Black Goldendoodle 101 (Color, traits & cost guide)

Meet the black Goldendoodle, a stunning hybrid dog that combines the smarts of the Poodle with the friendly and cordial nature of the Golden Retriever. Black Goldendoodles are a striking variation of the popular Goldendoodle crossbreed. He is blessed with jet-black fur and soulful brown eyes that look right into your heart.

Undoubtedly, the Goldendoodle (not to be confused with the Labradoodle), regardless of coat color, has captured the hearts of many, young and old. But what makes them so special? Is it their gentle ways or their love for play? Is it their heart-melting appearance or their low-shedding coats? Perhaps it is all these qualities that make him truly one of a kind. 

As a plus, Goldendoodles also come in an assortment of colors to choose from; from the popular cream and red shades to less common ones like black. Black varieties have the same great traits as cream, red, or apricot color varieties- you name it.

In this article, we will explore the black Goldendoodle, look at its unique characteristics, genetics, temperament, how to find one, and much more. Whether you are a prospective or current owner or simply a curious dog lover, join us as we delve into the world of this black Doodle.

Black Goldendoodle: Overview

Characteristic	Description
Height	Standard: 20-26 inches Mini: 15 -20 inches Toy: 10-25 pounds
Weight	Standard: 50-70 pounds Mini: 25-50 pounds Toy: 10-25 pounds
Coat type	Curly coats Wavy or fleece coats Straight or hairy coats All Goldendoodles have long luxurious coats
Coat color	Black
Price	$1000 to $4500
Lifespan	10 to 15 years

Traditional Goldendoodles are known for their red, cream, or golden shades. In contrast, black Goldendoodles are quite rare and have a visually striking appearance that has made them increasingly popular. This unique coat color is inherited from the Poodle side of their lineage since the dominant black gene is only present in Poodles and not Golden Retrievers.

Golden Retrievers are not black-coated dogs. They are all red or red-based shades such as cream, golden, or light cream.

The coat color of black Goldendoodles may change over time to a grayish color as a result of their Poodle heritage. Other genes, rather than a single gene, may influence coat color. What’s more, new color genes are frequently being sequenced and discovered.

Black Goldendoodles are unique in that all of their features will match their coat, including their noses, eyes, and paw pads.

• Eye color: Dark brown
• Nose color: Black
• Lips: Black
• Eye rims: Black
• Nails: Black
• Skin: Black

Color variations

• Black and white Goldendoodle (black parti or random white): This coloration is caused by a complex relationship between the black and piebald gene that produces a wide range of white markings of various sizes. The dog may have minimal to moderate white marking on the face, chin, neck, chest, legs, paws, underbelly, and/or tail tip. 
• Black phantom Goldendoodle (tan-point Goldendoodle): These dogs have a black base color with well-defined markings of a second color such as red, tan, golden, cream, or off-white. The secondary markings appear on the eyebrows, cheeks, throat, chest, legs, underbelly, and below the tail. The black pigmentation in this dog is not caused by the black dominant gene but rather by the tan point gene. 

Generations

The black coloration can be got from any Goldendoodle generation: The first generation (F1 black Goldendoodle); the second generation (F2 black Goldendoodle); the third generation (F3 black Goldendoodle) and so on. 

• F1 Goldendoodle (Filial 1): 1st generation cross. 50% black Poodle X 50% Golden Retriever. 
• F1b Goldendoodle: 1st generation backcross. F1 Goldendoodle X Poodle or Golden Retriever. 
• F1bb Goldendoodle: 1st generation double-backcross. F1b Goldendoodle X Poodle or Golden Retriever
• F2 Goldendoodle (Filial 2): 2 generation cross. F1 Black Goldendoodle X F1 Goldendoodle. 

Black Goldendoodle Genetics

So, where do black Goldendoodles get their inky, jet-black coat? The Poodle lineage and heritage are important here because the black Goldendoodle gets its coat color from the Poodle side.

