How Big Will My Goldendoodle Get?
By Pat & Sonny Heino, Bittersweet Goldendoodles, Newport NH
When you fall in love with a puppy the size of a loaf of bread, it is fair to wonder how big that puppy will be. Goldendoodles come in three common sizes, and the parents tell you most of what you need to know.
The three Goldendoodle sizes
A standard Goldendoodle averages 55 to 75 pounds or more, depending on the parents. Our mini Goldendoodles average about 30 pounds, and are generally 25 to 30. Our mediums run 30 to 45 pounds. A small mini averages around 15 to 18 pounds.
Those are averages, not guarantees. Within every litter some dogs end up a bit smaller and some a bit larger. That is why it helps to know the size of the mother and father, and why we are glad to talk about the parents with you.
What decides your puppy’s adult size
Genetics lead the way. The size of the parents and grandparents is the best predictor of how big a puppy will grow. Multi-generational Goldendoodles, which come from Goldendoodle parents, tend to be more consistent than first-cross puppies.
Nutrition and exercise matter too. A puppy that is fed the right amount of a quality puppy food grows at a healthy pace. Overfeeding does not make a dog bigger in the long run, it just makes it heavier, which is hard on young joints.
Predicting size with a growing puppy
Paw size is a fun clue, but it is not reliable on its own. A better approach is to track weight at eight weeks and again at four months, then ask your vet to help you estimate. Many puppies reach about half of their adult weight around four to five months.
Do not worry if your puppy looks gangly. Doodles often go through an awkward stage with long legs and a fluffy coat that does not match yet. They grow into themselves by the time they are a year old.
When Goldendoodles stop growing
Most reach their full height around 12 months. They keep filling out, gaining muscle and chest depth, until about 18 months. Minis often finish a little earlier than standards.
During this time, keep exercise moderate and avoid long runs or lots of jumping on hard surfaces. Growth plates are still closing, and gentle play is better than intense workouts for young dogs.
Choosing the size that fits your life
Think about your home, your family, and your activity level. A mini is a great match for most households, including those with kids and smaller yards. A standard suits active families with space who want a bigger dog to hike and swim with.
A small mini is a good choice for apartments or for families who want a lap-sized dog. If you are not sure which size is right, give us a call at 603-543-7012. We will talk through your life and help you choose.
Size and exercise needs
Bigger dogs are not always more demanding, but a standard Goldendoodle usually needs more daily exercise than a mini. Standards enjoy long hikes, swims and runs once they are grown, while minis are happy with a good walk and a play session in the yard.
Whatever the size, every doodle needs mental exercise too. Puzzle toys, training games and sniff walks tire a smart dog out in a good way. Match your dog’s size to the kind of daily life you can really give it.
Size and grooming
Coat care is similar for every size, but a bigger dog means a bigger job. A standard takes longer to brush and costs more to groom than a small mini. Ask your groomer for a price based on weight so you can plan.
Keeping a shorter cut makes things easier at any size. A teddy bear cut stays tidy, dries faster after a swim, and is simpler to brush through in between professional grooms.
Size and travel
If you travel often, a smaller dog is easier to bring along. Minis and small minis fit more easily into cars and hotel rooms, and many airlines and lodgings have weight limits. Standards need a larger crate and more space in the car.
Whichever size you choose, plan for safe travel from the start. Get your puppy used to the car in short trips and always secure your dog with a crate or harness.
Size and the rest of your family
Think about the other members of your home. Little children and older relatives may be happier with a mini that is easier to handle. A larger dog can knock a toddler over without meaning to, especially during the puppy stage.
If you have other pets, size matters too. A smaller doodle will be a better match for a cat or a small older dog, while a standard might fit right in with another large dog.
A quick size recap
To sum it up: standards run 55 to 75 pounds or more, minis about 30, mediums 30 to 45, and small minis 15 to 18. Meet the parents when you can, keep your puppy lean, and be patient while the legs and coat catch up. If you want help choosing, call us at 603-543-7012 and we will talk it through with you based on your home and your family’s plans.
Ready to meet a puppy?
See our available mini Goldendoodle puppies, read the 100 most common Goldendoodle questions, or visit our contact page for directions to the farm. The quickest way to reach us is to call 603-543-7012.