by Molly Horton

Created on: June 24, 2009   Last Updated: June 25, 2009

We were considering many different breeds for our second dog. We already had a Golden Retriever, and while he was a great dog, he had his issues. From day one he was dominant aggressive and we had to work hard everyday with him. We wanted a dog that could fit in and be more passive. We made the perfect choice with a Goldendoodle.

Now I realize that Doodles are not considered to be purebreds, but they certainly should be. They are considered hybrids because they are a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Standard Poodle. We got our Doodle from a reputable breeder in Ontario, Canada. We drove there and back in one day, and it was well worth it. Murray, our Doodle, had a beautiful Golden Retriever mom, and a stunning apricot Poodle dad. As a puppy, Murray looked like your typical Golden Retriever puppy. The curly Poodle coat comes in over the first year.

The coat is a big reason to consider this dog. They are mostly hypoallergenic, and our Murray does not shed. While this is a plus, the minus is that you must keep this dog groomed. The curly, long hair easily knots and mats. In warmer months it's important to keep them shaved down because they quickly over heat.

Poodles are known for being a very intelligent breed. This comes shining through in the Doodles. Without much training, Murray learned the rules of the house in no time. He instinctively wants to please us all the time. His disposition is great. He loves to play and loves to be loved. He is a true people dog. Everywhere we go, Murray follows.

The size of the Doodles tend to be a it smaller than you typical Golden Retriever. They can be about the same height, but they have a smaller frame and tend to weigh less. This makes lifting them into the SUV or on the bed that much easier. Since they easily turn into lap dogs, their smaller size pays off here as well. They are not tiny dogs however. Murray weighs about 80 pounds, but our Golden Retriever weighs 100 pounds. That can be a big difference in a dog.

Doodles come in golden and black. Murray is golden because his father was an apricot color. If a Golden Retriever is bred with a black Poodle, the pups can be black. This is simply a matter of preference. Another thing to consider when thinking of your choices is how much Poodle or Retriever you want bred into your pup. A puppy may have a Golden Doodle father and a Golden Retriever mother which would mean your pup would be more Poodle than Retriever.

I highly suggest considering this dog for your next pet. I don't think you will be disappointed. You will have a friend for life. There are lots of good dogs, but Doodles are fantastic!

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