In 2012, American musician Usher paid US$12,000 for a Groodle puppy at a charity auction — and he was hardly alone in his obsession. What is a Groodle, and why has this fluffy crossbreed become one of Australia’s most sought-after family dogs?
The Groodle (also known as Goldendoodle) combines the golden warmth of a Golden Retriever with the intelligence and low-shedding coat of a Poodle. The result? A dog that seems almost purpose-built for Australian family life — friendly, trainable, and gentler on allergies than many purebreds.
But here’s what the Instagram photos don’t show you: Groodles aren’t the maintenance-free ‘hypoallergenic’ dogs many buyers expect. Their coats require significant grooming, their energy levels demand commitment, and their prices can cause serious sticker shock. Before you fall for those teddy bear faces, let’s explore what Groodle ownership really involves.
What You’ll Learn in This Guide:
- What is a Groodle dog?
- Size variations explained
- Do Groodles really shed?
- True cost in Australia
- Is a Groodle right for you?
Groodle Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed Type | Designer/Hybrid (Golden Retriever x Poodle) |
| Origin | United States/Australia (1990s) |
| Size Categories | Mini, Medium, Standard |
| Height (Adult) | Mini: 35-45 cm | Medium: 45-52 cm | Standard: 52-65 cm |
| Weight (Adult) | Mini: 8-15 kg | Medium: 15-22 kg | Standard: 22-45 kg |
| Lifespan | 10-15 years |
| Coat Type | Wavy, curly, or straight (varies) |
| Shedding | Low to moderate (coat-dependent) |
| Exercise Needs | 45-60 minutes/day |
| Trainability | 5/5 (Excellent) |
| Good with Children | Excellent |
| First-Time Owner Suitable | 5/5 (Excellent) |
| Average Puppy Price (AUD) | $3,000 – $7,000 |
Note: As a designer breed, Groodles are not recognised by kennel clubs. Sizes and traits can vary significantly.
WHAT IS A GROODLE?
So what are Groodles exactly? A Groodle (or Goldendoodle) is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. The breed emerged in the 1990s, following the success of the Labradoodle, when breeders sought to create a larger, family-friendly alternative with the Golden Retriever’s famous temperament.
The thinking was simple: combine the Golden Retriever’s gentle, loyal nature with the Poodle’s intelligence and low-shedding coat. The result would be a dog with the best of both worlds — a loving family companion that’s easier on allergy sufferers.
In Australia, Groodles quickly became one of our most popular ‘oodle’ breeds, joining Labradoodles, Cavoodles, and Spoodles in the designer dog revolution. While they’re not recognised by Dogs Australia or international kennel clubs (since they’re technically mixed breeds), their popularity continues to soar.
Understanding Groodle Generations:
F1 Groodle: First generation — Golden Retriever x Poodle (50/50 mix). Most common and can have varied coat types.
F1b Groodle: F1 Groodle x Poodle (75% Poodle). More likely to have curlier, lower-shedding coats.
Multigen Groodle: Groodle x Groodle crosses over multiple generations. More consistency in appearance and coat.
GROODLE TEMPERAMENT
The Groodle temperament is the primary reason this crossbreed has captured Australian hearts. They inherit the Golden Retriever’s legendary friendliness and the Poodle’s sharp intelligence, creating a dog that’s both affectionate and quick to learn.
Affectionate and People-Oriented: Groodles thrive on human companionship. They want to be wherever you are — following you from room to room, joining family activities, and settling at your feet when you relax. This isn’t a dog that’s happy spending the day alone in the backyard.
Highly Intelligent: Both parent breeds rank in the top 10 for canine intelligence. Your Groodle will pick up commands quickly, but that intelligence also means they need mental stimulation — a bored Groodle is a creative (read: destructive) Groodle.
Gentle and Patient: Groodles are known for their patience with children and gentle approach to life. They rarely exhibit aggression and typically greet strangers with enthusiasm rather than suspicion.
Playful and Energetic: These dogs retain their playful nature well into adulthood. As one Victorian breeder put it: ‘A Groodle never really grows up — they just get bigger and fluffier.’
Every Groodle is different — since they’re a crossbreed, you might get a puppy that leans more towards the calm Golden Retriever side or the more energetic Poodle side. Meeting the parents can give you clues about what to expect.
