No matter what you call this hybrid dog, a Goldendoodle, Goldie Poo, Golden Poo, Dood or even a Groodle you are referring to one of the most popular of the large hybrid breeds. It is second in popularity only to the Labradoodle, also a Poodle cross, and they are both used as guide and assistance dogs as well as outstanding family pets and companions.

Goldendoodles, often shorted down to Groodle, is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Although originally only a Standard Poodle was used in the cross, there are now second and third generation Goldie Poos that are bred to Miniature Poodles, making a slightly smaller overall dog.

Many people think that the Golden Poo dog is very similar in looks to another canine hybrid; the Cockapoo. The Dood is typically much larger than the Cockapoo, however it does share the same light cream to dark brown wavy to curly coat of the much smaller canine.

Like all Poodle cross dog types, the Goldendoodle is often suitable for people with mild to moderate allergies to dog hair and dander. They are a medium to large sized breed, solid through the body and chest and well boned through the legs. They are often described as looking like a very shaggy retriever with longer ears, long squared muzzle, bright alert eyes and a happy go lucky attitude towards life.

The Goldendoodle is known for the outstanding temperament of this hybrid breed. Groodles make ideal family pets, good with kids of all ages, elderly people, other dogs and even non-canine pets. Although a very friendly dog they are good watchdogs and will bark when someone they don't know approaches.

Considered to be very easy to train the Golden Poo, when given the opportunity will almost housetrain itself. They are very clean dogs and with their low shedding hair are excellent indoor pets. Despite their shaggy coats they prefer to be inside with the family rather than as outside dogs. Highly intelligent the Goldie Poo is easy to train and excels at obedience and agility type training. They can become destructive if they are not provided enough attention and regular human interaction.

Like the Poodle the Groodle doesn't need a lot of routine grooming, once or twice a week with a pin brush or grooming comb is all that is needed to keep the coat free from tangles. The Goldendoodle is typically very healthy but it is always recommended to have both parents tested for both hip and eye conditions as this issues can be prominent in both of the parent breed lines.

The Goldie Poo requires routine brisk walks at least twice a day or time to run and romp in a fenced yard. They will adjust to apartment life or living in a small home easily provided they are given routine exercise time. As a retriever and Poodle cross they love the water and are outstanding at playing fetch, which is a great way to exercise the pet and have fun at the same time.

• ACHC
• DRA
• ICA
• UABR
• APRI
• CKC
• GANA (Goldendoodle Association of North America)

by Julie-Ann Amos, professional writer, and owner of international writing agency www.ExquisiteWriting.com

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