Are Goldendoodles Good with Babies and Kids? A Guide for Worried Parents


The Goldendoodle is a popular dog breed. These dogs possess many desirable characteristics that people seek in a pet.

This is unsurprising given that they have features that appeal to every pet owner. They are generally sociable, gregarious, clever, and, of course, adorable. In fact, their reputation as excellent family dogs is gaining traction.

It’s understandable that we want to make sure that pets will get along with our families. When we bring a new furry companion into our household, we want them to stay with us for the rest of our lives. The last thing anyone wants is to buy a dog only to discover that it will not fit in with their family, causing them to give up the dog.

So, are Goldendoodles good with babies?  Goldendoodles are good with babies and get children of all ages since they are clever, sweet-natured, and loving dogs. They are protective when it comes to smaller children, lively and clever when it comes to somewhat older children, and active enough when it comes to teens.

This Article is a Complete Guide for Worried Parents or kids and Goldendoodles, so keep reading.

Are Goldendoodles Good with babies?

Goldendoodles are good with babies because they are intelligent, sweet-natured, and loving dogs, Goldendoodles get along well with infants and children of all ages, they generally like company and activity which makes kids less bored.

Goldendoodles are excellent with children, and their gentle and loving temperament is renowned. However, common sense should be used. If your Goldendoodle is a full-grown dog, you need to take extra care to prevent an overly excitable puppy from injuring your youngster.

The size difference should also be taken into account. Even a gentle and well-intentioned Goldendoodle can bowl a smaller child over.

Some people believe that a Goldendoodle is too large to be around small children, but this is far from the case. all dogs require socialization and training; Goldendoodles are loyal and protective, and they are intelligent enough to make training simple.

Following in the footsteps of his Golden Retriever ancestors, the Goldendoodle is an excellent family companion that is kind and tolerant with children. Goldendoodles with babies of all ages get along swimmingly. However, socialization is an essential component of parenting both a newborn and a Goldendoodle.

Are Goldendoodles Good with Kids?

Goldendoodles are good with kids and get along well with other canines, children, and family members in general. The Goldendoodle is a social dog who likes being in the company of people and makes excellent companions for children due to their shared personality features. 

Goldendoodle with child to show why are Goldendoodles good with babies and kids

Goldendoodles are wonderful companions for families. They are also an excellent companion for youngsters.

However, like with any other dog breed, proper training and orientation are required to help your pets acquire pleasant habits. Even though your children are secure with them, it is still a good idea to keep a check on them from time to time.

Due to their cheerful, active, and devoted nature, Goldendoodles are excellent with children. They’re even known to be family dogs. The Goldendoodle is ideal for beginners (kids) and experienced dog owners alike, as it can adjust to different settings and is easy to teach. 

Goldendoodles are intelligent, but they also have a desire to please. Positive reinforcement messages make it much easier to train a dog who is eager to please.

Because Goldendoodles are so excellent with children and eager to please, most of the reinforcement training may be done safely by the children themselves. When you have slightly older children, teaching a dog tricks is a lot of fun; their enthusiasm for repetitive treats and tricks really helps to cement entertaining party commands and tricks.

Not only are Goldendoodles excellent with children, but they are also hypoallergenic, which may assist allergy sufferers. Due to its active nature, having kids in your family will continually offer joy and happiness. You’ll get to watch your youngster grow up with your Goldendoodle for many years to come.

15 Reasons Why Goldendoodles are good with Babies and Kids

  1. They are easy to train – Because Goldendoodles can understand what is being said to them, training them is not only simple but also pleasant. Learning new instructions, games, and tricks is always beneficial for a pet that need mental and physical stimulation.

They are willing to accept the house’s regulations and adopt the family’s lifestyle, especially that of the children.

Make it a point to include youngsters in your Goldendoodle’s training, especially when teaching fundamental instructions. In this way, you can show them how to train the pet in terms of what to do and what not to do without being unduly harsh. Doing so will also serve to build a bond between the pet and the kids.

