Goldendoodle Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Goldendoodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. It is known for a gentle, sociable temperament and a plush, often wavy coat, and it has become one of the best-known crossbreeds, available in several sizes.

Origins and appearance

The cross appeared in North America and Australia in the late twentieth century, and demand grew rapidly. Goldendoodles come in miniature, medium and standard sizes depending on the Poodle used. Coats range from straight and shedding to wavy or tightly curled, in cream, apricot, red, chocolate and black.

Temperament

They are usually friendly, gentle and eager. They tend to love people and are often good with children and other pets. They are energetic and can be bouncy when young. They dislike being left alone. Some are sensitive and shy if not socialized.

Exercise

They need an hour or so of daily exercise, with walks, play and swimming. Mental work matters. Many enjoy retrieving and learning tricks.

Training

They are intelligent and eager to please. Use positive methods, short sessions and early socialization. Teach polite greetings and calm behavior. Many do well as therapy dogs. See also how to use treats in dog training.

Coat and grooming

Wavy and curly coats need brushing several times a week and trimming every six to eight weeks. See curly coat dog grooming guide. Mats form quickly behind the ears and in the armpits. Clean ears, trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

A cross can inherit conditions from either parent. Topics include:

• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Heart conditions, such as subaortic stenosis
• Skin allergies. See dog skin allergies
• Ear infections. See dog ear infections
• Eye conditions, with exams
• Cancer. See signs of cancer in dogs

Living with a Goldendoodle

They suit families who want a friendly companion and will budget for grooming. They do best with company. They are poorly suited to long hours alone or owners wanting a wash-and-go coat.

A typical day

A Goldendoodle wants a morning walk, play, a rest, family time and an evening outing. Many are calm indoors.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are fluffy, bouncy and mouthy. Begin socialization, handling and grooming early. Provide chew toys, and avoid heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food, regular grooming, training and vet care. Puppies can be expensive. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They are adaptable but may overheat in hot weather. Provide shade and water. They travel well, though a thick coat needs care.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include assuming the coat is hypoallergenic, skipping grooming, leaving the dog alone and choosing a puppy from a seller who does not test parents.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip, elbow, heart and eye testing on both parents and meet them. Be wary of sellers who sell many litters or promise coat type.

Teddy bear trims

Many owners choose a short, even trim, often called a teddy bear cut, to keep the coat manageable. Trimmed coats still need brushing, and the groomer should check for skin problems under the fur.

Size and generation

Miniature and medium Goldendoodles use smaller Poodles, and size is not always predictable. Ask about the parents' sizes and what the breeder's records show about earlier litters.

Daily care checklist

• A walk or play session.
• Brushing and checking for mats.
• Ear checks.
• Training or puzzle games.
• Company and a comfortable bed.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Goldendoodle suits social, active owners who want a friendly, trainable companion and will keep up with grooming. It may not suit those wanting a guaranteed non-shedding coat. For a parent breed, see the Golden Retriever.

The takeaway

Goldendoodles are friendly, gentle and trainable, and they need exercise, grooming, company and careful breeder choice.