Goldendoodle or AussieDoodle?

[Lena Morgan]

I've been searching for a mini goldendoodle for a few years now. I'm a huge dog lover but my son is allergic to all furry creatures. He's in college but when he comes home, I want to make sure that my pup won't make him itchy and "hivey"!   So after much research, I thought I had decided on a Goldendoodle... after seeing pictures of mini Aussie Doodles, I am reconsidering my decision. I've love to read some comments from the forum from mini Aussie Doodle owners about their experience. 

I love the Blue Merle's look and gorgeous eyes - the combination of 2 very smart breeds is the icing on the cake. Looking forward to reading from you guys. There's a few Aussie Doodle breeders in Northern CA and Western Nevada area that offer beautiful pups at competitive prices - does anyone have any great referrals from the breeders that they used?  

[Lucy & AnnaBelle's Mom]

Don't have a mini of either, but please keep in mind that there are no guarantees when it comes to doodles with regard to their allergy friendliness.  Any of them can cause reactions.  Only sure way is a poodle or to get an adult doodle and have your son spend some time with the doodle before hand.  Be sure to ready "what to look for in a breeder" as you go about your search.   http://www.doodlekisses.com/notes/What_To_Look_for_In_a_Breeder     lots of good information there.  Best of luck.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

I second this advice. 

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Also, regarding "two very smart breeds", Goldendoodles are ranked higher on Coren's breed intelligence tests than Australian Shepherds. And keep in mind that "smart" in a dog means that the dog can figure out how to do things you don't want him to do, lol; not necessarily such a desirable trait in a pet. :)

[Kaya]

This is very true, smart dogs counter surf and open doors. Dumber dogs eat what they find lying around.

[Kaya]

Aussies are super smart, with my aussie I have found that this isnt always a good thing. Also they have a pack mentality as they are herding dogs and do not like strangers very much (thats a nice way of saying we have to shut her in another room when people are over) but they love their family (also they pick favorites and its always obvious who they want to be with.)

I love my aussie but I would go with a mini golden doodle if you want less shedding and be able to have them around people and kids. 

[Lynda Kamrath]

Yes, the Aussie Doodles are beautiful and I have considered getting one myself.  However (I think) they are high energy dogs and not the type to be satisfied with sitting around in the house much of the day.  So, what is your energy level? Having a high energy dog is great if you need an excuse for getting more exercise.  I would say goldendoodles are maybe medium energy level and would be a little better at spending time at home (alone or with you).  You will have no problems finds breeders of either goldendoodles or aussie doodles in this area.  "Mini"?  That is usually using miniature poodles for the breeding stock and most people these days prefer smaller house dogs.  I recommend standard poodles and a good area outside for them to run and play.

[Lena Morgan]

Lynda,

Thanks for your insight on this -- my energy is medium. I work from home so it's a double edge sword. I'd love a companion pup to lay by my feet while I work but having the excuse to walk and play w/ my dog to get some more exercise for me wouldn't be a bad thing!  My son is the reason for my getting a Doodle - he's allergic so we're planning to meet a doodle owner on the 26th at a doggie park to see how he does w/ the pups. After that, I'll commit to a puppy from a local LA breeder. What are your thoughts about air transporting puppies?? Have you gotten any of yours that way?   

[Adina P]

Just keep in mind, as others have advised, that there's no way to know if he will react to YOUR doodle by the way reacts to a different doodle.  They don't have a uniform coat/genetics so it's a stab in the dark. 

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

There is NO guarantee of any dog being hypoallergenic but non-shedding breeds are your best choice for you son and NOT a doodle who is a mix where there is NO guarantee of not shedding or allergy friendliness.  If your heart is set on a mini sized poodle mix, get a Bichon/poodle or a Maltese/poodle.  Make sure you use the guide to finding a reputable breeder listed in the Help Section above.  Other small dogs you might like are pure poodles, or schnauzers.

[Jessica, Loki and Moose]

I second what others have said about allergies, I personally am not allergic but many friends I have are and most of them do react to my doodles. I think someone mentioned the energy level of Aussies and if your looking for a more high energy dog then I would go for it but in general they are a very very high energy breed. Atleast all the ones I know. I was looking for very very laid back big dogs that kept the shedding to a minimum so I went with bernedoodles in hopes that they would get the laid back couch potato attitude of Berners and one of them did and the other one didn't- it's a gamble you take! Good luck in your search, either breed are super cute!