Goldendoodle
As a ‘designer dog breed’, Goldendoodles aren’t recognised by a formal UK breeding association but that hasn’t prevented them from gaining pupularity in all walks of life.
The mix of the Golden Retriever and Poodle has resulted in a breed which is hypoallergenic*, highly intelligent, affectionate and friendly (like the much admired Labradoodle). These large pups will need adequate exercise and stimulation - dog walks and playtime are their favourite.
In this article, we’ve collated some useful and interesting facts on these family friendly dogs alongside some loving quotes and pictures from the BorrowMyDoggy community. As Goldendoodles are also very good with new people, if you’re looking to borrow a dog, they could be a dream come true.
What is a Goldendoodle dog?
The Goldendoodle is known as a designer dog breed and has been developed by breeding Poodles with Golden Retrievers.
Are they hypoallergenic? Yes, is the short answer. If the Goldendoodle inherits the coat of the Poodle, it will have little to no shedding which means less dander and less chance of an allergic reaction. The breed was reportedly developed to take advantage of the low shedding coat of the Poodle and the good nature of the Retriever and to make a hypoallergenic, family friendly dog. In fact, the coat of a Goldendoodle may be one of three types - a flat coat, which is like a Retriever’s coat; a wavy coat, which is a mix of Retriever and Poodle type hair; or a curly coat, which most closely resembles that of a Poodle. Like Golden Retrievers, their coats can be any shade of gold, cream, red or white - but due to the Poodle mix, may also be brown or black (despite the name!).
Miniature Goldendoodles have also been bred by combining Retrievers with Miniature Poodles. The Goldendoodle Association of North America states that four sizes now exist - petite, mini, medium and standard.
Groups like the UK Labradoodle Association and the Goldendoodle Association of North America seek to develop a code of ethics and rigorous health testing among breeders in the absence of other formal regulation of these crossbreeds. If you are considering buying or rehoming a Goldendoodle, these groups can be a good source of information.
*Borrowing a Goldendoodle, or another low-shedding dog, could be a good way of limiting exposure and the chance of a mild allergic reaction while still getting the warm cuddly doggy benefits. However, if you are concerned about allergies, it is always best to seek medical advice.
Basil loves “running, swimming, cheese and cuddles” according to his owner, Tommy.
How much exercise does a Goldendoodle need?
These are high energy dogs that are likely to need around two hours of exercise per day. As they are also very intelligent, they will probably want to play and be engaged at home as well as out on walks.
As an owner, your main dog care chore will likely be exercising and training this breed - but if you like dog walks, this shouldn’t be an issue. And it shouldn’t be too hard to find extra help from dog sitters near you (check out the borrowers in your area) with such a kind, friendly doggy.
What is the Goldendoodle’s temperament?
Goldendoodles are known to be friendly, affectionate, patient and intelligent. This has led them to become pupular therapy and service dogs as well as adored family pets. Goldendoodles are sweet natured to both their family and strangers and thrive on human companionship. Like both ancestral breeds, Goldendoodles love to please and learn new ways to make their humans happy.
To get an even better idea of the Goldendoodle’s temperament, see what owners from the BorrowMyDoggy community have to say:
“Albert is very affectionate and will follow you everywhere. He loves strangers and as he is so pretty he tends to charm everyone he meets. He loves cuddles and will often sit touching you when you are all relaxing.” - Linda, from London
“We can barely walk down a street without people stopping to pet her and give her a huge cuddle. She is lovely, calm and beautiful. She's been out to the park daily and loves running about, catching the ball (sometimes!) and is very sociable with other people and dogs. Her playfulness is a joy. She's great company and her character is blossoming in a delightful way.” - Sangeeta, owner of Lexy Caramel Trixibelle.
Goldendoodle training: are Goldendoodles easy to train?
Yes - Goldendoodles should be very trainable. Goldendoodle puppies should start their training early to make the most of their intelligence and desire to please. That said, as an owner or borrower, you will still need to show your Goldendoodle how things work (e.g. toilet training, not chewing things, walking to heel and recall) so attending obedience classes and using online dog training tutorials is recommended. With consistency and positive reinforcement, obedience classes and learning commands at home should be no problem at all for these eager pups.
That said, Goldendoodles are large and so, if too eager, pulling on the lead may be something to work on. Owner member, Claire, says her Goldendoodle, Ham, “is an energetic golden doodle who loves long walks and playing fetch...He can sometimes pull on the lead, if he sees a particularly handsome dog across the street - so you need to hold on tight!”.
If your Goldendoodle, borrowed or owned, pulls on the lead, check out this dog training tip for not pulling on the lead.
High paws to our lovely community for letting us share these facts about their Goldendoodles. Paws crossed you found them helpful :)
- Looking to walk a dog? Maybe your neighbour needs some help with dog daycare or some sort of alternative to dog boarding...
- Goldendoodle owners - would you like a local person to look after your dog? For the love of dogs, rather than for money?
Why not sign up to BorrowMyDoggy today.
BorrowMyDoggy is unlike other dog walking companies - it is a community focused on sharing the love of dogs - see our testimonials to learn more.
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