The Goldendoodle Husky mix is a cross between a Goldendoodle and a Siberian Husky. This breed is energetic, intelligent, and affectionate—characteristics of a great family companion.
Still, there’s more to learn about this mix. Read on and see if it’s the right fit for you and your family.
Where Does the Goldendoodle Husky Mix Come From?
The Goldendoodle Husky mix comes with many names—Golden Huskydoodle, Golden Poosky, Golden Huskapoo, and Golden Siberpoo.
This breed is rare. It’s also relatively new, based on records suggesting the first of the kind born in the early 2000s. Let’s look into its heritage to understand this mix better.
Goldendoodle History
The Goldendoodle was first bred in 1969. The goal was to produce a dog with the pleasing character of the Golden Retriever and the manageable non-shedding coat of the Poodle.
This cross, however, gained popularity only in the 1990s and became a pioneer in the designer dog market.
The parent breeds have an equally rich history. The Golden Retriever originated from Scotland and has been in existence since the 1800s. It found its way to America in the 1900s and today is an easy choice for a family dog.
On the other hand, the Poodle came from Germany. This breed served as a retrieving water dog in the 1600s. This function is to blame for its interesting appearance that’s made for protection and movement. Additionally, its trainability, intelligence, and fascinating look made it a popular show dog.
Siberian Husky History
The Siberian Husky is a resilient dog, which is a result of its origins. It hails from Siberia, particularly from the Chukchi people. It was bred as a sled dog necessary for transport. As such, it has an athletic nature and loves being in a pack.
Not only that, but it’s used to being around families as well. Part of its role in the tribe is to play with children.
It’s believed that for thousands of years, this breed has survived in such conditions. In the early 1900s, though, it shot to fame due to its participation in sled races. This paved the way for its spread in America.
Goldendoodle Husky Mix Facts
The Goldendoodle Husky mix is a medium-sized dog but is still considerably big, with a weight range of 50–90 lbs. It has a stocky build and can stand around 20–26 inches on the shoulder.
Note that a standard Goldendoodle is used for this cross to keep the size as close as possible to the Siberian Husky.
Goldendoodle Husky Mix Appearance
One look at the parent breeds will give you an idea of how varied the appearance of this mix can be.
The scruffy-looking Goldendoodle has an inviting and gentle expression, while the Husky has sharper facial features. That said, the cross can have erect or drooping ears with brown or rare blue eyes.
In terms of coat color, it can be white, black, or anything in between and may exhibit markings. If it takes after the Goldendoodle, it can inherit a wavy or curly non-shedding fur.
Otherwise, it can have the dense double coat of the Husky. Most likely, you’ll get something in the middle, which is slightly wavy, medium-length fur.
Goldendoodle Husky Mix Price and Expenses
This breed, although already gaining popularity, is still difficult to find. That makes it come with a steep price tag.
Purchase Cost
The average prices for the parent breeds are $900–$1800 for a standard Goldendoodle and $700–$1500 for a Siberian Husky. From a reputable breeder, expect to pay around this price range as well for your Goldendoodle Husky mix.
That said, the price can be more due to its rarity. Your location, demand, the parent dogs, and overall appearance also factor in the purchase cost.
Other Expenses
You also have to be ready for additional expenses that come with a new dog. The first year usually costs more.
This includes allocation for a bed, crate, collar, leash, food bowls, and toys. That alone can set you back by $120–$150.
On top of that are the yearly costs of food and treats, which sum up to around $200–$700. Other expenses will come from grooming needs, which cost $20–$90 per visit, depending on the availed services.
Finally, save a budget for vet visits and emergency cases.
Goldendoodle Husky Mix Behavior, Characteristics, and Temperament
The Goldendoodle Husky may strongly express the characteristics of a single parent. Other times, you get a good mix. Either way, there are common traits that are likely to appear.
Common Desirable Qualities
The parents are highly intelligent, so the offspring is equally smart. This makes commands easy to grasp for this breed.
Another quality your dog will have is a friendly disposition towards humans and other canines. It’s also going to be an energetic, loyal, and affectionate companion.
Unwanted Behavior
As in most mixes with a Husky parent, the independent streak is something to watch out for. If this natural instinct surfaces, you may find it wandering off somewhere else. It may even go after smaller animals.
Goldendoodle Husky Mix Health
The Goldendoodle Husky mix is generally healthy, especially when the parents are screened. Still, genetic diversity through breeding doesn’t eliminate the risk of diseases.
Here are a few conditions you need to be on the lookout for:
Hip Dysplasia
This condition occurs when the ball and socket of the hip joint grow out of proportion. Instead of a smooth movement, this results in extreme pain as the parts grind and rub against each other.
Observe these indications: limping, unease while sitting or standing, and popping sounds on the joint area during movement. It’s best to be on your way to the vet in such cases. A hip exam will confirm your suspicions.
Eye Disorders
This breed can also be at risk of certain eye conditions like Entropion and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA).
Entropion is characterized by the eyelids growing inwards. This abnormality causes the eyelashes to rub against the cornea. This leads to eye redness, excessive tears, and pus or mucus discharge.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy, on the other hand, is a group of eye conditions, which ultimately leads to blindness.
