Black Goldendoodles 101: Facts, Pictures, Price & More

Do you wanna learn more about your black Goldendoodle?

Or maybe you’re planning to adopt one?

Whatever the case is…

I’m sure you’d love to get to know black Goldendoodles more.

Continue reading to find out:

• How big black Goldendoodles can get.
• Whether these canines are hard to find.
• Why some black Goldendoodles’ hair color changes over time.
• And this is just the beginning…

Black Goldendoodle – origin

Goldendoodles are a mix of two well-known dog breeds. They are a cross between Golden Retrievers and Poodles.

The AKC considers Goldendoodles as a “designer breed.” This comes from the fact that humans “designed” them. Meaning, people in the past bred them for specific purposes.

Well, if you really think about it, a lot of canines were purposely “designed” by humans. People pick dogs that have characteristics that would help them in their tasks. 

And then breed them with other canines.

This is why we have excellent hunting dogs. Just like the Irish Wolfhound mix canines.

Other examples of these hunting “designer” dogs are:

• Curs.
• Feists.
• Lurchers.
• Longdogs.
• Bull arabs.
• Bull catahoulas.

People didn’t just breed dogs to create top-notch hunters. There are also other characteristics they found useful.

Some canines have a better sense of smell than others. They can easily sniff out and track items. Other canines are good in herding flocks of livestock.

In the case of Goldendoodles, they’re bred mostly as companion dogs. They became highly popular during the 1990s.

Others breed Goldendoodles for their looks.

And I get why people do it. They’re really cute and cuddly canines.

And there’s a variety of looks you can choose from.

Goldendoodles typically come in an array of colors. 

But usually, the hues existing in both Golden Retrievers and Poodles show up.

The most common ones are:

• Red.
• Cream.
• Apricot.

Both cream and apricot are lighter shades of red. It’s like when your printer runs out of black ink. It prints out different shades of color. From black to light gray.

But, a Goldendoodle’s color doesn’t just come from the Golden Retriever side. Sometimes, Poodle colors show up, too.

This is where the color of Black Goldendoodles comes from.

Poodles also come in other colors such as:

• Blue.
• Gray.
• White.
• Silver.
• Brown.
• Cafe au lait.
• Silver beige.

That’s a lot of hues to choose from. But when Golden Retrievers are mixed with Poodles, they only show a few colors.

I’ll discuss more of this in a while.

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7 surprising facts about black Goldendoodles

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#1: Are Black Goldendoodles rare?

Genes are the main reason why a dog looks in a certain way. Their environment and diet may also affect their appearance.

But, when it comes to colors, DNA dictates most of them.

Goldendoodles can come in several different hues. Some are even a mix of different colors.

But they only have 5 solid-colored ones. This is a standard set by the Goldendoodle Association of North America.

GANA recognizes the following colors:

• Red.
• Black.
• Cream.
• Apricot.
• Chocolate.

But, out of all these, black is the rarest hue.

“Why’s that?”

Well, for one, only Poodles carry the black-colored coat gene. As mentioned, both Golden Retrievers and Poodles have red, cream, and apricot.

It’s hard to purposely breed a black Goldendoodle. And this can make some fur parents want to have one.

If you really want to adopt a black-colored Goldendoodle, you can go to local rescue centers. They might have black ones waiting for you.

You can also go to a breeder if you know one. Just make sure that they’re ethical in breeding these pups.

Some signs you need to look for in a good breeder

Sign #1: Keeping pups until they’re around 9 weeks old.

Sign #2: Providing complete medical records of the pups.

Sign #3: Giving soon-to-be parents a 4-generation pedigree.

Sign #4: A member of the official parents club of several dog breeds.

Sign #5: Having a specific potty area in their home. Newspapers everywhere so dogs can poop/pee is a red flag.

There are some breeders who would neglect young dogs. They do this by not giving them enough attention while they’re growing. And if this happens, young pups won’t be socialized.

This can result in a dog who doesn’t know how to act around other canines and people. Or will act all rowdy when there are visitors. An example of this poor behavior is humping after eating.

Other signs that a dog isn’t bred ethically are:

• Not getting house-trained.
• Having poor grooming and hygiene.
• Showing fear when people are around.

#2: How much does a black Goldendoodle cost?

As established, black Goldendoodles are rare. And economics dictate that price is usually high for sought-after things.

