Are Goldendoodles Hypoallergenic? The Truth About Coats & Allergies

Goldendoodles are everywhere these days—and for good reason. With their fluffy coats, sweet personalities, and reputation for being “hypoallergenic,” it’s easy to see why so many people have fallen in love. But when it comes to their coats and allergies, how much of what we hear is actually true?

When my Golden Retriever, Sunny, passed away, I missed her more than words can describe. What I didn’t miss, though, was the constant tumbleweeds of hair collecting around the chair legs. That experience played a big role in why we chose Goldendoodles when we became breeders—we wanted that wonderful Golden Retriever personality we loved so much, just without the shedding.

At the time, we had no idea Goldendoodles were about to explode in popularity. Today, they’ve captured the hearts of dog lovers everywhere. But with all the buzz comes a lot of confusion. Are Goldendoodles really allergy-friendly? Does coat type matter? And what’s truth versus myth when it comes to shedding? Let’s sort it all out.

Understanding Goldendoodle Coats

Goldendoodles are a hybrid breed—a mix between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle—which means their coats can vary quite a bit depending on genetics. The big difference today is that we can now genetically test for the Furnishings gene and for coat curl, which takes a lot of the guesswork out of coat type and shedding.

Poodles carry two copies of the Furnishings gene (FF), and this is the gene responsible for the “allergy-friendly” trait and appearance—think facial hair, eyebrows, and that classic doodle look—as well as low to no shedding. We can also test for the curl gene, which allows us to thoughtfully pair a dam and sire not just for furnishings, but also for coat texture. This makes it possible to produce any of the three coat types: straight, wavy, or curly—while still maintaining a furnished, low-shedding coat.

Before genetic testing was available, breeders often relied on generations like F1b or F1bb (breeding a Goldendoodle back to a Poodle, sometimes more than once) in hopes of increasing curl. At the time, curl was believed to be closely tied to shedding. However, research has since clarified this misconception. According to the Goldendoodle Association of North America, curl and the so-called shedding gene are not reliable indicators of shedding in furnished dogs. In fact, the shedding gene only applies to unfurnished dogs—those with short facial hair—and has no impact on shedding in furnished Goldendoodles at all.

If low shedding and that classic furnished doodle look are important to you, it’s crucial to choose a breeder who uses genetic testing—like Beechwood Goldendoodles—instead of leaving those traits up to fate.

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So, what do these furnishing genes mean? The common abbreviation for the furnishing gene is an “F” and for a flat coat—meaning no furnishing gene—the abbreviation is “IC” (incorrect coat) or “f.” So in any Goldendoodle, there are three genetic possibilities: FF, Ff, ff.

The gene responsible for furnishings is dominant. By testing the parent dogs DNA, it can be determined if a breeding pair will produce puppies that all have furnishings, or if there will be some puppies with a flat or incorrect coat, like a Golden Retriever. Dogs with one copy of the furnishings gene (Ff) are lower shedding than dogs without furnishings. Dogs with two copies of furnishing genes (FF) are typically non-shedding.

At Beechwood, our genetic knowledge of the parent dogs of Multigenerational Goldendoodles ensures we don’t unintentionally produce puppies with flat coats (without furnishings).

But here’s the thing. A Goldendoodle or poodle with two furnishings (FF) cannot guarantee that you will not be allergic to the pup…

The Allergy Myth

You may have heard people say, “Goldendoodles are hypoallergenic.” Here’s the truth:

• No dog is completely hypoallergenic. All dogs produce allergens—mainly a protein in saliva, dander, and urine.

• FF and Ff genes have a role in reducing shedding. Less shedding means fewer allergens floating around the house, which can help allergy sufferers. In general, FF tends to be no shedding and Ff low shedding.

• Individual reactions vary. Some people may tolerate a Goldendoodle well, while others may still experience sneezing, itchy eyes, or skin reactions.

  
  

How to Minimize Allergies With Goldendoodles

If you or someone in your household has allergies, there are ways to make life with a Goldendoodle easier:

1. Regular grooming: Brushing at least 2–3 times a week helps remove loose hair and dander. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks keeps curls manageable.

2. Frequent bathing: A bath every 4–6 weeks can reduce allergens on the coat.

3. Vacuum and clean often: HEPA filters and frequent cleaning reduce dander in the home.

4. Choose the right coat: If allergies are a concern, aim for FF—less shedding helps.

Key Takeaways

• Goldendoodles can be a good choice for allergy sufferers, but there are no guarantees.

• If you suffer from allergies, a responsible Goldendoodle breeder can tell you if their pups are FF, Ff, or ff.

• “Hypoallergenic” is relative—not absolute.

• With grooming, cleaning, and care, Goldendoodles and allergy sufferers can often coexist happily.

Final Thoughts

Goldendoodles are wonderful companions, with coats that range from wavy to curly and personalities that brighten any home. Understanding the reality behind their “hypoallergenic” reputation helps set realistic expectations and ensures a happy life for both dog and owner.

Whether you’re drawn to their cuddly waves or tight curls, a Goldendoodle’s love is worth the grooming routine and allergy precautions.

Bottom Line

Goldendoodles are lovable, family-friendly dogs with coats ranging from wavy to curly. Understanding the truth about shedding and allergies ensures you and your furry friend can live happily together.

Whether you’re a curly-coat fan or a wavy cuddler, one thing is certain: a Goldendoodle’s love is worth the extra brushing and cleaning.