Is a Goldendoodle the right dog for your family?

Goldendoodles have become increasingly popular in recent years as a favored family dog for various reasons.

These dogs begin as a hybrid cross of a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, and they come in various sizes, colors, and coat types. 

But is a Goldendoodle a good family pet? As a Goldendoodle owner, I think they are the best breed available. In this blog post, I’ll explore the characteristics of Goldendoodles and why they make great family pets.

Parent breeds: Golden Retrievers and Poodles

To understand the characteristics of a Goldendoodle, it’s essential to look at the parent breeds.

Golden Retrievers are known for being friendly, loyal, and intelligent dogs. They are also great with children and make excellent family pets.

Poodles, on the other hand, are intelligent, active, and have a curly coat that is non-shedding and hypoallergenic. Combining these traits makes for an intelligent, affectionate, low to non-shedding dog that is great for families. 

This is one of the main reasons I prefer this breed.

When working with a breeder that does DNA coat testing, it is possible to know which individual Goldendoodles will be non-shedding resulting in a compatible match with those allergic to shedding dogs.

Types of Goldendoodles

Goldendoodles come in four sizes: standard, medium, mini, and petite.

Standard Goldendoodles are the largest, typically weighing between 50 and 90 pounds, although there is no maximum weight.

Medium Goldendoodles weigh between 36 and 50 pounds, mini-Goldendoodles weigh between 26 and 35 pounds, while petites weigh 25 pounds or less.

When choosing a Goldendoodle puppy, it’s important to consider the size that best fits your lifestyle and living situation.

A petite or mini Goldendoodle may be best for a small home or apartment. It’s essential you learn more about Goldendoodle sizes before choosing one.

Goldendoodle coat types

Goldendoodles can have a straight, wavy, or curly coat, depending on the DNA coat types of each parent. The kind of coat your Goldendoodle has will determine how much grooming it needs.

While all coats must be brushed regularly, the curlier coats may require more maintenance.

It’s important to note that all Goldendoodles will require regular baths and grooming to maintain their coat and prevent matting. Simple care and maintenance are essential for any breed you choose. 

Non-shedding and hypoallergenic

One of the most appealing characteristics of Goldendoodles is that they are non-shedding and can be hypoallergenic if the breeder does correct advanced genetic testing.

Different genes can help make your dog more hypoallergenic and less shedding, so it is essential to look for the proper genetic testing and know if you are getting an F1, F1b, F2, or multigen Goldendoodle. 

You must be well educated on Goldendoodle generations to know the level of shedding you will get.

No shed means they don’t shed their fur, which can be a significant advantage for pet parents who suffer from dog hair allergies.

It is essential to be aware that even though the dogs may be considered hypoallergenic, some individuals may still be allergic to them.

If you decide to rescue a Goldendoodle or adopt one from a shelter, some rescues specialize in Doodle breeds.

Easy to train

Goldendoodles are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. They are eager to please and respond well to positive reinforcement training.

This makes them an excellent choice for first-time dog owners or families with children.

It’s important to start training your Goldendoodle at a young age to ensure that they learn good behavior habits and socialization skills.

Training your puppy from day one is necessary to get them on the right track to success.

It is also critical that proper socialization begins with the breeder before you ever bring home your puppy. 

Be sure to work with a breeder that utilizes Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) and raises puppies with Puppy Culture protocols to ensure your puppy gets the right start. 

Great family dogs

Goldendoodles are known for being great family dogs. They are affectionate, loyal, and love to be around people.

They are also great with children and make excellent playmates.

However, it’s important to remember that every dog is an individual and may have its unique personality and temperament.

It is equally important that children are taught to respect dogs, as it is unfair to expect any dog to tolerate tail pulling, hugging, etc.

Separation anxiety

Goldendoodles are social dogs that love to be around people. They may experience separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.

It’s essential to provide your Goldendoodle with plenty of attention, exercise, and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and anxiety.

A Goldendoodle may not be your best choice if you work long hours or travel frequently.

However, options include doggy daycare or hired dog walkers to give your Goldendoodle the attention and exercise he needs and deserves.

Therapy and service dogs

Because of their intelligence and gentle nature, Goldendoodles are commonly used as service and therapy dogs.

They can provide comfort and assistance to people with disabilities or mental health conditions.

You must select a suitable service candidate to train your dog to be a therapy or service dog.

Breeders will typically allow a service dog specialist to help select a puppy with the best aptitude for success in service work.

Final thoughts on Goldendoodles

The Goldendoodle has won the hearts of many people around the world.

The cute, fluffy, teddy bear-like face and well-mannered and friendly personality have become the poster pup for the perfect family pet.