This also applies to dogs, too. Typically, Goldendoodles cost around $1,000 (£756). But, black ones will usually set you back around $1,500 to $3,000 (£1,134 to £2,269).

Some may even ask for up to $5,000 (£3,781)!

And honestly, I get it. Breeders can never predict if a black Goldendoodle is going to be born. And if they do, they only come in small numbers.

But the cost difference mostly stops here. Taking care of black Goldendoodles is the same as how you would treat light-colored ones. Hence, the maintenance cost can be similar.

Warning: Be wary if someone sells you a black Goldendoodle that is too affordable. Reputable breeders put a pretty steep price on these canines due to their rarity.

Make sure you do your research on puppy mills in your area. It’s even better if you’re able to ask other fur parents. Talk to those who already adopted black Goldendoodles.

#3: How big do black Goldendoodles get?

Black Goldendoodles don’t differ in size compared to their lighter-colored siblings. 

They all come in different sizes. And these are:

• Petite.
• Medium.
• Standard.
• Miniature.

Petite Size

The petite-sized Goldendoodles are the smallest of the bunch. They are perfect for those who are looking for lap dogs.

These canines typically stand below 14 in. (10 cm.) 

And they weigh around 25 lbs. (11 kg.) or less.

They’re perfect if you want to have a dog you can bring on trips.

Miniature Size

If you want to adopt something a bit bigger, then go for the miniature black Goldendoodle.

They usually stand between 14 in. to 17 in. (35 cm. to 42 cm.) 

And they weigh somewhere around 26 lbs. to 35 lbs. (12 kg. to 16 kg.)

Medium Size

This size is a bit smaller than the Standard range.

Their height is somewhere between 17 in. to 21 in. (43 cm. to 52 cm.)

Medium-sized Goldendoodles weigh 36 lbs. to 50 lbs. (16 kg. to 23 kg.)

Standard Size

Standard-sized black Goldendoodles usually stand over 21 in. (53cm.) 

And weigh around 51 lbs. (23 kg.) and above.

This wide array of choices makes black Goldendoodles perfect as a family dog. You can choose ones that fit your life.

Some fur parents live in tiny houses and studio room condominium units. If you are one of them, then you might wanna adopt a petite or miniature-sized dog.

Those who have wide lawns and live in rural areas can opt for the medium or standard size.

Note: Breeders can only speculate about the size of black Goldendoodles. Their final appearance will be seen when they reach adulthood.

But, some breeders are experienced enough to have correct educated guesses.

#4: Do black Goldendoodles shed?

Black Goldendoodles can be considered hypoallergenic dogs. Because their dander doesn’t shed much. These are the dead skin cells of canines. And they cause allergies in some people.

Their fur also doesn’t shed a lot.

Dog parents who have white furniture would love this fact. Imagine having a black-haired canine who sheds on light-colored couches. 

I can hear the collective sighs of fur parents who are in this situation.

Those who have sensitive noses can also adopt black Goldendoodles. They probably wouldn’t have a bad reaction to their fur.

People allergic to dogs who will adopt black Goldendoodles will avoid some of these:

• Cough.
• Sneezing.
• Runny nose.
• Irritated eyes.
• Swollen eye bags.
• Pressure on the face.
• Constantly waking up.
• Congestion of the nose.

If you do have a reaction to a canine, here are a few things you can do:

• Taking antihistamines.
• Utilizing a saline sinus rinse.
• Using nasal decongestants and corticosteroids.

These are important because some black Goldendoodles still shed their fur. This is caused by, again, genetics.

You see, a “Doodle” dog should have furnishings. These are the longer hair strands on a canine’s facial hair such as:

• Beards.
• Eyebrows.
• Mustaches.

And these are typically found on Goldendoodles. Although, not all of them have it. Some fur parents do prefer Goldendoodles who don’t have furnishings.

Their faces kinda look closer to a Golden Retriever’s. Since they have an “open face.” Meaning, they have shorter facial hair.

Goldendoodles with open faces typically shed more.

This isn’t just some assumption of a breeder. Nor is it an observed situation. There really is science behind this.

According to research, most canine fur types are dictated by these three genes:

• FGF5.
• KRT71.
• RSPO2.

Let’s focus on the last gene on the list. Because this is what dictates whether or not a dog has an open face.

