From United States and Australia. A first cross was made in 1969, and the Goldendoodle became widely bred from the 1990s, following the Labradoodle's success.123
Miniature about 15-35 lb (7-16 kg), medium 36-50 lb (16-23 kg), standard about 50-90 lb (23-41 kg) per most sources, with one source saying standards can reach 100 lb (45 kg).
The coat can be straight, wavy or curly, and wavy is the most common. It is usually soft and sheds little, with curlier coats needing the most brushing.123
Warm, outgoing and happiest when close to its people. Goldendoodles are clever, playful and easygoing, rarely noisy, and usually get along with everyone they meet. They often shine in obedience and agility.231
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Moderate to high: about 30 to 60 minutes of activity a day, such as walks, runs, fetch, hikes or swimming.23
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Brush several times a week (daily for very curly coats, weekly for straighter ones) and plan a professional groom every 4 to 8 weeks. Bathe only when needed and dry the ears after swimming.23
Home where they are happiest
Does best in a home where someone is around for much of the day and there is space for play; not suited to being left alone for long workdays.2
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A complete commercial food suited to its life stage and size. Adults usually eat twice a day, puppies up to four times.2
Company who they like around
Very family-oriented and generally good with children, other dogs and cats. Likes plenty of company and dislikes long spells on its own.23
The story where it all began
A Golden Retriever and Poodle cross was first recorded in 1969, and the idea was explored for guide dog work. Breeders in the United States and Australia began producing Goldendoodles in numbers in the 1990s, inspired by the popular Labradoodle.123
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
An early Golden Retriever and Poodle cross was made back in 1969 by the English writer Monica Dickens.1
2
Goldendoodles have been trained as guide dogs, therapy dogs and even as nut-detection dogs for people with allergies.1
3
Gold is the most popular colour, which suits the name.3
4
In 2012 the singer Usher paid 12,000 US dollars for a Goldendoodle puppy at a charity auction.1
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The Goldendoodle is a crossbreed of a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, and its name is a portmanteau of the two parent breeds' names.2
Woke up to sunshine and my human's face. Tail wagging? Check. After breakfast, we went to the park. I carried my stick like a hero. Met a poodle who told me my curls are fantastic. Played fetch until my tongue hung out. Then we came home and I snuggled on the sofa with a chew toy. Best day ever.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
Major kennel clubs (AKC, The Kennel Club)
Not recognised as a breed by any major kennel club because it is a hybrid.1
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a Goldendoodle. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upevery year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Goldendoodle tip
Goldendoodles can be prone to weight gain, so keep treats to about 10% of their daily calories and use part of their normal kibble for training. If your doodle has a sensitive tummy, choose a highly digestible diet with a short ingredient list and change foods gradually over 7 to 14 days.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Goldendoodle, and at what times?
Feed your Goldendoodle a complete commercial food suited to its age and size. Adults usually eat twice a day, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Stick to consistent times each day and follow the food label's guidelines, checking with your vet for the right amount.24
What should a Goldendoodle eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A high-quality commercial dog food that matches your Goldendoodle's life stage and size is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, which are especially harmful to dogs. Always check with your vet before introducing new foods.25
How often should I bathe a Goldendoodle?
Bathe your Goldendoodle only when needed, such as when dirty or smelly. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, but you can adjust based on activity. The ASPCA recommends at least once every three months, and always dry the ears well after swimming.236Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Goldendoodle need brushing?
Brush your Goldendoodle several times a week; daily for very curly coats and weekly for straighter ones. Furry Diary's plan suggests brushing every 7 days. Regular brushing keeps the coat soft and reduces tangles.236Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Goldendoodle's nails, and how often?
Trim your Goldendoodle's nails when you hear them clicking on the floor, about every 28 days per Furry Diary's plan. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part). If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.6Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Goldendoodle need?
Your Goldendoodle needs about 30 to 60 minutes of activity daily, such as walks, fetch, or swimming. Furry Diary's plan includes daily walks and play. This moderate exercise keeps them happy and healthy.23Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Goldendoodle's teeth and ears?
Brush your Goldendoodle's teeth two to three times a week with dog-safe toothpaste, and check ears regularly for dirt or odor. Furry Diary suggests ear checks every 14 days and daily brushing is ideal. Never push anything into the ear canal.236Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Goldendoodle live?
A Goldendoodle typically lives between 10 and 15 years. With good care, regular vet visits, and a healthy lifestyle, they can enjoy a long, happy life.23
Is a Goldendoodle good with children and other pets?
Goldendoodles are warm, outgoing, and generally great with children, other dogs, and even cats. They are playful and easygoing, making them wonderful family companions.23
Can a Goldendoodle be left alone?
Goldendoodles are very family-oriented and dislike being left alone for long periods. They do best in a home where someone is around most of the day. If you must leave them, start with short absences and provide toys, but they thrive with company.23
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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