Goldendoodles

Goldendoodles are one of the new designer breeds that are on the market today. Now, personally, I'm not a big fan of the designer breeds, as in many cases people will purchase purebred Golden Retrievers and Poodles and breed them, calling the puppies Goldendoodles. But, this is not the case, as you will not get an even ratio of dogs that have the same characteristics. The results from this breeding will be of some pups appearing more golden retriever, and the rest appearing more poodle. In the scenario, this breeding did not result in the desired designer breed result. It resulted in a mix-breed litter.

BUT, I will say that with proper breeding, a true Goldendoodle can be produced. In order to produce a true goldendoodle, the breeder will have to begin with a golden retriever and a poodle, choose the top picks in the litter. Breed that top choices to another, unrelated golden retriever/poodle mix. And continue doing so until a dog with the general characteristics of both the golden retriever and the poodle are existent.

And, through selective breeding a proper goldendoodle can be produced. As well as a Miniature Goldendoodle, which is produced by breeding golden retrievers to miniature poodles.

The goldendoodle was bred to produce a large breed dog that has low shedding characteristic for those who are allergic to dogs. But, you do need to consider whether you are allergic to dog fur or dog dander. As even the goldendoodle will have dander.

Appearance:

A true goldendoodle is hard to describe, as they are a hybrid, mix-breed. A standard goldendoodle will range from 20 to 24 inches in height and 45 to 85 pounds, whereas a miniature goldendoodle will range from 13 to 21 inches tall and 25 to 45 pounds.

Temperament:

The goldendoodle is a loving, loyal dog. With the mixture of breeds that created the hybrid, the dog is naturally social and easily trained, but this, by no means excuses lack of training and socialization on the owner's part.

Health:

Since this is a mix breed dog, the health concerns of both the golden retriever and the poodle are taken into account. Both breeds are prone to hip dysplasia and cataracts, as well as other inheritable health concerns.

Health of a designer breed dog can a concern in general. You will need to watch and find a reputable breeder. Many petstores who sell designer breed pups, purchase the puppies from Puppy Mills, which can result in very unhealthy puppies who will become dogs with severe health concerns.

Finding a reputable breeder will be most important in finding a puppy with limited behavioral concerns and health issues. Puppy mills are a great place to pick up a puppy who will eventually suffer genetic illness and behavioral issues... If that's what you're looking for...

You may have to pay more at a breeder, but you will be guaranteed a healthy puppy.

Now to find a breeder in your area, or a breeder who will ship you a puppy... The search begins...

NOTE: When searching for a reputable breeder of goldendoodles or miniature goldendoodles, you may want to understand the classification that they will assign their litters. Some breeders claim that they have first generation (F1) breeding, which means that the pairing was of a purebred poodle and golden retriever. Sometimes, you will see F1- back cross or F1-B, which means that the litter was the result of a goldendoodle and a poodle or a goldendoodle and a golden retriever.

Many breeders will ship their puppies. In most cases, you will have to inquire about shipping. And, yes, it is safe to ship a puppy. Puppies and dogs are shipped in regular plastic dog crates. The crate must be large enough for the puppy or dog to turn around in comfortably, but no larger. They are shipped via planes overnight to you your airport, where you will pick up the pup.

Remember to ask to see verification for proper testing when trying to pick a reputable goldenddoodle breeder. Goldendoodle adults should have the various tests such as :

1. Hips (HD) OFA or Pennhip or OVC
2. Eyes (CERF) Required Yearly
3. Hearts tested and certified by OFA
4. Elbows (OFA) on all new certifications.
5. Von Willebrands (vWd) (bleeding disorder) DNA or Blood screen
6. Sebaceous Adenitis (SA) (Skin Disorder) minimum of 2 tests within a 3 year period.

These tests are those that are normal for reputable golden retriever and poodle breeders. They are great when ruling out health concerns that the puppies can inherit.

Pictures can be found at flickr.com.