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Standard Poodle versus Goldendoodle. Final Verdict on Which one is a Better Pet.

Last Updated: Apr 30, 2022

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Standard Poodle Versus Goldendoodle: Introduction

Are you thinking of getting a new pet dog, and you have narrowed down your choices to the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle? Well, you have come to the right place. Because in this article, we will provide you with a detailed comparison of these two dog breeds to help you decide which of the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle better suits you.

We will provide you a detailed discussion and comparison of dog attributes such as intelligence, price, general health, friendliness, etc, for both the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle.

Furthermore, we will let you know which one of the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle is better suited for new dog owners, for owners with kids, for owners that live in apartments, for owners with dog allergies, etc.

Importantly, we did some analysis and calculation and we obtained a number that we call the Better-Pet Score™ for both the Standard Poodle and for the Goldendoodle. The dog breed with the higher Better-Pet score is the `better` pet. We hope that these Better-Pet Scores will provide you with more insight into deciding which pet to get between the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle.

Our only goal here is to help you make a well-thought-out decision on your next long-term companion, be it the Standard Poodle or the Goldendoodle.

Note that there are 3 types of Poodles:

  • The Standard Poodle
  • The Miniature Poodle
  • The Toy Poodle


  • However, these 3 poodle `types` are basically the same. The only difference between them is size. Standard Poodles are big, toy poodles are small, and miniature poodles are medium-sized.

    See this article that compares the poodle (standard,miniature, and toy) to the Goldendoodle.

    Read more about the subtle differences between the standard poodle vs. miniature poodle here and the toy poodle versus miniature poodle here.

    Standard Poodle versus Goldendoodle

    Standard Poodle versus Goldendoodle: Overview

    Both the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle are similar in size. The Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle are both large-sized dogs.

    Furthermore, the Standard Poodle belongs to the Companion Dogs group. Companion Dogs were bred to be companions for humans. Their main goal in life is to be with people, and they will be very sad if left to themselves for long hours day after day.

    On the other hand, the Goldendoodle belongs to the Hybrid Dogs group. Hybrid Dogs are the offspring of 2 or more known, but different, dog breeds.

    Standard Poodle versus Goldendoodle: Comparison Table

    The table below compares the Standard Poodle to the Goldendoodle based on different important factors such as Price, Health, Kid-friendliness, etc.

    When a dog breed scores higher for a factor than the other dog breed, the box of the breed that scores higher is shaded green and the box of the breed that scores lower is shaded red. When there is no difference between the breeds for a particular factor then the box is shaded gray for both pets. Also, when the factor is not important in picking a pet, or when the factor cannot be compared between two pets, the box for the factor is shaded gray for both pets

    Most of the factors in the table for each dog breed are ranked on a scale of 1 to 5. “1” means “worst”, and “5” means “best”.

    However, some factors such as “Price”, “Average Lifespan”, etc. cannot be on a scale of 1 to 5, so they are not on a scale of 1 to 5 in the comparison table.

    Later in this article, we will further explain each factor as it applies to the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle

    FactorStandard PoodleGoldendoodle
    Tolerates Being Alone1/53/5
    Does NOT Shed5/54/5
    Does NOT Drool5/55/5
    Easy To Groom1/54/5
    Life Span12 to 15 years10 to 15 years
    General Health2/53/5
    Low Prey Drive4/55/5
    Does NOT Bark or Howl4/53/5
    Tolerates Cold Weather3/53/5
    Tendency NOT to Wander3/53/5
    Calmness/ Low Vigor3/53/5
    Weight35 to 70 pounds50 to 90 pounds
    Easygoing2/52/5
    Tolerates Hot Weather4/53/5
    Dog Friendly4/55/5
    Friendly Toward Strangers4/54/5
    Potential NOT to Gain Weight2/53/5
    Does NOT chew on things2/55/5
    NOT Rambunctious2/52/5
    Minimal Exercise Needs2/51/5
    Adapts Well To Apartment Living5/51/5
    Good For Novice Owners5/54/5
    Affectionate With Family5/55/5
    Kid-Friendly5/55/5
    Easy To Train5/54/5
    Intelligence5/55/5
    Potential For Playfulness5/55/5
    HeightFrom 10 to over 22 inches tall at the shoulder20 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder
    Average Lifespan13.5 years12.5 years
    Average Price$1980$2160
    Price Range$1400 – $2500$1500 – $2500
    Common Health Problems and Recommended Health Tests
  • Eye Examination
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Patellar Luxation
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) DNA Test
  • No Data
    *Data from AKC.org (The American Kennel Club),dogtime.com, OFA.org (The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals), petcalculator.com, wikipedia.org, ATTS.org (The American Temperament Test Society)

    Next, we added the scores of the factors that can be added together for the Standard Poodle in the table (that is, `Ease of Grooming` score + `General Health` score + `Calmness` score + …etc) and we compared it to the corresponding total score for the Goldendoodle. We call these total scores the Better-Pet Scores, as we mentioned earlier. We called this score the Better-Pet score because the better dog breed will have a higher score. This is because the pet will the higher score will have minimal needs and be easier to have as a pet.