The black coat is caused by a dominant black gene (Kb) found on the K-locus, which allows the dog to produce black color pigment (eumelanin), which is deposited on the skin and the coat. Only one copy of the black gene (from the Poodle parent) is required for this pigmentation to occur since it is a dominant gene.

However, a Goldendoodle with a pair of recessive red genes (denoted as e/e on the E-locus) will not express the black coat. This is because the e/e gene pair is the most dominant. Goldendoodles with the gene pair e/e will be red-based (on red, cream, golden, tan, etc.). 

It is also important to note that the black pigment can be modified by other genes.

In other dogs the black coloration is caused by a pair or recessive genes on the Agouti Locus. An example of this is the Black German Shepherd.

Other genes

• Progressive greying gene: This is a dominant gene inherited from the Poodle lineage that causes the coat to lighten over time from black to grey. The change can be gradual or quite dramatic as the puppy matures. Only one copy of this gene should be present for this greying to occur.
• Brown gene: This is a recessive gene that alters the black pigment causing it to appear brown. For your furry friend to be brown or chocolate instead of black, two copies of the brown gene should be present.
• Dilution (blue) gene: This is a recessive gene that reduces the intensity of the black pigment to a blue-gray shade. Two copies of this gene should be present (from each parent) for dilution to occur. 
• Piebald (white spotting) gene: This is a co-dominant gene that prevents color pigment from reaching certain sections of the coat causing them to appear white. 

Black Goldendoodle Temperament

If you’re looking for a dog that is intelligent with the looks to match, look no further than the Goldendoodle. It is worth noting, however, Goldendoodles are not just all cute and goofy. This is a cross between two working dogs and thus requires exercise, training, and enrichment to stay happy, healthy, and out of trouble. 

Regardless of coat color, Goldendoodles are happy-go-lucky and friendly, making them a perfect fit for families with kids. They will fill your home with love, but they should never be left alone for extended periods. Some bark more than others, and others are more boisterous, but with proper training and care, they all make excellent pets, even for apartment dwellers.

With the right training, your ball of fluff will be a pleasure to own, getting along with everyone, including strangers and even the family cat.

Finding a Black Golden Doodle

Before getting a Black Goldendoodle, educate yourself on the breed’s characteristics, care needs, potential health, and behavioral issues. There are multiple approaches to finding your new canine friend

1. From a Breeder: To find a reputable Goldendoodle breeder, consult reliable sources like the Goldendoodle Association of North America (GANA) or the American Doodle Registry (ADR). Confirm that their breeding stock has produced black Doodles before. Amateur breeders may also breed the occasional litter but approach them with caution. You are likely to be added to a waiting list by paying a deposit as you wait for up to 12 months for a pup.
2. Online Marketplaces: There are online marketplaces such as AKC marketplace, Puppyfinder, Puppyspot, Facebook, or Craiglist where sellers market their canines. Conduct thorough research on the seller and be careful before making a purchase, as not all sellers are reputable. It is not recommended to buy a puppy online, but initial contact can be made here. Make sure that the seller is not using stock photos or videos and never pay for a puppy you have not seen in person. 
3. Word of mouth: Ask for referrals from other owners, veterinarians, or trainers for directions on decent breeders. 
4. Adoption: Consider checking out local animal shelters and Goldendoodle rescue organizations or those that specialize in Poodles or Golden Retrievers and their mixes. However, you will be hard-pressed to find a Black Goldendoodle in a shelter or rescue but it is worth a shot.

Visit the breeder in person and ask about their experience, health testing protocol, and references. Choose a breeder that conducts rigorous health testing on parent dogs and provides a health guarantee for at least two years. Avoid breeders claiming to have “rare” colors. Check online reviews and testimonials to verify their reputation.

Black Goldendoodle price

A black Goldendoodle puppy from a reputable breeder usually costs between $1000 and $4500, depending on factors like size, location, breeder, and pedigree. Adoption fees can range from $200 to $1000, with lower fees at local shelters.

