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If you’ve ever been around a Goldendoodle, you already know how lovable and adorable they can be. So, what were Goldendoodles bred for? Goldendoodles were originally bred as guide dogs, but today, they can be found with families playing in the park and competitions for agility and obedience. Have you ever wondered about the history of the little Goldendoodle you adopted or purchased from the local breeder? We’ll talk about the history of the Goldendoodle through the ages in the article below.
What Is a Goldendoodle?
A Goldendoodle is a cross between a Poodle and a Golden Retriever. They are a hybrid breed and have many of the characteristics and traits of their parents. The average Goldendoodle will reach 13 inches in height and weigh between 45 to 100 pounds, though they have been known to weigh as little as 15 to 30 pounds at times.
The breed originated in the United States and has a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years. It is also said to be hypoallergenic, though no dog is completely free of allergens, so allergy sufferers still need to be careful. Sadly, the Goldendoodle has yet to be officially recognized by the AKC, but that doesn’t stop them from being extremely popular pets for families everywhere.
What Is the History of the Goldendoodle?
Goldendoodles are one of the youngest hybrid breeds, having only been around for over 40 years or so. This means that, unlike the Golden Retriever and the Poodle, they don’t have a long, storied history.
What history they do have is quite interesting, however. The idea of the Goldendoodle stemmed from the success breeders had with the Labradoodle, a cross between a Poodle and a Labrador Retriever.
1969
While most people think the Goldendoodle wasn’t around before the 1990s, they would be wrong. In actuality the Goldendoodle was bred in 1969 in the United States. The breeders initially wanted to combine the parents’ intelligence with the Golden Retriever’s calm nature and the Poodle’s low shedding.
Originally meant to be a guide dog, the Goldendoodle proved to be docile, even-tempered, intelligent, and incredibly loving. They are eager to please, pretty easy to train, and loyal to their owners, making them excellent pets for singles, families, and couples.
The 1990s and Beyond
It wasn’t until the 1990s that the Goldendoodle officially became a hybrid, and it wasn’t long after that the dog became very popular as a pet to families everywhere. The Goldendoodle was a success, but it is essential to note that there are downsides to designer dogs, even the lovable Goldendoodle. The downside is that there’s such a demand for hybrid breeds that some breeders started running puppy mills to keep up with the ever-increasing demand.
If you decide to purchase a Goldendoodle from a breeder, ensure the breeder is reputable. If you see any signs of abuse or neglect, report the breeder immediately and move on to a better breeder on your list.
That brings us to the Goldendoodle of today. While the AKC hasn’t officially recognized them, the Goldendoodle is making its own mark in the dog world.
You can find Goldendoodles in agility and obedience shows, and first-time pet owners and veteran pet owners alike own them. The breed’s loyalty makes them great to have around children and family pets.
They do well in the working world and are often used as therapy, service, guide, and search and rescue animals.
Should You Give a Goldendoodle a Forever Home?
If you’re looking for a pet that is said to be hypoallergenic, gentle, loyal, loving, and eager to please, then the Goldendoodle is the right pet for you.
Final Thoughts
Goldendoodles are the result of crossing two remarkable canines. Although they’re a relatively new breed, they’re in high demand and may be difficult to adopt due to limited supplies. Before settling on a breeder, check your local animal shelter to give a rescue dog a chance at a better life.
Featured Image Credit: Rena Schild, Shutterstock