  1. They are eager to please and obedient – Obedience does not imply that they are simple to train. Someone can teach their dog to be quiet around children, for example, but you’ll want your dog to want to please you by following the rules you’ve established.
  2. They are extremely clever – You won’t have to worry about training a Goldendoodle if you bring one home for your children. It is feasible to teach a puppy fundamental skills without the assistance of an expert. You can also train them early on to avoid undesirable behaviors such as excessive barking, chewing, or jumping on you and your children.
  3. They have a Peaceful temperament – Goldendoodles are popular because they are calm and patient household pets. Calmness is a virtue, especially when youngsters are irritated, exhibit a lack of respect, throw a tantrum, or participate in rough play that injures others inadvertently.

A calm Goldendoodle will help you avoid unpleasant situations, such as your dog snapping at your youngster. Recognize that educating your children how to properly care for their pets is just as important.

  1. They are Friendly – The ability of a dog breed to adapt to family members, other pets, and strangers determines whether or not it is friendly.

As a result, Goldendoodles get along with not just people but also other animals, even cats, which are meant to be their arch-rivals. 

You will have acquired a family member that will accept your children, other pets in the house, and will not react to strangers if you have a Goldendoodle. You need to work out that the various parties, particularly kids, Doodles, and cats, do not encroach upon each other’s space and respect limits.

  1. They are extremely sensitive – Goldendoodles have a keen sense of your mood. On the one side, they can detect how you’re feeling, and on the other, they respond to it and share your emotions. So, if you are smiling, your Goldendoodle will be jumping all over the place to participate in your enjoyment. 

Likewise, on the days, you are down, the Goldendoodle will creep up to you and try and lift your spirits or simply lie next to you in a show of moral support. 

When it comes to youngsters, the Goldendoodle would observe and evaluate the child’s emotions, and consequently, plan out its activities.

  1. They are Extremely Careful Around Youngsters – Their sensitivity is especially useful when dealing with children. As a result, they become more cautious in their acts and fully comprehend the actions of the children. It’s rare for them to act inappropriately around youngsters.
  2. They’re a lot of fun to play with – As naturally active and athletic dogs, they’ll have a lot of fun with your kids. They also like spending time playing outside. They can do anything they want, whether it’s running about, playing circles, leaping, or anything else.
  3. They have a great sense of humor – after all, you never know when your Goldendoodle will develop enough bonding with your child to be in on every bit of mischief that occurs at home.

Their intellect aside, Goldendoodles are just as funny and are surely up for a moment of fun, your pet Goldendoodle could turn out to be just the stress-buster that everyone needs.

  1. They are Hypoallergenic – Most Goldendoodles shed very little, a characteristic inherited from one of their breed parents. As a result, we can conclude that it is safe for youngsters to be around them because allergic reactions to their fur are rare. It also simplifies their upkeep.
  2. They are Loyal – No matter what happens, they will not abandon you. You may always enlist the help of your children to play with them. They will undoubtedly trail your children and never leave their side.
  3. They provide unconditional love – Goldendoodles are known for their unconditional love. It’s always apparent in the way they strive to make you happy and cherished. Most of the time, they are more concerned with you than you are with yourself. Even though they aren’t meant to be guard dogs, they will do their best to keep you safe.
  4. They teach kids responsibility – Because Goldendoodles are extremely trainable and intelligent, your children will have a great time teaching them entertaining tricks. You may teach your children responsibility and pet care by encouraging them to assist feed, drink, walk, and clean up after your animal family member.
  5. They are Patient – They have an easier time tolerating children’s misbehavior and can suffer with them longer than we can. So you don’t have to be concerned about your dog being hostile because of your children’s conduct. However, in rare situations, training may be required. It’s also crucial that you teach your children how to approach them properly.
  6. They are not at all dangerous – this is true for both adults and children. They consider everyone to be a friend, and they are more concerned with pleasing others than with injuring them. You may rest certain that they pose no danger to your children.

How to introduce your Goldendoodle and baby to each other 

The timing 

Weeks 4-12: These weeks are known as the “socialization period” since one of the most significant changes is the introduction to children at this time. 

Puppies begin enjoying playing and becoming aware of their surroundings around the age of five weeks, and pleasant engagement with youngsters will have a major role in how they interact with them in the future.

Establishing positive experiences and interactions with children can aid their future growth, which is necessary for bonding, playing skills, and other dog socialization cues.

