Goldendoodles come in a variety of sizes, ranging from Toy Goldendoodles, weighing between 10-20 pounds, to Standard Goldendoodles, weighing between 40-80 pounds.
The Miniature Goldendoodle is another popular size, weighing between 20-40 pounds. This size is often considered the ideal choice for families with smaller living spaces.
Goldendoodles can also be classified by their coat type, with F1 Goldendoodles having a straight, smooth coat and F1B Goldendoodles having a curly, wavy coat.
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Types of Goldendoodles
There are several types of Goldendoodles, each with their unique characteristics. Let's break it down.
The F1 Goldendoodle is a first-generation cross between a purebred Golden Retriever and a purebred Poodle. They can have a mix of traits from both parent breeds, and their genetics aren't always predictable.
F1 Goldendoodles can come in many shapes, sizes, and colors, weighing between 30-100 pounds, and having a variety of coat textures, colors, and temperaments. Their coat can grow up to 3-5 inches and needs regular brushing and occasional grooming.
For more insights, see: Dog Hair Types
Here's a breakdown of the different types of Goldendoodles:
The Abstract Goldendoodle has a unique color pattern featuring less than 50% white in the coat, with the dominant hue being any color.
F3 Multi-Generation
F3 Multi-Generation Goldendoodles are a cross between two second-generation Goldendoodles.
They're 3rd generation, which means they may have less "hybrid vigor", a natural result of having more generations.
Their grooming needs vary depending on their coat type.
If you're thinking of getting a Goldendoodle, it's essential to learn as much as possible about this hybrid breed before taking on the responsibility.
Types of Goldendoodles
Goldendoodles are a hybrid breed that originated from crossing a Golden Retriever with a Poodle. This crossbreeding has resulted in a diverse range of Goldendoodle types, each with its unique characteristics.
There are several generations of Goldendoodles, including F1, F1B, and F2. F1 Goldendoodles are the original cross between a purebred Golden Retriever and a purebred Poodle. F1B Goldendoodles, on the other hand, are produced by breeding an F1 Goldendoodle with a purebred Poodle, resulting in a 75% Poodle and 25% Golden Retriever mix.
Worth a look: Goldendoodle vs Standard Poodle
The F2 generation of Goldendoodles is the result of breeding two F1 Goldendoodles together. This can lead to a wide range of coat types and shedding levels, with some F2 Goldendoodles having straighter coats similar to a Retriever and others having soft wavy or curly coats.
Here's a breakdown of the different Goldendoodle generations:
- F1: Original cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle
- F1B: Result of breeding an F1 Goldendoodle with a purebred Poodle
- F2: Result of breeding two F1 Goldendoodles together
- F2b: Result of breeding an F1 Goldendoodle with an F2 Goldendoodle
It's essential to note that the type of coat a Goldendoodle has will depend on the variations of the parents, known as "generations." The Abstract Goldendoodle, for example, has a unique color pattern featuring less than 50% white in the coat.
Goldendoodles can also have different sizes, ranging from small to large, depending on the variant of the Poodle that the Golden Retriever is crossed with. Standard size Goldendoodles usually weigh between 45 to 100 pounds, while Miniature Goldendoodles weigh between 15 to 30 pounds.
In terms of grooming, Goldendoodles require regular brushing to prevent matting, especially those with curly or wavy coats. They may also need occasional grooming to keep their coat looking its best.
Here's a summary of the different Goldendoodle types:
Classification
Goldendoodles are a hybrid breed, meaning they're a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle.
This unique combination of breeds brings together the Poodle's intelligence and non-shedding coat with the Golden Retriever's even-tempered personality.
As a result, Goldendoodles are often considered kid-friendly, smart, athletic, and affectionate dogs.
They're also more likely to have added health benefits due to the concept of "hybrid vigor", which occurs when unrelated breeds are mated.
This means that the first generation offspring, like Goldendoodles, tend to be healthier physically and mentally than their purebred parents.
Discover more: Standard Poodle Breed Characteristics
General Information
Goldendoodles are a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, typically resulting in a friendly and intelligent dog.
They can come in various sizes, including Toy, Miniature, and Standard, depending on the size of the Poodle parent.
Goldendoodles are often considered hypoallergenic due to their low-shedding coat, making them a great choice for people with allergies.
For another approach, see: What Type of Dog Is a Poodle
History
The Goldendoodle is considered one of the newest of the "Doodle" breeds, with breeding beginning in the 1990s.
