LEARN FROM THE BEST

The standard Goldendoodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a standard Poodle. They are an intelligent, friendly, and affectionate hybrid with a moderate activity level. Larger Goldendoodles may be more active than their smaller kin the Miniature Goldendoodle (miniature poodle / golden retriever). They are an athletic breed that will need a good walk or active playtime each day and are capable of competing in "dog sports" such as agility, flyball, rally and obedience if you’re interested.

 Both of the breeds used to create Goldendoodles tend to be smart and learn quickly. If you begin socialization and training early, use positive reinforcement techniques such as praise, play, and food rewards, you will be met with a wonderful companion.

In 2004, Life magazine famously featured a Goldendoodle on its cover accompanied by the headline, “The Perfect Dog? How the Doodle became the new family pet.” It was instant validation for this wonderful hybrid among the general public and in the decade since. Goldendoodles have skyrocketed in popularity. Today people can’t seem to get enough of these beautiful and smart canine companions. Visit any park or green space in your city where people regularly go to walk their dogs and you’re quite likely to cross paths with someone strolling with a Goldendoodle.

 In early 2018 I went shopping at one of my favorite stores for supplies and guess what I saw for the first time? A RED GOLDENDOODLE on a can of 4HEALTH moist dog food! I was so proud that this hybrid was the “Chosen Hybrid” over so many others and featured on a nationwide dog food company's product. It's because they are now becoming accepted as ”America‘s Perfect Dog"

HYBRIDS VS PUREBREDS

There is a distinct genetic advantage of cross breeding purebred dogs. Combining two breeds from unrelated gene pools results in what breeders refer to as “hybrid vigor” and geneticists call “heterosis”. “Not only is heterosis related to a decrease in the incidence of genetic defects, but also to an increase in traits like fertility, survival, and growth rate,” says Denny Crews, Jr., Ph.D., genetic research scientist. Purebreds that have been subject to generations of inbreeding are susceptible to genetic flaws such as hip dysplasia, thyroid conditions, eye problems, deafness and high-strung or aggressive temperaments, among many others. “After several generations of inbreeding, recessive genes which normally occur at very low frequency begin to accumulate within a breed and the likelihood that a puppy (will receive a copy of the defect gene from both parents) increases and the genetic defect expresses itself in the puppy,” “Outbreeding (mating within the same breed to unrelated lines) or crossbreeding will reduce the incidence of genetic defects…”

POODLE HYBRIDS – ARE THEY SUPERIOR PETS?
 by Janice Biniok

It’s so adorable and fluffy you can’t tell if it’s real or stuffed. The breeder says it will be small, intelligent, shedless and have a temperament to please everyone in the family. It’s a poodle hybrid puppy and you think you’ve finally found the perfect pet.

Poodle hybrids are produced by crossbreeding a purebred poodle with another breed and they come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors. They even have cute names like Cockapoo, Yorkiepoo, Lhasa Poo or Maltipoo, which belies the fact they are of mixed descent and gives them the impression of being breeds of their own. Although condemned by some purebred dog breeders as a way to create more “mutts”, the practice of producing hybrid dogs “on purpose” has found popularity in the pet market.

Breeders of hybrid dogs claim the right combination of purebreds can produce superior temperaments as well as other desirable traits without sacrificing intelligence and irresistibly cute looks. Poodles in particular have been used to create a great variety of hybrids for several decades. They have a number of desirable traits which they pass on to their offspring including their intelligence, non-shed hair and are medium to small in size.

“The American Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel-Poodle cross) is popular because they don’t shed or have doggy odor and they are great with children,” says Josie Montanari, president of the Cockapoo Club of America. “Because Cockapoos love people and are adorable, many people who meet them…want one.” The non-shed hair is definitely a big seller. Although there really is no such thing as a shedless dog, some breeds do tend to shed less or retain shedded hair and dander in their coats. This makes Poodle hybrids very appealing because there is less dog hair in the house to clean up and less source of allergens for those who are sensitive to dog dander.

To add more frosting to the cake, there is a distinct genetic advantage of crossbreeding purebred dogs. Combining two breeds from unrelated gene pools results in what breeders refer to as “hybrid vigor” and geneticists call “heterosis.””Not only is heterosis related to a decrease in the incidence of genetic defects, but also to an increase in traits like fertility, survival, and growth rate,” says Denny Crews, Jr., Ph.D., genetic research scientist.

