12 Reasons Why You Should Never Own Goldendoodles
Goldendoodles are one of the most popular “designer dogs” out there—cute, fluffy, and often marketed as the perfect family pet. But here’s the real problem: many people buy a Goldendoodle expecting an easy, low-maintenance, hypoallergenic dog… and end up overwhelmed, stressed, and frustrated. Some owners even feel stuck because they didn’t realize how demanding this breed mix can be until it was too late.
In my opinion, the reason Goldendoodles cause so many problems is because they’re often sold with half-truths. I’ve spent years researching dog breed traits, temperament patterns, grooming needs, and real-life owner experiences, and I honestly feel like Goldendoodles are one of the most misunderstood dogs out there. I think they can be amazing dogs—but only for the right person, and that’s not most people.
The good news? This article will help you make a clear decision before you commit. If you’re wondering whether a Goldendoodle is the right dog for your home, lifestyle, budget, and energy level, you’re about to get honest answers—with zero fluff.
What People Think Goldendoodles Are (vs Reality)
Goldendoodles are a mix of a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. On paper, that sounds like a dream combo: friendly, smart, playful, family-friendly, and “non-shedding.”
But reality is different because mixed breeds are unpredictable.
Here’s what many people expect:
- A calm, friendly dog that’s easy to train
- Little to no shedding
- Low grooming needs
- Great behavior with kids
- A “perfect apartment dog”
Here’s what can actually happen:
- High energy + high intelligence = trouble if ignored
- Constant grooming needs and expensive maintenance
- Behavior problems when under-exercised
- Allergies still happen (a lot!)
- Different temperaments even within the same litter
12 Reasons Why You Should Never Own Goldendoodles
1) They Are NOT Truly Hypoallergenic
One of the biggest reasons people buy Goldendoodles is allergies.
But here’s the truth: no dog is 100% hypoallergenic. Some Goldendoodles shed a lot, and others shed “less,” but allergy sufferers can still react to:
- Dander (dead skin)
- Saliva
- Urine proteins
- Coat debris stuck in furniture
Key takeaway: A Goldendoodle can still trigger allergies, even if it has curls.
2) Their Coat Can Be a Grooming Nightmare
Goldendoodle coats are famous for being cute… and also chaotic.
Some coats are:
- Wavy
- Curly
- Straight-ish
- Thick and dense
- Fine but prone to tangles
And many owners don’t realize that Goldendoodle coats mat fast, especially behind the ears, under the legs, and around the collar area.
If mats get bad, groomers may have to shave the dog down completely.
Expect grooming needs like:
- Brushing daily or every other day
- Professional grooming every 4–8 weeks
- Extra care after swimming or rain
3) Grooming Costs Can Get Expensive Fast
Even if you love grooming, you still may need a professional groomer regularly.
Depending on where you live, grooming can cost:
- Small Goldendoodle: $80–$130 per session
- Medium Goldendoodle: $100–$160 per session
- Large Goldendoodle: $120–$200+ per session
FYI—many groomers charge more for doodles due to matting and time.
Key takeaway: A Goldendoodle can become a monthly subscription dog.
4) They Often Have WAY Too Much Energy
Goldendoodles are not couch potatoes.
They often inherit energy from both sides:
- Golden Retrievers are active working dogs
- Poodles are athletic, smart, and energetic
This mix can create a dog that needs a lot of daily movement.
Without enough exercise, you may deal with:
- Chewing furniture
- Jumping nonstop
- Barking
- Restlessness
- Destructive behavior
Key takeaway: This breed mix can be exhausting if you’re not active.
5) They Can Be “Too Smart” for Their Own Good
Goldendoodles are intelligent—and that’s not always a blessing.
A bored smart dog will create its own entertainment. IMO, that’s when owners start feeling like their dog is “bad,” when it’s really just under-stimulated.
Common signs of mental boredom include:
- Stealing objects
- Counter-surfing
- Digging holes
- “Selective hearing”
- Constant attention-seeking
Key takeaway: Goldendoodles need mental work, not just walks.
6) They Can Develop Separation Anxiety Easily
Goldendoodles are often extremely people-focused. That sounds sweet… until you leave the house.
Many Goldendoodles struggle with being alone and may show anxiety through:
- Crying or barking
- Scratching doors
- Chewing walls or crates
- Bathroom accidents even when trained
- Pacing and heavy panting
If you work long hours or travel often, this can turn into a daily problem.
Key takeaway: Goldendoodles can be clingy and emotionally intense.
7) They Can Be Overly Jumping, Mouthy, and Wild
Goldendoodles are often friendly, but that doesn’t mean they’re calm.