Most Goldendoodles result from first-generation breeding, making them a mix of Golden Retriever and Poodle.
The idea behind creating the Goldendoodle was to combine the low-dander, low-shedding coat of the Poodle with the friendly and intelligent nature of the Golden Retriever.
As of yet, breeding rarely occurs between pairs of Goldendoodles.
The Goldendoodle's popularity is still on the rise, especially in Australia, where it's gained significant attention.
Despite its growing popularity, there is still no breed club or registry in existence for the Goldendoodle.
Popularity and Uses
Goldendoodles have become incredibly popular in recent years, and it's easy to see why. They make great companion dogs, and their friendly nature has made them a favorite among many families.
In the United States, goldendoodles have become one of the most popular dog varieties in some regions. Their popularity has even led to increased demand, causing prices to rise significantly.
In Australia, goldendoodles were named one of the top twenty most popular dog varieties in 2020. This surge in popularity was partly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a rise in pet ownership.
Prices for goldendoodle puppies in Australia skyrocketed from around $3,500 AUD pre-pandemic to as much as $15,000 AUD by September 2020. This is a significant increase, and it's a testament to their growing popularity.
Despite their popularity, goldendoodles remain unrecognized by prominent canine organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC) or British Kennel Clubs due to their hybrid status.
Physical Characteristics
Goldendoodles come in a range of sizes, from the standard goldendoodle, which typically stands 20 to 25 inches tall and weighs 51 to 80 pounds, to the miniature goldendoodle, which stands up to 20 inches tall and weighs 15 to 35 pounds.
Their coat can vary from straight to curly, with the wavy type being the most common. This coat type is a combination of the Poodle's curly coat and the Golden Retriever's straight coat, resulting in loose, shaggy curls.
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Goldendoodles can inherit a variety of colors from their Poodle and Golden Retriever parents, including cream, red, black, gold, apricot, brown, and parti-colored. The most common eye color is brown.
Here are some common coat types found in goldendoodles:
- Wavy coated goldendoodles
- Curly coated goldendoodles
- Straight coated goldendoodles
Regular brushing is essential for goldendoodles, especially those with a double coat consisting of a dense undercoat and a top coat of longer guard hairs.
Size
Goldendoodles come in three different sizes: Miniature, Small Standard, and Large Standard.
The Miniature Goldendoodle is the result of a Miniature or Toy Poodle crossed with a Golden Retriever, and they can range in size from 13 to 20 inches in height and 15 to 35 pounds in weight.
These dogs are often the smallest of the Goldendoodle family, but their size can vary depending on the individual parents.
The average height for a Small Standard Goldendoodle is 17 to 20 inches, and their weight is typically 40 to 50 pounds.
The Large Standard Goldendoodle is the largest of the three sizes, averaging 20 to 24 inches in height and weighing 50 to 90 pounds.
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Appearance
Goldendoodles come in a range of sizes, from the standard to the miniature, with the standard goldendoodle typically standing 20 to 25 inches tall and weighing 51 to 80 pounds.
Their body shape is often long and muscular, thanks to their retriever parentage, and they tend to have a deep chest and wide stance.
Goldendoodles have round skulls, broad muzzles, and oval-shaped eyes. Their ears are typically drop ears.
Their coat is long-haired and can vary in type, with three main types: straight, wavy, and curly. Wavy coats are the most common and have loose, shaggy curls.
Goldendoodles can come in a variety of colors, including cream, red, black, gold, apricot, brown, and parti-colored.
Here are some common color variations:
- Cream goldendoodle
- Apricot goldendoodle
- Red goldendoodle
- Silver goldendoodle
Their coat is often described as "hypoallergenic" or "non-shedding", but research has shown that this is not a reliable characteristic.
Personality, Temperament
Goldendoodles are known for their friendly, intelligent, and accepting nature, making them a wonderful family companion.
They're highly affectionate, gentle, and patient, which is why they're a great fit for families with young children. They're naturally inclined to be careful with infants and toddlers, and will be patient companions for children as they grow up.
Their loyalty and trainability make them highly obedient with proper training. You can teach them some fun tricks, and they'll learn quickly thanks to their big brains.
Goldendoodles are also laid-back and almost bashful, which means they rarely meet a human or fellow animal they don't like. They're not happy unless they're with their people, and they think they're a full-fledged family member.
