Goldendoodle Generations: A Complete Guide for Owners

Introduction

Goldendoodles are one of the most loved dog breeds because they are smart, friendly, and great for families. But did you know Goldendoodles come in different generations? These generations, like first-generation Goldendoodle, affect their looks, size, and even behavior. This guide will explain everything about Goldendoodle generations so you can pick the best one for your home. Whether you want a playful puppy or a calm companion, understanding generations helps you make the right choice.

What Are Goldendoodle Generations?

Other generations include F1B (75% Poodle, 25% Golden Retriever) and F2 (two F1 Goldendoodles bred together). Each generation has different coat types, shedding levels, and temperaments. For example, first-generation Goldendoodles often have wavy coats and shed a little, while F1B doodles have curlier coats and shed less. Knowing these differences helps you choose the right dog for allergies or lifestyle.

Read more About different Goldendoodle sizes

Why Understanding Generations Matters?

Picking the right Goldendoodle generation ensures you get a dog that fits your life. If you want a first-generation Goldendoodle, expect a friendly, energetic dog with moderate shedding. But if allergies are a concern, an F1B (more Poodle genes) might be better. Generations also affect size—some stay small, others grow bigger. By learning about each type, you avoid surprises and find the perfect furry friend.

What Does the “F” Mean in Goldendoodle Breeding?

Before exploring the differences between Goldendoodle generations, let’s clarify the meaning of “F.” The letter “F” stands for filial, indicating the generation after the parental line. The number following the “F” specifies the Goldendoodle’s generation.

For example:

• Breeders create an F1 Goldendoodle by crossing a Golden Retriever with a Poodle. 
• An F2 Goldendoodle results when two F1 Goldendoodles mate. 
• Crossing two F2 Goldendoodles produces a Multigen Goldendoodle. 

Understanding these distinctions helps predict litter traits.

What About the “B” Designation?

The “B” denotes backcrossing, where breeders pair an F1 Goldendoodle with one of the original parent breeds (a Golden Retriever or Poodle). This practice maintains a genetic balance of roughly 50% from each parent breed in the offspring.

Understanding the Goldendoodle Generations

Goldendoodle generations tell you how breeders mix Golden Retrievers and Poodles. Each generation has unique traits that affect looks, shedding, and health.

F1 is the first-generation Goldendoodle, while F1B has more Poodle genes. Multigen means many generations of Goldendoodle breeding.

How Generations Affect Coat Type, Shedding, and Allergies

The generation changes your Goldendoodle’s coat and shedding:

• F1 Goldendoodles have wavy coats and shed lightly.
• F1B Goldendoodles have curlier coats and shed less (better for allergies).
• F2 and Multigen coats vary—some are curly, some wavy.

Pet Doctor Advice:
If allergies are a concern, choose F1B or Multigen Goldendoodles—they shed less. Always check with a vet before picking a dog if someone in your home has allergies.

Goldendoodle Generations Explained

F1 Goldendoodle (First Generation)

The F1 Goldendoodle is the original mix—50% Golden Retriever and 50% Poodle. This first-generation cross gives puppies the best traits of both breeds: intelligence, friendliness, and a low-shedding coat.

Key Facts:
✔ Coat Type & Shedding: Wavy or loose curls; sheds lightly (not fully hypoallergenic).
✔ Temperament: Playful, social, and easy to train—great for families.
✔ Health Benefits: Hybrid vigor (often healthier than purebred parents due to genetic diversity).

Tip: F1 Goldendoodles suit homes that don’t need a fully hypoallergenic dog but want a friendly, low-maintenance pet.

F1B Goldendoodle (First Backcross)

An F1B Goldendoodle is 75% Poodle and 25% Golden Retriever (bred from an F1 + Poodle). The extra Poodle genes make them ideal for allergy sufferers.

Key Differences from F1:
✔ Coat: Curlier, tighter curls (almost non-shedding).
✔ Allergy-Friendly: Best generation for allergy-prone homes.
✔ Temperament: Slightly calmer than F1 but still playful.

F1BB Goldendoodle (Backcross-Backcross)

The F1BB Goldendoodle (87.5% Poodle, 12.5% Golden Retriever) is the rarest—and most hypoallergenic—generation.

Why It Stands Out:
✔ Hypoallergenic: Nearly zero shedding (curliest coat).
✔ Temperament: More Poodle-like (smart, gentle).
✔ Rarity: Few breeders offer F1BBs—ask if allergies are severe.

F2 Goldendoodle (Second Generation)

An F2 Goldendoodle comes from two F1 parents (50% Poodle, 50% Golden Retriever). The genes mix unpredictably, causing big variations in coats and traits.

What to Expect:
✔ Coat Roulette: Can be straight, wavy, or curly (hard to predict shedding).
✔ Health/Temperament: Less consistent than F1 or F1B.