Groodles have earned their reputation as excellent family dogs. Their patience and gentle nature make them well-suited to homes with children of all ages. They’re typically tolerant of the noise and unpredictability that comes with kids, and many seem to instinctively adjust their energy level around younger children.
Many Groodle owners report that their dog becomes almost protective of children in the family — not in an aggressive guard dog way, but by staying close and keeping a watchful eye. As always, supervise interactions between any dog and young children.
Groodles generally get along well with other dogs and can coexist peacefully with cats, especially when raised together. Their friendly nature extends to most animals they meet, though early socialisation helps ensure they develop good manners around other pets.
Separation Anxiety: This is the Groodle’s Achilles heel. Their strong bond with humans means they can struggle when left alone, potentially leading to destructive behaviour, excessive barking, or toileting accidents.
Jumping Up: Their enthusiasm for greeting people often manifests as jumping. This is especially problematic with standard Groodles, who can easily knock over children or elderly visitors.
Mouthiness: That retriever heritage means they love to carry things — and sometimes that includes your hands during play. Teaching bite inhibition early is essential.
If your Groodle becomes anxious when you leave, don’t punish them — this will only increase their stress. Instead, work on gradual desensitisation: start with brief absences, use puzzle toys to create positive associations with alone time, and consider crate training. Most owners see significant improvement within a few months of consistent training.
GROODLE HEALTH ISSUES
If you’re worried about health concerns, you’re not alone — it’s a common question from prospective Groodle owners. The good news is that Groodles often benefit from ‘hybrid vigour’, meaning they can be healthier than their purebred parents. However, they can still inherit conditions from either breed.³
Both Golden Retrievers and larger Poodles are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, and Groodles can inherit this predisposition. According to VCA Hospitals, this condition occurs when joints develop abnormally, leading to pain and arthritis.³
Symptoms: Reluctance to exercise, difficulty rising, bunny-hopping gait, stiffness after rest
Treatment Cost (AUD): $2,000 – $6,000 for surgical correction
Prevention: Choose a breeder who hip and elbow scores parent dogs, maintain healthy weight, avoid over-exercising puppies
Groodles are particularly susceptible to allergies — both environmental (atopic dermatitis) and food-related. This can manifest as itchy skin, chronic ear infections, hot spots, and paw licking.⁴
Symptoms: Excessive scratching, red or inflamed skin, recurrent ear infections, hair loss
Treatment Cost (AUD): $200 – $500 per flare-up; $1,000+ annually for chronic management
Prevention: High-quality diet, regular grooming, prompt treatment of symptoms
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and cataracts can affect Groodles, inherited from both parent breeds. The Australian Veterinary Association recommends eye testing for breeding dogs.⁵ Regular vet check-ups can catch early signs of eye problems.
Von Willebrand’s Disease: A bleeding disorder that can be inherited from Poodle lines
Addison’s Disease: An adrenal gland disorder more common in Poodles
Ear Infections: Those floppy ears trap moisture and debris, making regular cleaning essential
GROODLE LIFESPAN & LONGEVITY TIPS
How long do Groodles live? The average Groodle lifespan is 10-15 years, with mini Groodles tending to live longer than their standard-sized counterparts. The Groodle life expectancy depends significantly on size, diet, exercise, and genetic health of the parents.
Longevity Tips:
- Maintain a healthy weight — obesity significantly shortens lifespan
- Provide regular exercise appropriate to their size and age
- Feed a high-quality diet suited to their life stage
- Keep up with regular vet check-ups
- Maintain dental health through brushing or dental chews
GROODLE GROOMING
Let’s address the elephant in the room: do Groodles shed? The answer isn’t as simple as ‘no’. While many Groodles shed significantly less than Golden Retrievers, they’re not truly non-shedding dogs. Coat type varies depending on genetics.
First-time Groodle owners are often surprised by the grooming requirements — that fluffy, low-shedding coat comes with a trade-off. Without regular brushing, Groodle coats mat quickly and painfully. Many owners find professional grooming every 6-8 weeks is essential, not optional.
Groodle Coat Types & Colours:
Curly Coat: Most like a Poodle — lowest shedding but highest maintenance. Requires daily brushing to prevent mats.
Wavy Coat: The most common coat type — moderate shedding, moderate maintenance. Needs brushing 3-4 times weekly.
Straight Coat: Most like a Golden Retriever — higher shedding but lower matting risk. Brushing 2-3 times weekly typically sufficient.
