Goldendoodles: What size to expect.

Goldendoodles are one of those breeds that can come in many different sizes and colors. It can be confusing to know which is the right size for you and to understand why it is they can be so different if they all are the "same"... I'll do my best to explain.

As I have explained before
Golden Retriever + Poodle =  Goldendoodle 

Golden retrievers can come two ways: American Standard (this is what my Goldens are) and English Creme. 

Americans are varying shades of gold to red, smaller and a little leaner with slightly longer noses.

Cremes are almost white, large with big blocky heads.

These breeds can run from 50-100lbs.

Poodles can come anywhere from 8-10lb to nearly 100lb. They can be white, black, brown, red, silver... you name it.

When you breed two varied breeds you can expect a lot of variation with what can be considered a "Goldendoodle" BUT you need to remember that an F1 Goldendoodle is the cross between a Golden Retriever (50-100lb) and a Poodle so really the smallest you will get a true, first generation Goldendoodle is in the 25-30lb range.

If you want something smaller and you are looking at an F1b you need to remember that while you may be able to get a smaller dog (15lb) by breeding an F1 with a 10lb poodle, it will also be 75% poodle.

Goldendoodle + Poodle = 25% Golden Retriever and 75% Poodle. While they are undoubtably cute they are also lacking in the teddy bear characteristics you may be looking for when you think "Goldendoodle".

I hope this helps clear up any confusion and helps you choose your next member of the family with a little more peace of mind.

Here's my newest American Golden to make you smile...