Let’s take a closer look at comparing a Flandoodle vs. Goldendoodle. When considering a Flandoodle, you may think they are just like any other Doodle. Afterall, Goldendoodle or Flandoodle, they can’t be much different, right? Well, that is where you are wrong. The Flandoodle is its unique breed. They can make excellent pets for the right owner.
Origin
Both the Flandoodle and the Goldendoodle have one common ancestor, the Poodle. Poodles originated in the France and German border as a hunting dog. You probably can’t imagine the froufrou dogs that we see today as a sport dog. But, their waterproof coats made them great at hunting fish and ducks. Poodles are incredibly smart and have come into light recently to make our Doodles we have today.
Flandoodles are also half Bouvier des Flandres. These dogs originated in Belgium as cow and sheep herding dogs. Their sturdy build and eagerness to learn made them great candidates for police dogs and guard dogs. The first Flandoodle most likely came about as a hypoallergenic companion dog with these strong Flandres traits.
Goldendoodles, on the other hand, are half Golden Retriever. Golden Retrievers originated in Scotland as a hunting dog. These dogs had the mission of retrieving game birds that were shot out of the sky. They had gentle mouths as not to damage the game. The first Goldendoodle hybrid is the result of trying to find a hypoallergenic guide dog. Golden Retrievers are usually a first go-to for any service dog, but the Goldendoodle makes an excellent option for those with mild allergies.
Temperament
Now that you see the roots of these two Doodles, it is easier to distinguish how their temperaments will be.
Flandoodles are a loyal breed with a strong will. They are gentle and sweet to their owners, but require early socialization around strangers and children. These dogs are happy dogs that enjoy every moment with their owners. If you have kids, training is crucial and never leave children alone with your dog.
Goldendoodles are a very bright dog. They love everyone and everything. Nothing in this world will stop a Goldendoodle from saying, “Hi!” They are very devoted dogs and very in tune with your emotions. They love training and making you proud.
Energy Level
Flandoodles have a high energy level. So, be prepared to go on at least two walks a day and lots of playtime. Flandoodles need a lot of stimulation to keep them from getting into trouble. If you are not one that goes outside much, a Flandoodle isn’t for you. Without enough exercise, your Flandoodle will develop bad behaviors such as chewing, digging, and even marking.
Goldendoodles, on the other hand, are only moderately active. One walk a day, and some playtime are enough to keep them satisfied. In fact, you may have to be diligent about exercise for your Goldendoodle. Since they love to be where ever you are, they can be prone to becoming lazy with age. If you are a homebody, they will become one too. And just like us, they can develop things like obesity, heart disease, and diabetes from lack of exercise.
If you love keeping busy and doing activities, the Flandoodle is right for you. They will like to go on every adventure. And while the Goldendoodle loves the adventure too, they don’t need it. They can be just as content with an owner who gets out once a day and or on weekends for special fun.
Training
Both the Flandoodle and Goldendoodle are very comparable in intelligence. They both love the attention and are eager to please. Both of these Doodles learn quickly and love a challenge. You will find that they are easily housebroken and learn basic commands quickly. Positive reinforcement is a great way to train your Doodle, and of course, it takes some patience.
You may find that when these breeds are puppies, they are over-excited. And that’s ok. Just give them a quick walk around the block or a game of tug-of-war to wear them out a bit. This is natural for most puppies, and as they age, it disappears.
However, there is one way that these Doodles are different. Flandoodles can sometimes be a little too strong-willed. They will eventually hit puberty and will try to resist training. It is essential to stay calm during this time. Maybe even break up the training sessions a little. Try 15 minutes with a 10-minute break. That should be enough to help them refocus and get their wiggles out.
Coat Types
Our next topic is about how these Doodles have different coat types. You wouldn’t think that it matters much, but the coat type has a lot to do with how much it sheds.
