly, and may not produce an allergic reaction in sensitive people. Contact the dog breeders below for your next family friend.

History

The first Golden Doodles might have been accidental matings between Golden Retrievers and Poodles, but today there are dedicated Golden Doodle breeders around the world thanks to the rising popularity of this particular crossing. Both standard and miniature sized dogs are now available, ensuring that everyone will find exactly the right pet for their particular family.

General Description

As with most hybrids, no one description will adequately describe all the possible varieties seen in these dogs. Generally speaking, Golden Doodles can have the fur of either parent (Poodle or Golden Retriever) or some melded combination of the two. Colors include apricot, black, brindle, chocolate, cream, gold, merle, phantom, red and silver. Coats can be straight, wavy, or loosely curled. All three types are soft to the touch. Shedding varies by the particular crossbreed but is usually minimal.

Understanding the different genetic crosses available may help you find the right Golden Doodle for your family.

F1: First Generation Hybrid
This puppy is the product of a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. The resulting litter is likely to exhibit what is referred to as hybrid vigor: a level of good health and hardiness that exceeds that of either parent breed. Each puppy in a litter will be half Golden Retriever, half Poodle, but they may look nothing like one another.

F1b: Backcross
This puppy will be produced by taking a hybrid puppy (from an F1 breeding) and crossing it back with one of the origin breeds (either a poodle or a golden retriever). Most of these will be a hybrid crossed with a poodle, to enhance the non-shedding and low-dander traits. In proportional terms, you can view this pup as being three quarters Poodle, one quarter Golden Retriever. F2: Second Generation

These dogs are created by breeding two Golden Doodles; results here are somewhat random, as more traits evince in each litter.

F2B: Second Generation Backcross
Just what it sounds like, a first generation Golden Doodle (F1) is bred to an F1B Golden Doodle backcross. With each successive generation, more of that initial hybrid vigor is lost.

Professional breeders work to eliminate genetic problems and to enhance the best traits of the animals. This takes knowledge, dedication and experience. Only deal with a reputable kennel to get the best Golden Doodle for your family.

 

Temperament

Golden Doodles are family pets and companions, therapy dogs and more. They thrive on human companionship - this is not a dog to leave home alone all day. They adore their humans, and being eager to please makes them readily trainable for all sorts of behaviors. Both parent breeds are intelligent and the best of the hybrids have intellect and enthusiasm in equal measure. They love children, get along well with other pets and have outgoing personalities.

Health and Care

The long term health of your Golden Doodle will depend on the breeding practices that created it. Inexperienced and unprofessional animal breeders may unwittingly pass on inherited conditions and tendencies like hip dysplasia and cancer. Work with a knowledgeable and experienced breeder and your Golden Doodle will be healthy and strong. Depending on fur type, some these dogs need no brushing or trimming at all. Others require occasional trims; still others will benefit from regular brushing. All should have the regular dental care and nail trimming to stay comfortable and healthy.

Colors

apricot, golden, red, black, silver, party (2 colors), blue, chocolate, white and blonde

Living Area

Not recommended for apartments but should have a home with some type of fenced yard.

Recognized By

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Pets4You offers listings of Goldendoodle breeders with puppies for sale.