Understanding the Breeding Genetics of “Doodle” Dogs
F1 Doodle (50/50)
The first crossbreeding between a Standard Poodle and another breed, like a Golden Retriever, results in a first-generation Goldendoodle — a 50/50 cross. There can be some variations in the outcome of their litters. Coat type, shedding and framing can vary somewhat, although the differences will not be significant. As an experienced breeder, we can give you a good estimate of the variables when the puppies are young. Their personalities are pretty consistent, though.
F1b Doodle (75/25)
This puppy is the result of an F1 Goldendoodle bred back to a Golden Retriever, for example, or an F1 Goldendoodle bred back to a Standard Poodle. We, as the breeder, choose which traits we desire, and breed the specific dam and sire to produce puppies with the desired traits.
F2 Doodles (50/50)
F2 Doodles are essentially the breeding of two F1 Goldendoodles (first generation Golden Retriever to Poodle) together. The litters produced from these dogs are generally more consistent in their traits: less shedding, body shape, coat and improvement in hypoallergenic qualities. The appearance in look and coat is more consistent, and shedding and dander is decreased even further. Although the F1 Doodle has the highest “hybrid vigor,” the F2 Doodle still exhibits most of the benefits.
Hybrid Vigor
Hybrid vigor is defined by the American Heritage Dictionary as, “increased vigor or superior qualities arising from the crossbreeding of genetically different plants or animals.” Also known as heterosis, the term describes improvements in form or function as a result of crossbreeding.
In general, “Doodles” are considered healthier than their purebred parents because they do not have the same predispositions for inherited conditions. This applies, however, only if both parent breeds do not carry the same genetic conditions. Hybrid vigor is not a given when crossbreeding dogs, but rather it’s a desired outcome — which “Doodles” tend to exhibit.
So, Which “Doodle” Is Best?
Consider the characteristics of our three types of Doodle dogs to help choose the best one for you and your family:
Bernedoodle
Smart, loyal, clever, goofy, gentle … these are just a few of the words often used to describe Bernedoodles. These big, beautiful dogs result from breeding Bernese Mountain Dogs and Standard Poodles. They are playful and affectionate, and make wonderful pets — they do well with children and they love to spend time with their families.
Expect your full-grown Bernedoodle to be on the large size, weighing 60 to 90 pounds, depending on genetic traits and sex. We specialize in crosses between Bernese Mountain Dogs and Standard Poodles, with F1 and F2 variations providing many desirable traits, including:
- Very gentle behavior
- Very intelligent and obedient
- Sociable with other dogs and strangers
- Loyalty toward their family
- Less shedding with minimal coat maintenance
- Can be hypoallergenic
- Love the outdoors and cold weather
- Adaptable to most family environments
- Great with children
Bernedoodle puppies are almost always born to Bernese Mountain Dog dams due to their size difference. Litters range in size from 2 to 12 puppies. When they are young, some Bernedoodles can be headstrong and energetic. However, they are easily trainable, and it’s best to start when they are still young. Keep in mind that they tend to need a lot of human interaction. If they will be left alone for long periods of time, you will need to train them to deal with that … and be prepared to spend lots of quality time when you are together again.
F1b puppies are most likely to be low shedders and as a result, they’re the best match for owners who suffer from dog allergies. When a Bernedoodle is bred back to a Standard Poodle, the Bernese genes are reduced to roughly 25%, providing the non-shedding Poodle genes more of a 75% share. F2 Bernedoodle puppies are a product of breeding two F1 Bernedoodles together, resulting in more consistency and predictability within the pups.
While many genetic conditions of pure-bred dogs don’t affect crossbreeds like Doodles, you will still need to be aware of possible issues that can affect all dogs. Some of the these conditions include hip dysplasia, eye problems and skin problems. At Doodles on the Ridge, we know our dogs inside-out and do our best to breed only the most healthy parents — so you get the most healthy and happy puppy possible.
Bernedoodle Traits
- Height: 23-29 inches
- Weight: 60-90 lbs
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Coat: Typically a combination of white, black and brown with long, wavy or curly fur with minimal shedding
- Temperament: Friendly, gentle, smart, affectionate, eager to please, well-rounded, playful
- Best suited for: Families with children, active singles and seniors, houses with large yards
Labradoodle Traits
- Height: 21-24 inches
- Weight: 45-70 lbs
- Lifespan: 12-14 years
- Coat: Typically black, chocolate, gold or cream
- Temperament: Friendly, gentle, curious, smart, affectionate, eager to please, playful
- Best suited for: Families with children, active couples, houses with yards, first-time dog owners
Labradoodle
Your Labradoodle puppy is happiest when they’re with you and your family, often showering loved ones with affection and devotion. They can be enthusiastic and exuberant, but are easily trainable as they’re also intelligent and eager to please. They get along well with other dogs and pets, and they’re good with children, though they may knock over young ones with their enthusiasm! One moment they may be curled up at your feet, and the next they’re up and ready to play a game of fetch. And because they tend to be friendly with strangers, Labradoodles do not necessarily make good guard dogs. Puppies who inherit more of the Poodle’s qualities are better at this.
