The Goldendoodle is definitely a must-have dog especially for people who are fans of luxurious dog crossbreeds. This breed is actually considered a designer breed, where there is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. With their luxurious locks, royal demeanor, and overall versatility, it will be really hard to pass up the chance of getting one.
The Moyen Goldendoodle is what you call a Goldendoodle that is between the size of a miniature and a standard size Goldendoodle. Usually, they are 15-20 inches in height. Also, their weight can range from 40-50 pounds.
As you may have noticed, the Moyen Goldendoodle is the ideal size for a Goldendoodle as it will not be too fragile compared to one that is smaller in size, but at the same time, it is not too big to really intimidate you. Keep on reading to learn more about this majestic breed!
What is a Goldendoodle?
The Goldendoodle is still considered a young crossbreed compared to other crossbreeds like the Labradoodle (a cross between a Labrador and Poodle) or the Pomskie (cross between a Pomeranian and Husky) But the demand for them is growing as they have proven to be a good companion and even service dogs.
It was first bred in the 1990s when there was a surge of Labradoodles and Cockapoos. The aim of the breeders was to produce a bigger Doodle that is low maintenance at the same time. Meaning, there should be less shedding and dander.
At the same time, they wanted to breed a dog that also has a friendly demeanor, very intelligent, and highly trainable. All of the said characteristics are the default ones that are owned by the Golden Retriever. Thus, breeders thought of combining Golden Retrievers and Poodles to create a new “Doodle.”
As said earlier, they are still considered a new designer breed. Therefore, Goldendoodle pups are still a product of first-generation breeding. This also means that it is a bit rare to breed a pair of Goldendoodles.
Keep in mind that even though it is such a popular breed, it still does not have any breed registry or club. However, there are Goldendoodle communities that share the love and ownership of the breed. In fact, the love for this breed is so strong that many believe that it will be the most popular Doodle.
What is a Moyen (medium) Goldendoodle?
You can categorize the Goldendoodle based on their sizes. In general, there are three sizes which are:
- Miniature Goldendoodle
- Small Standard Goldendoodle/Moyen Goldendoodle
- Large Standard Goldendoodle/Standard Goldendoodle
The Miniature Goldendoodle is the product of crossing a Miniature or Toy Poodle with a Golden Retriever. Usually, their height is 13 to 20 inches and they weigh 15 to 35 pounds. On the opposite side of the spectrum is the Large Standard Goldendoodle or Standard Goldendoodle which is 20-24 inches in height and 50 to 90 pounds in weight.
Our focus which is the Moyen Goldendoodle is what you can call “just the right size” because its height is somewhere between 15 to 20 inches and it weighs about 40 to 50 pounds.
The Small Standard Goldendoodle or often called the Moyen Goldendoodle got its name from the French word “Moyen” which literally means medium. This term is also used in France to refer to Poodles that are intermediate in size. As for the rest of Europe, they simply refer to those sizes as Kleins.
As we have mentioned earlier, the Moyen Goldendoodle is the size between the Miniature and Standard Goldendoodles. However, do not mistake the Goldendoodle as being the product of the two other sizes of Goldendoodles.
Breeders and owners have noticed that Moyen Goldendoodles tend to have less of a girth compared to a Standard Goldendoodle. This also means that the size of the Golden Retriever in the breeding process is also essential in breeding a Moyen Goldendoodle.
Characteristics of the Moyen Goldendoodle
We might have probably tickled your fancy into getting a Moyen Goldendoodle. So let us tell you more about this fantastic breed.
Flexibility
- One might think that Moyen Goldendoodles are great for apartment living due to their small size, but this is not the case. As they can be high in energy, it is not advisable to have them cooped up in a small area for a long time or they may get bored and wreak havoc.
- They are great for new dog owners who do not really have much experience in taking care of and training dogs. Due to their easygoing personality and high trainability, it is easy for them to pick up good behaviors without much training. Further, they easily pick up on their mistakes, so more often than not, they will independently stop doing bad behaviors.
- In line with their easy-going personality, Moyen Goldendoodles do not let reprimands get to them. They are more tolerant, thick-skinned, and resilient so they can flourish in noisy households and even a bit of an inconsistent routine.
- They tend to want to form a bond with their owners and family, so they may have some issues when left alone for an extended period of time. They can still self-soothe, but may get anxiety when you are not with them for a long time.
- When it comes to tolerance to cold and hot weather, you still have to maintain their normal body temperature. Even though they have a bit of a thick coat, you still need to make them wear something a bit warm when it is the colder months. Also, you need to make sure that they do not overheat when it is the hotter months.
Temperament
- Moyen Goldendoodles are very affectionate. They will not hesitate to ask for attention and they will gladly cuddle with you. They love to be held and petted.
- They are also extremely kid-friendly, even when they have not been trained at all. They know how to be gentle with a baby and they have enough patience for you not to worry about incidental nips and bites.
- As they are social dogs, it is also easy for them to get along with other dogs. It does not matter whether the other dog is a bigger or smaller size. They will strive to form a bond with the other dog and not force things when the other dog does not want to play with them.
- When it comes to strangers, they are still very friendly. However, it is only to some degree. As they are socialized dogs, they can wag their tails and even let themselves be petted by strangers. However, after those initial interactions, they can be a bit aloof.
Grooming
- As far as shedding goes, you do not have a lot to worry about. They do have a bit of shedding that you can easily do away with brushing once or twice a week, but they shed less compared to your average Poodle.
- Moyen Goldendoodles also do not drool a lot. There can sometimes be a bit of spit when they are doing something that requires a lot of activity, but you do not have to keep a close eye on their drool.