Warning: F2s aren’t ideal for allergy sufferers—their coat type isn’t guaranteed.

F2B Goldendoodle (Second-Generation Backcross)

The F2B Goldendoodle (62.5% Poodle, 37.5% Golden Retriever) balances traits better than F2s.

Why It’s Special:
✔ Coat: Usually curly (low-shedding).
✔ Temperament: Calmer than F1 but still affectionate.
✔ Reliability: More predictable than F2s.

F2BB Goldendoodle (Third-Generation Backcross)

The F2BB Goldendoodle (75% Poodle, 25% Golden Retriever) is the ultimate low-shedding, family-friendly Doodle. By crossing an F1 Goldendoodle (50/50) with a purebred Poodle (100%), this generation maximizes the Poodle’s hypoallergenic coat and intelligence while keeping the Golden’s sweet personality.

Why It’s Special

✔ Coat: Tight curls—minimal shedding (ideal for allergies).
✔ Temperament: Smarter and calmer than F1/F2, but just as loving.
✔ Consistency: Most predictable in size, coat, and health of all hybrids.

Perfect For: Families who want a trainable, cuddly, and low-maintenance companion.

Pro Tip: F2BBs are rarer than F1B/F2B—choose breeders who DNA test parents for health.

F3 Goldendoodles (Third-Generation)

F3 Goldendoodles are the refined, predictable result of Goldendoodle-to-Goldendoodle breeding.

What Defines Them:
✔ Coat: Ranges from curly (most hypoallergenic) to wavy/straight – more consistent than F1/F2.
✔ Temperament: Calmer than earlier gens, with Golden Retriever friendliness + Poodle smarts.
✔ Health: Hybrid vigor from multigen breeding (lower risk than purebreds).

Multigenerational Goldendoodles (Multigen)

Multigen Goldendoodles come from multiple generations of Goldendoodle breeding (not just Poodle + Golden mixes).

What Defines Them:
✔ Coat: Consistently curly (hypoallergenic).
✔ Temperament: Stable, well-socialized.
✔ Health: Bred for fewer genetic issues.

Why Breeders Prefer Multigen Goldendoodles

Breeders love Multigens because:
✔ Predictability: Coat, size, and temperament are consistent.
✔ Health: Years of selective breeding reduce risks.
✔ Demand: Buyers pay more for guaranteed traits.

Resource: Reputable breeders like the GANA (Goldendoodle Association of North America) recommend Multigens for reliability.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Generation

Picking the right Goldendoodle generation depends on your lifestyle. Think about allergies, family needs, and grooming time. Each generation offers different benefits.

Best Generations for Allergy Sufferers

If allergies bother you, focus on generations with more Poodle DNA. F1B Goldendoodles (75% Poodle) shed very little and work well for most allergy sufferers. For even better results, F1BB Goldendoodles (87.5% Poodle) hardly shed at all. Their tight, curly coats trap dander, making them the most hypoallergenic.

Avoid F1 and F2 generations if allergies are severe—they shed more. Always spend time with a dog before bringing one home to test your reaction.

Which Generation is Best for Families?

Families need friendly, patient, and trainable dogs. F1 Goldendoodles (50% Golden Retriever) are perfect—they’re playful, social, and great with kids. If you want less shedding but the same loving personality, F1B or F2B generations work well.

Stay away from F2 Goldendoodles if you need predictability—their traits vary. Multigens (bred over many generations) are also excellent for families because they have stable temperaments.

Read more about how smart are Goldendoodles ?

Coat Type & Grooming Needs by Generation

Each generation has different coats and grooming needs:

• F1: Wavy or loose curls—brush 2-3 times a week to prevent mats.
• F1B/F1BB: Tight curls—brush daily and trim every 6-8 weeks.
• F2: Unpredictable—some shed, some don’t. Regular brushing is a must.
• Multigen: Consistently curly—needs professional grooming every 6 weeks.

Pro tip: Curlier coats = more maintenance. If you hate brushing, consider a shorter haircut!

Key Takeaways:

1. Hypoallergenic? Curlier coats (F1B, F1BB, F2BB, Multigen) shed least.
2. Temperament becomes more predictable with each generation (Multigen = calmest).
3. Health: Early gens (F1/F1B) have hybrid vigor; Multigens may have fewer genetic surprises.
4. Family Pick: Multigens win for consistency, but F1Bs balance cost + low shedding.

Hybrid Vigor: Does It Make a Difference?

Hybrid vigor (or heterosis) means mixed-breed dogs often have stronger health than purebreds. This happens when two different gene pools combine, reducing inherited diseases. But does it apply to all Goldendoodle generations? Let’s break it down.

Why First-Generation Goldendoodles Are Healthier

F1 Goldendoodles (50% Golden Retriever + 50% Poodle) benefit most from hybrid vigor. Their diverse genes lower risks of breed-specific issues like hip dysplasia (common in Goldens) or Addison’s disease (seen in Poodles).

