Goldendoodle vs. Golden Retriever

[Traci -Bexter & Maggie]

Well...as many of you probably have read, I was anxiously awaiting the arrival of a goldendoodle sister for Bexter (a guardian pup).  Turns out, the mom wasn't pregnant as we were hoping for (according to the ultrasound).  I am soo disappointed.  The breeder will be having the mommy dog spayed and retire her.  So...I could wait longer for another opportunity with this breeder, which she is willing to do.  There are other opportunities to be had later on, dogs that she is wanting to keep a girl dog baby of, so she will still need a guardian eventually.  However, my impatient self is now thinking...what about the retired mom?  The breeder is going to be looking for a home for her she said.  This is obviously a VERY health tested & approved golden.  She is beautiful and is an excellent house dog.  I have been talking with this breeder for over a year now, and also have met this wonderful momma dog.  I thought it might be cute to see Bexter & her together because she looks a LOT like his mom (a reddish/golden retriever).  She might think he looks a LOT like her babies (because he does look a lot like the babies she's had in the past).  She is 5 years old, so about 4 years older than Bexter.  I know that being a golden she sheds.  I also know that she is already 5, so I won't be looking at having as much time with her as I would have a new baby goldendoodle.  However, escaping the puppy stage & all that is sounding more appealing.  Plus, the price is very reasonable, especially considering all the health testing that has been done on her.  What would you guys do?  I know lots of you have owned golden retrievers before.  Would you wait for a goldendoodle pup (then I'd have the 2 doods) OR have a doodle & a golden retriever?  Thanks for any advice.  I'm so torn!

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

I so agree with you, Lynda!

[Rose Ann and Amante]

Follow your heart. I have a feeling though that someone is already in love :-)

Taking her for a trail period is the best suggestion. I imagine you will mot be able to send her back though :-) Good Luck!!

[Carla, Lucca and Izzy]

Goldens are wonderful. Prior to my 2 doodles I had a GR for 13 years. My choice of changing to a doodle was the same as others....size, shedding. My grandog Ben is a 10 year old GR. He and my 2 medium doods are best friends. Yes, they (GR) shed. Yes, they're big. Yes, your possible GR is already 5. But they are wonderful sweet loveable and goofy. My 1 1/2 yo Izzy has definitely kept Ben young at heart. As F said...."go with your heart". You can't go wrong.

Good luck

[Jennifer,Chloe & Myla]

I think in the end it's all your decision, trust your instincts-if you get to let her come over and see how the dogs adapt to eachother you may get your answer right there, if you don't mind shedding then go for it. My dad has a retriever and she is so sweet and funny. You know the health which is a great plus! (as well as the owner) If a dog needs a home, why not??

Good luck with your decision.

[Traci -Bexter & Maggie]

UPDATE - Thanks guys for all your advice.  I have spoken with the breeder and we have decided to go for it.  I will wait until she is spayed & recovers from that.  Then, the breeder will bring her here so we can see how the dogs interact together.  If all goes well (and we anticipate that it will...), then she's here to stay!  Stay tuned for pictures to come later!

[AndySharon BoomerShaynaMariner]

Congratulations!!!!

[Carla, Lucca and Izzy]

Good luck to you Traci. It will be wonderful:)

[J and Riley (and Luna)]

Yay! :D

[Allyson, Peri & Taquito]

I think it sounds great.  My first childhood dog was Ivan the golden retriever - what a wonderful, loyal companion. He died at age 14 - lived a long life - he was my parents' first "child" before human kids. He was the BEST.

Good luck! Keep us posted and show some pics!

[Bonnie and Kona]

I am so thrilled for you! This could be a match made in heaven!

[Katie and Sophie]

Congratulations! That is so exciting! What is her name? Can't wait to see pictures!

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

Traci, she is absolutely gorgeous.  Congratulations!  I can't wait to hear more.