    The Better-Pet score for the Standard Poodle is 88 out of 125 while the Better-Pet score for the Goldendoodle is 90 out of 125.

    Despite the higher Better-Pet score of the Goldendoodle, we still believe that the Standard Poodle is a better pet than the Goldendoodle.

    This is because Standard Poodles are much cuter but you cannot put a score on cuteness. If you could put a score on cuteness, then the Standard Poodle will come out on top.

    Also, we are biased in favor of the Standard Poodle :-). We are for the Standard Poodle. So get a Standard Poodle!

    Standard Poodle versus Goldendoodle

    The Most Remarkable Differences Between the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle

    Below is a list of where the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle are most different:

  • Standard Poodles require a lot of grooming and are not very easy to groom. However, Goldendoodles are very easy to groom.
  • Standard Poodles are prone to nip and chew at things. However, Goldendoodles are not prone to nip and chew at things.
  • Standard Poodles adapt well to apartment living. However, Goldendoodles do not adapt well to apartment living.
  • The Similarities Between the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle

    The Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle are very similar in certain aspects. Below is the list of where the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle are most similar:

  • Both the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle do not shed a lot. They are good for people with dog allergies.
  • Both the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle do not have the tendency to drool.
  • Both the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle have the tendency to develop certain health problems.
  • Both the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle have a very low prey drive. This means they get along well with other pets.
  • Both the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle are not very vocal. They have very low tendency to bark and howl.
  • Both the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle are easily disturbed by noise in their environments. They are sensitive to human tone. They will understand the tone of your voice when you try to correct their behaviors with a firm tone.
  • Both the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle can tolerate hot weather.
  • Both the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle get along well with other dogs.
  • Both the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle are very friendly towards strangers.
  • Both the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle gain weight easily. You need to pay careful attention to what you feed them.
  • Both the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle have very high energy levels. They need a lot of exercise time to release their high energy.
  • Both the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle require a lot of exercise. They are good for owners who like to exercise.
  • Both the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle are good for new dog owners.
  • Both the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.
  • Both the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.
  • Both the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle are very easy to train.
  • Both the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle are highly intelligent.
  • Both the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle are very playful.
  • Size Comparison of the Standard Poodle versus Goldendoodle

    Now, let us discuss the difference in size between the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle.

    The Standard Poodle weighs 35 to 70 pounds when fully grown. The Standard Poodle is From 10 to over 22 inches tall at the shoulder when fully grown.

    On the other hand, the Goldendoodle weighs 50 to 90 pounds when fully grown. The Goldendoodle is 20 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder when fully grown.

    Size of Standard Poodle versus Size of Goldendoodle

    As mentioned earlier, Poodles come in three main size categories. These three size categories are referred to as the three varieties of the poodle. Poodles of different varieties are basically the same except for their size differences.

    Standard Poodles are the biggest of the poodle varieties. Adult Standard Poodles are 24 inches to 27 inches tall and weigh between 38 pounds and 70 pounds. To learn more about Standard Poodle Growth, Weight, and Height, check out our article on Standard Poodle growth, weight and height.

    Appearance (Colors) of the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle

    Standard Poodle Colors

    The Standard Poodle comes in the following beautiful primary colors:

    • White / Cream
    • Black
    • Yellow / Tan / Blond / Fawn
    • Apricot / Beige
    • Red / Chestnut / Orange
    • Bicolor
    • Brown / Chocolate
    • Golden
    • Gray / Blue / Silver

    The Standard Poodle comes in the following lovely secondary colors in addition to its primary colors:

    • Brown / Chocolate
    • White / Cream
    • Yellow / Tan / Blond / Fawn
    • Black
    • Gray / Blue / Silver

    Goldendoodle Colors

    The Goldendoodle comes in the following beautiful primary colors:

    • Apricot / Beige
    • Black
    • White / Cream
    • Golden
    • Brown / Chocolate
    • Red / Chestnut / Orange
    • Merle (Blue)
    • Yellow / Tan / Blond / Fawn
    • Tricolor (Brown, Black, & White)

    The Goldendoodle comes in the following lovely secondary colors in addition to its primary colors:

    • White / Cream
    • Yellow / Tan / Blond / Fawn
    • Apricot / Beige
    • Brown / Chocolate
    • Golden

    Lifespan of Standard Poodle versus Goldendoodle

    The lifespan of the Standard Poodle is between 12 to 15 years. The average lifespan of the Standard Poodle is 13.5 years.