The location 

The infant and the dog should be introduced in a calm room with minimal associations for the dog – not where they normally sleep or dine. Associate the presence of your baby with good, pleasurable experiences for your pet.

Make sure this area isn’t your dog’s “peace and quite” or the room with all the toys so that the kids don’t get confused and the dog doesn’t become jealous or defensive of the youngster.

The method

Begin by taking a long walk with your dog. Make certain you expend all of your dog’s energy. 

Wait at the door before returning; make sure your dog is calm and obedient before allowing them in. Your dog will immediately detect a fresh fragrance in the home as you walk in the door. It will be fairly familiar if you have already introduced the scent. 

The youngster should be fully relaxed. The dog should be permitted to smell the infant but at a reasonable distance. During this initial meeting, do not bring the infant too near. The dog can eventually be permitted to approach the infant more closely. You are training the dog to regard the infant as another pack leader by doing so.

6 pro tips

  • Keep an eye on your energy levels and don’t let the dog become upset.
  • Take Control of Your Baby’s Scent and While holding the object to signal that the item is yours, challenge the dog to smell from a distance before allowing the dog to sniff.
  • Establish Boundaries Around the Nursery to prevent any rash behavior.
  • Teach your child how to interact with the dog and keep an eye on him or her at all times.
  • Don’t Forget the Dog and maintain giving daily walks and consistent exercises. This will make your dog feel safe and allow her to relax about the new addition to the household.
  • Your child’s safety comes first, therefore if you’re still not convinced that your kid is secure with your dog, separate them,

How to deal with setbacks 

Luckily, Children and Goldendoodles share a certain characteristic: they both don’t hold grudges; accidents are bound to happen, whether your dog got suddenly aggressive or your child made the dog too uncomfortable.

You should separate them for a while until they both pay less attention to the incident then provide playtime with you 100% focused and monitoring to prevent any unfortunate events. 

Problems with Goldendoodles and small children 

Mouthing, Nipping and biting 

At some time, all pups will attempt some light biting. Some dogs are fortunate in that they either bite their toys or get it out of their system quickly.

Other dogs will require consistent, firm, and calm training.

If your Goldendoodle dog gets mouthy, your small child or toddler will have no idea how to react.

If things get out of hand, separating the puppy and child with a kennel or a fenced-in area is the best option. Otherwise, you’ll need to keep a close eye on all interactions to make sure the puppy doesn’t provoke a negative reaction in your child.

Sudden aggression 

Puppies are extremely interested and impressionable throughout their socializing phase (6 to 14 weeks of age). There is a high risk of unpleasant interactions with children of all ages at that period, therefore owners should assist them in developing a good attitude toward children later in life.

Goldendoodles are not desensitized to being stroked around the face and head, or even lightly tugged on until they are 14 weeks old, so they are not prepared for the manner in which they are touched by youngsters.

Puppies become significantly more fearful of their surroundings and react more fearfully to threatening stimuli after 14 weeks of age. It’s important to remember that interactions with children outside of the home aren’t always protective against fear and anxiety when the dog joins the family.

Kids abusing the dog 

Children can act erratically, move in irregular ways, and produce a variety of loud and unexpected noises. Even when dogs are displaying indications of fear or hostility, children are often fascinated by them and may want to touch them. 

Children are in more danger since their height puts them on the same level as the dogs, and they are typically interested in comparable things (toys, food).

Children may tug on the tails, hair, or ears of dogs in an improper manner. The majority of canine aggressiveness toward children is motivated by fear, however, many dogs will also display food, possessive, and territorial aggression.

Asthma and allergies 

If you’re concerned about your child’s asthma or allergies reacting to a dog, a Goldendoodle might be a good fit.

Testing with a dog for a short period of time after consulting with your doctor might be a good method to ensure there is no sensitivity or response to the dog.

There is no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic dog, but a Goldendoodle that is non-shedding (and hence low in dander) will get close.

For allergy patients, non-shedding Goldendoodles are a better choice. Kids’ sensitivity or reactivity to dogs usually decreases as they become older, although this isn’t always the case.