Their temperament is affected by heredity, training, and socialization, so it's essential to choose a puppy with a nice temperament. Look for a puppy that's curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them.
Early socialization is crucial for Goldendoodles, and enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking them to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help them polish their social skills.
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Care and Living
The Goldendoodle's care and living needs are relatively straightforward. They require daily exercise, which can be as simple as a 20 to 30 minute walk or a romp in the backyard.
To keep them happy and engaged, provide at least 20 to 30 minutes of daily exercise. Swimming is also a great option, given their love of water.
Goldendoodles are not ideal for apartment living, especially for standard-sized dogs. They need room to move and thrive when they're with their family, so a home with a fenced yard is best.
Living Needs
A goldendoodle will require daily exercise and play whether that's a morning walk or a backyard fetch session—or both!
Goldendoodles are easy to train, so with positive reinforcement, they'll learn quickly and be eager to please.
They have an average energy level, which means 20 to 30 minutes of daily exercise will be enough to keep them from becoming bored.
Don't be surprised if your goldendoodle loves water - swimming provides another great opportunity for exercise and fun.
If you have a standard-sized goldendoodle, they'll need a home with a fenced yard, as they can grow large and need room to move.
But if you have a miniature goldendoodle, they might be more suited to apartment living, as they're more adaptable to smaller spaces.
Proper training and socialization are key to preventing destructive behavior and excessive barking, so make sure to invest time in these areas.
Children and Pets
Having pets and children in the same household can be a wonderful experience, but it's essential to teach your child how to approach and touch dogs gently to avoid any biting or ear or tail pulling.
Children should never approach any dog while it's eating or sleeping, or try to take the dog's food away, as this can be perceived as threatening.
Proper supervision is crucial when interacting between dogs and young children to prevent any misunderstandings or accidents.
Goldendoodles, in particular, are known to be highly patient and gentle, making them a great breed for families with kids.
It's also a good idea to socialize your Goldendoodle from puppyhood to ensure they get along well with other dogs and pets in the household.
Colors and Patterns
Goldendoodles come in a wide range of colors and patterns due to their Poodle parents, which can have 11 recognized colors and 16 color combinations.
The AKC recognizes three colors for Golden Retrievers: dark golden, golden, and light golden.
Sable Goldendoodles have a unique appearance with black-tipped brown fur, typically born chocolate or black, and fading to tan or cream as they age.
The parti pattern is 50% white with 50% of another dominant color, commonly apricot or tan, resulting from a recessive gene and is relatively rare in Goldendoodles.
Their coats can be black, copper, white, cream, gray, golden, apricot, or red, with white often found on the feathering and the coat lightening with age.
Discover more: White and Black Goldendoodle
18 Colors & Patterns
The Goldendoodle's coat comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, making each one unique and special. The American Kennel Club recognizes 11 Poodle colors, which can come in 16 other color combinations.
Golden Retrievers, on the other hand, only have three recognized colors: dark golden, golden, and light golden. This is due to their Poodle parents, which is why Goldendoodles have such a diverse range of colors.
The Cream Goldendoodle gets its color from both parents, with the cream Poodle parent and the touch of gold from the Golden Retriever parent. This color has many variations, and the Goldendoodle can have pink or dark noses and varying shades of cream.
Red Goldendoodles are commonly sought after, and their color can range from deep ruby red to warm mahogany to cinnamon red. This eye-catching color occurs when a dark Poodle mates with an average-colored Golden Retriever.
Tan Goldendoodles usually get their coloring from their Golden Retriever parent, resulting in a golden tan color. Many tan dogs also have shades of cream, white, or pale apricot mixed in.
The brindle pattern gives the coat an almost tiger-stripe look, with a brown or black base and light red and brown stripes. Each Brindle Goldendoodle has a unique color and pattern variation.
The parti pattern is typically white and another color, with 50% white and 50% of another dominant color. This pattern results from a recessive gene and is rare in Goldendoodles.
For your interest: Red Mini Goldendoodles
Apricot is a soft creamy red color and one of the most popular Goldendoodle coat colors. It's slightly warmer than cream and lighter than red.
Champagne is a rare color for Goldendoodles, with a pale yellowish hue on a pale coat. This color comes from a recessive dilute red gene.