Purebreds that have been subject to generations of inbreeding are susceptible to genetic flaws such as hip displasia, thyroid conditions, eye problems, deafness and high-strung or aggressive temperaments, among many others. “After several generations of inbreeding, recessive genes which normally occur at very low frequency begin to accumulate within a breed and the likelihood that a puppy (will receive a copy of the defect gene from both parents) increases and the genetic defect expresses itself in the puppy,” Crew says. “Outbreeding (mating within the same breed to unrelated lines) or crossbreeding will reduce the incidence of genetic defects…”

If a poodle hybrid now sounds like an even better idea and you’re ready to let your heart get carried away with that teddy-faced little puppy, you need to consider the following:

Consider the following before deciding on whether or not a poodle hybrid is right for you:

Predictable offspring can only be obtained in 1st generation hybrids.

Second-generation hybrids can have an unpredictable variety of traits tending anywhere from one purebred ancestor to the other purebred ancestor, due to the greater number of gene combinations that are produced. Your 2nd generation hybrid may look more like a Cocker Spaniel than a Cockapoo. It is only through many generations of selective breeding that a stable, predictable offspring can be produced by combining hybrids.

Due to the greater number of gene combinations that are produced, 2nd generation hybrids have an unpredictable variety of traits. A 2nd generation hybrid may look more like a Cocker Spaniel than a Cockapoo or visa versa. Creating a stable and predictable offspring by combining hybrids is only achievable through multiple generations of selective breeding

That wonderful shedless coat? It doesn’t always mean hypoallergenic. All dogs produce dander and other secretions that are the main sources of human allergies to dogs. An allergy sufferer’s tolerance to any dog depends on the severity of the allergy, whether the allergy sufferer is willing to take steps to avoid allergic reactions and what type of coat a hybrid has inherited from their parents.

You also need to consider that curly coats may be more prone to tangles and may require professionals to keep them looking good. This is an added responsibility and expense in maintaining these types of dogs.

Just like purebreds, hybrid dogs are no better than the parents from which they came and there may be more incidences of poor breeding due to the lack of standards for hybrid dogs. Standards are the particular traits and features that breeders strive to obtain from their breeding efforts.

Although some breeders have developed their own standards for their crossbreeds, most do not have universalized standards set by a dog club or other organization. Without universalized standards, some breeders may like to perpetuate certain traits over others like the sturdy body of the Cocker Spaniel while others aim for the leaner structure of the Poodle. You may expect curls and end up with frizz or other unexpected variations.

When purchasing a hybrid dog, it is just as important to evaluate the breeder. Puppy mills are involved in producing a great number of hybrid dogs to capitalize on the pet market’s demand, so be sure you know where your puppy is coming from and meet the sire and dam if possible. Before venturing out to look at a pup it is always recommended to investigate and interview a breeder. Let’s face it, once you have a look at those jewel eyes and button nose, it’s easy to become captivated and forget to protect yourself from a future heartache.

Even though hybrid dogs cannot be registered with the AKC, you can still request a copy of the AKC papers for the parent dogs, or a pedigree which will show the lineage of the sire and dam. There are currently 146 different breeds of dogs recognized as purebreds by the AKC, offering more than enough diversity in size, color, temperament, coat type and activity level to satisfy just about any dog owner. However, there are always going to be pet owners who seek something a little different and poodle hybrids seem to fit the bill.

Whether or not they make superior pets depends on the same criteria that apply to any breed or species. An animal’s physical characteristics, temperament and care requirements need to be acceptable to a particular pet owner. Any dog can become a superior pet if the dog and owner are a good match for each other.

LIST OF GENETIC HEALTH TESTS

VWD1 – Von Willebrand disease (vWD) is a genetic disorder that prevents normal blood clotting and can cause extended bleeding following injury. The disorder results from a deficiency or lack of sufficient von Willebrand factor (vWf) which functions as a binding protein during blood clotting. Three types of vWD have been identified in dogs to date and are known as vWD type 1, 2 and 3. Within these three types there are five different genetic mutations that are currently known that lead to canine vWD.
 
Von Willebrand’s disease type 1 (VWD1) results in reduction in normal levels of vWf to approximately 5-10% of normal. Since some vWf is produced in dogs homozygous for the VWD1 mutation, this form of the disorder is considered to be less serious than type 2 and 3. The mutation (G>A substitution) has variable penetrance and is recessive requiring two copies of the mutation in affected dogs. Typical symptoms of the disease encompass excessive or abnormal bleeding following injury or the presence of blood in various bodily secretions (urine, feces, etc.).
 
