Goldendoodle Full Grown: Size, Lifespan, Price & More
The goldendoodle is a darling puppy, but what is it really like when fully grown? In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about the full grown goldendoodle, from size and appearance to personality, care needs, and more.
By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of whether a mature goldendoodle is the right dog for your lifestyle.
About the Goldendoodle Breed
The goldendoodle is a hybrid dog bred from crossing the golden retriever and poodle. This intentional breeding began in the 1990s with the goal of combining the golden retriever's friendly, gentle personality with the poodle's lower shedding coat.
Three main goldendoodle varieties exist based on the poodle parent's coat type: standard, mini, and micro. We'll focus here on the most common standard goldendoodle.
Size at Full Growth
On average, a standard full grown male goldendoodle stands 20-24 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs 55-75 pounds. Females are slightly smaller at 18-22 inches tall and 45-65 pounds.
However, size can vary significantly based on whether they take after the golden retriever or poodle side more.
Length and Height
In terms of length from nose to tail, a mature male goldendoodle typically measures around 30-36 inches long. Females are usually 28-33 inches long. As for height, most stand roughly 20-24 inches at the shoulder.
Appearance at Full Growth
By adulthood, a goldendoodle's curly or wavy coat will have fully developed. Coat colors include cream, red, apricot, cafe au lait, and black depending on the parent breeds.
Dark eyes and a friendly expression remain endearing traits. Males may develop a sturdier, thicker build while females retain a slightly slimmer frame.
Personality at Full Growth
Affectionate, gentle, and intelligent best describe the personality of a full grown goldendoodle. As an adult, it remains playful yet can settle more calmly than as an energetic puppy.
Strong bonding and people-pleasing tendencies continue. Although some hyperactivity may fade, they enjoy interactive games and can morph into loyal companions.
Price
On average, you can expect to pay between $1,500-$3,000 for a well-bred standard goldendoodle puppy from a reputable breeder. The price depends on coat type, gender, colors/markings, breed lines, and the breeder's location. Be wary of unusually low prices which may indicate a puppy mill or irresponsible breeding conditions.
Food/Feeding
Once fully grown, a standard goldendoodle typically eats 2-3 cups of high-quality dry kibble divided into two meals per day. Provide fresh water at all times.
For snacks, try small amounts of healthy human foods or special treats for training. Carefully monitor weight to prevent obesity later in life.
Lifespan
With proper care, a goldendoodle's lifespan ranges from 10-15 years on average. Good nutrition, regular preventative veterinary visits, dental hygiene, and mental/physical stimulation can help maximize a senior dog's quality of life into their golden years.
Health at Full Growth
As adults, goldendoodles generally enjoy good health. However, they can inherit certain conditions from their parent breeds like hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases, allergies, and some cancers.
Keeping them at a healthy weight and maximizing exercise reduces orthopedic stresses. Brush teeth regularly to maintain strong dental health too.
Care and Nutritional Needs
A mature goldendoodle's coat still requires weekly brushing to prevent matting. Bathing is less frequent unless truly dirty. Brush teeth 2-3 times per week and trim nails as needed.
Provide toys, activities, and daily walks/playtime for mental and physical stimulation. Outdoors, beware of extreme heat/cold risks. Doodles thrive as indoor family companions.
Possible Behavioral Changes
Some goldendoodles emerge as more independent thinkers by adulthood compared to their clingy puppy phase.
Separation anxiety may lessen or surface more strongly depending on training efforts.
Territorial behaviors may appear towards other dogs, especially males.
Consistency reinforces manners for a well-adjusted canine companion.
Notable Characteristics
Along with their playful spirits and affectionate natures, fully grown doodles showcase impressive intelligence as the breed matures.
Problem-solving comes naturally, and they respond best to positive reinforcement training techniques.
Loyalty remains unwavering as goldendoodles form tight bonds with their favorite people.
When is a Goldendoodle Really Fully Grown?
Goldendoodles reach physical maturity between 12-18 months old. However, skeletal growth continues until around 2 years of age. Temperament, behaviors, and personality truly stabilize by 3 years when they can be considered an adult dog. Spaying/neutering between 6-9 months helps curb undesirable behaviors too.
Suitability as a Pet
When provided with sufficient attention, activities, and space, a full grown well-bred standard goldendoodle absolutely shines as a family companion dog.
Their even temperaments make them a great choice for homes with children while still retaining an affectionate bond with adults.
Regular exercise is recommended for their overall health and happiness.
Costing
Beyond the initial purchase price, plan for a goldendoodle's upkeep costs too:
- Dog food: $30-50 per month
- Grooming supplies/visits: $60-100 per year
- Toys/treats: $10-20 per month
- Preventative healthcare: $200-400 per year
- Emergencies/health issues: Variable
- Training classes: $100-200 for a 6-week session
Health Issues to Watch For
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Eye diseases like cataracts, glaucoma
- Allergies
- Cancers like bone, skin, oral tumors
- Obesity
- Dental disease
Is a Full Grown Goldendoodle the Right Dog For You?
In conclusion, the matured goldendoodle remains a loving, intelligent family companion. Their size, activity needs, grooming requirements, and potential health issues should be considered for your lifestyle. But for an owner committed to providing structure, training, playtime and affection - a well-bred doodle often thrives as a beloved family member for many happy years.
