Goldendoodle 2025 Guide: Temperament, Care & Training 🐶

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

The Goldendoodle is a highly popular hybrid breed created by crossing a Golden Retriever with a Poodle. Known for their intelligence, friendliness, and often low-shedding coats, these dogs are beloved by families and allergy sufferers alike. In this 2025 guide, we cover how to care for a Goldendoodle—including temperament, grooming, training, and health essentials. 🐾

📜 Breed Origins

Goldendoodles were first intentionally bred in the 1990s as an attempt to combine the trainability and warmth of the Golden Retriever with the hypoallergenic coat and smarts of the Poodle. They're not officially recognized by the AKC but are widely adored. 🧬

🧠 Temperament & Personality

Goldendoodles are known for their cheerful, people-pleasing nature:

• Affectionate: Love attention and thrive on companionship
• Friendly: Great with kids, strangers, and other pets
• Intelligent: Quick learners and eager to work or play
• Social: Don’t enjoy long periods of solitude

🏡 Ideal Home Environment

This breed fits into many lifestyles, but thrives with attention and engagement:

• Perfect for families, seniors, and first-time dog owners
• Adaptable to apartments or houses with yards
• Best suited for homes where someone is around most of the day

Goldendoodles want to be part of the family—wherever that may be. 🏡

✂️ Coat Type & Grooming

Goldendoodles come in three main coat types: curly, wavy, and straight. Each requires different grooming levels:

• Brushing: 3–5 times per week to prevent matting
• Trimming: Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks
• Bathing: Monthly or as needed
• Ear/Nail Care: Clean ears weekly; trim nails monthly

🏃♂️ Exercise & Enrichment

Goldendoodles are moderately active and enjoy both physical and mental challenges:

• 45–60 minutes of walking, play, or agility daily
• Training games, puzzle toys, or scent-based activities
• Swimming, fetch, or light running, depending on energy level

Without stimulation, they may become bored or anxious. 🧠

🍗 Nutrition & Feeding

Feed a high-quality, age-appropriate diet to support skin, digestion, and brain health:

• Animal-based protein as the first ingredient
• Omega fatty acids for coat and joint health
• Prebiotics and probiotics for digestion

Feed two meals per day. For personalized plans, use Ask A Vet. 🍽️

🩺 Common Health Concerns

Goldendoodles can inherit conditions from both parent breeds:

• Hip Dysplasia: Regular vet checks and weight management help
• Ear Infections: Floppy ears require regular cleaning
• Allergies: Watch for food or environmental triggers
• Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat): Feed in smaller portions

Monitor symptoms and get help via Ask A Vet. 🩺

🎓 Training & Socialization

These dogs are eager to please, making training straightforward with the right approach:

• Begin obedience and crate training by 8–10 weeks
• Use food rewards and play-based reinforcement
• Expose to people, pets, and sounds early and often

🧘♂️ Emotional Needs

Goldendoodles are sensitive, social dogs who thrive on affection and consistency:

• Daily routines help them feel secure
• Use puzzle toys when left alone
• Prevent separation anxiety with gradual alone-time training

Behavioral consults available through Ask A Vet. 🧠

🏁 Final Thoughts: Is the Goldendoodle Right for You?

If you want a cheerful, family-friendly, and often low-shedding companion, the Goldendoodle may be your perfect match. With regular grooming, training, and affection, they become joyful and loving members of the household. ❤️

Need help creating your Goldendoodle’s care plan? Book a consult at Ask A Vet today!