Goldendoodle
Also known as Groodle · Golden Doodle
United States, Doodles and designer crosses
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 33–66 cm
- Weight
- 7–41 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–15 yrs
- Friendly
- Clever
- Playful
- Sociable
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Goldendoodle
The Goldendoodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Because the Poodle parent can be a Standard, Miniature or Toy, Goldendoodles range from small lap-sized dogs to big, leggy dogs over 30 kg. Coats can be straight, wavy or tightly curled, and you cannot reliably tell which a puppy will have, especially in first-generation litters.
Temperament
Most are friendly, sociable and eager to please, combining the retriever's love of people with the Poodle's quick mind. They can be boisterous and mouthy as youngsters, and some inherit a tendency to worry when left alone.
Exercise
Expect to give at least an hour of exercise a day for a standard-sized dog, with smaller ones needing a little less. Many love water, retrieving games and training challenges.
Grooming
Grooming is often the biggest surprise for new owners: wavy and curly coats mat easily and need brushing several times a week, plus a professional trim every six to eight weeks. A low-shedding coat is common but not guaranteed, and no Goldendoodle can be promised to be safe for people with allergies.
Care & wellbeing
Ask the breeder about the generation (first cross, back-cross or multigenerational) and the size of both parents, as these give the best clue to adult size and coat. Both parent breeds carry inherited conditions, so health-tested parents matter. Floppy, hairy ears trap moisture, so check them weekly and see a vet for head-shaking, odour or redness.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 24 kg adult- Water
- 960 ml–1.4 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,210 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Daily brushing
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Goldendoodle
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
Golden Retriever and Poodle crosses were being bred deliberately in North America and Australia by the 1990s, following the success of the Labradoodle. Breeders hoped to combine the retriever's gentle nature with a coat that sheds less. Demand rose sharply in the 2000s and 2010s, leading to miniature and multigenerational lines. There is no single breed standard, so type still varies widely.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Ear infections
- Skin allergies
- Subvalvular aortic stenosis
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scoring of both parents
- Eye examination
- PRA-prcd DNA test
- Heart examination
Not every Goldendoodle is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Highest than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 10–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Goldendoodle right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Goldendoodle get?
Adult Goldendoodles typically stand about 33–66 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 7–41 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Goldendoodles live?
Typically 10–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Goldendoodle need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Goldendoodle need?
Daily brushing, plus regular professional grooming or clipping. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Goldendoodles easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Goldendoodles shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Goldendoodles good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Goldendoodle live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Goldendoodles have?
The breed can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (pra), ear infections. Not every Goldendoodle is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- United States
- Type
- Doodles and designer crosses
- Recognition
- A crossbreed, not recognised by kennel clubs