- Compared to Poodles, Moyen Goldendoodles are a breeze to groom. They do not require regular brushing and grooming. All you have to do is to make sure that there are no knots in their fur and to remove things that get stuck there. Of course, you also need to clip their nails, clean their ears, and brush their teeth. Pretty standard stuff.
- They have a pretty good standing in terms of their general health. However, as they are crossbreed, there can still be genetic problems that will eventually go their way. It is best to go for a check-up at least twice in five months to make sure that they have not developed genetic illnesses.
- It is important to remember that even though a Moyen Goldendoodle is a bit of a hardy dog, you still have to manage their diet as they are still part Poodle, so they can easily gain weight. Their food intake should always be balanced and they should get enough exercise.
Trainability
- Moyen Goldendoodles are very easy to train. They can easily associate an action and a prompt. Like when you say the command sit, they can immediately pick up the notion that they need to sit. Further, they understand consequences like getting a treat when they respond adequately.
- You hit an intelligence goldmine when you get a Moyen Goldendoodle. They are very smart not only when it comes to training, but also in basic survival. Their fight and flight response is very precise.
- They also have a low tendency to nip or bite or show aggressiveness. They sometimes do play-bites especially when they are still puppies, but they do not puncture the skin.
- They have little to no hunting instincts. So going to the park will not be bound by worry as you are always assured that they will not run after squirrels or other dogs.
- When it comes to barking, you need to train them early on. They can bark as a sign of excitement, so if you live in a condo or an apartment, you should keep that in mind. They do not really howl.
- As they are part Golden Retriever, the thrill of an adventure may push them to wander in their environment. On the other hand, they are still disciplined enough to come back to you when you call them.
Physicality
- Moyen Goldendoodles are high in energy. So they will always be waiting for you to ask them to do something that can exhaust their energy. They need daily exercise as well as mental stimulation. They can run, jump, and investigate their surroundings. However, you can also easily calm them down.
- Even though they have high energy they really do not resort to extremes such as pulling on their leash or pee from too much excitement. They can display that they have this ball of energy but once told, they can shut it off almost instantly.
- You have to make it a point that they get some sort of daily exercise. May it be walking them or simply playing with them. If they do not spend their energy, it is easy for them to resort to barking, jumping on furniture, and even digging.
- They love to play games whether it is with humans or other dogs. You can play fetch with them or even hide and seek. Even if it is just a simple peek-a-boo game with a toddler, they will enjoy that too.
Is the Moyen Goldendoodle for You?
We might have already sold you into getting your very own Moyen Goldendoodle as we have already elaborated on their traits. At first glance, you might see that there are advantages as compared to disadvantages. But the truth is, you really cannot base your decision on general characteristics.
In order for you to know if a certain breed of dog will fit you, you should know how they can affect the dynamics of your daily life. Will you have less time for yourself? Will caring for them stress you out? Can you provide the Moyen Goldendoodle a quality life?
Here are a few things that you should consider.
Cost
Moyen Goldendoodles can be expensive. This is expected as it is really the right amount of trial and error in breeding to get that medium size. More than that, you have to keep in mind that you also need to buy him food and toys. The extra expense is also put into medical expenses for routine check-ups related to genetic illnesses.
Maintenance
When it comes to grooming, you do not have to put in a lot of effort as they do not need a lot of grooming. They are considered as a non to light shedders so they only need a good brushing once or twice a week.
They are also not picky eaters, so you can pretty much just leave their required food and they will eat it up with no problem.
A thing that you should set aside time for is their daily exercise. It is a non-negotiable fact that they should get exercise every day. It does not have to be an hour-long exercise, it can be a 30 to 40-minute exercise.
The only other thing that requires more effort on your part is the observance of any genetic problems. You have to be aware of the signs to look out for when they are displaying the genetic weaknesses of having a crossbred dog.
Life Expectancy
Moyen Goldendoodles have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. This may be short to some people but this is actually quite a long time for crossbreeds. Just as long as they do not develop genetic illnesses, you are assured that you can live with them for a long time.
In order to make sure that your Moyen Goldendoodle lives out his life, you have to be mindful of certain problems that come with the breed such as:
- Patellar Luxation
- Ear infections
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Von Willebrand’s Disease
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus
- Hypothyroidism
Purpose
The Moyen Goldendoodle is definitely not a watchdog nor a guard dog. They are too friendly for that, even if you train them to do so. So if you are considering getting one for this purpose, we are sorry to say, but this dog is not for you.
On the other hand, if what you are after is companionship, then the Moyen Goldendoodle would be perfect. If you are planning to have kids anytime soon, there will absolutely be no problem as they thrive in a family setting.
Living Conditions
If you live in an apartment or condo, it is not advisable to get this dog, unless you can take him out every now and then. For those who are planning to house this dog outside, this is impossible as this breed is an indoor dog.
The best place for a Moyen Goldendoodle is a house with a gated yard. In this way, you do not have to make it a point to walk him. Instead, he can just go out to the yard to spend excess energy.
Lastly, if your household tends to be very busy to the point that there is no longer time to socialize with him, it may not be a good idea to get one. They love attention, so if they do not get that for a long period of time, they may develop anxiety. The same goes for people who leave their houses for a long time.
A solution to this is to spend quality time with him when you get home. That should be enough to hold him off up until the next time that you have to leave for work.
Conclusion
The Moyen (medium) Goldendoodle is the golden standard in terms of getting a Goldendoodle. What you will get is such a cheerful and loyal dog that will love its owners no matter what. If you are a bit of an active and sociable person, then you might have found your “dogmate” in life with the Moyen Goldendoodle.
