Are Goldendoodles Good With Kids?
By Pat & Sonny Heino, Bittersweet Goldendoodles, Newport NH
Families with children are some of our favorite people to place puppies with. Goldendoodles have a well-earned reputation as friendly, gentle family dogs, but every puppy needs guidance and every child needs rules. Here is what we have learned in 20 years.
Why Goldendoodles suit families
Goldendoodles combine the friendly, patient nature of the Golden Retriever with the smart, playful spirit of the Poodle. Most are social, affectionate and eager to be part of whatever the family is doing.
That people-focused personality makes them a natural fit for busy homes. They love company, they enjoy games and they tend to stay cheerful even when the house is noisy.
Raised around people from day one
The way a puppy starts life matters. Our puppies are born and raised in our home, where they hear everyday noise, meet visitors and are handled every day. By the time they leave, they are used to being picked up and talked to.
If you are choosing a breeder, ask whether puppies are raised in the house. Early contact with people is one of the best gifts a puppy can have.
Teaching children to be gentle
A puppy is not a toy. Show children how to pet softly on the chest and back, how to sit on the floor to play and how to leave a sleeping puppy alone. Young children should never carry a puppy, because a fall can cause serious injury.
Make rules together. No pulling ears or tails, no hugging tight, and no waking a sleeping puppy. Praise kids when they follow the rules, and they will be proud to be part of your puppy’s training.
Supervision matters
Always supervise play between young children and a puppy. Puppies nip and jump, and children can squeal and run, which excites a puppy more. Short play sessions with a calm adult nearby keep everyone safe.
Give your puppy a quiet place to retreat, like a crate or a bed in a calm corner, and teach children not to bother the dog when it is there. Every dog needs a safe space.
Handling puppy nipping
Nipping is normal for young puppies, but it needs a response. When teeth touch skin, say ouch, stop playing for a moment and offer a chew toy. Praise gentle play.
Never hit or scare a puppy. Gentle redirection and consistency teach better than punishment, and children can learn to help by offering toys instead of hands.
Letting kids help with training
Children love to help with puppy training. Let them practice sit, give treats and play fetch with supervision. It builds a bond between child and dog and teaches responsibility.
Give each child age-appropriate jobs, such as filling the water bowl or helping with a brushing session. A shared routine helps the puppy see every family member as a friend.
Choosing the right size for your children
A mini Goldendoodle, around 25 to 30 pounds, is often a great fit for families with young children. It is sturdy enough for play but small enough not to knock little ones over. Standards can be wonderful with older kids, but a big, bouncy puppy can overwhelm a toddler.
Think about your children’s ages and your space. If you are not sure which size fits, call us and we will talk it through with you.
Come meet our family of dogs
The best way to see how a Goldendoodle behaves around children is to visit. Bring your kids to our farm in Newport, New Hampshire, and watch how the dogs and puppies respond.
Call us at 603-543-7012 to book a visit. We are always happy to talk about life with kids and dogs, since many of our families have both.
Common mistakes families make
The most common mistake is expecting a puppy to behave like an adult dog. Puppies are mouthy, excitable and tired much of the time, and they need patience. Another mistake is leaving a child alone with a puppy, even for a minute, because things can go wrong quickly.
Families also sometimes forget to give the puppy rest. A tired puppy gets nippy and cranky, just like a tired toddler. Schedule naps in the crate and let everyone know that a sleeping puppy is off limits.
Growing up together
Children and doodles often form deep bonds. A puppy that grows up with kids learns their routines and becomes part of the family’s daily life. Kids learn kindness, patience and responsibility from caring for a dog.
Many of our families send us photos years later of children and dogs who have grown up side by side. Those messages are some of the best parts of our work.
When a Goldendoodle may not fit yet
Be honest about your season of life. If you have a newborn, a very chaotic schedule or toddlers who cannot yet be gentle, waiting a little may be kinder to everyone. A puppy needs hours of training, supervision and attention each day.
There is no shame in waiting until things settle. When the time is right, call us at 603-543-7012 and we will talk about what is available, and which size and temperament would suit your household best.
Ready to meet a puppy?
See our available mini Goldendoodle puppies, read the 100 most common Goldendoodle questions, or visit our contact page for directions to the farm. The quickest way to reach us is to call 603-543-7012.