It’s easy to fall for the fluffy charm of a Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, or Cockapoo—but these dogs aren’t accessories or trends. They’re living, breathing companions who will depend on you for their health, happiness, and safety every single day.
Bringing one home isn’t just about picking the cutest face. It’s a serious, long-term commitment to a best friend who will love you unconditionally and rely on you in return.
Before you get swept up in the excitement, take a moment to think it through. Here are 10 questions every future doodle parent should ask before they bring home one of these sweet (and smart) pups.
1. Why Do I Want a Doodle?
People are often drawn to doodles fortheir looks and non-shedding coats, but there’s more to these breeds than curls and cuteness.
Do you want:
- A family-friendly companion?
- An intelligent, eager-to-please dog?
- A dog breed developed for allergy sufferers?
Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, and Cockapoos all fit the bill, but understanding your “why” helps you choose the right mix and energy level.
2. Do I Understand the Grooming Needs?
Let’s bust the myth: doodles are not no-maintenance. That fluffy coat? It tangles. Regular brushing (daily or weekly, depending on the length of the coat), grooming appointments every 6–8 weeks, and a consistent coat care routine are essential, especially if you want to avoid painful mats or surprise grooming bills.
3. Do I Have Time for Training?
Doodles are highly intelligent. That’s a huge perk, but it also means they’ll outsmart you if you’re not consistent with training. Early socialization, crate training, leash training, and regular reinforcement go a long way.
Goldendoodles and Labradoodles thrive on structure. Cockapoos are people pleasers, but can become anxious if left alone too much.
4. What Size Doodle Fits My Lifestyle?
These breeds come in all sizes, especially Goldendoodles and Labradoodles:
- Mini (15–30 lbs)
- Medium (30–45 lbs)
- Standard (50+ lbs)
Cockapoos tend to stay smaller (10–25 lbs), but all sizes need attention, play, and exercise.
If you live in an apartment or want to travel often with your pup, size matters.
5. Am I Prepared for Their Energy Level?
While Cockapoos are usually a bit more chill, Goldendoodles and Labradoodles are part Poodle and part Retriever—both active, working breeds. That means they need physical and mental stimulation to stay balanced.
Think: fetch, training games, enrichment toys, and long walks—not just backyard time.
6. Have I Researched the Breeder?
Doodles are popular, which unfortunately means not all breeders are responsible. Look for breeders who:
- Perform health testing for hips, eyes, and genetic conditions
- Guarantee that the dog won’t shed
- Raise puppies in a clean, loving home environment
- Begin early socialization
- Welcome your questions—and ask you plenty, too
Steer clear of puppy mills, online scams, or “cheap” doodle deals that seem too good to be true.
7. Am I Ready for the Lifetime Commitment?
Doodles can live 12–16 years or more. That’s over a decade of cuddles, care, vet visits, food costs, grooming, insurance, training, and unexpected expenses. Are you in it for the long haul?
8. Who Will Watch My Dog When I Can’t?
Doodles are people-focused and can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone too long. Have a plan for:
- Dog sitters or daycare
- Regular companionship
- Crate training to build independence
9. Is a Puppy the Right Fit or Should I Consider a Trained Older Dog?
Puppies are adorable but exhausting. If you’re looking for a calmer, trained companion without the 3 a.m. potty breaks and chewed furniture, consider adopting an older doodle or investing in a professionally trained one.
10. Am I Emotionally and Practically Ready?
These dogs will steal your heart—but they’ll also challenge you, make you laugh, and require real care. If you’re ready to fully welcome a Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, or Cockapoo into your life, the rewards are endless.
If you’re feeling confident and excited after reading this blog, it might be time to meet our puppies! We raise well-socialized, healthy doodles with care and love, ready to bring joy into the right homes. Click here to see our available puppies.
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