Golden Retriever vs. Goldendoodle: Breed Comparison

Golden Retrievers and Goldendoodles are breeds that have recently gained popularity. They’re both fluffy, dependable canines with pretty coats. Given that they’re so similar in popularity, it might be hard to specify their differences. But we are here to help.

Golden retrievers have long been a popular breed for dog owners because of their friendly and docile nature. A Golden Retriever is a purebred that is an officially recognized breed, while a Goldendoodle is considered a “crossbreed” created by mixing a Golden Retriever with a Poodle. The significant visual difference is their coats.

Both family-friendly dogs have lovely natures, but there are some notable differences between them. So get ready for the Golden Retriever vs. Golden doodle showdown.

History Of The Golden Retriever Breeds

Golden Retrievers are hunting dogs that were initially bred to retrieve game. The Baron of Tweedmouth, Dudley Marjoribanks, played an essential role in the creation of the breed, looking for a dog that could handle the wet, cold, and rugged landscape of the highlands and retrieve from both water and land.

They were eventually called Golden Retrievers for their coat color and were identified by the Kennel Club in 1903. These dogs are brilliant and inspired by work, leading to roles like guide dogs. However, Golden Retrievers shed a lot, which can make this a little difficult.

Goldendoodle

Meanwhile, poodles have been considered intelligent lap dogs in Spain and France since the 15th and 16th centuries. They are smart and loyal like a Golden Retriever but have a thick, curled coat that does not shed very much.

A breeder Monica Dickens in the late 1960s, bred the first Goldendoodle to create a big, reliable dog ideal for working with the non-shedding fur of a Poodle. By the 1990s, they became famous as service dogs and are sometimes defined as hypoallergenic.

Golden Retriever vs. Goldendoodle Popularity

Golden retrievers are famous and rank number three in the AKC’s pet registrations. They’re usually featured in television and movies, and many celebrities, including Nick Jonas and Lisa Vanderpump, proudly declare goldens as part of their family.

Goldendoodles, however, are just a little behind. Nevertheless, due to their friendly behavior and low-shed coat, they quickly became a favorite in the U.S. and worldwide.

Size and Coloring

Golden retrievers are large dogs, with males weighing between 65 and 75 pounds and females weighing between 55 and 65 pounds. They have double-layered coats, with shorter inner coats to guard against cold climates. The longer outer coat is wavy and golden in color.

The gold color can be dark, light, or plain golden. Moreover, there are some breeders who bred white goldens, known as English cream.

Goldendoodles can vary in appearance, depending on their parentage. The standard Goldendoodle weighs anywhere from 50 to 90 pounds and often stands around 20 to 24 inches in height. However, both miniature and toy Goldendoodles range in size from 15 pounds to 40 pounds.

Coats can be wavy, straight, or curly depending on parentage and come in various colors. However, the most common colors are black, brown, red, and cream.

Temperament & Trainability

Golden Retrievers are the most loyal, intelligent, and trainable dogs. They are keen to please and learn quickly, so they can usually be trained to complete difficult tasks.

Goldendoodles are loyal and may be more brilliant than Golden Retrievers. However, they are more independent than Golden Retrievers. It means it can take a little bit longer to train them.

Both Golden Retrievers and Goldendoodles are playful and gentle. They are good around kids and other animals and don’t overlook being territorial. The only issue with these dogs around small kids is they are big and full of energy, so they can be overwhelming for small kids.

Both breeds are social dogs that need lots of attention and love. They don’t do well if you leave them alone for long hours. It can lead to separation and depression anxiety. However, Goldendoodles tend to handle periods alone as compared to Golden Retrievers.

Grooming

Grooming is a major time responsibility for both dogs. Both need frequent brushing to maintain their coat in good condition. In the case of Golden Retrievers, this will also help control shedding.

On the other hand, Goldendoodles with a low-shedding coat need to have dead hair removed regularly, and they should likely have a trim every 6 to 7 weeks to keep things under control. Moreover, all dogs need regular teeth brushing, clipping, and ear cleaning.

Activity Level

Golden retriever

Golden retrievers are sports dogs and need a fair amount of exercise. You should strive for about 45 to 60 minutes of strenuous exercise daily. They have the energy to burn during those early puppy years, so it’s wise to consider whether you have the time to provide proper exercise before getting golden. They do exceptionally well with agility and obedience training and are at their best when exercising physically and mentally.

Goldendoodles

Goldendoodles are also active dogs that need reasonable exercise. They need at least 20 to 30 minutes daily but can enjoy hikes and long walks.

They can succeed in city and country environments as long as they can spend a reasonable amount of time with their owners. However, temperament may vary as they are more casual than golden retrievers.

Conclusion

Golden retrievers and Goldendoodles are joyful, friendly, and loyal dogs who want nothing more than the friendship of their owners.

Both breeds have much to offer to pet parents and families. Moreover, make sure you choose a dog you are willing to give love and time to and enjoy your time together.