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Science & Nature • Dog Breed

Goldendoodle

The Goldendoodle is a designer dog, or hybrid dog, created by crossing a Golden Retriever with a Poodle.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Goldendoodle is a designer dog, or hybrid dog, created by crossing a Golden Retriever with a Poodle. It is not recognized as a breed by major kennel clubs, but it has become a popular companion animal known for its intelligence, friendly temperament, and often low-shedding coat. Goldendoodles were first bred in the late 20th century and are commonly produced in multiple sizes depending on the Poodle parent used.

Origin and development

Goldendoodles were developed as an intentional crossbreed between Golden Retrievers and Poodles. Sources describe their wider popularity as emerging in the 1990s, following the success of other Poodle mixes.

Appearance and size

Goldendoodles can vary significantly in size, coat texture, and colour because they are hybrids. They are commonly bred in toy, miniature, and standard sizes depending on the Poodle parent.

Temperament and use

The breed is commonly described as friendly, intelligent, and eager to please. These traits have made Goldendoodles popular as household pets and, in some cases, therapy or assistance dogs.

Breed status

Goldendoodles are not recognized as a breed by major kennel clubs. They are generally classified as hybrid or designer dogs rather than a standardized purebred breed.

Key facts

  • Goldendoodles are a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle.
  • They are considered a designer dog rather than a purebred breed.
  • Major kennel clubs do not recognize Goldendoodles as an official breed.
  • They are often bred in different sizes based on the Poodle parent used.
  • Goldendoodles are widely kept as family companions and are valued for their friendly, intelligent temperament.
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Canadian context

Goldendoodles are popular companion dogs in Canada, and Canadian pet-care sources describe them as a hybrid breed valued for their temperament and low-shedding coat.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Goldendoodle?
A Goldendoodle is a hybrid dog bred from a Golden Retriever and a Poodle.
Is a Goldendoodle a recognized dog breed?
No. Major kennel clubs do not recognize the Goldendoodle as an official breed.
Why are Goldendoodles popular?
They are popular for their friendly temperament, intelligence, and often low-shedding coat.
What sizes do Goldendoodles come in?
They are commonly bred in toy, miniature, and standard sizes, depending on the Poodle parent used.
Are Goldendoodles good family dogs?
They are widely described as sociable and family-friendly companion dogs.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goldendoodle
    Supports: Cross between Golden Retriever and Poodle; not recognized by major kennel clubs; bred in sizes based on Poodle parent.
  2. Hill's Pet Canada — https://www.hillspet.ca/en-ca/dog-care/dog-breeds/goldendoodle
    Supports: Goldendoodle as a hybrid/dog designer breed; first appeared in the 1990s; companion traits.
  3. Purina UK — https://www.purina.co.uk/find-a-pet/dog-breeds/goldendoodle
    Supports: Parent breeds; size variation; hybrid breeding and variety in coat and temperament.
  4. Basepaws — https://www.basepaws.com/dog-breeds/goldendoodle
    Supports: General traits including friendly nature and often low-shedding coat.
  5. Rover — https://www.rover.com/blog/breeds/goldendoodle/
    Supports: Popularity, typical lifespan, and non-recognition by the AKC.