    The lifespan of the Goldendoodle is between 10 to 15 years. The average lifespan of the Goldendoodle is 12.5 years.

    The Standard Poodle live longer than the Goldendoodle.

    Standard Poodle versus Goldendoodle

    Price of Standard Poodle versus Price of Goldendoodle

    The average price of the Standard Poodle puppy is $1980. The price of the Standard Poodle typically ranges from $1400 – $2500. However, the price of a Standard Poodle can be as low as $200 and as high as $15000. We obtained this price information by reviewing the prices of 2524 Standard Poodle puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The average price of the Goldendoodle puppy is $2160. The price of the Goldendoodle typically ranges from $1500 – $2500. However, the price of the Goldendoodle can be as low as $300 and as high as $16000. We obtained this price information by collecting and reviewing the prices of 4237 Goldendoodle puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The Goldendoodle is more expensive than the Standard Poodle.

    Standard Poodle Goldendoodle
    Average Price $1980 $2160
    Price Range $1400 to $2500 $1500 to $2500

    The charts below show the price distribution for the Standard Poodle and Goldendoodle. For different price points, the charts show how many Standard Poodle puppies or how many Goldendoodle puppies are listed for sale at those price points.

    A breakdown of the prices of Standard Poodles. The typical price range is shaded Green.

    A breakdown of the prices of Standard Poodles. The typical price range is shaded Green.

    A breakdown of the prices of Goldendoodles

    A breakdown of the prices of Goldendoodles

    Note that a lot of factors determine how much you can expect to pay for the Standard Poodle puppy or the Goldendoodle puppy. This includes if health screening tests have been performed on the puppy, if the puppy is from a famous pedigree, the US State where the puppy is bred, etc.

    Nevertheless, when looking to buy a puppy, look at buying a puppy only from well-established breeders that breed puppies primarily for the love of dogs, and secondarily for profit. Do not buy a puppy from a puppy mill. Puppy mills mass-produce puppies in bad living conditions for maximum profit.

    You may also consider adopting a dog instead of buying a dog.

    To know about standard poodle prices and standard poodle buying advice, check out our article on standard poodle cost.

    Standard Poodle versus Goldendoodle

    Adopting the Standard Poodle versus Adopting the Goldendoodle

    You may consider adopting a dog instead of buying a puppy. Many Standard Poodles and many Goldendoodles are currently available for adoption.

    These adorable and cute dogs are waiting in dog shelters hoping that someday someone will rescue them. Furthermore, adoption costs are lesser than the cost of a new puppy. Dog adoption costs are usually around $300. In addition to your local dog shelter, a good place online to see dogs that are available for adoption is petfinder.com.

    Below is an adorable Male Standard Poodle named Noodle that is currently available for adoption on Petfinder.com. You can find other lovely adoptable Standard Poodles like Noodle on pefinder.com.

    Also, like Standard Poodles, Goldendoodles are also available for adoption. For example, Winter-Il is a Male Goldendoodle that is currently available for adoption on petfinder.com. You can find more Goldendoodles like Winter-Il that are up for adoption on petfinder.com.

    The Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle can both be adopted. Images from petfinder.com

    Clifford is the name of another Standard Poodle (Male) on petfinder.com that is looking for a new home.

    Also, Milo is an adorable Male Goldendoodle on petfinder.com that you can adopt.

    Standard Poodles and Goldendoodles are always available for adoption. Images from petfinder.com

    You can find more Standard Poodles and Goldendoodles that are available for adoption on petfinder.

    Tolerates Being Alone: Standard Poodle versus Goldendoodle

    Standard Poodles do not like to be left alone.

    Poodles, by nature, are companion dogs. They like and thrive on human companionship more than most dog breeds. Poodles do not like to be left alone. Leaving a poodle alone for more than 4 hours day after day will cause separation anxiety and isolation distress in a poodle. If you plan to get a poodle, make sure you can be around your poodle most of the time, or arrange for a dog walker.

    See our article on how long you can leave a poodle alone.

    Goldendoodles can be left alone only for a short time.

    Do Standard Poodles shed more than Goldendoodles?

    Standard Poodles do not shed a lot. They are good for people with dog allergies.

    Although all dogs shed, and poodles are no different in this regard. But poodles shed less than many other breeds of dogs. However, if you own a poodle, you will not have the problem of having balls of dog hair on your couch and over your house. This is because the curly coat of the poodle traps the hair and other things that the poodle sheds. Therefore, people that are allergic to dogs tend to tolerate poodles better.

    Check out our articles to learn more on why poodles do not shed, and on standard poodle shedding.

