Goldendoodles: The Golden Retriever Poodle Mix
Types, Traits, Characteristics, Common Problems
Jul 22, 2008
Goldendoodles, also called Goldie Poos, are 1 of over 80 popular poodle mixes. The popular "hybrid" breeds, including puggles, labradoodles, and schnoodles, attain the poodle's low-shed coat and intelligence with characteristics of just about any other chosen breed. The poodle's popular traits mixed with the golden retriever's friendly and loyal demeanor have rocketed goldendoodle popularity since their creation in the mid-1990s.
Goldendoodles display what breeders call "hybrid vigor," meaning the mixed-breed pups are actually healthier than either parent lines. Mixing purebred dogs is a good way to encourage genetic diversity and to make sure a litter avoids pesky genetic disorders that are so common in purebred dogs.
Goldendoodle Breeding
Because the goldendoodle is not purebred, it is not recognized by most breeding associations, including the American Kennel Club and the United Kennel Club. They are, however, able to be registered with the Canadian Kennel Club. Despite a lack of formal recognition, breeders of the lovable dogs have quickly created their own lingo. A goldendoodle puppy can be:
- F1: Puppy of a purebred golden retriever and purebred Poodle
- F1b: Puppy of a F1 goldendoodle and a purebred poodle. F1b's have the best chance of having a low to non-shed coat.
- F2: Puppy of two F1 goldendoodles. Best for genetic health.
- Mini: the F1, F1b, or F2 result of breeding with a purebred toy or miniature poodle.
Goldendoodle Traits
Traits can vary depending on the breeding lines involved, but generally goldendoodles have low to non shed coats, are gentle, playful and sociable, easy to train and may weigh 40-70 pounds. Since poodles have one of the longest life spans of any dog, they may also live longer than average. Typically, the goldendoodle adopts the best of its parents, including the outgoing and loyal nature of the golden retriever and the intelligence and low-shed coat of the poodle. Owners report great compliance with kids.
As a result of a retriever lineage, goldendoodle are often born with the knowledge of fetching and typically love to swim. They are great for families where there are always people around the house for the goldendoodle to play with.
Goldendoodle Problems
Since this breed displays hybrid vigor, goldendoodles are relatively healthy dogs. However, both poodles and golden retrievers suffer from a higher than average incidence of hip displasia and it is highly recommended that both sire and dam undergo PennHIP testing to avoid a litter with HD. Other genetic tests recommended for goldendoodle breeders to have their stock complete are OFA, CERF, VWb and thyroid testing. Any owner looking to purchase a goldendoodle puppy should ask to see the results of these tests.
Since goldendoodles typically do not shed or shed very little, the highest maintenance part about owning a goldendoodle will be its coat. If left unclipped, a goldendoodle's coat will eventually create long chords that drag on the floor. Goldendoodles must be professionally groomed every 6-8 weeks and brushed daily.
The positives of owning a goldendoodle must outweight the negative, as the popularity of this breed continues to skyrocket.
Not sure a goldendoodle is right for you? See Tips for Picking a Puppy Breed for other breed types and traits. Also see How to Crate Train Your Puppy for house-breaking and training tips for your new puppy.
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