DM – Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) is a progressive disease of the spinal cord in older dogs. The disease has an insidious onset typically between 8 and 14 years of age. It begins with a loss of coordination (ataxia) in the hind limbs. The affected dog will wobble when walking, knuckle over or drag the feet. This can first occur in one hind limb and then affect the other. As the disease progresses, the limbs become weak and the dog begins to buckle and has difficulty standing. The weakness gets progressively worse until the dog is unable to walk. The clinical course can range from 6 months to 1 year before dogs become paraplegic. If signs progress for a longer period of time, loss of urinary and fecal continence may occur and eventually weakness will develop in the front limbs. Another key feature of DM is that it is not a painful disease. Although any dog can be tested for DM, it is possible that the genetic background that predominates in some breeds prevents the development of symptoms even in dogs testing affected (at risk). At this time the required evidence of association between the genetic mutation and actual spinal cord evaluations has only been proven in the breeds listed.
 
PRA-PRCD – Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a category of different progressive conditions related to ­retinal atrophy that can eventually lead to blindness. Progressive rod-cone degeneration (PRA-PRCD) is one specific type of PRA that affects many dog breeds. It is an inherited eye disease with late onset of symptoms that are due to degeneration of both rod and cone cells of the retina. These cells are important for vision in dim and bright light. Most dogs begin to show symptoms of the disease at approximately 3-5 years of age that manifests as difficulty seeing at night (night blindness) and loss of peripheral vision. Although rate of onset and disease progression can vary by breed, PRA-PRCD typically results in eventual loss of sight and complete blindness in affected dogs. It is important to note that other inherited eye disorders can display similar symptoms to PRA-PRCD.
 
NE – Neonatal encephalopathy (NE) or Neonatal encephalopathy with seizures (NEwS) is a recessive developmental brain disease. Affected pups exhibit extreme weakness, and those that survive the first week generally develop progressively worse ataxia, or inability to move properly. This is often accompanied by severe seizures. None have survived to 7 weeks of age.
 
EIC – Exercise Induced Collapse (EIC) is a canine genetic disorder that leads to loss of muscle control following periods of extreme exercise. Episodes generally occur after 5-25 minutes of excessive activity that can include actively running for extended periods of time. Episode severity ranges between different dogs and often begins with a form of rocking followed by weakening of the hind limbs and eventual collapse. Attacks are typically brief (less than 20 minutes) and dogs tend to recover. In a limited number of cases, episodes can be fatal. Affected dogs begin to show symptoms from a couple of months to 3 years of age and are more susceptible at an age when more intensive training begins. It is important for owners of dogs affected with EIC to be familiar with activities that may trigger an episode.

DO'S

• DO read the contract to make sure you understand all terms and can 100% agree to your responsibilities and the terms
• DO purchase your puppy food before your puppies arrival. Puppy food can be purchased at Petsmart Petco or chewy.com
• DO be on time to pick up your puppy….whether at a meeting place or at the airport
• DO communicate with your breeder when you receive your new puppy
• DO schedule a vet appointment as soon as you have made arrangements to receive your new puppy. Wellness check must be completed within 3 business days of receiving your new puppy
• DO visit with your vet to plan on finishing all appropriate shots and set up an appropriate worming schedule for your area
• DO play with your puppy, but give it lots of rest! 15 minutes of play to 45 minutes of rest
• DO keep your new puppy in a small enclosed area with enough room for a bed and easy access to food and fresh water
• DO pay attention to what your puppy eats. NO table scraps! Research what foods and household plants can be poisonous
• DO communicate directly with your breeder about any issues or for updates and pictures. Your breeder is your best resource for advice/help with your new puppy
• DO keep food and fresh water available at all times for your new puppy
• DO brush/comb, blow dry and clip nails of your new puppy on a regular basis until their are old enough to go to a groomer. Typically around 16 weeks.
• DO keep NutriCal or Karo (light corn syrup) on hand for new toy breed puppies. Learn the signs of hypoglycemia and how to react without panic. It could save your new puppy’s life!
• DO use a harness (if a toy breed) rather than a collar on your puppy’s fragile neck
• DO keep the hair clear around the anus to prevent plugs
• DO use positive reinforcement for training
• DO make a small play area outside for potty training
• DO learn the “puppy shuffle" - keeping your feet on the floor 
• DO remember to register them with your city, if applicable
• DO remember to register their microchip information
• DO remember to activate your trupanion 30 day free pet insurance

