Dogs are said to be one of the most loyal pets and companions around the world. Apart from being loyal, their playfulness, sincerity, cuteness, and courage make them a man’s best friend. They are always willing to do anything for you, to save you, to protect you, and to take care of you. It is no hidden fact that dogs’ loyalty has no bounds, and we simply can’t disagree with that, can we? They can be our companions in loneliness, a friend in need, and a lifesaver at the time of emergency, and that is what makes them special and irresistible to pet. However, you’ve always wanted a dog but can’t keep one because of pet allergies, right? Well, guess what? Goldendoodles can be the right and the best option for you!
What is a Goldendoodle?
Goldendoodle, also known as a “Designer Dog” is a mixture of two different breeds; the Golden Retriever and Poodle, hence making it a Hybrid Dog. Goldendoodles are adorable because of their ultimate combination of qualities from both breeds, the Golden Retriever and Poodle, resulting in an ultimate blend of playfulness, smartness, and good looks! Their cuteness is simply to die for. Although it is hard to tell how much they inherit from each parent because they are a mix of two different breeds, if you have pet allergies, a Goldendoodle can be the right choice for you!
“Hypoallergenic” Meaning
Hypoallergenic means something that is unlikely to cause an allergic reaction. In simple words, Hypoallergenic is used for such objects (cosmetics, textiles, etc.) or pets (dogs, cats, etc.) that cause slight allergic reactions, and in some cases, it is possible that they don’t cause any allergic reaction at all.
What Makes a Dog Hypoallergenic?
If you want to keep a hypoallergenic pet, keep an eye on the amount of hair they shed or if they shed. Keep in mind that hypoallergenic dogs will not shed hair. This is because the non-shedding hair prevents the dander from falling off, keeping the dead skin particles and the dander inside the hair instead of being discharged into the air or surroundings.
But guess what? It is the dander falling out from skin particles that cause allergies, not the hair! And it is very unlikely to have allergic reactions from hair or fur. Interesting, isn’t it?
Are Goldendoodles Actually Hypoallergenic?
If we look at the definition of “Hypoallergenic,” which is; a pet that does not shed or discharge dander in the air, then it is very unfair to say that a Goldendoodle is Hypoallergenic. In fact, no dog in this world is completely hypoallergenic; however, when a dog limits the dander or the dead skin that causes human-pet allergies, then we can label it as hypoallergenic. In that case, a Goldendoodle characteristically is a hypoallergenic dog.
What Makes a Goldendoodle a Hypoallergenic Dog?
A Goldendoodle is a mixture of two breeds that we know. This is exactly what makes it a hypoallergenic dog! This is because one of the Goldendoodle’s parents, the Poodle, is labeled as a hypoallergenic dog. Poodles are very intelligent, smart, and sporty, and the best part is that they don’t shed! Having this quality inherited from its parent, Goldendoodles can be labeled as hypoallergenic dogs.
Why Choose a Goldendoodle Over Other Dogs?
Here’s why you should choose a Goldendoodle over other dogs:
It’s the Best Mix of Two Breeds
Having the best quality of both parents, the Golden Retriever and Poodle, A Goldendoodle is a perfect mix. From having limited hair shedding to being extremely playful, lovable, and a family dog, Goldendoodle is your best choice for a companion or a lifelong buddy.
They Are Hypoallergenic
Goldendoodles, inheriting the qualities of Poodles and Hypoallergenic dogs. Also, most Goldendoodles don’t shed at all, and that is what makes them perfect companions for those who have allergic reactions from pets or different allergies. However, since allergies are caused by dander, urine, and saliva, we cannot guarantee that a Goldendoodle will not cause any allergic reaction at all. What we are saying is that it can be your safe option.
Don’t Like to Clean All the Furr? Get a Goldendoodle!
For those who don’t like holding vacuum cleaners and cleaning up the house all the time, a Goldendoodle can be their perfect choice. It’s a beautiful mixture of two breeds and does not create a mess which makes it very special.
They Are a Perfect Family Pet
Emphasizing their playful and friendly nature, Goldendoodles can be the perfect family Pet. Sometimes they won’t even bark when someone knocks at the door, which makes them a perfect choice for all the peace-lover families out there. They are also hypoallergenic, meaning that they can be the safest option for families who have pet allergies. Similarly, being friendly and safe with kids makes them win our hearts over and over again.
Do You Want Obedience? They Have It!
Did you know that Goldendoodles are very obedient that they are kept as companion pets for patients in hospitals and nursing homes? Their obedience, playfulness, and friendliness inherited from Golden Retrievers and Poodle’s intelligence and hypo-allergenicity make them a perfect animal breed. They can cheer you up in no time!
Do Goldendoodles Shed?
