
Get to know the red Goldendoodle
Are you curious about the red Goldendoodle? Or maybe you’ve recently added a little firecracker dood to your family. Either way, you’ve come to the right place if you’d like to learn about the red Goldendoodle.
The red wrapping is just the beginning…
I admit it. While I love all dogs, I’m over the moon for a slightly derpy, loveable, red Goldendoodle named Chloe. Her cinnamon-red curly locks are the furry wrapping for her slightly goofy personality and her heart of gold. And our little red Muppet dog fits right in…many of her human family members are gingers too.
Yes, I’m a self-professed, doodle-obsessed dog mom. (Can you relate? Then check out this quiz: 10 Signs You Might Be a Doodle Dog Fanatic.)
Additionally, I’m an avid researcher and have gained my fair share of knowledge about the Goldendoodle dog and living the Goldendoodle lifestyle. (I call it a lifestyle because you can join doodle romps and meet-ups, learn doggolingo, shop for Goldendoodle gear for both you and your dood, and enjoy many happy adventures with your Goldendoodle by your side.)
Inspired by Chloe and Ruby (Chloe’s dog cousin), here are seven things I’ve learned about red Goldendoodles:

1. Red is just one of many colors of Goldendoodles.
Where do Goldendoodles (a hybrid or crossbreed dog) get their good looks? These loveable doods get their cuteness from their parent breeds: the Golden Retriever and the Poodle.
Cream, apricot, and red coats are found in both the pure-bred Golden Retriever and the Poodle. Plus, the Poodle breed brings black, chocolate, and parti colors to the mix. (For more facts about the Goldendoodle, check out my article: What is a Goldendoodle?)
Here are some common Goldendoodle coat colors:
- Red
- White
- Cream Goldendoodle
- Apricot
- Black Goldendoodle
- Brown or chocolate
- Parti (a combo of brown or black and white)
- Other combinations such as phantom
No matter the shade of a doodle’s coat, a Goldendoodle will add color to your life!
2. A Goldendoodle’s coat color can change as they grow.
Both Chloe and Ruby had red puppy coats that lightened gradually as they grew into adults. From my research and from listening to other doodle moms, this seems typical of many red Goldendoodles—coat colors may fade or lighten as they reach adulthood. Even a deep, dark red Goldendoodle puppy’s coat may lighten or fade.
Interestingly, Chloe’s ears and tail have stayed the deepest red (almost true to her puppy coloring) and her body has lightened over time.

I like comparing a Goldendoodle to opening a box of Cracker Jacks. While you don’t quite know what the surprise inside will be (from coloring to coat type to personality), you know there’s fun and happiness in store.

Right: And she’s all smiles as a full-grown Goldendoodle.
3. Color changes are gradual.
When Chloe was a puppy, I noticed that at around five months of age, some white hairs started popping up in her red coat. Over time, her coat lightened from a radiant red to a color I describe as cinnamon red. (Now as a mature adult, I’ve noticed more tiny white hairs popping up around her eyes.)

Also, it’s worth mentioning that Chloe has black toenails. Learning how to cut your dog’s black nails can be more challenging than trimming light nails because it’s harder to see the quick (the blood and nerve supply) on dark-colored nails.

While these little doods’ coat colors may change as they grow, their loveable and energetic personalities just keep pulling tighter on your heartstrings.
4. Red Goldendoodles are so much more than their teddy bear good looks.
No matter the coat color, type (wavy, curly, or fleece) or size (mini Goldendoodle or 80-pound lap sitter), Goldendoodle dogs are so much more than their teddy bear good looks.
Because they tend to be smart, social, and easily trained, many Goldendoodles become working dogs including therapy dogs or service dogs. If you’re interested in learning more about therapy dog certification, the McSquare Doodles blog provides a comprehensive overview of how to certify your doodle dog as a therapy dog.
Or, take a peek into a day in the life of Harley and Jaxson, two Goldendoodle therapy dogs who comfort patients at a hospital.
5. Many Goldendoodles love exercising, energy burns, adventures, and brain games.
Red Goldendoodles, like all Goldendoodles, need daily exercise and plenty of brain games or mental stimulation.
Typically, they are active dogs and love to play. Whether it’s walking through a neighborhood, hiking on nature trails, or jogging through a park, you and your furry sidekick can explore the world and lead an active lifestyle together.
6. A Goldendoodle can spark joy in your life.
Bringing a Goldendoodle into your home is exciting as well as filled with new responsibilities. T
he most important things you can do? Give your new family member lots of tender loving care, socialization, time with the family, age-appropriate exercise, positive training, ongoing veterinary care, and your time and attention.
As with any puppy, the more joy you put into making his or her life the very best it can be, the more joy you’ll receive.
7. Doodles are “golden.”
Typically, Goldendoodles are quick to learn how to fit in with the entire family and adapt to life with you. And you will fall in love with the happy, slightly goofy, smart, loveable Goldendoodle. No matter whether they are red, cream, white, or black, they are definitely “golden.”
How did your dog’s coat change as he or she grew up?
We’d love to hear! Please comment below.
Russ Polena
Friday 1st of May 2020
A new baby a Red mini Goldendoodle
Jen
Tuesday 10th of December 2019
My almost one year old doodle looks like a retriever. He has always been straight coat. Color was light brownish but his hair has thinned drastically, he is kinda reddish now. Also about 10lbs more then his dad whom is very curly as mom. I'm wondering if it's common for 1 yr old doodles to not get their curls?
HappyGoDoodle
Sunday 15th of December 2019
Since Goldendoodles are a cross between the Golden Retriever and the Poodle, their coats vary widely. Some will have a sporty (Golden Retriever) coat, some a curly (Poodle) coat, and some have variations between the two. Enjoy discovering every stage of puppyhood! Doodle kisses and tail wags!
GROOVY GOLDENDOODLES
Wednesday 17th of July 2019
Hello Chloe - thanks so much for the mention - the Boys truly love pet therapy work, and I love having them at work with me! We have many Doodles that volunteer with us - there's even a red goldendoodle named Ragamuffin! She's a terrific therapy pup. Take care and let's keep in touch -
HappyGoDoodle
Wednesday 31st of July 2019
You're very welcome! It's always fun to see what you are up to on your doodle blog. And a red Goldendoodle named Ragmuffin? That's just too cute for words. Please send some happy "helloooos" to all the therapy pups and the people that they love. What a special gift you, your dogs, and all therapy dogs share with others. Thank you!