Groodle Colours: Groodles come in a beautiful range of colours including cream, gold, apricot, red, chocolate, black, and parti (multi-coloured). Black Groodles have become particularly popular in recent years.
Grooming Schedule
| Task | Frequency | Time | Tools/Products |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brushing | Daily (curly) to 3x weekly (wavy) | 15-30 mins | Slicker brush, metal comb |
| Bathing | Every 4-6 weeks | 30-45 mins | Dermcare or PAW Shampoo |
| Ear Cleaning | Weekly | 5-10 mins | Fido’s Ear Cleaner |
| Nail Trimming | Every 2-4 weeks | 10-15 mins | Clippers or grinder |
| Pro Grooming | Every 6-8 weeks | 2-3 hours | $80-$180 per session |
Popular Groodle Haircuts: The ‘teddy bear’ cut is the most popular style, keeping the coat at 1-2 inches all over. The ‘puppy cut’ is similar but slightly shorter. Some owners prefer a longer, more natural look, though this requires more intensive brushing.
GROODLE EXERCISE NEEDS
Groodles are moderately active dogs that need 45-60 minutes of exercise daily. While they don’t have quite the intense exercise requirements of some working breeds, they’re definitely not couch potatoes.
Breeders consistently note that under-exercised Groodles often develop behavioural problems — digging, excessive barking, destructive chewing, and hyperactivity. A good daily walk plus some playtime keeps most Groodles happy and well-behaved.
Recommended Activities:
- Daily walks of 30-45 minutes
- Fetch games — they inherit those retriever instincts
- Swimming — most Groodles love water
- Dog parks for socialisation
- Mental enrichment — puzzle toys, training sessions
If your Groodle starts digging holes in your garden or becomes destructive indoors, don’t assume it’s a behavioural problem requiring punishment. First, assess whether they’re getting enough exercise and mental stimulation. The recommends that all dogs receive both physical activity and mental enrichment daily.
GROODLE TRAINING
Don’t be discouraged if training feels slow in the early weeks — puppies have short attention spans and need time to learn. The good news is that Groodles are among the easiest dogs to train, thanks to their intelligence and desire to please.
Groodles respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement — treats, praise, and play are all powerful motivators. Harsh corrections can damage their sensitive nature and erode the trust you’re building.
Socialisation Timeline
| Age | Training Focus | Expected Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| 8-12 weeks | Name, toilet training, crate training, bite inhibition | Basic recognition, potty routine |
| 3-4 months | Sit, stay, come, loose leash walking, broad socialisation | Foundation commands, social confidence |
| 4-6 months | Extended commands, impulse control, grooming tolerance | Reliable basics, accepts handling |
| 6-12 months | Off-leash reliability, distraction training, advanced manners | Well-trained adolescent |
When do Groodles stop growing and calm down? Physically, mini Groodles are typically full grown by 12 months, while standard Groodles may continue filling out until 18 months. Mentally, expect puppyish behaviour until around age 2-3, though they never completely lose their playful nature.
According to owners in Australian Groodle communities, puppy school is invaluable — not just for basic training, but for the crucial socialisation with other dogs during the critical developmental window. The investment pays dividends for years.
Groodle Prices & Costs
Let’s talk Groodle prices. In Australia, Groodle puppies from reputable breeders typically cost between $3,000 and $7,000 AUD. Mini Groodles often command higher prices due to their popularity and the more complex breeding required.
Initial Costs
| Expense | Approx. Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Groodle Puppy (Ethical Breeder) | $3,000 – $7,000 |
| Adoption Fee (Rescue) | $300 – $1,200 |
| Initial Vet Check + Vaccinations | $200 – $400 |
| Desexing | $300 – $600 |
| Essential Supplies (bed, crate, bowls, collar, leash) | $400 – $800 |
| TOTAL INITIAL COST (Breeder) | $4,200 – $8,800 |
Annual Ongoing Costs:
- Food: $1,000 – $2,000 (premium dry food like Advance Large Oodles or Royal Canin)
- Grooming: $800 – $1,500 (professional grooming every 6-8 weeks is essential)
- Vet & Preventatives: $500 – $800 (routine care, vaccinations, parasite prevention)
- Pet Insurance: $500 – $1,200 (recommended given potential for allergies)
• TOTAL ANNUAL: $2,800 – $5,500
Lifetime Cost Estimate: $35,000 – $70,000+ over a 12-15 year lifespan
Finding a Groodle:
- Find ethical breeders through RightPaw — they vet breeders for health testing and ethical practices
- Consider adoption through PetRescue — Groodles do occasionally end up in rescue
IS A GROODLE RIGHT FOR YOU?
