Is a Goldendoodle the Right Dog for You?

The Goldendoodle is a so-called designer dog originating in the 1990s, who is a crossbreed between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. This pup is known for their friendly, playful nature and intelligence, making them a popular breed for families and active individuals. But before adopting a Goldendoodle, it’s important to consider how their personality and needs will match your lifestyle. Here’s what you should know about Goldendoodles, including everything from their energy levels to grooming needs.

Is a Goldendoodle a good fit for your lifestyle?

Goldendoodles are social dogs who thrive on companionship and being part of an active family. Here are a few points to help you decide if they’re a good fit.

• Goldendoodles are active: They are great for active people who can provide daily exercise and mental stimulation.

• Goldendoodles are social: If you have a busy household with plenty of interaction, they’ll likely feel right at home. These dogs love to be included in family activities, and they’re great with kids and other pets, especially when socialized early.

• Goldendoodles require a training commitment: These smart dogs need an experienced pet parent to provide them with consistent training to manage behaviors such as jumping or barking.

• Goldendoodles are higher maintenance: Goldendoodles require extensive at-home and professional grooming, especially for curly or wavy coats. Neglecting regular grooming can lead to serious issues for their comfort and health.

Cara Dolan / Stocksy/

Understanding the Goldendoodle personality

Goldendoodles are known for their friendly, loving, and intelligent natures, which they inherit from their parents — but temperament can be tricky to pin down. While many Goldendoodles are friendly and outgoing, one study found they can display more behavioral issues than their parent breeds. Let’s dive into some of their personality traits.

• Affectionate and loving: These dogs are big on bonding with their humans. Whether it’s cuddling on the couch or following you from room to room, they love being close to their family.

• Smart and trainable: Goldendoodles inherit great intelligence from their Poodle side, making them quick learners and eager to please. They excel in training and love mental challenges.

• Social and playful: They’re naturally social and enjoy being around people and other animals. Their playful side means they’ll be up for a game of fetch or a romp in the yard anytime.

Goldendoodle energy and exercise needs

Goldendoodles are active dogs, so they’ll need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. If you’re someone who enjoys outdoor activities, they’ll make a great companion dog.

• Exercise needs: Goldendoodles need at least 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity a day, whether it’s a brisk walk, run, or dedicated playtime. If you have an active lifestyle, they’ll easily keep up. If not, you’ll need to incorporate time to exercise them to prevent boredom or restlessness.

• Mental stimulation: Along with physical activity, Goldendoodles need mental challenges, like puzzle toys or training games. Their smart, curious nature means they can get bored without enough mental stimulation.

• High energy: Goldendoodles can have a lot of energy, especially when they’re young. If you’re prepared to keep up with their playful spirit and provide outlets for their energy, they’ll be a joyful companion.

• Training needs: Goldendoodles have boundless energy. This energy is totally normal, but unchecked, it can contribute to behaviors such as jumping. Teaching alternatives to jumping — such as sitting for greetings — can go a long way. A consistent training approach with positive reinforcement will help channel their energy into more appropriate behavior.

Goldendoodle grooming and health considerations

Goldendoodles are often praised for their hypoallergenic coat, but this is actually a common misconception. All dogs produce allergy-inducing dander, and on top of that, not every Doodle inherits a low-shedding coat. Some Goldendoodles will shed just as heavily as a Golden Retriever.

But you can guarantee that either way, they still require regular grooming to keep them looking and feeling good. “Many dog [parents] take a hybrid approach of bathing their dogs at home and taking them to a professional groomer on occasion,” says Harmony Diers, a veterinary technician at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. “The most important thing is that your dog gets routine bathing and brushing.”

• Hypoallergenic coat: Goldendoodles may shed less — especially those with more Poodle-like coats — often making them a good fit for allergy sufferers. Still, they’ll need regular brushing to prevent matting. Their coats can vary from curly to wavy, and each type has different grooming needs.

• Regular grooming: You’ll need to brush your Goldendoodle a few times a week and plan for regular trips to the groomer for trims and maintenance. Their coats can grow long, and keeping up with grooming helps prevent tangles and mats.

• Time commitment for grooming: Grooming a Goldendoodle takes time. If you’re not up for regular brushing and grooming appointments, this breed might be more work than expected.

• Health issues: Genetic diversity in mixed-breed dogs can reduce the chances of inheriting breed-specific health issues. However, it’s not a guarantee. A Goldendoodle’s health depends on factors such as the genetics of the parent dogs, their larger genetic pool, and lifestyle.

Victoria Andrews / iStock/

Living space and environment

Goldendoodles can adapt to different living environments, but they’ll do best in homes where they have room to play and get plenty of outdoor time.

• Suitable for larger homes: If you have a yard, a Goldendoodle will enjoy the space to run and explore. They love being outside and need the opportunity to burn off their energy.

• Adaptable to smaller spaces: Goldendoodles can live in rented apartments or smaller homes as long as they get enough exercise. If you live in a more confined space, daily walks and playtime are a must to keep them from feeling cooped up.

• Outdoor access: Although they enjoy spending time inside with their family, having access to a yard or park is ideal for a Goldendoodle’s active nature. They’ll love being able to run, play, and stretch their legs.

When a Goldendoodle might not be the right fit

Goldendoodles are amazing dogs, but they aren’t for everyone. Here are a few reasons they might not be the best fit.

• Limited time for attention: If you work long hours or travel frequently, a Goldendoodle might not be the best match. They don’t like being left alone for extended periods and can develop separation anxiety if not given enough attention. So, if you’re a homebody or have a flexible schedule, a Goldendoodle could fit in perfectly.

• Limited time for exercise and attention: If your schedule doesn’t allow for daily exercise, playtime, and mental stimulation, a Goldendoodle could become bored or anxious.

• Health issues: Like any breed, Goldendoodles can be prone to certain health conditions, such as hip dysplasia or allergies, which can lead to long-term higher healthcare costs.

• First-time dog parents: Goldendoodles can be a bit much for first-time dog parents. They need consistent training, socialization, and grooming to stay happy and healthy.

References

Hladky-Krage, Bridget, and Christy L. Hoffman. “Expectations versus Reality of Designer Dog Ownership in the United States.” Animals, vol. 12, no. 23, 23 Nov. 2022, p. 3247, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9736103/, https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12233247.

Shouldice, Victoria L., et al. “Expression of Behavioural Traits in Goldendoodles and Labradoodles.” Animals, vol. 9, no. 12, 17 Dec. 2019, p. 1162, www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/9/12/1162, https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9121162.

“Goldendoodle.” www.petmd.com, www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/goldendoodle.

Goldendoodle Association of North America Committed to the Future of the Goldendoodle. www.goldendoodleassociation.com.

“Goldendoodle Dog Breed: Information and Personality Traits.” Hill’s Pet Nutrition, www.hillspet.com/dog-care/dog-breeds/goldendoodle.

Shouldice, Victoria L., et al. “Expression of Behavioural Traits in Goldendoodles and Labradoodles.” Animals, vol. 9, no. 12, 17 Dec. 2019, p. 1162, www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/9/12/1162, https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9121162.