Goldendoodles are becoming one of the most popular dog breeds, but there are some good reasons why you should think twice before getting one.
Here are 10 of the top reasons that I have read on forums, researched online and heard from reputable breeders and Goldendoodle owners:
1. Goldendoodles Are Expensive
If you're considering adding a Goldendoodle to your family, be prepared to open your wallet - and keep it open. These fluffy, lovable pups come with a hefty price tag, both upfront and in the long run.
First, there's the initial cost of purchasing a Goldendoodle puppy from a reputable breeder. Depending on the breeder and location, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 for a Goldendoodle puppy. And that's just the beginning.
Once you bring your Goldendoodle home, there is a multitude of expenses to consider.
From regular vet visits and vaccinations to grooming, training, and toys, the costs can really add up. And let's not forget about those inevitable unexpected medical bills - no matter how healthy your Goldendoodle may seem, accidents and illnesses can happen at any time.
It's important to be realistic about your budget and whether you can truly afford the financial commitment of a Goldendoodle.
These highly intelligent dogs may bring joy and human companionship to your life, but they also come with a high price tag.
Make sure you're prepared to handle the financial responsibility before making the decision to bring a Goldendoodle into your home.
2. High Maintenance Dogs
As a goldendoodle owner, I've learned firsthand that these fluffy, lovable pups can be quite high maintenance at times.
Don't get me wrong, they're worth every ounce of effort and then some and they are great companion dogs, but it's important to be aware of their specific needs and care requirements. Goldendoodles have thick, often curly coats that require regular grooming to keep them looking and feeling their best.
This means regular trips to the groomer, or investing in the tools and know-how to do it yourself at home. They also need daily exercise, mental stimulation, and lots of love and attention to keep them happy and healthy.
While all dogs require a certain level of care and attention, goldendoodles seem to demand just a little bit more.
It's important to note that not all goldendoodles are the same, and each dog has different needs and personalities.
3. Goldendoodles may be too energetic for some people
Goldendoodles, a breed of dog known for their friendly and playful nature, may be too energetic for some individuals.
These pups are often high-spirited and require a lot of physical activity to expend their boundless energy.
If you're someone who values a calm and relaxed atmosphere at home, a Goldendoodle may not be the best fit for you.
On the other hand, if you're an active person who enjoys going for long walks or runs, a Goldendoodle might be the perfect companion.
4. Goldendoodles Tend to Have Separation Anxiety
It's not uncommon for Goldendoodles to suffer from separation anxiety, especially if they haven't been properly socialized or given enough attention and exercise. Separation anxiety can manifest in various ways, including excessive barking, destructive chewing and digging, pacing, panting and drooling.
Before getting a Goldendoodle, it's important to determine whether you're able and willing to provide the attention and exercise that this breed needs in order to stay healthy and happy. If not, then a Goldendoodle may not be the right fit for your family.
I remember the first time I brought Bailey home. He was just a tiny little pup, and I was so excited to finally have my own Goldendoodle.
From the very start, he showed signs of separation anxiety. Whenever I would leave the house, even for a few minutes, she would bark incessantly and pace around the house like a mad dog.
It was heartbreaking to watch, but it also taught me just how important it is to provide regular attention and exercise for Goldendoodles in order to help them stay calm and content when left alone.
It took a few months of consistent training and exercise, but I eventually managed to help Bailey overcome his separation anxiety. But the experience was a valuable lesson in just how important it is to provide Goldendoodles with the proper care and attention they need.
For those considering adding a Goldendoodle to their family, make sure you're prepared for the emotional commitment that comes with it.
Some days it's going to be very hard work, I'm not going to lie!
5. Can Cause Allergies
Although goldendoodles don't shed as much as they are a hypoallergenic breed, they still can cause pet allergies for some people.
This could mean sneezing, sniffling, itchy eyes or even asthma if you're particularly sensitive.
With that said, I have allergies and I'm completely fine with my Goldendoodle, but it's something to consider before making the leap.
Different coats can also lead to different levels of pet dander and fur, so it's important to get the right pup for your needs.
A flat-coat goldendoodle (just like golden retrievers) for example will shed more than a curly-coat goldendoodle.
With regular grooming, you can minimize the potential for triggering allergies, but it's worth noting that some people may still have an allergic reaction to the breed.
6. Goldendoodles Are Prone to Some Specific Illnesses
Like all dogs, Goldendoodles are prone to certain genetic medical conditions. For example, they can be predisposed to hip dysplasia and eye diseases, both of which require life-long management and veterinary monitoring.
This doesn't mean that the Goldendoodle you get will necessarily have any of these issues, but it does mean that you should prepare yourself for the possibility.
Although Goldendoodles are far healthier than purebred dogs, thanks to hybrid vigour, they can still inherit specific ilnessess.
They require regular veterinary check-ups and routine blood work, so if left unchecked, these medical issues can become a serious financial burden over time.
7. Goldendoodles are not Great Guard Dogs
If you need a guard dog, a Goldendoodle may not be the best choice for you.
Although they can learn basic commands and respond to certain stimuli, these pups are genetically predisposed to be friendly and affable towards strangers, so they won't make the most effective guard dogs.
They can alert you to the presence of an intruder, but they won't be inclined to bark or bite in most cases.
So if you're looking for a guard dog, it may be better to look at other breeds.
8. They are Very Social
Goldendoodles are highly social and therefore need regular interaction with both people and other animals.
It's important to socialize Goldendoodles from a young age and expose them to different people, places, and animals. This will help them become well-rounded and comfortable in a variety of social situations.
Yes, this means that you'll need to make time for regular walks and play dates in the dog park.
They're perfectly content to be in the company of their owners, but if left alone for too long they can become destructive and may suffer from separation anxiety as mentioned before.
They are couch potatoes and will happily lounge around the house, but they still need regular exercise and stimulation in order to stay healthy and happy.
If you would like a dog that is content to be left alone for extended periods of time, it's best to look at other breeds that are more independent.
9. Goldendoodles Can be Mouthy
Goldendoodles are very smart and often crave attention, but this can manifest itself in the form of them nipping or mouthing you when they become overly excited.
This is not very unique to Goldendoodles, every dog does this. However, if you don't correct this behaviour as soon as possible, it can become a problem.
Goldendoodles may mouth or nip if they are not treated consistently and with firmness. It's important to establish clear boundaries and to consistently enforce them in order to prevent this behaviour.
This is why it's important to teach proper training techniques to your Goldendoodle from an early age – such as teaching them not to jump up on people – so that it doesn't become a habit.
10. Hard to find a Reputable Breeder
Finding a reputable Goldendoodle breeder can be difficult.
As Goldendoodles are very popular, there are a ton of puppy mills and backyard breeders, so it's important to do your research and make sure that the breeder you choose is reputable.
Always ask for health clearances from the breeder, visit them in person and if needed, ask for genealogical records of the Goldendoodle's parents so you can see if there is any history of genetic illness.
Conclusion
Goldendoodles are undoubtedly adorable, but as with any other breed there are some considerations to take into account before getting one.
Before getting one, make sure you are willing and able to provide the attention and exercise that they need and all that is required to keep them healthy and happy.
Ultimately, if you are able to commit to providing a Goldendoodle with the care and attention they need, then these adorable pups can be wonderful additions to your family.
I also have to mention that a lot of people and websites bring up size an issue. I think it nonsense, since Goldendoodles come in different sizes, so if you live in a small apartment you can still have a mini goldendoodle for example.
Good luck on your journey to pet ownership!