Goldendoodles aren’t a purebred dog breed – as the name suggests, they’re a unique cross between the energetic, playful Golden Retriever and the intelligent Poodle. Due to their dynamic personalities and adorable looks, their demand has skyrocketed since they were first commercially bred in the 1990s.
You’ll be surprised at how many wholesome stories Goldendoodle owners have shared – not only do they make for intelligent and caring therapy companions, they’ve even helped save lives as sniffer dogs. Additionally, many people have gravitated towards this breed because they are considered to be mostly nonshedding and hypoallergenic.
However, it isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Goldendoodles can also be challenging to care for and aren’t for every kind of dog lover. Additionally, they are a high-energy dog breed that needs to be exercised.
Whether you’re wondering if a Goldendoodle is exactly what you need or not, or you simply want to know more about dogs because you’re an avid dog lover, you’ve come to the right place. Read ahead to learn more about the pros and cons of owning a Goldendoodle.
Pros of Having a Goldendoodle
Goldendoodles are superb companion dogs
Goldendoodles provide you with unconditional love and ask for next to nothing in return. They like to live in the moment, and you should feel inspired by the same. Golden Retrievers are one of the most loving dog breeds and these characteristics transition over to the Goldendoodle.
Goldendoodles shed less
Most Goldendoodles inherit the trait of shedding less from their parents – specifically from the Poodle side. While the amount of shedding varies from dog to dog, it is still safe to generalize after looking at the statistics. Goldendoodles shed less than most other dog breeds.
Goldendoodles are mostly hypoallergenic dogs
You already know that they shed less. Because of this, fewer dandruff flakes will be lying around the house – which can cause allergic reactions in some humans. While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, Goldendoodles are considered to be a safer option.
Goldendoodle come in a large variety of sizes, weights, beautiful colors, and amazing personalities
Although it is difficult to predict what the offspring will look like, you can still make some assumptions. Generally, Goldendoodles have three different coat types—the most common being the wavy coat. It is perfect if you love the Poodle’s curls and the Retriever’s straight coat.
They also come in a variety of sizes. The three most common Goldendoodle sizes are mini, medium, and standard. This means that they can live in a variety of homes, apartments, or RV’s, depending on your living situation.
Goldendoodles muppet feet are absolutely adorable
Goldendoodles have cute little muppet feet. While they can create muddy footprints all around the house, you can either learn to love them or talk to your groomer about cutting your dog’s hair short if you live near moist ground.
Goldendoodles fluffy ‘beard’ makes them so much more endearing
Being the offspring of Poodles, Goldendoodles also have cute fluffy beards, which are fun to play with. Their beard suits their face so much, making them look even more adorable when combined with the amazing fur colors of Golden Retrievers.
Goldendoodles are smart, witty, and easy to train
Goldendoodles want to please their owners. This makes them so much easier to train as they are willing to do anything to make you happy. They’ll follow every command of yours without batting an eyelash or making a fuss. Them being smart and witty is a bonus as they’re quick learners and do not require numerous sessions to learn games or house training.
Goldendoodles are hyperactive and energetic
Goldendoodles like to stay on their feet the entire day. They love going on walks, for a swim or playing fetch with you. If you have an active lifestyle, young kids, and live in a house with a big backyard where your pup can chase small animals, you and your Goldendoodle will have a great time.
Goldendoodles have amicable personalities and are extremely social
They love people, and people love them. It is fairly easy for them to form bonds and connections with the people around them. Their playful and joyous personalities can make even the coldest hearts melt.
Goldendoodles inherit genes from their parents making them even more desirable
While you cannot selectively breed a dog, doodles still manage to get the attractive qualities of both their parents. Goldendoodles’ friendliness and intelligence are inherited from their parents.
Goldendoodles are entertaining, adorable, loyal, and loving
If you get yourself a Goldendoodle, not a single day will pass with you getting bored. They will always keep you entertained with their cute and engaging tricks. Other than that, they’re also madly loyal to their owners. Don’t go by their size, though. When the time comes, they will protect you fiercely.
Goldendoodles are naturally good at fetching things
Goldendoodle’s active lifestyle makes them want to play more and more. One of their favorite games is playing fetch. You must already be aware that your pup likes to take everything in its mouth. What better game than fetch to do that?
Goldendoodles love to explore
Exploring comes naturally to your little fur buddy. They are genuinely curious about the whole world around them, and they’d do anything to know more about it. Most pups tend to explore things by using their mouth. This would explain them biting or nibbling you.
Goldendoodles make great therapy dogs
Due to their loving nature, ability to learn quickly, and playful nature, they make excellent therapy dogs. They are also used as service dogs.
