Goldendoodle vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between Goldendoodle and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds

Goldendoodle
A lovable and social breed, Goldendoodles blend intelligence with a playful spirit. Their affectionate nature and low-shedding coats make them wonderful family companions.

Golden Retriever
A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.
Quick comparison
Medium
20–29 kg
Wavy or curly, low-shedding
10–15 years
18–25 kg
High energy
Large
29–34 kg
Double coat, water-repellent
10–12 years
25–29 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Goldendoodle
Very sociable with people and other pets
Learns new commands and tasks quickly
Needs regular exercise and activity
Enjoys games and interactive play
Adjusts well to changes in environment
Golden Retriever
Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs
Quick to learn commands and routines
Needs regular activity and mental stimulation
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Goldendoodle
Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Goldendoodle
Great choice
Friendly, trainable nature suits those new to dog ownership.
Fairly suitable
Moderate energy and barking may require daily walks and mental stimulation.
Perfect fit
Enjoys regular activity and thrives in energetic households.
Highly suitable
Gentle temperament and patience make them good companions for young children.
Very friendly
Social and generally gets along well with other pets in the home.
Not ideal
Prone to separation anxiety and may become destructive if left alone too long.
Golden Retriever
Great choice
Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage
Needs space
Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments
Highly suitable
Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people
Perfect fit
Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children
Very friendly
Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Goldendoodle
- Friendly and social with people and pets
- Low-shedding coat reduces loose hair
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Generally good with children
- Adaptable to various living environments
Golden Retriever
- Friendly with children and other pets
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
- Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Goldendoodle
- Prone to separation anxiety when left alone
- Coat requires regular grooming and maintenance
- Can be hyperactive without enough exercise
- May develop hereditary health conditions
- Sometimes prone to barking when bored
Golden Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
- Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
- Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
- Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions
Ready to choose your perfect breed?
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