Known Breeders

• Moss Creek Goldendoodles, Florida.
• Strong Oaks Goldendoodles, North Carolina. 
• Euro Goldendoodles, North Carolina. 
• Platinum Goldendoodles, Arkansas. 

Care needs

• Nutrition: To maintain the health of a Black Goldendoodle, provide a high-quality, balanced diet rich in essential minerals, vitamins, protein, fat, and healthy carbs. Give 2-3 daily portions a day and clean water. Avoid high quantities of grains and opt for raw food or carefully sourced kibble. Consult your vet for food options ideal for the breed.
• Exercise: Puppies need low-intensity activities such as short walks, fetch, and games until they reach about 12 months as over-exertion could harm their growing joints. Increase to 45 min/day after maturity to prevent obesity and boredom. Include mental stimulation with puzzles and toys. These athletic dogs enjoy classic canine activities. 
• Grooming: A black doodle’s coat needs extensive brushing and combing to prevent matting, and remove dead hair, dirt, burrs, briars, and so on. Dirt and sun exposure (sunning) can cause the coat to lose its sheen, but a color-enhancing shampoo can restore its vibrancy. A healthy diet and proper shading are also necessary for the coat. Some owners can opt for shorter haircuts to reduce maintenance, while others visit groomers for maintenance every six weeks.
• Training: Train Goldendoodles positively, rewarding them with what motivates them. Start training while they are puppies and socialize by exposing them to various people, places, and animals. Crate training and alone-time training are recommended. Also, puppies should be trained in many basic things like potty training, not barking or chewing, simple sit and stay commands, and how to walk politely on a leash.
• Health care: Vet visits once or twice a year for worming medication, vaccines, and so on will keep the pooch healthy. To support healthy joints, consider giving glucosamine chondroitin supplements. Always consult a vet before administering any medications or supplements.

Recognition & Registration

Goldendoodles are not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) since they are not purebred. However, this should not deter you from registering your furry friend! The AKC offers the Canine Partners Program for mixed breeds.

Other organizations also provide registration options. They include: 

• Continental Kennel Club (CKC)
• Goldendoodle Association of North America (GANA)
• The Goldendoodle Registry (TGR)
• American Doodle Registry (ADR) 

The choice of registry depends on your aim for registration, and each organization’s process varies. You can typically register your pup online or via email by providing basic information.  You may be asked to provide your dog’s background, name, age, date of birth, date of acquisition, type, color, gender, and appearance, along with additional requirements requested by the organization. It’s essential to keep the information and documents provided by the breeder.

Some registries only allow membership to puppies produced by breeders registered under the organization. Once registered, you will receive a printed pedigree that verifies your Goldendoodle’s ancestry.

In addition, registration allows you to participate in events, sports, and competitive activities while becoming part of the Goldendoodle community.

FAQ

Do black Goldendoodles change color?

not all Goldendoodle puppies that are born black will stay black into adulthood. Some may experience progressive graying, which is caused by a dominant graying gene found on the G-locus of a DNA sequence. This gene is responsible for a gradual change in color from black to a blue-gray color with a silver hue, and it typically starts as early as 6 weeks and takes 1 to 3 years to complete.

Are black Goldendoodles rare?

While black Goldendoodles are not as common as other shades like red and apricot, the popularity of the breed has been increasing, leading to more breeders producing black Goldendoodles. However, be cautious of sellers who market their black Goldendoodles as rare.

In conclusion

With so matter interest in the black Goldendoodle, it is important to note that, as of now, color has not been shown to have an impact on a dog’s temperament and black Doodles are no different. 

Each dog is unique and even puppies in the same litter can and do vary in looks and personality. Of importance is to be aware of the responsibilities and expenses of owning a Goldendoodle, especially the standard size, before committing. 

We are interested in what you have to say about the black Doodle. Share with us in the comment section below.

There you go, Woof!