Yes, Goldendoodles do shed. In fact, it is not possible for a Dog to be completely Hypoallergenic! But yes, the deal is that they shed less depending on the type of Goldendoodle you have or want to adopt. However, genes play a very important role in this. It completely depends on how much they inherit from their parents. If their genetics are more from Poodles, then they are less likely to shed enormously.
When Do Goldendoodles Shed?
Goldendoodles are considered to be “Low-shed” dogs. It is impossible for them not to shed at all. However, they shed minimally, which makes them a perfect pet for those with mild allergies. Depending upon their inherited genetics from each of the breeds, Goldendoodles are considered to be “Year-round Shedders”. There is a possibility that they can shed more than others at different times of the year.
What Affects Goldendoodle’s Shedding Frequency?
There are certain factors and environmental elements that may affect the shedding Frequency of a Goldendoodle:
1. Seasons
Just like seasonal changes affect the shedding frequency of other dog breeds, Goldendoodles are equally affected by this phenomenon. A doubled-coated Goldendoodle that sheds will shed more of its hair in winter and summer, but they are more likely to shed less than other double-coated dog breeds.
Why do they shed in summer and winter? Because in winters, dogs shed their summer coat to develop a new thicker coat that can help them stay warm in the dropping temperature. In summer, as it gets hot, dogs shed the excess winter coat so that the rising temperature gets bearable for them. Goldendoodles, in such cases, will shed less often than other dog breeds. This is why, as we said, a Goldendoodle can be a perfect choice for dog lovers who are prone to pet allergies.
2. Stress
Just like season affects the shedding frequency of a Goldendoodle, stress can have an equal effect on them. Stressed dogs are more likely to shed enormously.
3. Lack of Nutrition
When dogs are not getting enough amount of nutrition in their body, it can have an impact on the shedding frequency. Goldendoodles with low nutrition are more likely to shed more than others.
4. Allergies
When your dog has different allergies, it can affect the shedding frequency. Make sure you get your Goldendoodle checked by a Vet when you notice something like this.
5. Weak Health
A healthy Goldendoodle will shed less than an unhealthy Goldendoodle—that’s common sense. Therefore, it is very important to get your Goldendoodle checked regularly by a Vet. Different health conditions such as skin conditions or parasites can add to the shedding process of a Goldendoodle.
6. Too Much Bathing
Bathing your Goldendoodle frequently can contribute to the excess shedding of a Goldendoodle’s hair. When bathing, make sure to choose the right shampoo. Using the wrong shampoo can cause excessive shedding.
How Can You Keep Your Goldendoodle Hypoallergenic?
If you have pet allergies and want to minimize the allergen sensitivities that may take place by your Goldendoodle, you can take the following preventative measures that will help your Goldendoodle stay hypoallergenic:
Brushing Your Goldendoodle Regularly
As we have already discussed, it’s the dander that causes allergies, not the hair so brushing your dog regularly will help you keep your Goldendoodle hypoallergenic. Dander sits in the dog coat of a Goldendoodle. Brushing your dog frequently minimizes the chance of dander releasing into the air, and it can also help in limiting different allergies, keeping your dog healthy.
1. Washing Your Dog
Washing/ bathing your Goldendoodle helps in limiting the dander that resides in its dog coat and hair. When bathing your Goldendoodle, you need to make sure that you are using a good shampoo and shed control cleansers because most of the shampoos dry out the skin of dogs, making them shed more excessively. Also, make sure that you don’t bathe them too much. Bathing twice a month will do the magic!
2. Keep Your House Clean
Cleaning your house regularly will avoid any physical contact with dander. Make sure you vacuum well and keep every area of your house cleansed. It has a dramatic role in controlling pet allergies.
Hypoallergenic Goldendoodles
A Goldendoodle is the most hypoallergenic when it has the most of Poodle’s genetics. The more significant amount of Poodle’s genetics it has, the more hypoallergenic it is going to be.
Hypoallergenic Goldendoodles are typically the ones with wavy or curly hair. They are less likely to shed. A Goldendoodle that has 50% genetics of Poodle and 50% genetics of Golden Retriever is not Hypoallergenic as it will shed more hair. Here’s a list of ideal hypoallergenic Goldendoodles:
1. F1B
The F1B Goldendoodle has 75% genetics of Poodle and 25% of Golden Retriever.
2. F1BB
F1BB Goldendoodle contains 87.5% of Poodle and 12.5% of Golden Retriever.
3. F2B
F2B Goldendoodle has 62.5% of Poodle and 37.5% of Golden Retriever’s genetics.
4. F2BB
These Goldendoodles have 81.25% of Poodle and 18.75 of Golden Retriever hence making them highly hypoallergenic.
The Goldendoodles with “B” in the end have most attributes of being Hypoallergenic as they have more genetics from Poodle than Golden Retrievers. So, if you are looking for a hypoallergenic Goldendoodle, you can choose any from the list above.
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