    Goldendoodles do not shed a lot. They are good for people with dog allergies.

    Which is Easier to Groom, the Standard Poodle or the Goldendoodle?

    Standard Poodles require a lot of grooming and they are not very easy to groom.

    To learn more about how to properly groom a poodle, check out our article on how to groom a poodle.

    Learn more on how to take care of a poodle here.

    Goldendoodles are very easy to groom.

    Which Dog Breed is more Dog-Friendly, the Standard Poodle or the Goldendoodle?

    Standard Poodles get along very well with other dogs.

    Poodles get along very well with other dogs. Poodles are very friendly. However, it is up to the other dog to reciprocate the friendliness. Some dog breeds are just unfriendly and aggressive.

    Read this article to learn about the dog breeds that get along well with poodle and the dog breeds that do not along with poodles.

    Goldendoodles get along very well with other dogs.

    Are Standard Poodles good family dogs? What about Goldendoodles?

    Standard Poodles are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.

    Poodles make a good addition to a family. They love kids and kids love them.

    Learn about standard poodles as family dogs here.

    Goldendoodles are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.

    Is the Standard Poodle Easier to Train than the Goldendoodle?

    Standard Poodles are very easy to train.

    Poodles are easy to train because they are intelligent and eager to please their owners. However, it is important that you begin training a poodle to make the most out of their natural intelligence. Moreover, training your Poodle should be based on positive reinforcement and repetition. Be sure to give your Poodle praise when he obeys a command and ignores your poodle`s bad behavior.

    To learn more, check out our article on how to train a poodle.

    Goldendoodles are very easy to train.

    Which one drools more, the Standard Poodle or the Goldendoodle

    Standard Poodles do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Goldendoodles do have a very low tendency to drool.

    How Kid-friendly are Standard Poodles and Goldendoodles?

    Standard Poodles get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.

    Goldendoodles get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.

    Does the Standard Poodle Have a Higher Prey Drive than the Goldendoodle?

    Standard Poodles have a very low prey drive. This means they get won`t chase after smaller pets. They tend to get along well with other pets.

    Goldendoodles have a very low prey drive. This means they get won`t chase after smaller pets. They tend to get along well with other pets.

    Do Standard Poodles Bark and Howl? What about Goldendoodles?

    Standard Poodles are not very vocal. They do not tend to bark and howl.

    Goldendoodles bark and howl, but not very much.

    Can Standard Poodles Tolerate Cold Weather? And can Goldendoodles Tolerate Cold Weather?

    Standard Poodles can moderately tolerate cold weather.

    Goldendoodles can moderately tolerate cold weather.

    Wanderlust Potential: Standard Poodle vs. Goldendoodle

    Standard Poodles have a moderate tendency to wander. This means that they sometimes get distracted by other animals or objects.

    Goldendoodles have a moderate tendency to wander. This means that they sometimes get distracted by other animals or objects.

    Can Standard Poodles Tolerate Hot Weather? Can Goldendoodles Tolerate Hot Weather?

    Standard Poodles can tolerate hot weather.

    Goldendoodles can tolerate hot weather as long as the weather is not too hot.

    Is the Standard Poodle Better for Apartment Owners than the Goldendoodle?

    Standard Poodles adapt very well to apartment living.

    Goldendoodles do not adapt well to apartment living.

    Which is Better for New Dog Owners, the Standard Poodle or the Goldendoodle?

    Standard Poodles are very good for new dog owners.

    Goldendoodles are very good for new dog owners.

    Standard Poodle Versus Other Dog Breeds

    You may also be interested in how the Standard Poodle compares to other breeds aside from the Goldendoodle. So, see below the links to the comparison of the Standard Poodle to other breeds:

    Standard Poodle versus Basset Hound     Standard Poodle versus Great Dane     Standard Poodle versus Irish Water Spaniel     Standard Poodle versus Bernese Mountain Dog     Standard Poodle versus Airedale Terrier     Standard Poodle versus Cocker Spaniel     Standard Poodle versus Belgian Malinois     Standard Poodle versus Standard Schnauzer     Standard Poodle versus Goldendoodle     Standard Poodle versus Saint Bernard     Standard Poodle versus Labradoodle     Standard Poodle versus Australian Shepherd     Standard Poodle versus Alaskan Malamute     Standard Poodle versus Giant Schnauzer     Standard Poodle versus Jack Russell Terrier     

    Conclusion: Standard Poodle versus Goldendoodle. Which One is a Better Pet?

    In summary, there is nothing like a better dog breed or a worse dog breed. The important question to ask is which dog breed better matches your interests and lifestyle. We hope our discussion above will help you in deciding which dog breed between the Standard Poodle and the Goldendoodle better suits you and your family.