Flandoodles can have either a rough wirey coat or a soft silky coat. The hair ranges from loose waves to tight curls. If you are looking for a hypoallergenic coat, you will want a Flandoodle with a curlier coat. Wavy coats have minimal shedding, but curly coats have virtually no shedding at all. You can also get a Flandoodle in almost any color you want. The most common colors are brown, black, white, and grey. But you can also get them in tan, red, and blue through select breeders.
Goldendoodles can have straight, wavy, or curly hair. Straight hair sheds more than any other coat type and is not considered hypoallergenic. While wavy and curly coats are hypoallergenic, the curly coat sheds less. And despite the name “Golden,” you can get a Goldendoodle in almost any color you can imagine. The most common colors are black, copper, white, apricot, golden, and cream.
Grooming
Although the Flandoodle and Goldendoodle have different coat types, they require the same grooming. Doodles are known to have a high-maintenance coat as a result of not shedding. They get tangles quickly, and if these are left, they will become un-brushable mats.
To groom these Doodles, you will need to brush them every day. Especially if you are very active, these dogs will need more brushing. You will want to have a variety of combs and brushes for when the inevitable knot happens. Being gentle is also the key since Doodles have very sensitive skin. If you ever have questions about brushing, your groomer would be glad to help.
Speaking of a groomer, that is another vital part of having a Doodle. Doodles need to see a professional groomer every 6-12 weeks for a hair trim. The longer the hair gets on your dog, the harder it is to manage. Keeping up with trims is an easy way to keep their hair under control.
Size And Lifespan
One big difference in the Flandoodle and Goldendoodle is size. Flandoodles only come in one recognized size, standard. Standard Flandoodles are anywhere from 55-80 pounds. Now, some breeders will offer a Mini Flandoodle using a Mini Bouvier des Flandres and Mini Poodle. These mini sizes are hard to predict and can vary in size within the same litter. If you are interested in a Mini Flandoodle, you will want to see the parents and any previous puppies they have had together.
Goldendoodles come in mini, small standard, and standard sizes. These are all great options depending on your lifestyle and living situation. Mini Goldendoodles weigh 15-35 pounds and are great for apartment life. They can also be great for people with smaller children who can be easily knocked over. Small standards grow to be 40-50 pounds, making them a great middle ground. And the standard gets up to 90 pounds fully grown.
When it comes to lifespan, though, these dogs are very similar. The Flandoodle has an average lifespan of 10-12 years and the Goldendoodle 10-15. Smaller Goldendoodles live longer than standard sizes.
Medical Concerns
Most Doodle breeds have some similarities in what they are prone to. That is because they can all develop diseases from the Poodle parent.
Flandoodles are prone to:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Cancer
- Eye disease
- And Heart disease
Goldendoodles are prone to:
- Joint damage
- Ear infections
- Eye disease
- Von Willebrand disease
- Thyroid issues
- And allergies
To reduce the risk of these diseases, it is crucial to find a reputable breeder. They will do an extensive health check on both parents and all puppies. Reputable breeders even make sure that the mating match is genetically sound before producing a litter.
Cost
Our last point to compare is the price. The average Flandoodle will cost you anywhere from $300 to $1,000. While the Goldendoodle can cost between $1,500 to $2,500.
These prices all depend on where you live and how available they are. Flandoodles are not as common as Goldendoodles and can be hard to find. If you don’t have a Flandoodle breeder in your area, you might have to pay more in visits and shipping cost of the puppy. You also will likely have a waiting list to get a Flandoodle so that it will take a little planning.
Goldendoodles can cost more for a rare color variation or size. Goldendoodles are very widespread across America, so chances are you won’t have some of the same obstacles.
What Do You Think?
Do you still think all Doodles are the same? Doodles certainly have a lot in common, but they couldn’t be any more different. Flandoodles work best for people who love large dogs that are as adventurous as they are. Goldendoodles are great for people who want a fun dog who also loves to cuddle. It all depends on your situation, which is best.