Golden Retriever Poodle Mix
Golden Retriever + Poodle (Standard) cross. Also called: Goldendoodle.
The Golden Retriever Poodle Mix typically weighs 45-80 lbs, needs 900-1900 calories per day, and lives 10-15 yrs. Size, appearance, and temperament can vary widely depending on which parent's genes are more dominant.
Size and nutrition
The Golden Retriever Poodle Mix can weigh anywhere from 45-80 lbs (20.4-36.3 kg), a wide range that reflects the size difference between the Golden Retriever and Poodle (Standard). Because mixes are unpredictable, watch your dog's actual body condition rather than targeting a specific number on the scale.
Daily calorie needs for a Goldendoodle range from 900-1900 kcal depending on their adult size, activity level, and whether they are spayed/neutered. Use our calorie calculator with your dog's actual weight for a personalized estimate.
Get your Goldendoodle's exact calorie needs.
CalculateHealth risks from both parent breeds
Mixed breed dogs can inherit health conditions from either parent breed. The Golden Retriever Poodle Mix may be susceptible to conditions common in both Golden Retrievers and Poodle (Standard)s. Mixed breeds often benefit from hybrid vigor, but this is not guaranteed, and responsible health screening of parent dogs remains important.
Look up the health profiles for both parent breeds for a complete picture of potential health concerns:
Exercise and activity
Goldendoodles inherit the Golden's love of fetch and the Poodle's athleticism. Swimming, retrieving, and agility suit them perfectly. They are happiest when exercise includes interaction with their owner rather than solo yard time.
Care and grooming
Coat type ranges from flat (shedding) to wavy to curly (low-shed). Curly coats need professional grooming every 6-8 weeks and daily brushing to prevent mats. Don't assume a Goldendoodle will be non-shedding; coat type is not guaranteed in first-generation crosses.
What to expect from a Goldendoodle
Generally friendly, social, and eager to please. The combination of Golden's people-orientation and Poodle's intelligence creates a highly trainable, affectionate companion. They typically excel as therapy dogs and family pets. Their friendliness extends to strangers, making them poor watchdogs.
Frequently asked questions
Adult Goldendoodles typically weigh 45-80 lbs (20.4-36.3 kg). The wide range reflects the size difference between Golden Retrievers and Poodle (Standard)s. First-generation crosses (F1) are the most unpredictable for size. Looking at the parents' sizes gives the best estimate. Puppies that are larger at 8 weeks tend to be larger adults, but this is not guaranteed.
Daily calorie needs range from 900-1900 kcal depending on your dog's actual adult size and activity level. Since mixes vary so much in size, use our calorie calculator with your dog's current weight rather than relying on breed averages. Weigh your dog monthly and adjust portions to maintain healthy body condition.
Mixed breeds often benefit from hybrid vigor, meaning their broader gene pool reduces the risk of conditions that concentrate in purebred lines. However, a Golden Retriever Poodle Mix can still inherit health issues common to either the Golden Retriever or the Poodle (Standard). Research both parent breeds' health profiles and ask the breeder about health testing of the parents. Regular veterinary checkups catch any inherited conditions early.
Tools for Goldendoodle owners
Disclaimer: Mixed breed characteristics vary significantly. The weight, calorie, and health information here represents the combined range of both parent breeds. Individual dogs may fall outside these ranges. Calorie estimates use the RER/MER formula (NRC 2006). Consult your veterinarian for advice specific to your dog. See our sources.
Last reviewed: April 1, 2026