YOUR GUIDE TO GOLDENDOODLES:
​Understanding the breed's unique traits & genetic testing.
Goldendoodles are a delightful hybrid breed, combining the best traits of the Golden Retriever and the Poodle. Known for their friendly temperament, intelligence, and low-shedding coats, Goldendoodles make wonderful family companions. Whether you’re looking for a playful friend or a loyal service dog, the Goldendoodle's versatility and charm make it an ideal choice.
Understanding Goldendoodle Generations
Goldendoodles come in various generations, each with unique characteristics:
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F1 Goldendoodle: The F1 generation is a 50/50 mix between a purebred Golden Retriever and a purebred Poodle. This generation often has a wavy or slightly curly coat and is typically lower shedding than a Golden Retriever, though coat type can vary.
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F1B Goldendoodle: The F1B Goldendoodle is a cross between an F1 Goldendoodle and a purebred Poodle, making it 75% Poodle and 25% Golden Retriever. This generation is known for its curly coat, which is often more hypoallergenic and low-shedding than the F1.
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F2 Goldendoodle: An F2 Goldendoodle is a cross between two F1 Goldendoodles. This generation can exhibit a variety of coat types, from wavy to curly, with a balance of traits from both parent breeds.
Genetic Testing: Ensuring Healthy and Happy Goldendoodles
As a responsible Goldendoodle breeder, Massbach Mesa Doodles completes thorough genetic testing to ensure the health and well-being of our puppies. Common genetic tests for Goldendoodles include:
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Hip Dysplasia Screening: To ensure strong, healthy hips and prevent joint issues later in life.
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Elbow Dysplasia Testing: Similar to hip dysplasia screening, this test ensures proper joint heal
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Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) Testing: PRA is an inherited eye condition that can lead to blindness. Testing helps prevent the condition from being passed on
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Von Willebrand’s Disease Testing: This test screens for a blood clotting disorder common in some dog breeds, ensuring that puppies are free of this condition.
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Coat Type and Shedding Gene Testing: This testing helps breeders predict the type of coat and the level of shedding, which is important for matching puppies with the right families.
We complete a full genetic testing, even screening beyond these common tests. You can view the results of each of our puppy parents by viewing their profile. By selecting a Goldendoodle breeder who prioritizes genetic testing, you can be confident that your puppy will grow into a healthy, well-adjusted dog with the ideal temperament and coat type for your home.
Goldendoodle Coat Colors: A Spectrum of Beauty
​One of the many beautiful things about Goldendoodles is the variety of colors their coats come in. Here is a quick breakdown of all the colors of the Goldendoodle rainbow:
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Cream: Light, soft hue ranging from nearly white to pale yellow.
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Apricot: Warm golden color, darker than cream. Varies from light to dark tones.
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Red: Deep, vibrant shade ranging from rusty red to mahogany.
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Gold: Classic honey gold to deep golden hues.
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Chocolate: Rich brown coat, from light mocha to deep chocolate.
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Black: Sleek, shiny, and solid black. Rare and bold in appearance.
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Parti (Two-Tone): Predominantly white with large patches of another color. Unique and varied patterns.
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Phantom: Two-tone pattern with specific markings, commonly black and tan or chocolate and tan.
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Sable: Multi-toned coat that lightens with age, creating a dynamic, evolving appearance.
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Merle: Marbled pattern with patches of colors like gray, blue or brown.
Coat Type Testing: Predicting Your Goldendoodle’s Unique Look
The coat of a Goldendoodle is one of its most desirable traits, varying from curly to wavy to straight. Genetic testing plays a crucial role in predicting these coat types, helping breeders and future owners understand what to expect as the puppy grows.
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Coat Curl Gene: The KRT71 gene controls the curliness of a Goldendoodle's coat. Testing for this gene helps breeders predict if a puppy will have a curly, wavy, or straight coat. Curly-coated Goldendoodles are often more hypoallergenic and shed less, making them great for allergy sufferers.
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Shedding Gene: This MC5R gene affects how much a Goldendoodle sheds. By testing for the shedding gene, breeders can determine if a dog will have low, moderate, or high shedding—important for families wanting a low-shedding pet.
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Furnishing Gene: The RSPO2 gene dictates the “furnishings,” such as facial hair and overall coat texture. Dogs with two copies of this gene typically have the classic Goldendoodle look with a fuller face, while those with one copy may resemble a retriever.