Goldendoodles are a popular breed of dog because they are so friendly and good with kids. But are goldendoodles protective?
Some people say that Goldendoodles are not protective enough, while others maintain that they make great guard dogs.
Let's take a closer look at this question and find out what the facts say.
Are Goldendoodles Protective by Nature?
No, goldendoodles are not protective by nature, however, they can become protective if they feel provoked or threatened or they are raised with other protective dogs.
They also can be protective if they believe their family, pack is in danger. Goldendoodles are naturally gentle and friendly, so it takes a lot for them to show aggression or protective behavior.
However, if your goldendoodle is too protective, that means it's a behavior problem.
Are Goldendoodles Loyal?
Yes, goldendoodles are very loyal, but they are not necessarily loyal to one person only.
Just like wolves, goldendoodles think in a pack mentality and form strong relationships with their entire family.
This means that you might be your goldendoodle's "favourite" as a pack leader, but it will still be loyal and protective of other family members, and pack mates as well.
Goldendoodles can also become jealous if another person is spending too much time with their primary leader, so it's important to make sure everyone gets equal attention and to never encourage this. If your goldendoodle is acting jealous or even protective of you, the best is to correct their behavior in a calm but firm way.
What Are the Signs of a Protective Goldendoodle?
A protective goldendoodle will bark and growl when it feels threatened, but it won't bite unless you really push them to that point.
They might also act very alert and attentive if they feel something is wrong or they see someone unfamiliar in the area. You might even notice your goldendoodle blocking off a certain area or person in a protective manner.
Just like other dogs, these are the signs that a golden doodle is feeling protective and it's best to respect their boundaries.
The signs are the following:
Barking and growling
Acting alert and attentive
Blocking off an area or person (guarding)
Nipping
Snapping
Are Goldendoodles Good Guard Dogs?
Goldendoodles are not typically bred or trained to be great guard dogs.
While they may bark to alert their owners of potential danger, they are not as well-suited to guarding as some other dog breeds.
None of its parent dog breeds were originally bred to be guard dogs, so Goldendoodles may not have inherited any protective guarding instincts.
Goldendoodles are typically friendly and sociable, and they are more likely to greet an intruder with wagging tails than with aggression.
I mean, can you imagine a golden retriever, the sweetest breed in the world, being a guard dog and acting like a rottweiler? Me neither.
What Are The Things Goldendoodles Feel Threatened by?
Goldendoodles may become protective if they feel threatened by a variety of things, including:
Strangers or unknown animals.
They can also be intimidated by loud noises and sudden movements.
Unknown situations can also make them feel anxious and they might end up being protective when needed.
Children can be another potential source of fear, especially if they are too rough or do not understand that the dog needs its space. They are also imprecise and can move around too quickly, which might make your Goldendoodle unsure if it's safe.
If your Goldendoodle feels trapped or cornered, it will most likely show signs of protection.
The good news is that all of these things you can get your goldendoodle used to all. With patience, proper socialization and training, your doodle will become more familiar and comfortable with different situations, people and animals.
How to Deal With an Overly Protective Goldendoodle?
Goldendoodles are loyal and loving animals, however, having an overly protective dog is not healthy and can become dangerous.
Most people make the mistake of giving "too much" attention to their protective do or even praising them when they show signs of aggression, making them believe it's okay to act that way.
Showing affection and love to your goldendoodle when it's being protective will not help, instead, you should correct its behaviour with firm commands and redirect it to positive action.
Here are some steps you can take to manage an overly protective Goldendoodle:
Make sure your Goldendoodle is properly socialized from a young age
Introducing your goldendoodle to different people and animals in a calm and controlled manner will help it learn to accept new people and animals and helps with the Goldendoodle temperament.
Stay consistent with commands and corrections when needed
When your goldendoodle shows signs of aggression, be firm and give a correction. Don't yell or be too harsh with them but show that you are in control.
Never punish or scold them for being protective
Never, ever hit or shout at your Goldendoodle. This can only make matters worse and will only increase the anxiety levels of your pet. If you lay hands on your goldendoodle it will just become more fearful and the protection might become permanent.
Reward positive behaviour
Whenever your goldendoodle shows good behavior make sure to reward it with a treat or a hug.
This will help them learn that being protective is not necessary, but having fun and being calm will always be beneficial.
Give them plenty of exercise and mental stimulation
Make sure that your goldendoodle gets enough exercise and mental stimulation. This will help them release any built-up energy and also keep their mind busy, which will prevent them from being overly protective.
Most importantly, be understanding
Goldendoodles can sense our emotions and if we are stressed or anxious they may act protective because of it. Make sure to stay calm and show that you are in control so that your Goldendoodle can relax and trust you.
Would a Goldendoodle Attack a Child?
Goldendoodles are known to be one of the gentlest breeds. They are loving and loyal, making them excellent family dogs.
However, a goldendoodle can attack a child if it feels threatened or cornered, as any other breed would do.
It is therefore essential that your goldendoodle is properly socialized from a young age and is comfortable with children. Teach your child to be gentle with animals, respect their space and not corner them in unknown situation.
Do Goldendoodles Get Overprotective about Babies?
Goldendoodles, like any other dog, can become overprotective of babies. However, this is not very common and usually only occurs when a goldendoodle feels threatened.
Most of the time, they show a natural affinity to babies and young children and will protect them out of love. It is important that you teach your goldendoodle how to behave around babies from an early age, through proper socialization and training.
Are Goldendoodles Aggressive?
Most Goldendoodles are not aggressive, but like any other breed, they can become aggressive when provoked or in certain situations (e.g., if they feel threatened).
Conclusion
Now you know that Goldendoodles can be protective, but they can also become aggressive if not properly managed. It is essential that you socialize and train your Goldendoodle from a young age to ensure it has good behavior with people and other animals. With the right training and management, a Goldendoodle will make an excellent family pet.