A 2013 UC Davis study found mixed breeds have a 13% lower risk of genetic disorders than purebreds. However, hybrid vigor weakens in later generations (like F2 or multigens) where similar genes recombine.

Resource: UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Lab

Does Hybrid Vigor Decrease in Later Generations?

Yes. F2 and multigen Goldendoodles lose some hybrid vigor because they’re bred from similar gene pools. For example, two F1 parents (F2 generation) may pass on overlapping health risks.

Breeders combat this by:
✔ Health testing parents (OFA hips, DNA tests)
✔ Avoiding linebreeding (mixing closely related dogs)

Resource: Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA)

Common Myths About Goldendoodle Generations

“F1 Goldendoodles Are Always Healthier” – True or False?

False. While F1 Goldendoodles benefit from hybrid vigor (stronger health due to mixed genes), they aren’t always healthier. Health depends on:
✔ Parental screening (Were the Golden Retriever and Poodle tested for genetic diseases?)
✔ Breeding practices (Irresponsible breeders can still produce unhealthy F1s).
Later generations (like multigens) can be just as healthy—if breeders prioritize genetic diversity and testing.

“F1B Goldendoodles Don’t Shed at All” – The Reality

Myth. No dog is 100% non-shedding, but F1B Goldendoodles (75% Poodle) shed very little. Their tight curls trap loose hair, making them near-hypoallergenic. However:

• Allergies react to dander (skin flakes), not just hair.
• Some F1Bs may still shed minimally if they inherit more Golden Retriever coat traits.

Tip: Always meet the dog before buying if allergies are a concern.

“Multigen Goldendoodles Are the Same as F2B – Misconception

False. These generations are totally different:

Multigens have stable coats/temperaments after years of selective breeding. F2Bs are less predictable.

Choosing the Right Goldendoodle Generation for You

Picking the perfect Goldendoodle generation can be tricky—but we’ll make it easy! Answer these key questions to find your match:

✅ Do you or a family member have allergies?
→ Yes = F1B, F1BB, or Multigen (curlier coats shed less)
→ No = Any generation works!

✅ Do you want a predictable coat/temperament?
→ Yes = F1B or Multigen
→ No = F1 or F2 (more variety)

✅ Is this your first dog?
→ Yes = F1 or F1B (easier to train)
→ No = Any generation!

A Quiz to Find Your Ideal Goldendoodle Generation

(Circle your answers to find your match!)

1. Your lifestyle is:
   A) Busy, need low-maintenance 🐕
   B) Active, love grooming/playtime 🎾
   C) Flexible, just want a friendly pup ❤️
2. Allergies in your home?
   A) Yes—need hypoallergenic 🌬️
   B) No—shedding is okay 🏡
3. You prefer a dog that’s:
   A) Super social and playful 🎉
   B) Calm and cuddly 🛋️
   C) A mix of both! ⚖️

Results:

• Mostly A’s = F1B (easy-care + hypoallergenic)
• Mostly B’s = Multigen (predictable + calm)
• Mostly C’s = F1 (balanced traits)

Breeder Tips on Selecting the Best Generation

✔ Ask for health tests (OFA hips, elbows, DNA for PRA)
✔ Meet the parents (temperament is often inherited)
✔ Avoid “F2” if you need predictability (coat/temperament vary)
✔ Multigens cost more—but for good reason (health + consistency)

Pro Tip: Reputable breeders will ask you questions too—they want the right match!

Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Perfect Goldendoodle Generation

Picking the right Goldendoodle generation comes down to your specific needs and lifestyle. First-generation (F1) Goldendoodles offer that perfect 50/50 mix of Golden Retriever and Poodle traits – they’re wonderfully friendly and great for families, though they do shed a bit. If allergies are a concern, you’ll want to look at F1B or even F1BB generations with their higher Poodle content and curlier, low-shedding coats.

For those wanting maximum predictability in both looks and personality, multigenerational Goldendoodles are worth the investment, as they’ve been bred for consistent traits over many generations. Meanwhile, F2 and F2B generations can be a bit of a wild card – they might be perfect for you if you don’t mind some variability in coat type and temperament.

Remember, the “best” generation isn’t the same for everyone. It’s about what works for your home, your family, and your lifestyle. Always choose a reputable breeder who health tests their dogs and can help match you with the right puppy. With this knowledge, you’re ready to find your ideal Goldendoodle companion!

Still unsure? Go back to our quiz or reach out to trusted breeders for personalized advice. Your perfect doodle is out there!

For those interested in learning about other Goldendoodles, you can check out our detailed articles on Standard Goldendoodles, Teacup Goldendoodles, Mini Goldendoodles, Micro Mini Goldendoodles, Medium Goldendoodles, Petite Goldendoodles and other related breeds. Each generation has its own unique qualities, and understanding the differences can help you choose the best fit for your lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)