If you are allergic to dogs yet desperate for a fluffy companion, you can welcome a Goldendoodle into your life. While there are many hypoallergenic breeds out there, the fun-loving nature of the Goldendoodle makes it an excellent companion.
The Goldendoodle is a designer breed developed from the Poodle and Golden Retriever. The latter is a double-coated breed and sheds too much fur, while the former has a single coat and sheds minimally. So do Goldendoodles shed or not? Below we have tackled the answers to this breed and the maintenance required to care for them.
The Goldendoodle was originally bred to combine the obedient and dependable nature of the Retriever with the non-shedding coat of the Poodle. How much a Goldendoodle sheds depends on which parent’s traits are more dominant in it.
This mixed breed typically undergoes less shedding than a purebred Golden Retriever. Golden retrievers shed a moderate amount due to their double coat. However, Goldendoodles are more tolerant of allergy sufferers than both of their parents.
There are different variations of this breed, each of which has different percentages of the Poodle and Golden Retriever. F1BB Goldendoodle, for example, carries 87.5% of Poodle genes and 12.5% of that of Golden Retriever.
The higher the percentage of Poodle genes, the less a Goldendoodle sheds. Similarly, the more the Golden Retriever genetics in the dog’s lineage, the lower the maintenance. It’s basically a trade-off.
The F1 or F2 generations of the breed carry equal percentages of both parents which make their characteristics, such as the coat type, somewhat predictable. A Goldendoodle can have one of three coats: flat, wavy, and curly. Each coat has a distinct texture and shedding frequency.
Curly-coated Goldendoodles shed the least and are the most desired variation of this breed because of their Poodle-like coat texture. Wavy coats shed moderately, while one with a straight coat will undergo a lot more shedding.
Goldendoodles with flat coats are more toward the Golden Retriever. Not only do they look like Golden Retrievers but they also shed the most. The highest-shedding Goldendoodles are a mix of coat type and generation.
However, the size of the dog does not have a huge impact on its shedding frequency. It’s the coat type, generation, and furnishings that determine how much a Goldendoodle will shed.
Dogs belonging to the F1 generation with straight coats are the heaviest shedders. F1B and F2 generation dogs with wavy or curly coats shed the least.
When Do Goldendoodles Shed?
According to Goldendoodle owners and breeders, these dogs undergo shedding every five to eight months. The shedding process can be sudden or gradual, although many Goldendoodles are considered to be year-round shedders.
In some instances, the Goldendoodle’s coat becomes softer during the process of seasonal shedding. Because many owners report not noticing it, these changes vary according to the coat type.
Are Goldendoodles Hypoallergenic?
Due to its non-shedding coat, the Goldendoodle is deemed hypoallergenic. Neither miniature nor medium-sized Goldendoodles are allergen-free. The term ‘allergy-friendly’ is used by clinicians to describe the Goldendoodle and other breeds that are less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
No dog breed is truly hypoallergenic. All breeds of dogs can trigger an allergic reaction because all of them undergo the natural process of molting. Along with dead hair, dogs shed tiny flakes of dead skin that carry allergen proteins.
The term ‘hypoallergenic’ is used to describe breeds that cause fewer or less severe symptoms than others. However, no breed of dog, including the Goldendoodle, is completely void of allergens.
How To Reduce Goldendoodle Shedding
While fur is distinct from dander, some factors can contribute to the higher shedding of both. Excessive oil production in the dog’s coat can block pores and shorten the lifespan of skin cells.
Similarly, hair follicles can also die as a result of damaged cells, contributing to greater shedding. Here are some ways to reduce shedding in Goldendoodles:
Grooming
Though Goldendoodles are generally low-maintenance, regular grooming can go a long way in keeping shedding minimal. Proper grooming by a professional should be performed every six weeks to ensure your canine’s coat is fully sanitized.
Weekly brushing works great for some Goldendoodles, while others need to be brushed daily. The longer and curlier the fur, the more frequently it needs to be brushed.
The fur of a Goldendoodle can grow as long as eight inches if not trimmed. The hair around the mouth and eyes and between the paw pads should also be clipped occasionally.
The shaggy coat of the Goldendoodle needs to be given a good wash every month. Not only will this remove dirt and grease from its coat but also prevent the formation of knots and tangles.
However, overbathing your Goldendoodle worsens shedding as it can overdry its coat. Wash its coat from the neck down to get to all areas of the body.
You should use a dog-friendly shampoo that is free of any harsh chemicals. Give your pooch a good rinse after applying the shampoo. Not rinsing them properly can irritate the dog’s skin.
Diet & Supplements
A balanced diet is very important for healthy shedding and the overall well-being of your Goldendoodle. They must get proper amounts of minerals, vitamins, fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. Domestic dogs can be fed fruits, vegetables, and even grains with meat.
However, it’s best to stick to high-quality kibble if you want your pooch to get a fully nutritious diet. Dry kibble is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that ensure both coat and fur health.
If you cannot invest in premium-quality dry kibble, giving them an abundance of fruits and vegetables will fulfill their mineral and vitamin requirements. Supplements are also a great way to nourish your pooch with the necessary nutrients.
If your dog’s dry kibble is not meeting its requirement for omega fatty acids, a fish oil supplement can make up for it. If your pet refuses to chew supplemental pills, you can simply pour a liquid supplement into its dry kibble.
Brushing
Goldendoodles’ shaggy coats necessitate regular brushing to stay free of tangles and knots. Depending on the length of your dog’s fur, you should brush it at least once a week.
If they have a curly coat, they need to be brushed more often. The right way to brush a Goldendoodle is to divide its hair into smaller sections using a fine-bristled metal comb.