If you are looking for dogs that have zero chance of stirring up your child’s allergies (or yours), check out these 15 stunning blue-eyed hypoallergenic dogs here.

What you Must teach your kids about your dog 

To establish a successful relationship between your child and pet child, there are some things that you should teach to your kids prior to any interaction with your dog; if your kids followed the below instructions, you’ll get a duo of unlimited energy, hyperactivity, affection, and fun times.

You kids must learn to: 

  • Gently pet a dog, and let the dog smell and get to know them
  • Refrain from making loud noises or impulsive actions
  • Play in a non-aggressive manner—no tug-of-war or wrestling
  • Don’t bother the dog while they are sleeping or eating
  • Move around them softly and carefully, especially if the dog is acting aggressively, barking and snarling
  • If playtime ever gets too serious, they should curl themselves in a ball if they are knocked over by a dog and protect their eyes and face until help arrives
  • Never chase a dog or corner them
  • Allow the dog to approach when it feels safe by being calm and steady
  • They should stand alongside the dog rather than facing him/her, as this might be perceived as menacing.
  • They should caress the dog’s cheek or under the chin while petting it. The dog may view reaching for the face or the top of the head as a danger.

Remove the child from the situation if he refuses to be patient and follow your directions. Dogs must be respected as living beings, not merely as fuzzy toys, for children to learn to respect them.

Are boy or girl Goldendoodles better as family pets? 

Goldendoodles are social, affectionate dogs that make great family pets regardless of the dog’s gender, whether a boy or a girl, Goldendoodles are great companions to kids

You can educate your children on how to teach your Goldendoodle dog new instructions with appropriate training. They are wonderful family companions and are excellent therapy dogs, meeting people’s emotional needs. 

Your Goldendoodle will not only be your best buddy, but it will also be your child’s. Watching your child and puppy grow up side by side is the greatest thing to happen. Bringing home a Goldendoodle puppy will, of course, mark the start of a new chapter in your life.

Before you go, you may also want to check out our guide to the unique and rare Twoodle dog here.

Related Questions 

Are Goldendoodles good dogs with kids? 

Goldendoodles are good dogs with kids; they get along with other dogs, children and household members in general. The Goldendoodle is an extremely sociable dog that enjoys the company of others and makes amazing companions to kids as they share multiple personality traits. 

Is a Goldendoodle a good first dog? 

The Goldendoodle is a good first dog that is simple to teach. They’re eager to please, making them a great choice for new owners. Early socialization lessons are suggested to ensure that your Goldendoodle gets along with others. They also like activities and make excellent outdoors companions.

Do Goldendoodles bite kids? 

Goldendoodles can bite children, but not violently; rather, biting is a natural way for them to interact with their siblings. They are highly clever and, by nature, prefer to nip and bite in a way to either play or show affection towards kids.

Are Goldendoodles good with autistic children?

Goldendoodles are good with autistic children; 94% of parents said their autistic children had established a unique relationship with their dog. This classic breed is a popular choice for assisting kids with special needs, particularly those with autism spectrum disorders.

Is a Goldendoodle a good therapy dog?

Because they are bright, good-natured, and affectionate dogs, Goldendoodles make excellent therapy dogs. Goldendoodles have the greatest characteristics of both breeds. Therapy dogs aren’t typically called service dogs because they don’t perform practical duties for people.

Helpful Resources 

Goldendoodles – The Owners Guide from Puppy to Old Age by Alan Kenworthy (you can also check this book on Amazon here)

How to keep your baby safe around your dog

Living with a Retriever: Recommendations and Sources

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Matt

Hey there, I'm Matt, the author behind Retrievershub.com. With a deep love for dogs and a dedication to strengthening the bond between owners and their retrievers, I've created a hub of resources for enthusiasts like you. Through engaging articles, training guides, and product reviews, I aim to provide practical advice that makes a real difference in your life as a dog owner. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the world of retrievers, my approachable and informative writing style ensures that you'll find valuable insights. Join me on this incredible journey of discovering what makes retrievers tick, unlocking their potential, and creating an unbreakable bond with your furry companion. Let's embark on an adventure of dog ownership together. Thank you for visiting Retrievershub.com and being part of our vibrant community.

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