10 Things You Didn’t Know About Goldendoodles!

Published on: September 15, 2022

By: Angela Catholdi

Goldendoodles are one of the most popular pets in North America. Part Golden Retriever and part Poodle (or Labradoodle), these pretty pups are well-known for their wavy coats, superior intelligence, and friendly personalities. Yet there’s a lot more to this crossbreed than you may be aware of. Let’s explore 10 things you didn’t know about Goldendoodles to increase your awareness! You’ll even learn about some popular Goldendoodle stigmas that are all bark and no bite.

1. They Go By Several Nicknames

Most dog parents can confirm that giving their precious pup (s) nicknames is part of the pet-owning package; a standard right of passage once you bring home a four-legged friend and add them to the family. Unlike a personal nickname, however, the Goldendoodle breed itself has a few different aliases. Some other names include Goldenpoo, Goldiepoo, Groodle, and Doodle.

2. There Are Multiple Sizes, Shades & Textures

Traditionally, Goldendoodles were crossbred with standard sized Poodles. As they grew in popularity, so did owners’ preferences for smaller adaptations. Breeders began mating Golden Retrievers with Poodles of all sizes, offering Doodle diversity without compromising any of their desired traits. Goldendoodles now exist in three different sizes: mini, medium, and large.

Goldendoodles also appear in varying shades. Many puppies have a darker coat that lightens up over time as their adult hair grows in. Given their crossbreed, these dogs also display varying coat textures. They are generally straight, wavy, or curly, and this depends entirely upon their genetics.

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3. Their Coats Are Controversial

If you’re a Goldendoodle lover, you may have strong opinions as to whether they have fur or hair. Before you decide where you stand on the issue, consider these fast facts! While animals with two hair layers – ground hair plus guard hair – have fur, those with only one are classified as having hair.

The Goldendoodle comes from parents who fall on both sides of the fence: Golden Retrievers are fur friends, since they have an undercoat, while Poodles are said to have hair. Because of this special criteria, whether a Doodle is furry (some) or hairy (most) depends on which parent their coats were derived from; and that’s just the luck of the draw!

Since answers boil down to each individual dog (and or the owners’ discretion), this isn’t a debate with any losing sides. No matter what their coats are called, there’s no debating that they’re all gorgeous and unique.

4. They Aren’t Technically Hypoallergenic

In fact, no dog breed is! Although the Goldendoodle sheds much less than other breeds, the notion of them being hypoallergenic has been disproven over time. Allergic reactions in humans are caused by an animal’s dander, and not by their hair or their fur. All dogs shed at least a little, which releases dander and can trigger allergic reactions. So if you’ve ever been confused when someone sneezes and wheezes around certain pets, but seems to be fine around others, this is the reason why!

5. They Can Be High Energy

In order to thrive, Goldendoodles require adequate physical and mental stimulation. They’re energetic and love to play, but are not said to be hyperactive. According to Rover.com, although they love to be outdoors, dogs aren’t designed to live there or be kept in kennels. A Goldendoodle’s domesticated nature means that they get along well with most humans and other doggos, and this social engagement is vital to their overall wellbeing.

6. They Love To Swim

Whether in the ocean, lake, swimming pool, bathtub, or running through a backyard sprinkler, most Goldendoodles are fond of the water. Number one amongst the water dogs, they not only excel at swimming, but even have webbed feet!

Given their spirited playfulness, aquatic activities suit them quite well. Just be sure to dry them off before they come back in. Otherwise, depending on your Doodle’s size, you may wind up taking an impromptu bath along with them. Also keep in mind that some Goldendoodle’s coats are more susceptible to matting when wet (especially the curly type). It’s important to brush them thoroughly after any water adventures. If you notice signs of excessive matting, it may be best to visit the groomer.

7. They Are Scavengers

As with many dog breeds, Goldendoodles tend to be (easily) enticed by food. While this, in combination with their higher intellect, also means it’s easier to get them to follow commands, they’re also more inclined to eat things they shouldn’t! My sister’s Goldendoodle, for example, has eaten a plethora of things from socks, to used paper-towels, whole loaves of bread (still wrapped in packaging!), and an entire bag of Dum-Dum Lollipops hidden away for Christmas stockings.

Caution is always best when leaving things lying around, even things like pillows, shoes, and similar household possessions that aren’t outright harmful or toxic. Goldendoodles have a keen sense of smell and an irresistible urge to use their snoot for mischief. Having a plethora of chew toys, bones, and pet friendly snacks available is key.

8. They Make Awesome Family Pets

Goldendoodles are a very gentle, loving breed. As such, they’re usually great around kids and get along well with additional pets. They love to spend time with their families, preferring to be in good company rather than left on their own. Considered more domesticated, overly friendly companions, lack of interaction causes them stress and anxiety. Families with time to spend on playtime and socialization are (generally) better fits than those who are often away.

9. They Aren't Known For Guard Dog Skills

Due to their tame dispositions and more approachable demeanors, Goldendoodles aren’t the best when it comes to defending their homes. Because they’re more trusting and amiable, they’re better at sniffing out playmates than dangers. As is the case with my sister’s Goldedoodle, however, some can be territorial when it comes to their people. Her dog barks enthusiastically and pushes the family back from the front door whenever the bell rings. He can be protective against potential threats not readily identified by sight. If the guest is welcomed by his humans, however, he is quick to happily greet them too! Remember that every dog has their own personality and disposition, so these traits are generalized and not one-size-fits-all.

10. They’re Ideal Support Animals

Another major reason why Goldendoodles are well-sought after pets is their easy trainability. Also part hunting dog, they love completing tasks, following commands, and taking care of others. This makes them highly suitable to work as ESAs (Emotional Support Animals) and Psychiatric Service Dogs. Their heightened intuition allows them to pick up on changes in human emotions, and their performance driven mindsets make them reliable helpers.

With so much to offer their humans, it’s not wonder Goldendoodles are a preferential breed. As always, if you’re in the market for a purebred dog, make sure to research responsible breeders.

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