Another research shows that an insertion in the RSPO2 gene can alter a dog’s looks. Typically, a variant allele should be found in it. But sometimes, it’s replaced by something else.

In other canines, a wild-type allele appears on their RSPO2 gene. And this is what makes dogs have an open face.

That’s why you need to check a black Goldendoodle’s fur before adopting them. Especially if you want a hypoallergenic one.

Simply, if they have long facial hair, they won’t shed a lot. And if you want one with an open face, be ready for their shedding.

#5: Do black Goldendoodles change color?

There are some instances that black Goldendoodles change colors. The shift in their coat is a bit subtle. 

What usually happens is that their hair lightens. From black, their fur might become dark gray. And then eventually have a light gray color.

Some fur of black-colored canines even turn into these colors:

• Red.
• White.
• Brown.

And here are some reasons why color change happens:

• Diet.
• Illness.
• Too much sun exposure.
• Constant licking in a specific area.

Let’s dive into each.

Diet

What your canine eats will definitely affect their appearance. Their diet doesn’t just dictate their height, muscle growth, and weight. Their fur will also take a hit if their nutrition isn’t complete. 

That’s why you need to give them a well-balanced meal. It’s also the reason why some canines are always hungry.

If you want to focus on their hair, a healthy dose of the following would be good:

• Omega-6.
• Omega-3.

These can also help dogs have healthier skin and better coat:

• Zinc.
• Vitamin A.

Warning: Too much of these vitamins are also unhealthy for canines. It’s best to consult your vet for the proper amount your dog needs.

But it can be time-consuming to prepare food that contains all the listed nutrients. If you’re someone who’s got a tight schedule, supplements are your friends.

The Dinovite Dog Supplement can help your canine develop a healthier coat. You can buy this from Amazon.

Illnesses

One of the tell-tale signs your dog isn’t feeling well is through their coat. If it goes through an unusual change, then they could be sick.

The MSDVM lists some of these illnesses as causes of changes in fur color:

Illness #1: Acquired aurotrichia

This disease usually starts when a canine is still a young adult. 

What happens is that the hair on the middle of their back changes in color. From a typical black, it can switch into gray or golden.

Illness #2: Color dilution alopecia

A black Goldendoodle with this disease can grow blue, beige, or fawn hair colors. It usually happens before they turn 1 year old. 

They’ll have inflamed hair follicles where the blue and fawn fur grows. Which will then lead to hair loss.

Sun exposure

Some dogs love playing under the sun. However, black-colored canines may have fur discoloration because of this.

Sunlight can bleach dark hair. And because of this, your pooch might show a bit of red in their coat.

Although, it can take a long time for this to take effect. What you can do is apply protection to your dog’s fur.

The Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray can help keep your pooch’s hair protected from the sun.

Constant licking

Hair discoloration caused by saliva is pretty common in light-colored dogs. However, it can happen to ones with black fur, too.

Maybe you’ve noticed this especially in dogs with long facial hair. Their beards and mustaches might have different colors. And no, that’s not just from dust and dirt.

Dr. Mahaney states that saliva can stain a dog’s hair and turn it into:

• Red.
• Pink.
• Brown.

In dark-colored dogs, a “rusty” shade will be seen.

Now, if your pooch constantly licks an area in their body, it could change in color. Your dog might lick the following parts:

• Paws.
• Base of their tail.

I know a fur parent’s love for their canine is unconditional. No matter what color pooches turn into, they’d still get a loving home and the care they deserve. 

However, if it’s caused by neglect, then something needs to change. After all, a dog isn’t just a pet. They’re a responsibility and a part of a fur parent’s family.

#6: How to groom black Goldendoodles?

One of the most striking characteristics of a black Goldendoodle is their hair. And the awesome thing is, their coats come in different types.

Typically, their fur is either:

• Wavy.
• Curly.
• Straight.

And I must say, all of them look beautiful.

A black Goldendoodle’s hair can be time-consuming to maintain. But, it’s necessary for them to have healthy fur.

Black Goldendoodles have double coats. Which means they have 2 layers of hair. Their undercoats are short. And their topcoats are longer, which are also called “guard hairs.”

Having double coats is beneficial for canines. Since these can help protect them from the elements. They wouldn’t get cold easily.

Black Goldendoodles also have a blow season. What happens during this time is that your pooch will shed their soft undercoats. This occurs during warm-weather seasons.

It helps canines with double coats be comfortable during summer and springtime.