How to Care for your Goldendoodle Husky Mix
Caring for your Goldendoodle Husky mix entails exercise, training, socialization, grooming, and a proper diet. Plus, make sure you spend lots of time together to strengthen your bond. This will bring your dog loads of happiness too.
How Much Exercise Does a Goldendoodle Husky Mix Need?
Expect this breed to be full of energy. If you love going for a walk or a run, this mix is a perfect match.
Ample exercise wears it out and makes for a happy dog. For that purpose, an hour a day is a good baseline. Assess if it needs more or less based on your routine.
Of course, when it comes to a pup, avoid strenuous activities. Its bones and muscles are still developing. Hence, milder forms of workout will be more beneficial. Shorten walks and put in more interactive play instead.
Moreover, your dog needs as much mental stimulation as physical exercise. Working for treats is a simple way to do so. You can start by hiding treats in your palms, then stash them in your backyard.
You can also provide it with interactive toys. This will keep it busy while you’re away and helps avoid destructive behavior.
How Much Grooming Does a Goldendoodle Husky Mix Need?
One thing to love about the Goldendoodle Husky mix is its minimal shedding. With that, you won’t have to vacuum as often.
Additionally, this breed has moderate grooming needs. Brush the coat at least once a week to avoid mats and tangles. Regular bathing at least once a month is also important. Still, that would depend on your dog’s activity level and how dirty it gets.
Moreover, perform daily dental cleaning, inspect nails, and trim as needed. Check the ears as well. If your dog has drooping ones, keep them dry to prevent infection.
Furthermore, your dog may inherit a wavy to curly dense coat. In this case, professional grooming on top of your home routine is highly beneficial. In the summer, going every six to eight weeks is recommended.
Does a Goldendoodle Husky Mix Need Training?
The Goldendoodle Husky mix requires obedience training early on. While the Goldendoodle is highly obedient, the Siberian Husky can be a bit stubborn.
Training will set boundaries and routines for your dog to follow. Be firm but know when to reward good behavior. Prepare treats for this purpose. Petting, cuddling, and showing praise will also go a long way.
Once you have set commands, make sure they’re consistent across all family members. This will avoid confusing your dog and allows for easier training.
Does a Goldendoodle Husky Mix Need Socialization?
This breed needs to be socialized, just like any other dog. Although parent breeds are highly social, the independent streak and prey drive of the Husky may come out.
Expose your dog to as many humans and canines early in its puppy stage. This enables it to adjust to different situations. If you have little pets at home, do slow introductions as well.
Dog parks and puppy classes are good options for socialization. Neighborhood walks help too. Change your route every once in a while to boost mental stimulation.
What’s in a Goldendoodle Husky Mix Diet?
A well-fed Goldendoodle Husky mix is a happy and healthy dog. For this, you need to get a hold of quality dog food rich in protein and rich in fats. A dry kibble fits the bill. Plus, this aids in plaque removal and promotes dental hygiene.
Generally, your dog will need two cups a day. Divide this into two feedings. You should track the weight of your pet so it doesn’t get obese either. This will also tell you if you’re underfeeding.
Anyway, if you’re unsure whether you’re giving the right amount, you can always consult a vet.
Are Goldendoodle Husky Mix Good Family Pets?
The temperament and behavior of the Goldendoodle Husky mix make them ideal family pets. It’s intelligent, energetic, loyal, good with children, and highly affectionate to families.
However, you should provide early socialization and training to rein in its independent and stubborn nature. Plus, you should exercise it well to avoid restlessness and destructive behavior.
Keep in mind as well that it needs to move around frequently, so a large space like a secure yard and a nearby park may be necessary.
Where to Buy a Goldendoodle Husky Mix?
The Goldendoodle Husky mix is hard to find. You’ll likely have to wait on reputable breeders for a puppy. Even then, you should be wary of buying from other sources like pet stores and puppy mills.
Puppy mills breed dogs in an unethical environment. Chances are, the parent breeds aren’t screened properly and may pass down unwanted genetic traits. This means a higher risk of inheriting health conditions that’ll cost you more in the long run.
On the other hand, pet stores are likely to purchase from these puppy mills. So, make sure you know what you’re dealing with.
Reputable Breeders
Acquiring a Goldendoodle Husky mix from a reputable breeder is still the best option. This ensures that the parents undergo genetic testing before breeding. Suitable conditions are also in place for a healthy pup.
Moreover, the purchase usually comes with certificates, registrations, puppy starter packs, and medical history.
Shelters and Rescues
The cheaper option is to adopt from a shelter or a rescue. Similarly, there’s no assurance you’d find one. It’s worth a shot, though. Try contacting places that take in specific dog breeds.
If there’s one available, learn as much as you can about its previous owners and habitat. This way you’d have an idea of possible behavior and how to care for it.
Final Thoughts
The Goldendoodle Husky mix combines the lovable temperament of the Goldendoodle and the devoted character of the Siberian Husky. This results in an intelligent, high-energy, loyal, and affectionate dog breed.
Given early socialization and training, coupled with lots of exercise and interactive play, this mix is sure to stay happy and healthy. It’s perfect for active fur parents that can provide space for activities.