Run a slicker brush through each section to remove tangles first and give the fur another round with a bristle brush to collect any loose hair.
Though this may sound counterintuitive, keeping your home clean can minimize shedding in your Goldendoodle. This is because when dogs are around too much dirt, allergens attach to the skin and cause greasiness, leading to excessive shedding.
Getting in contact with old fur that they have shed can also make their coats greasy and shed more. You can use a myriad of tools to clean your bedding, couch, floors, and carpets of dog fur.
Some of the most efficient tools for removing dog hair are vacuums, air purifiers, lint rollers, and pet hair removers. It’s best to go for a pet hair removal designed particularly to pick up Goldendoodle fur.
Goldendoodles have a gentle temperament and are super adaptable. They are not only fun-loving but also possess great staying power.
Some Goldendoodles tend to be livelier and stronger than others. This is because of the varying percentages of the Poodle and Golden Retriever genes in different Goldendoodles.
Whatever the genetic makeup of a Goldendoodle, all dogs of this breed are generally low maintenance. Dogs of this designer breed do not need to be cuddled frequently to feel protected. They are super intelligent and love to stay engaged.
While an adult dog of this breed can easily walk five to ten miles, younger dogs should not walk more than two miles. They require a minimum of two hours of physical exercise daily due to their high energy levels.
Because of their loving nature and minimal grooming needs, Goldendoodles make great family pets. However, leaving a Goldendoodle at home without any social interaction or meaningful exercise can make it become restless and turn destructive.
Types of Goldendoodles
Each variation of Goldendoodle has different percentages of its parents. Based on the genetic makeup of the dog, Goldendoodles are divided into five main types, namely F1B Goldendoodle, F1 Goldendoodle, F2 Goldendoodle, F2 Labradoodle, and F2B Goldendoodle.
F1B Goldendoodle & F1B Labradoodle
This variation results from the cross-breeding of the F1 Goldendoodle with the Poodle. The F1B Goldendoodle is the most popular variation of the breed due to its non-shedding coat that exists 99% of the time.
Not only is this variation the lowest shedding but also the most hypoallergenic. F1 Goldendoodles may undergo shedding, however, they are less likely to shed noticeably.
With 25% Golden Retriever genes and 75% Poodle genes, these Goldendoodles are less likely to cause allergic reactions compared to other types and generations. An F1B Goldendoodle is a perfect pick for busy allergy sufferers. It has an easygoing nature and a beautiful, long or short coat with wavy or curly hair.
F2 Goldendoodle
The second generation of the Goldendoodle is developed by F1 Goldendoodles. They have similar traits to their first-generation counterparts. The coats of F2s are identical to that of Golden Retrievers.
The shedding frequency of this variation can vary. However, according to the owners of F2 Goldendoodles, they are light to moderate shedders and are best for owners with mild pet allergies.
F2B Goldendoodle
F2B are multigenerational doodles crossbred from an F1 Goldendoodle and an F1B Goldendoodle. This variation is referred to as the second-generation back cross.
They are not as common as other variations and come in a variety of colors, including shades of apricot, cream, champagne, and red. Their coats have more color variations than the F1B doodle. F2Bs are generally non-shedding and fit right in households with mild pet allergies.
Do Mini Goldendoodles Shed?
Mini Goldendoodles are normally low-shedding. The amount of shedding depends on the coat type and dominance of the genes they are developed with.
If Golden Retriever genes are dominant, the mini doodle will have long fur and shed minimally. However, if it is more toward the Poodle side, they shed very little.
Goldendoodle Puppy Coat Shedding
Goldendoodles will shed their puppy coat generally after the first four to eight months, marking the transition into their adult coat. This time frame will vary widely from breed to breed.
What are the Cons of Having a Goldendoodle?
While Goldendoodles have a lot of desirable traits, owning a doodle comes with its fair share of downsides. To start, doodles are very energetic and need frequent exercise which can be a problem for busy parents.
They need at least an hour of exercise daily or they’ll get bored and resort to destructive behavior. Because they have insanely high energy levels, their energy should be channelized into something productive.
Pent-up energy can manifest in the form of explosive and aggressive outbursts. They suffer from social anxiety when they are left by themselves.
Leaving them alone at home can make them bored and anxious, resulting in destructive behaviors. They love chewing stuff and can’t bite anything within their reach.
If you leave them by themselves, you might find broken dishes, shredded shores, and furniture vandalism when you get back. Due to their curious nature, you may also find them masticating your food and their favorite treats in the refrigerator.
Though Goldendoodles were developed as a hypoallergenic alternative to allergenic guide dogs, they can cause serious allergic reactions in some people. Some doodles, especially the large ones, can undergo more shedding than the Golden Retriever experiences during the shedding season.
If you are adopting a doodle for its low-shedding traits, you may want to look for miniature options or B-status variations. Because Goldendoodles are extremely popular, you’ll have to pay a lot more than you would for a golden retriever or a standard poodle.
A well-bred doodle can cost anywhere between $1,500 and $2,500, excluding grooming and clinical expenses. It’s important to ask for evidence of a dysplasia exam before you buy a doodle.
They can be affected by a range of serious health conditions, including von Willebrand’s disease, sebaceous adenitis, and subaortic stenosis.
Conclusion
Goldendoodles are loyal, energetic, and intelligent dogs with a friendly nature and outstanding adaptability. If you are looking for a furry companion that sheds minimally like the Poodle but is as patient as the Golden Retriever, a doodle may be the best option for you.
They are affectionate pups with a desire to please their family. As long as you make them feel protected and entertained, you won’t have to witness the bad side of this mixed breed.
PetLovers