To assist in this, you’ll need to use special tools. The Pat Your Pet Deshedding Brush can help make your job easier.

You’ll also need to watch out for hair tangles and matting. Black Goldendoodle hair is prone to this.

Watch this fur parent groom their pup:

Bathing your dog would also be needed regularly. Dust and gunk might accumulate in their fur. And this can cause harm to their skin. Which can make their hair dull.

#7: Are black Goldendoodles aggressive dogs?

Black Goldendoodles are extremely friendly canines. And because of this, people adopt them as family dogs.

There are canines who are good with kids. Black Goldendoodles are on the top of the list.

Meanwhile, other canines can’t tolerate roughhousing. These dogs are usually easily frightened. Or they physically can’t stand rough playing with kids.

You know how some children are…

They have the tendency to pull on a dog’s legs, ears, and tail. Some even ride them like how a knight rides their horse.

But kids aren’t the only ones that may cause problems. 

Fur parents also check to see if a dog can get along well with other canines. If your pooch can’t be friends with their siblings, you’ll find issues in the future.

Some dogs who don’t get along fight a lot. This can cause injuries, wounds, and stress to their fur parents.

However, problems like these are less likely to happen with a black Goldendoodle.

This is because they’re descendants of both Golden Retrievers and Poodles. And these canines are excellent family dogs. Let’s talk about each of them.

Golden Retriever

This dog breed has Scottish roots. But they found a way to a lot of American homes. The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular canines in the U.S.

And part of the reason why they’re so in demand is because of their character.

Golden Retrievers are outgoing, trustworthy, and loyal canines. They’re also easy to train. This is probably caused by their eagerness to please their parents.

Golden Retrievers are also very friendly. They can connect with other canines quite easily. And they are good with kids, too.

Poodle

If you’re fond of watching dog shows, you probably have seen Poodles in one. They may not be as big as Bloodhounds but they’re agile and smart.

Poodles are also athletic canines. That’s why fur parents make them join dog shows. Their trainability helps with this, too.

Aside from their intelligence, Poodles are also known to be affectionate. And they are able to play and withstand roughhousing from kids.

Now, imagine a combination of these two canines. You’ll get a dog that’s very loving and affectionate.

That’s what black Goldendoodles are. It’s not to say that they won’t ever get aggressive. And, if they do, there are tricks you can do to calm them down. Here are a few:

• Giving them treats.
• Showing them their toys.
• Looking away from them.
• Stopping what you’re doing and walking the other way.

You may also wonder: 13 Reasons Why Your Dog Is Aggressive Towards Your Husband

Bonus: Are black Goldendoodles easy to train?

Given their ancestry, black Goldendoodles are highly trainable. This is also the reason why they’re perfect as companion dogs.

They’re good at accompanying the elderly and people with disabilities. Black Goldendoodles are also stable in most situations.

Part of their breed standard is to be consistent in their temperament’s stability. This is a crucial need for companion dogs.

They also shouldn’t be quick to be hostile. Black Goldendoodles are typically fearless and aren’t prone to unnecessary hyperactivity.

What Goldendoodle Parents Share From Experience

Ace, a fur parent, had unknowingly adopted a Goldendoodle. He named his canine Rassilon. And he has been very happy with his baby.

Ace was able to train Rassilon in obeying the following commands:

• “Sit.”
• ‘Heel.”
• “Fetch.”
• “Leave it.”
• “Go potty.”
• “Lay down.”

And he did it in just 4 months. Rassilon also loves to be with Ace all the time. He’s very attentive and clingy. Which makes sense because the canine is a companion dog.

Ace also mentions that Rassilon is a pretty chill canine. And he always plays with his fur baby indoors. Fetch is one of the games Rassilon likes to do.

The only outdoor activity Ace does with his baby is a quick walk. 30 mins. of strolling is already enough for Rassilon. 

3 pictures of black Goldendoodles

10 best names for black Goldendoodles

Having a cute name for your black Goldendoodle is essential. They’re awesome canines and deserve to have an equally lovable name.

Here are some suggestions I have:

• Grim.
• Bean.
• Oreo.
• Coffee.
• Raven.
• Cotton.
• Shaggy.
• Preso. (From espresso)
• Shadow. (Or Xado, if you want a different spelling)
• Juni. (From junis nigra. It’s the scientific name of black walnuts)