Known by a variety of humorous names, such as Goldie Poos, Golden Poos and Groodles, the Goldendoodle is the hybrid offspring of a Golden Retriever and Poodle Cross. A unique family pet, they are known for being extremely intelligent, easy to train dogs, combined with the benefits of having a coat that is less-troublesome to those who suffer from asthma. While the Goldendoodle does shed, it is a relatively small amount, when compared to most canine companions.

The Goldendoodle is a relatively new crossbreed, having only been extensively bred in the United States and Australia since the mid-1990’s. Golden Retriever breeders, having noticed the success of the small poodle crosses such as the Peekapoo and Cockapoo, sought to create a large-breed family pet for those who suffered from allergies. The end result would be this marvelous hybrid; a dog that would not only serve his purpose as an excellent hypoallergenic pet, but would also prove to shine as both a seeing eye and guide dog as well.

To date, there is no registry for the Goldendoodle breed. Roughly 99% of all Goldendoodles are spayed or neutered, only bred when there is an immediate market for the puppies. Very few breeders bother with breeding second generation Goldendoodles (the offspring of a Goldendoodle x Goldendoodle cross), though the few that do generally keep very detailed records and take the hybrid cross very seriously. Perhaps in the future, we may finally see an organization to promote this wonderful breed.

The Goldendoodle has a very distinct appearance that is, quite often, referred to as the “loveable mop look.” While he can appear like a poodle whose had his curls relaxed, or even a very shaggy retriever, the Goldendoodle usually possesses a loosely-curled or wavy coat that grows anywhere from 4-8 inches in length. His body type can resemble either parent, though both the Standard Poodle and Golden Retriever breeds are medium-sized hunting and water dogs that tend to be slightly longer than they are tall. Most Goldendoodles have a trimly-muscled, athletic build and very intelligent expressions.

Miniature Goldendoodles, the offspring of a miniature or toy poodle that has been crossed with a Golden Retriever, are considerably smaller than their standard cousins. Adults of this hybrid cross mature at roughly 25-45 pounds and tend to stand no more than 21 inches tall at the shoulder. Sometimes a bit more delicate in appearance than their larger cousins, the Miniature Goldendoodle still has the same athletic body type, even if it is presented in a smaller package.

Miniature and Standard Goldendoodles can be found in several coat colors, ranging from apricot to black, chocolate, cream, gold or grey. White markings are rarely seen, as they are not common in either parent breed, though there is no standard with which to judge the breed by. The eyes of the Goldendoodle are usually a rich brown or a deep grey, depending on the dog’s coloration.

The Goldendoodle is a highly intelligent dog and a very social pet, who loves to be the center of attention and a part of all that is going on. While he can make a good watch dog, don’t expect him to guard your home - the Goldendoodle is a very affectionate individual who seems to love everyone. They are especially wonderful with children and do well in homes with other pets, provided they are introduced to them early on. Older dogs can be accepting of other dogs, though patience and supervision may be needed with cats and other small animals, due to the Goldendoodle’s natural hunting instincts.

The average adult Goldendoodle only requires a moderate amount of exercise though, if you’re thinking of getting a puppy, it’s best to prepare with either a fenced-in back yard or a new pair of sneakers for frequent trips down to the dog park. Goldendoodles love to play and are excellent for high-speed games of fetch and Frisbee. These athletic dogs are also very keen and do well in doggie obstacle courses, particularly if they require a little thinking on the dog’s part.

Most Goldendoodles are very well-behaved and not overly prone to obesity, provided they get adequate exercise. Young Goldendoodle puppies can become frustrated, especially if left alone for long periods of time, and all that excess behavior can easily turn your little angel into a floor-scratching, shoe-chewing nightmare. If you plan on choosing a Goldendoodle for a pet, be sure you have enough time for a dog like this in your life.

While the shaggy-coated Goldendoodle may look as though he’s a lot of work, his coat is surprisingly easy to take care of, considering that he’s a long-haired breed. Relatively mat-free, these beautiful hybrid dogs only requiring a combing-out a couple of times a month and have very low-shedding coats. Many Goldendoodle owners will clip their dogs during the hot summer months, making them even easier to care for. Aside from general coat upkeep, the occasional ear cleaning and toe-nail clipping is about all the grooming that your loveable mop will require.

The Goldendoodle is a highly intelligent dog and is known for being a very easy companion to train. When training your Goldendoodle puppy, just remember the 3 C’s - be consistent, be contentious, and be caring. Your Goldendoodle will learn best if you always use the same command cues and if you take your time and treat him like the sweet pet that he is. If he is having some problems understanding, realize this, step back and then try again, rather than pushing on when you are frustrated.

Being a crossbreed, Goldendoodles exhibit something known as “hybrid vigor.” Hybrid vigor refers to how, when two unrelated purebred lines are crossed with one another, the offspring of this cross tends to be healthier and have a better success rate than either of their purebred parents. While there are purebred dog breeders who will argue that hybrid vigor does not exist and that, by crossing the two breeds, one is simply creating puppies that will have the flaws of both breeds - many people have favored the hybrid over pedigreed dogs for centuries. Whether one believes in hybrid vigor or not, there is something to be said about the loveable “mutt” or “Heinz-57,” as they are affectionately nicknamed.

The Goldendoodle’s health risks are minor when compared to many other breeds:

• Hip dysplasia
• Elbow dysplasia
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
• VonWillebrand’s Disease

If you don’t mind making the occasional trip to the groomer’s, or have no problems with whipping out a brush once a week, you’re sure to find the Golden doodle a very fun and affectionate friend. While they do require a moderate amount of exercise and are very social dogs, you’re sure to find that this is ideal if you have a family with children asking for a puppy. Goldendoodle puppies love human playmates just as much as their littermates and the ease with which you can train a Goldendoodle makes them an excellent candidate for learning all sorts of fun and entertaining tricks. Even better, first generation Goldendoodles are well-suited for people with mild allergies and, if you have severe pet-related allergies, you will be delighted to find that many allergy sufferers have found that the backcross Goldendoodle (the offspring of a Goldendoodle x Poodle cross) is a wonderful individual that many people, even with severe allergies, can often welcome into their home.

In a nutshell, if you have the time for a dog and the heart to receive a lot of love in return, chances are that a Goldendoodle may be the perfect addition to your family.