Are you planning to get a puppy for your family? Knowing if the puppy’s breed is the right fit for your family is crucial. If you have small kids around, it is important to know if your kids are safe to play with the puppy, right? On the other hand, puppies also need to feel safe and secure in their new environment. Puppies will grow up either aggressive or intimidated if the environment is not right for them.

Whether you are adopting or buying a puppy from credible breeders, one thing is for sure. Knowing the temperament and characteristics of your chosen breed can save you from stressful situations.

Golden Mountain Doodles (GMD), known for being playful and intelligent, are large breed dogs that are ideal for families with kids. You are probably wondering how come this dog is considered a family dog. This is because of GMD’s genetic makeup of poodles, golden retrievers, and a Bernese mountain dog.

If we look into the dog’s genetic pool, poodles prefer to be around people. This dog type is known to be active and fun-loving. They are easy to train too. The only downside is that they tend to be aggressive toward people they are not familiar with. Since poodles are historically hunting dogs, they are instinctual and alert which makes them good guardians for the family.

Have you watched a movie with Golden retrievers in it? If so, you would notice that these dog breeds are similar to that of poodles - intelligent and active. They are also known as the extrovert type of dogs, who loves socialization and being around people. They are also used as excellent service dogs. When properly trained, these dogs are obedient. It will guard and protect your small kids with the right training.

Bernese mountain dogs are great house dogs. Known to be territorial dogs, they are highly protective and are great at alerting the family against strangers.

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Researching Your Breeder

Getting a puppy, whatever breed you decide it to be requires a deep commitment. Getting a puppy is unlike shopping for your clothes. If you change your mood and feel like returning the item, you can just do so. Adopting or buying a doodle or any pet is a different thing. It requires you, a future pet owner, to be committed and do some research first.

Before committing to getting a GMD, make sure that you have taken the time to read about them. If you can, join some online communities and groups about GMDs. You will learn a lot from other pet owners. You also have the freedom to ask questions about getting one for yourself.

Apart from reading about the dog’s breed itself, make time to research the breeder. You don’t want to waste your hard-earned money getting a doodle from breeders who do not practice responsible breeding practices. You will end up spending more though your goal is to spend your money wisely for your new pet. Take time to ask around about the breeder. If they have online social media accounts, make sure that you go through the reviews and feedback. You can also try to reach out to some of the buyers. Maybe some of them will share with you their personal experience. They could be sharing some helpful information with you.

Depending on the location where you are going to make the purchase, make sure to read more about the state laws in the area. The breeders may be obligated to follow certain state laws in the area of licensing and inspections.

Exercise Needs

If you decide to get a GMD make sure that you will commit some time to walking or running. GMDs are known for being active, playful dogs with moderate to high energy. Do you prefer to stay at home most of the time? Do you prefer to lie on your sofa rather than go for a run, walk, or hike? If that is the case, GMD is not a good fit for you. Considering how this breed loves physical and mental activity, staying idle and sluggish will bore them out.

GMDs need to be kept active and entertained for them to stay healthy. You will have at least 60 minutes to spare for physical exercise. Also, make sure that they are kept mentally stimulated. Buy some puzzle toys that they can play around with.

Grooming and Shedding

The Golden Mountain Doodle has a thick, curly double coat that is designed to keep them warm in cold temperatures. Because of this, they need regular brushing and grooming to look their best and prevent mats from forming. Be sure to factor in the additional costs associated with making regular grooming appointments at a pet salon. If shedding is an issue, you can reduce it by brushing your dog regularly; however, some do shed more than others do. Talk to the breeder you plan to choose from about their line’s shedding tendencies before making your decision.

Socialization Requirements

Early training for GMDs is important. As they have poodles in their genetic makeup, they can be stubborn at times. Socialization is crucial and must be introduced to these doodles at an early age.

Within these puppy classes, doodles can learn different basic behavior skills and build relationships with humans. Because of their intelligence, Golden Mountain Doodles will keep learning throughout their lives so it’s important to continue ongoing socialization until adulthood. You can also encourage positive interactions through different activities. Take them on regular outings, make sure to introduce them to your friends, and invoice them in engaging activities like sports or dog shows.

Health Issues and Lifespan

Dogs, regardless of breed, can still be susceptible to sickness and other health issues. Studies say that GMDs are relatively strong and generally have a healthy genetic makeup. But they can still fall ill from medical diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia, allergies, cancer, infections, eye problems, and many more. GMDs are said to live for at least 15 years. But, this lifespan does not apply to all. Each dog has their timeline. The best we can do as pet owners are to make sure that we get to check on their health regularly. Vet visits are important as well as making your purchasing from premium, credible breeders like us.

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In general, GMDs are great family dogs. You will create a lot of great memories with them. Just make sure to equip yourself with proper information about this dog breed. It doesn't hurt to always be prepared and well-planned in getting a new member of your family.