The Tuxedo pattern is similar to the Parti, but with the white concentrated on the chest, belly, and hind legs. This gives the dog the appearance of wearing a tuxedo, and doesn't necessarily mean the other dominant color is black.
Black
Black is a rare and striking color in Goldendoodles. Black Goldendoodles are rare because to achieve this color, both the Poodle and Golden Retriever must carry a recessive black gene. This color is entirely black, including the eyes, paw pads, noses, and of course, hair. They have a unique and beautiful appearance that's unlike the more common shades of Goldendoodles.
Blue
The blue color on a Goldendoodle is essentially a combination of gray and black with a bluish hue.
This rare color comes from breeding multiple generations of Goldens with blue Poodles.
Blue Goldendoodles are a result of careful breeding to achieve this unique color, which is a true testament to the dedication of Goldendoodle breeders.
Blue is a rare and beautiful color that adds a touch of elegance to the already lovable Goldendoodle breed.
It's worth noting that the blue color on a Goldendoodle is not a result of any specific health issue or genetic mutation, but rather a deliberate breeding choice.
Chocolate
Chocolate colors are quite fascinating. Chocolate Goldendoodles, for instance, come in a range of brown colors, from warm chocolate to dark cocoa.
They can be born almost black, which fades as they age. This is because brown can sometimes carry a recessive gene color of silver or black.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes brown as an official color, and it's a popular one for Poodles.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Black and Brown Dog Types
Silver
The Silver Goldendoodle color is a rare and beautiful variation. It's a lighter version of a blue or gray Goldendoodle.
They're born darker, but you'll notice the color start to fade when they're about 6 to 10 weeks old. This is when the silver color begins to emerge.
It takes about 2 years for the Silver Goldendoodle to acquire its full silver color. This is a gradual process, and the color will continue to lighten until it reaches its full potential.
Sable
Sable dogs have a unique appearance due to their black-tipped brown fur. The base of their fur can be tan or cream, but the tips are always black or dark brown.
Their coats are typically born chocolate or black, and the hair closer to the roots fades as they age. This creates a distinctive two-toned effect that's quite striking.
The darker color is usually more concentrated around the face and ears, which adds to their sable appearance.
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White
White Goldendoodles aren't typically pure white, and you might see shades of soft cream mixed in. They are paler than Cream Goldendoodles.
Golden Retrievers aren't white, but their offspring with Poodle parents can still have a white coat.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Small White Dogs Breeds
Merle
The merle pattern is a unique and striking appearance that can occur in some Goldendoodles.
It's worth noting that the merle pattern is not a natural pattern found in Poodles, but rather it can happen when a Poodle is bred with an Australian Shepherd.
At least one parent must be merle for the merle pattern to occur in the offspring.
However, breeding two merle parents together is not recommended, as the offspring are likely to be born deaf, blind, or with other defects.
The merle pattern can sometimes occur in Goldendoodles when breeding two Goldendoodles together, but this is not a guarantee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is F1 or F2 Goldendoodle better?
For allergy sufferers, F1B, F2B, and F1BB Goldendoodles are top choices due to their hypoallergenic and non-shedding coats. If allergies aren't a concern, F1 Goldendoodles are a great option, but consider your desired coat type when choosing a generation
What does F2B Goldendoodle mean?
F2B Goldendoodles are a cross between an F1 Goldendoodle and an F1B Goldendoodle, resulting in a 62.5% Poodle and 37.5% Golden Retriever mix. This unique blend creates a distinct coat type and temperament, making them a popular choice for many families.
What is an F1 and F1B Goldendoodle?
An F1 Goldendoodle is a first-generation hybrid cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. An F1B Goldendoodle is a backcross between an F1 Goldendoodle and a Poodle, resulting in a 75% Poodle and 25% Golden Retriever mix
Sources
- Goldendoodle Association of North America (goldendoodleassociation.com)
- Brodie The Goldendoodle (tiktok.com)
- F1B (happygodoodle.com)
- California Doodle Rescue (californiadoodlerescue.org)
- "The meteoric rise of the 'oodle' — and other cross-breed dogs" (post-gazette.com)
- the original (lexico.com)
- Goldendoodle (wikimedia.org)
- Goldendoodle Association of North America (goldendoodleassociation.com)
- Samson the goldendoodle (instagram.com)
- cream goldendoodle named Gus (pauladeen.com)
- 18 Goldendoodle Colors & Patterns (With Pictures) (dogster.com)
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