Goldendoodles love cuddling
They love seeking attention from their owners. It doesn’t matter where you are or what you’re doing. You’ll find your fur buddy snuggling you, wanting to play with you. They would love to spend their time nuzzling you and cuddling with you.
Goldendoodles are usually quiet
Contrary to their energetic nature, these dogs are usually quiet. They like to keep to themselves and keep their barking limited to only when they feel afraid or want to communicate with you.
Goldendoodles are excellent with children
Once trained, they’ll always be on their best behavior around you and your children. They’re gentle animals who’ll make you fall for them again and again. You needn’t be scared of your dog acting aggressively towards your children as they are usually very calm and polite—a trait inherited from poodles.
Goldendoodles get along fairly well with other pets
Their social skills make them quite popular among other animals. For example, while most dogs cannot get along with cats, Goldendoodles won’t take a lot of time before calling a truce—a classic Golden Retriever trait.
Cons of Having a Goldendoodle
Goldendoodles sometimes have a short life span
Once you get attached to your Goldendoodle, it is no longer a pet. It is now a part of your family. And, losing a family member sucks plenty. Unfortunately, Goldendoodles have a lifespan of about 8-12+ years – on the shorter end for most dogs. This is mainly due to the fact that there is a large surplus of breeders not health or genetic testing their dogs before breeding.
Goldendoodles require high maintenance
While they do not shed so much hair, they still need to be maintained properly. They need to be taken to a groomer regularly, or their fur will quickly get matted and unclean. You’ll also need to check their eyes, ears, nails, and fur tufts between their paws.
Goldendoodles create quite a ruckus and a mess
While they’re playful, this can backfire as Goldendoodles will often rush around, knocking over things and not thinking twice before playing in the mud and entering your home.
Goldendoodles need to be doing something constantly
These hyperactive animals want your attention throughout the day. You need to either be playing with them or distracting them with something else. You absolutely cannot leave them alone because if you do, the following might happen:
Goldendoodles might become destructive
They need to release their pent-up energy. On being left alone in the house, they get anxious—this might trigger their destructive tendencies. While they may not know any better, an owner that expects a well-behaved pooch will not appreciate this.
Goldendoodles might have separation anxiety
Goldendoodles hate to be separated from their owners. Being left alone saddens and depresses them. It also makes them anxious. When you go out, they spend the entire time waiting for you to return—so if you have no one to keep them company, you may want to consider another breed.
Goldendoodles tend to get more energetic during winters
If you’re a lazy person who likes to spend their winter afternoons snuggled in your comforter, prepare to get up and get ready. Goldendoodles are extra active during the winter season.
Goldendoodles can be exhausting
Sometimes, they can be a little tiring. Dealing with them throughout the day, taking care of them, and the mess they create can get too much and cause you to feel annoyed and frustrated.
Goldendoodles are not recognized as an official breed
Established breed associations all over the world, such as AKC, UKC, and CKS, do not recognize the Goldendoodle as a breed due to its mixed heritage.
Goldendoodles need a lot of exercise
If your pet has a Retriever’s dominant genes, then you will need to make sure that it gets a lot of exercise during the day. It is recommended that Goldendoodles either go for long walks lasting up to 60 minutes or just play around for this much time.
If you can’t take them outside for daily walks, these dogs are capable enough of learning how to walk on a treadmill.
Goldendoodles are expensive
The more the demand for something increases, the prices skyrocket as well. As for Goldendoodles, them being a rare mix of a Retriever and a Poodle makes them that much more valuable.
Conclusion for Goldendoodle Pros and Cons
As adorable and fun to play with Goldendoodles are, they’re not meant for everyone. If you’re thinking of getting yourself a furry companion, keep in mind the responsibilities that come with it. Parenting a pet is easier said than done.
Before you get yourself a fur buddy, know that they take up a lot of your time, attention, and money. Make sure you’re willing to give your 100% to take care of them before taking their responsibilities.
Having a pet around boosts everyone’s mental and physical health both, so if you’ve made the decision, be proud of yourself. You’re choosing a better life, not only for your pet but also for yourself.
Once you’ve made up your mind about adopting a Goldendoodle, you can search for a Goldendoodle in your nearby shelters, adoption agencies, or registered breeders. You can also look for them over the internet.
You will also like:
- Why is my Goldendoodle Shedding?
- Poodle vs Goldendoodle – Dog Breed Comparison!
- English Goldendoodle: The Hypoallergenic Golden Retriever
Garrett loves animals and is a huge advocate for all Doodle dog breeds. He owns his own Goldendoodle named Kona. In addition, he volunteers at the Humane Society of Silicon Valley, where he fosters dogs and helps animals. Garrett enjoys writing about Doodles and believes that dogs can teach humans more about how to live than humans can teach a dog.
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