Perhaps you’ve stumbled upon this page because you’re wondering which breed may slot into your home best, or perhaps you’re even just wondering what the similarities and differences are. Maybe you’re even wondering what a Goldendoodle is!
Well, fear not, as we are about to explore both of these beautiful breeds together.
Let’s start by finding out some information about each breed before diving into the differences and similarities of Golden Retrievers vs. Goldendoodles!
The Golden Retriever
As most people will know, the Golden Retriever is one of the most popular dogs. What makes them so popular? Not only are they completely adorable to gaze at, but they are also known to be gentle, friendly, intelligent, and adaptable.
They fall into the classification of a “sporting” breed as they were originally bred for retrieving (hence the name) game whilst hunting.
As their name may give away, their luxurious locks are golden in colour!
The Goldendoodle
As you may have guessed, a Goldendoodle is a cross between a golden retriever and a Poodle.
This breed is popular because it is known for its friendly temperament (much like the Retriever) and its hypoallergenic coat (thanks to the Poodle), making it ideal for families with allergies.
Golden Retrievers Vs. Goldendoodles: Similarities
I’ve talked a little bit about each breed, so now it’s time to dig into their similarities.
1. Temperament
As I’ve briefly mentioned, both breeds are known to be friendly, as well as affectionate and social.
They suit most homes quite well due to this, and are breeds that are usually suited well to families with children or other pets.
They are generally known to be patient and gentle, and their loyal nature is unmatched! They are extremely loving, so if you are looking for snuggles on the sofa and a pooch to look at you adoringly, look no further than these breeds!
Both Retrievers and Goldendoodles make excellent companions for young and for old. However, with their high energy levels it is important to bear in mind that exercise is vital – I will come onto that in a moment.
2. Intelligence
Both breeds are highly intelligent, making them easy to train. Both the Retriever and the Goldendoodle tend to be eager to please and respond well to positive reinforcement (think… treats!)
3. Exercise
These breeds are both energetic! They are very active and require regular exercise to remain healthy and happy.
This will also keep them stimulated and less likely to get up to mischief! For this reason, although they suit most homes very well, it’s important to bear in mind that both of these breeds require daily exercise wherever possible.
4. Health
As the Goldendoodle is a crossbreed between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, it comes as no surprise that these breeds would share some of the same health considerations.
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and some forms of cancer are health concerns to watch out for.
Although we don’t like to think of our pooches becoming unwell, having regular check-ups with the veterinarian and maintaining appropriate diet and exercise are important in keeping these ailments at bay or spotting them early enough to seek advice.
Golden Retrievers Vs. Goldendoodles: Differences
Now, I’ll move on to the differences between these breeds.
1. Breed Origin
So, as we know, the Goldendoodle is a crossbreed between the Golden Retriever and the Poodle.
They are a newer, designer breed, and their characteristics vary depending on their generation and the size of the Poodle parent.
The Retriever, on the other hand, has a long history of being a purebred dog that has established breed standards.
2. Coat
Probably one of the biggest differences is their coat.
The Retriever is known for its’ beautiful, flowing, water-repellent, double-coat. The undercoat is thick and the outer coat is longer, and tends to be wavy (although can be straight). They are known to shed a fair amount, and are not considered to be hypoallergenic dogs.
The Goldendoodle tends to have a curlier coat, although this can sometimes be wavy. The coat of the Goldendoodle can vary in texture; it really depends on the Poodle genes.
As we have also previously learned, the coat of this breed is hypoallergenic, which makes them a popular choice for individuals with allergies who are looking for a friendly and loyal companion.
3. Grooming
Due to their differences in coat, the grooming needs of these two breeds are different. Whilst both dogs do require regular grooming, the Golden Retriever can usually be groomed at home.
For the Retriever, grooming can help to manage shedding, keep the coat in good condition, and prevent any knots from forming in it.
The Goldendoodle, however, requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling but may also need to be taken to a professional groomer, depending on their coat type.
4. Size
Whilst the Golden Retriever is considered to be a medium to large breed, Goldendoodles come in various different sizes.
The size of the Goldendoodle tends to be based on the Poodle parentage, and they can be standard, medium, miniature, or even toy sized.
5. Health
Whilst we know there are some mutual health considerations, due to the Goldendoodle being a mix of the Golden Retriever and a Poodle, adding the Poodle into the mix does mean the Goldendoodle may benefit from outbreeding enhancement.
What this means is that the cross between the Golden Retriever and the Poodle can result in improved traits (and potentially less of the health concerns of the individual breeds) for the offspring (the Goldendoodle).
Whilst this is not a guarantee, this can be one benefit of cross-breeding.
6. Temperament Variation
Whilst mostly both breeds are known to have a friendly temperament, the variation of temperament within the breeds can differ.
Whilst, of course, each individual dog will have a different personality, Golden Retrievers are generally friendly and reliable. For this reason, they tend to be one of the go-to breeds for families and also for service dogs.
As the Goldendoodle will inherit traits from the Retriever, it won’t come as a surprise to find out that it will also inherit traits from the Poodle parent. This means that the possibility for variation in temperament is greater in the Goldendoodle compared with the Golden Retriever.
The Final Woof
Both breeds make wonderful companions and are popular choices for households.
They have many wonderful common similarities, but if you are looking for a new addition to your home, then their differences may help you in deciding which pooch is the right choice for you!
Yes, Goldendoodles are generally considered to be as smart as Golden Retrievers. Both breeds are known for their intelligence and trainability. The Goldendoodle inherits these traits from its parent breeds, the Golden Retriever and the Poodle, both of which rank high in canine intelligence. This makes Goldendoodles quick learners and responsive to training, much like Golden Retrievers.
Do Goldendoodles shed more than Golden Retrievers?
No, Goldendoodles typically shed less than Golden Retrievers. Goldendoodles are often bred to have the low-shedding coat of the Poodle, which makes them a popular choice for people with allergies. Golden Retrievers, on the other hand, have a dense double coat that sheds year-round and more heavily during shedding seasons. However, it’s important to note that shedding can vary among individual Goldendoodles depending on the specific coat type they inherit.
What is the life expectancy of a Golden Retriever and Goldendoodle?
The life expectancy of a Golden Retriever is generally between 10 to 12 years. Goldendoodles tend to have a slightly longer lifespan, typically ranging from 12 to 15 years. This difference is partly due to the Poodle’s influence, as Poodles often have a longer life expectancy than Golden Retrievers. As with any breed, factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and regular veterinary care play significant roles in determining the lifespan of an individual dog.