Many puppies and young Goldendoodles go through a long “land shark” phase that includes:
- Jumping on people
- Mouthy play
- Nipping clothes
- Overexcitement during greetings
This can be especially hard around:
- Small children
- Elderly adults
- Guests who are afraid of dogs
Key takeaway: They’re lovable, but they’re often too hyper for many households.
8) Training Takes Serious Consistency
Because they’re smart and energetic, training matters a lot. But here’s the catch:
Goldendoodles can also be:
- Easily distracted
- Stubborn in phases
- Overexcited in public
- Reactive if not socialized correctly
Training isn’t just “sit” and “stay.”
You must teach:
- Calm greetings
- Loose leash walking
- Not jumping
- Not barking at everything
- Impulse control
Key takeaway: Goldendoodles require real training, not casual effort.
9) Their Temperament Is Not Predictable
Mixed breeds do not guarantee predictable traits.
Even within the same litter, you can get:
- A calm dog and a high-strung dog
- A heavy shedder and a low shedder
- A cuddly dog and a nervous dog
- A confident dog and an anxious dog
This unpredictability makes it risky if you need a specific type of dog.
Key takeaway: You’re not buying a “guaranteed personality.”
10) They May Have Genetic Health Issues
Many people assume mixed breeds are automatically healthier. That isn’t always true.
Goldendoodles can inherit health issues common in both parent breeds, including:
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Allergies and skin infections
- Ear infections
- Eye problems
- Heart conditions
- Digestive sensitivities
And sadly, not all breeders test for these issues properly.
Key takeaway: A Goldendoodle can still come with expensive vet problems.
11) Ear Infections Are Very Common
Those floppy ears + hair growth inside the ear canal can cause constant issues.
Goldendoodles are prone to:
- Moisture trapped in ears
- Yeast infections
- Bacteria growth
- Smelly, itchy ears
If your Goldendoodle swims a lot, the risk can increase.
Signs include:
- Head shaking
- Ear scratching
- Redness
- Bad odor
Key takeaway: Ear care may become a regular chore.
12) Many Are Overbred and Poorly Bred
Here’s one of the biggest reasons people regret owning Goldendoodles: bad breeding practices.
Goldendoodles are often bred for profit, not health or temperament. That can lead to:
- Poor socialization
- Anxiety and fear issues
- Unstable temperament
- More medical problems
- Puppy mill situations
Some breeders use trendy words like “mini,” “hypoallergenic,” or “teddy bear” to sell puppies fast—without quality care behind it.
Key takeaway: A poorly bred Goldendoodle can become a lifelong challenge.
Who Should NOT Get a Goldendoodle? (Quick Checklist)
You should probably skip a Goldendoodle if you:
- Want a low-maintenance dog
- Don’t like frequent grooming
- Have a strict budget for pet care
- Work long hours and can’t provide company
- Prefer calm, quiet dogs
- Don’t want daily training and mental work
- Need a predictable temperament for your household
Bottom line: Goldendoodles are not beginner-easy dogs for most people.
So… Should You Ever Own a Goldendoodle?
To be fair, Goldendoodles aren’t “bad dogs.” They can be loving, fun, and incredibly smart.
But the real issue is this:
Most people want the idea of a Goldendoodle, not the lifestyle required to raise one properly.
If you love grooming, enjoy training, stay active, and have time every day for your dog—then yes, a Goldendoodle can be wonderful.
But if you’re already stressed, busy, or hoping for a “low-effort perfect dog”… this probably isn’t the breed mix for you.
FAQ: 12 Reasons Why You Should Never Own Goldendoodles
1) Are Goldendoodles good dogs or bad dogs?
Goldendoodles are usually good dogs, but they’re often high-maintenance. Many owners struggle because of grooming needs, energy level, and behavioral challenges. A Goldendoodle is only a “good match” if your lifestyle fits their needs.
2) Do Goldendoodles shed a lot?
Some Goldendoodles shed very little, but others shed a lot. Their shedding depends on coat genetics. Many people are surprised because shedding is often marketed as “nonexistent,” which is not always true.
3) Why do Goldendoodles get matted so easily?
Goldendoodles often have dense, curly or wavy coats that trap loose hair and moisture. Without regular brushing, mats form quickly—especially around friction areas like collars, legs, and behind the ears.
4) Are Goldendoodles hard to train?
They are smart, but they can be hard to train because they are energetic and easily distracted. Training requires consistency, patience, and structure, especially during puppy and adolescent stages.
5) How long do Goldendoodles stay hyper?
Many Goldendoodles stay very energetic until around 2–3 years old, depending on genetics and lifestyle. With proper exercise, mental stimulation, and training, they usually become calmer over time—but they’re rarely a “lazy dog breed.”
