If you’ve spent any time researching Goldendoodle puppies, you’ve probably noticed how different their coats can look — some are super curly, others have loose waves, and some are beautifully straight. And naturally, one of the first questions families ask is:
“Does the coat type change shedding… or personality… or grooming needs?”
Let’s break it down in the simplest way possible so you feel confident choosing the perfect puppy for your family.
Coat Genetics 101: Curl vs. Furnishings
Goldendoodle coats are determined by a combination of two key genes:
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The Curl Gene (KRT71) → controls texture
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The Furnishings Gene (F/IC) → controls facial features + shedding tendency
Both matter, but they don’t do the same thing. Here’s how they work together.
The Curl Gene (KRT71): What It Actually Does
The curl gene is all about the coil, wave, or straightness of the coat.
Here’s what it influences:
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Whether your puppy’s hair is curly, wavy, or straight
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The “doodle fluff” feel
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Coat density and texture
Here’s what it doesn’t influence:
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Shedding (surprising, but true!)
A curly Goldendoodle simply has more texture — the classic teddy bear curl many families love.
A straight or wavy pup often has a silkier, looser coat that’s incredibly soft.
Both are beautiful — just different!
The Furnishings Gene (F/IC): The Real Secret Behind the “Doodle Look”
If you’ve ever seen Goldendoodles with those adorable eyebrows, mustache, and fluffy facial hair — that’s furnishings.
Furnishings are responsible for:
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The signature Doodle face
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Low-shedding qualities
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The soft beard, eyebrows, and muzzle fluff that make them look so expressive
A puppy with strong furnishings can be just as low-shedding as a curly-coated puppy — even if their coat is straight.
Here’s the key thing to understand:
Furnishings have a much bigger impact on shedding than curl does.
Puppies with one or no furnishing copies tend to shed more, even if the curl gene gives them a tight coat.
Straight vs. Curly Goldendoodles: What Families Should Know
Every coat type has perks — it’s truly about what you love and the grooming routine you prefer.
Curly-Coated Goldendoodles
✔ Iconic “teddy bear” look
✔ More coat texture
✔ Great for families who want that classic doodle aesthetic
✔ Slightly more maintenance (brushing & grooming)
Wavy or Straight Goldendoodles
✔ Soft, silky, easy-to-maintain coats
✔ Often shed very little when they have strong furnishings
✔ Great for families who want a lower-maintenance grooming schedule
✔ Still have the adorable doodle expression
The bottom line?
A straight-coated Goldendoodle with furnishings can be just as allergy-friendly as a curly-coated one.
The Takeaway (Simple + Clear)
Here’s your quick cheat sheet:
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Curl = coat texture
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Furnishings = shedding + doodle face
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Both coat types can be low-shedding depending on genetics
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Every doodle coat type brings its own charm, personality, and beauty
At KZ Doodles, we DNA test every parent and every litter so you know exactly what your puppy’s coat type and shedding potential will be — no surprises, just happy families and well-matched puppies.
If you ever have questions about coat types or which puppy might be the best fit for your home, we’re always here to help!
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