A Labradoodle is a cross created when a Labrador Retriever is bred with a Standard Poodle. We specialize in crosses between Labrador Retrievers and Standard Poodles, and crosses formed when breeding Labradoodles with Standard Poodles. There are many desirable traits in F1 and F2 puppies, including:
- Gentle behavior
- High level of intelligence
- Athletic, playful and active
- Obedience
- Great family pet/good with children
- Hypoallergenic to varying degrees with low- to non-shedding coat
- Sociable with other dogs and strangers
- Excellent companion
- Few health issues
- Loyalty toward their family
- Adaptable to various family environments
The Labradoodle has only been around since the late 1980s, originally developed in Australia to be a hypoallergenic guide dog. Like its Labrador Retriever parent, Labradoodles quickly became popular and are now one of the most sought-after “Doodle” breeds.
Labradoodles are curious and intelligent. They have a lot of energy, and need to be kept mentally and physically stimulated with at least 30-60 minutes of exercise each day. When they aren’t, they can become destructive — chewing furniture is a common pastime. They make an excellent jogging companion, but some off-leash time can help them burn off steam. While they adapt well to just about any setting — urban or rural — Labradoodles are not recommended for small apartments.
Labradoodles can come in a wide variety of colors, such as gold, apricot, caramel, black, chocolate and cream, as well as brindles and other multi-colors. There are several types of coats, and some are more prone to shedding than others. The hair coat is similar to normal Labrador fur. The “wool” coat hangs in loose curls. The “fleece” coat has a silky texture, like angora, and can be straight to wavy. Wool- and fleece-type coats generally shed less.
Goldendoodle
Perhaps the perfect pet, Goldendoodles are gentle and patient, getting along well with children of all ages. They do well in homes with other dogs and pets, and rarely show aggression. Their positive traits are numerous, and they have a friendly, intelligent and accepting nature. Goldendoodles are loyal and, with proper training, obedient — though they do have a playful side that can be a little mischievous.
A Goldendoodle is the result of a breeding between a Golden Retriever and a Standard Poodle. This cross provides the best benefits of both breeds. Goldendoodles often feature a drastic difference in shedding, with sometimes almost no shedding. Families with allergy issues can oftentimes tolerate Goldendoodles. The high intelligence of the Golden Retriever and even higher, more complex intelligence of the Standard Poodle, combined with the faster maturing traits of the Golden Retriever, produce a highly desirable dog.
At Doodles on the Ridge, we specialize in crosses between Golden Retrievers and Standard Poodles, and crosses formed when breeding Goldendoodles with Standard Poodles. There are countless desirable traits that are common in F1 and F2 Goldendoodle puppies, including:
- Gentle spirit
- High level of intelligence
- Athletic and playful
- Obedience
- Great with families and children
- Hypoallergenic to varying degrees with low- to non-shedding coat
- Sociable with other dogs and people
- Few health issues
- Extreme loyalty
- Adaptable to various environments
The Goldendoodle is an affectionate and friendly dog that has gained popularity since they were first bred in 1990s. They make excellent family dogs, providing gentle, intelligent companionship throughout their lifetimes. Goldendoodles have also become popular as guide dogs, service dogs, therapy dogs and sniffer dogs. Considered to be non-to-light shedders, Goldendoodles may be a good match for families with allergy issues.
Goldendoodles are highly social and typically get along well with everyone. However, they don’t make the best guarddogs or watchdogs — they’re too friendly! While they’re happy in both city and country settings, they probably need more room to run than a small apartment affords. They do require at least 20 to 30 minutes of daily exercise, but they’re not happy as “outdoor-only” dogs because they need to be social.
First-time or timid dog owners will find Goldendoodles easy to train. They’re not aggressive, but need proper socialization to help them avoid being shy or fearful. Goldendoodles want to be with you constantly, so they need daily contact. Too much separation anxiety can result in some destructive chewing and mischief. Be sure to give them plenty of toys to keep them busy throughout the day.
Goldendoodle Traits
- Height: 20-24 inches
- Weight: 40-65 lbs.
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Coat: Typically golden, black, copper, cream, gray, apricot or red
- Best suited for: Families with children, active singles and couples, new dog owners
Reserve Your Puppy Now
If you’re ready to reserve a new “Doodle” puppy of your own, please read our Puppy Adoption information. Then send us a $250 Deposit to hold your place in the next available litter.