Families or individuals who have time for daily interaction and exercise, can commit to regular grooming, and want an affectionate companion who’ll be deeply involved in family life.
Home Size: Groodles can adapt to apartment living (especially mini Groodles) if exercised sufficiently, but they’re happiest with access to a yard
Yard: Beneficial but not essential if you’re committed to daily walks and off-leash exercise elsewhere
Climate: Groodles adapt well to most Australian climates. Their coat provides insulation in winter, though they should be clipped shorter in summer heat. Always provide shade and fresh water.
This can feel overwhelming, but being honest about these points upfront saves heartbreak later. A Groodle may not be right for you if:
- You work long hours and can’t provide company or arrange daycare — Groodles truly struggle with being left alone
- You want a truly maintenance-free coat — Groodles require significant grooming commitment
- You have severe allergies — while many people with mild allergies do well with Groodles, they’re not guaranteed hypoallergenic
- You’re on a tight budget — between purchase price and ongoing grooming costs, Groodles aren’t cheap
This varies significantly between individual dogs — some Groodles handle alone time better than others, and coat maintenance varies with coat type. But these general tendencies should factor into your decision.
Perfect for: Families with children, first-time dog owners, anyone seeking an affectionate, intelligent companion who’ll be a true family member
Think twice if: You’re away from home frequently, want minimal grooming, have severe allergies, or have a limited budget
First-time owner rating: Excellent — their trainability, gentle nature, and forgiving temperament make them ideal for novice owners. The main challenges (grooming, separation anxiety) are manageable with commitment.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is a Groodle?
A Groodle (also called Goldendoodle) is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. They were first bred in the 1990s to create a family-friendly dog with a lower-shedding coat.
Do Groodles shed?
Yes, but typically much less than Golden Retrievers. Shedding depends on coat type: curly coats shed least, wavy coats shed moderately, and straight coats shed more. No dog is truly non-shedding.
How long do Groodles live?
The average Groodle lifespan is 10-15 years. Mini Groodles tend to live longer than standard Groodles. Good diet, regular exercise, and quality veterinary care all contribute to longevity.
How big do Groodles get?
Size depends on the Poodle parent. Mini Groodles (from Miniature Poodles) reach 8-15 kg and 35-45 cm. Medium Groodles reach 15-22 kg and 45-52 cm. Standard Groodles (from Standard Poodles) can reach 22-45 kg and 52-65 cm.
Are Groodles hypoallergenic?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic. However, many Groodles (especially those with curlier coats) produce less dander and shed less, which can help people with mild allergies. If you have allergies, spend time with a Groodle before committing.
How much does a Groodle cost in Australia?
Groodle puppies from ethical breeders cost $3,000-$7,000 AUD. Mini Groodles often cost more than standards. Adoption through rescue organisations costs $300-$1,200.
Groodle vs Labradoodle — what’s the difference?
Both are Poodle crosses, but Groodles use Golden Retrievers while Labradoodles use Labrador Retrievers. Groodles tend to have slightly calmer, more gentle temperaments, while Labradoodles can be more energetic. Both make excellent family pets.
Are Groodles good dogs?
Groodles make excellent family pets. They’re intelligent, affectionate, great with children, and highly trainable. Their main challenges are grooming requirements and potential for separation anxiety. With the right commitment, they’re wonderful companions.
Primary Sources
1. Goldendoodle Wikipedia — Breed history and characteristics (wikipedia.org)
2. Hill’s Pet Nutrition Australia — Groodle breed information (hillspet.com.au)
Veterinary & Health Sources
3. VCA Hospitals — Hip dysplasia in dogs (vcahospitals.com)
4. Pet Circle Vet Guide — Groodle health information (petcircle.com.au)
5. Australian Veterinary Association — Eye examination guidelines (ava.com.au)
6. Lyka Pet Food — Groodle lifespan and nutrition (lyka.com.au)
Australian-Specific Sources
7. Bow Wow Insurance — Groodle breed guide (bowwowinsurance.com.au)
8. RSPCA Australia — Exercise guidelines for dogs (rspca.org.au)
9. Pets Online — Groodle pricing in Australia (petsonline.com.au)