DONT'S

• DON’T get a new puppy unless you are fully prepared to properly care for and are ready for the time commitment
• DON’T get a new puppy unless everyone in your household is in agreement about getting a new puppy
• DON’T take your new puppy to the store, neighbors house, pet store, groomers, etc. This is a new baby and just like human babies they need rest with no interruptions. Your new puppy should be confined/protected and kept as stress free as possible! Moving away from its siblings into new unfamiliar surroundings is stressful on them! Stress can ignite hypoglycemia and allow opportunistic , otherwise dormant parasites to release into their gut which could have very serious consequences!
• DON’T leave your new puppy unattended in the yard
• DON’T change the puppy’s food or give it any non-approved treats
• DON’T allow your child to handle a puppy unsupervised
• DON’T put tiny puppies on beds, sofas or chairs where they can fall off

GOLDENDOODLE SIZES

Petite range: Height: below 14 inches, typically 25 lbs. or less

Miniature range: Height: over 14 but under 17 inches (35cm to 42cm) at wither, typically 26-35 lbs.

Medium range: Height: over 17 but under 21 inches (43cm to 52cm) at wither, typically 36-50 lbs.

Standard range: Height: over 21 inches (53cm to 63cm) at wither, typically 51 or more lbs.

Final size category of a dog will be determined at adulthood and is measured at the withers.
 
Please be aware that the estimated size of a puppy by a breeder is an educated guess; therefore, a puppy’s final size may vary somewhat from a breeder’s initial calculation.

REASONS MALES MAKE BETTER PETS:

• More loving and affectionate
• There’s a saying, “If you want a dog to love, get female. If you want a dog to love you, get a male.”
• Males are in love with you and females love you
• Cheaper to neuter
• Not moody like girls
• No heat cycle
• Just all around a better lover than girls
• They are sweeter,more laid back,usually quieter,and bond with women deeper than the girls.

When 85% of the nation's populace is located only 1 – 2 hours from an ocean and close to 75% of the purebred dogs are raised in the five Midwest states (KS, OK, AR, MO, IA) the puppy buyer has an avenue/means of broadening their choices and selection. If puppy buyers on the east and west coast were limited to only what was available locally through a local hobby breeder or newspaper many would not get a puppy, let alone the quality that you're looking for, unless they decided to buy from a local pet store, which is not always a good idea. Purchasing your future puppy online could lead to you finding that perfect puppy that might have been impossible through any other avenue. Common sense, a little bit of patience and developing a trust relationship with the breeder/seller goes a long way in helping you find your perfect puppy.

The other day I received a phone call from our local chapter of the Better Business Bureau. They asked permission to use some of the information offered on this site to use in an interview with a local chapter of an animal rescue. The interview was about the increase in puppy scammers that are rising up on the web. This phone call alerted us to the importance of posting this information and I hope that you will carefully read ALL of it, then use wisdom and your inner voice to give you guidance through your Internet puppy purchase. The information provided in this article combines common sense principles with information derived from my own knowledge after talking with so many people that have been scammed.

In the past 2 to 3 years Puppy scamming has been on the rise it seems one out of every three families that I have spoken to in the last year have either been scammed by losing deposits on a puppy that never existed or almost lost their deposit to a online puppy scammer. When I finished writing my book 10 things you need to know before purchasing a puppy online : “ How to avoid puppy mills backyard breeders and puppies scammers. “ when I finished the book I had realized that families over the years have been literally going about searching for their future for baby backwards in my book the last thing that a buyer should be asking the breeder!!! For anybody who is still looking to buy a future puppy by using the Internet having my book at your side is a must it will prevent you from steering clear of all puppy meals backyard breeders and puppy scammers !!!!

The puppies offered on this site are very well socialized in a family environment with 9 children along with other pets for additional socialization. Each puppy is exposed to several different environments which allows us to see how they react to the kids, other pets, travel, etc which is then combined with an individual aptitude test to create a puppy profile. These profiles are used to match each puppy with their perfect puppy parents. I am a firm believer that "not all puppies are created equal" and want to ensure both you and your new puppy are a perfect match for one another.