Goldendoodle Information.
The Golden Retriever
The Poodle
Poodles are lively and playful and have assertive prance to their walk. They thrive in a busy household where there is plenty of attention to go around. Vigorous exercise and ongoing training are the keys to managing the Poodle’s exuberance. If bored, Poodles may find their way into mischief. They are also quick to sound an alert and have earned a reputation for barking.
Poodles come in three sizes and a wide variety of colors. They have a single layer of dense, curly fur that sheds minimally, but will mat without proper care.
The Golden Retriever, Poodle Hybrid
Goldendoodles
Just as the Golden Retriever, they are gentle around children and the elderly, and because they love to work, they often make excellent therapy dogs. The Goldendoodle is the go-to breed of choice when we select a dog to donate to a charitable organization.
Most Goldendoodles have a moderate activity level. They love to play, run, and hike with you and will inherit the Retriever’s affinity for the water and retrieving. They love toys and are always carrying around something in their mouths. When it’s time to relax, Goldendoodles are happiest being by your side snuggled up with you. Most of them have little need for personal space and are often described as happy, goofy, smart, charming, curious, friendly, social, enthusiastic, cuddly, willing to please, and loving.
Appearance and Coat
Size
Goldendoodles have a wide range of sizes, depending on the parents and their genetics. Females tend to be smaller than males.
A Standard Goldendoodle is the product of crossing a Standard Poodle with a Golden Retriever. Generally being 65 to 90 lbs. and around 23 to 29 inches at the shoulder.
Generations
F1 is a first-generation Goldendoodle, in which the puppy is 50% Golden Retriever and 50% Poodle.
F1b is a backcross in which the Goldendoodle is bred with a Poodle. The puppy is 25% Golden Retriever and 75% Poodle. F1b puppies are the most likely to be non-shedding and allergy-friendly.
F2 is a second-generation cross in which an F1 Goldendoodle is crossed with another F1 Goldendoodle. If done over for seven generations, a breeder is about to apply to register the dog as a purebred. However, as the closer generations come together, the genetic problems of purebreds are more likely to appear.
Health
Goldendoodles are hybrid dogs, so they tend to lack many issues that come with purebred breeds. Having few health concerns, they usually have a lifespan of 10 to 16 years.
Goldendoodles are usually healthier than their parent breeds, however, they can still be prone to conditions such as elbow and hip dysplasia. Genetic testing can reduce the risk of many diseases. A reputable breeder will perform the genetic testing and provide evidence of the results. It is important for the buyers to understand that the breeders invest a large sum in order to ensure the health of the puppies and parents. This investment is reflected in the higher cost of the puppy.