by Kristin Zeyer | Dec 23, 2025 | Goldendoodle Puppies
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:
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:
Here’s what it doesn’t influence:
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:
-
The signature Doodle face
-
Low-shedding qualities
-
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:
-
Curl = coat texture
-
Furnishings = shedding + doodle face
-
Both coat types can be low-shedding depending on genetics
-
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!
by Kristin Zeyer | Dec 16, 2025 | Goldendoodle Puppies
At KZ Doodles, nothing means more to us than seeing our puppies thriving in their new homes. Every happy wag, every cuddle, and every smiling family photo is a reminder of why we do what we do.
We’ve gathered real KZ Doodles reviews and testimonials from families who’ve opened their homes — and hearts — to our puppies. Their words speak volumes about the love, care, and preparation that go into every doodle we raise.
Why Reviews Matter When Choosing a Breeder
When you’re choosing a breeder, trust is everything. Reviews give you a look behind the scenes — the transparency, the communication, and the heart that defines the entire experience. At KZ Doodles, we’re proud that so many of our families share their journeys so openly.
What Makes KZ Doodles Different
From early socialization and temperament training to DNA testing and health screening, we put everything into raising happy, well-adjusted Goldendoodles. As one reviewer perfectly put it — “Kristin has done such an incredible job with socialization, and all of the basics for a strong behavioral existence.”
We take those words to heart, and it shows in every litter.
Real KZ Doodles Reviews & Testimonials
Here’s what our 5 star ratings from over 60 real families have to say:
“It’s been three weeks since I picked up my little puppy, Willy. I need to express how incredible he is… Nothing compares to this one. Kristin has done such an incredible job with socialization. This little guy is by far the smartest and most well-adapted puppy I’ve ever had.”
— John
“We are so very happy with our newest addition to our family. Willow has been such a delight and sleeping through the night. It’s so great to know she’s healthy and was well cared for. Highly recommend!”
— Janette
“10/10! We couldn’t be happier with our experience with KZ Doodles! Kristin provided us with the most amazing puppy.”
— Jenn
“We are so pleased with our two new puppies from KZ Doodles. They are very well adjusted for eight weeks old. Just drove 800 miles with them in the car with no incidents.”
— John
“We love our doodle! Such a bright, healthy puppy we got. Kristin made the experience wonderful for our family. She puts a ton of love into her dogs. Highly recommend!”
— Chris
“We couldn’t be happier with our new mini Goldendoodle from KZ Doodles! From the moment we brought our puppy home, it was clear how much love and care went into her early weeks.”
— Andrea
“We got a puppy from KZ Doodles. I have never had a puppy like her. At 8 weeks she sits for attention and has only had a few accidents. Truly remarkable.”
— Jayde
“KZ Doodles is amazing and Kristin was fantastic! We had a great experience selecting our new puppy, and Kristin made the process seamless.”
— Steve
“We brought home Bob, our mini Goldendoodle, and we couldn’t be more in love. From the first moment, he fit perfectly into our family.”
— Charity
“We’re thrilled with our cutie doodle, Lavender! We couldn’t be more impressed with the love and care KZ Doodles puts into these pups!”
— Mel
Common Themes Families Share
After reading through hundreds of KZ Doodles reviews, a few things stand out again and again:
-
Healthy, happy puppies: Families mention how their doodles come home healthy, clean, and full of life.
-
Great temperament: Reviewers note calm, socialized puppies that adjust quickly to new homes.
-
Easy communication: Kristin’s communication before, during, and after adoption is a recurring theme.
-
Smooth process: From first contact to puppy pickup, families describe a stress-free, professional experience.
Life After Bringing Home a KZ Doodle
Many families share updates months later — their doodles thriving, bonding with kids, learning commands, and becoming beloved family members. One owner said it best:
“Our puppy has the perfect temperament, walks on a leash, and loves everyone she meets. We couldn’t be happier.”
— Stephanie
How Reviews Build Confidence for New Families
For families still deciding, reading real KZ Doodles reviews builds confidence. It’s one thing to say our puppies are raised with love — it’s another to see it reflected in hundreds of happy homes.
How to Share Your Own KZ Doodles Story
If you’ve welcomed a KZ Doodle into your life, we’d love to hear your story! Your review not only helps us grow, but also helps future families find the right fit for theirs.
Share your experience on Google or tag us on Instagram — and don’t forget to send puppy photos!
Final Thoughts
Our community of doodle families is what makes KZ Doodles special. Each review, message, and update fuels our passion for raising exceptional puppies. Thank you for trusting us to help your family grow — one doodle at a time.
FAQs
Are KZ Doodles puppies socialized before adoption?
Yes! Each puppy is introduced to children, other pets, and new environments early on to build confidence.
How does KZ Doodles ensure healthy puppies?
All parent dogs are health tested, and puppies receive early vet checks, vaccinations, and deworming.
What sets KZ Doodles apart from other breeders?
Personalized attention, exceptional communication, and a deep love for every puppy we raise.
Can I meet the puppies before adopting?
Yes — we encourage meet-and-greets when possible and share frequent video updates for long-distance families.
Where can I read more KZ Doodles reviews?
Visit our Google Business page or browse the Testimonials section on our website.
by Kristin Zeyer | Dec 9, 2025 | Goldendoodle Puppies, Health
The holiday season is full of excitement — twinkling lights, family gatherings, gift wrapping, delicious food… and if you’re welcoming a Goldendoodle puppy into the mix, even more joy.
But with all that excitement comes a few things every new puppy parent should be aware of. December is filled with sights, smells, and decorations that are totally new to your puppy — and some can be risky if you don’t plan ahead.
Here are the most important holiday puppy safety tips every Goldendoodle owner should know to keep your home merry, bright, and safe this season.
1. Christmas Trees: Beautiful, But Tempting
Between dangling ornaments, pine needles, and water additives, Christmas trees can be a puppy’s playground — or a hazard.
Keep your Goldendoodle safe by:
-
Securing the tree so it can’t tip
-
Avoiding tinsel (serious ingestion risk)
-
Placing fragile or sentimental ornaments higher
-
Covering the tree stand so your puppy can’t drink the water
-
Vacuuming fallen needles regularly (they can upset puppy tummies)
Puppies are curious — and Christmas trees are basically giant puppy magnets.
2. Skip the Toxic Holiday Plants
Some classic holiday plants are not puppy friendly.
Avoid or keep out of reach:
Safe alternatives:
Your decorations can still be gorgeous — and Goldendoodle safe.
3. Electrical Cords & Lights
Puppies love to chew. And holiday lights? They look like chew toys.
Keep wires safe by:
If your Goldendoodle is teething, add extra chew toys to redirect them.
4. Holiday Food: Cute Begging Face… Big Risks
Goldendoodles are smart — they learn quickly that people drop food during the holidays. But many seasonal favorites are unsafe.
Never give your puppy:
Instead, offer safe puppy-approved treats:
Let guests know ahead of time not to sneak table scraps — it happens more often than you think!
5. Wrapping Paper, Ribbons & Small Toys
Wrapping paper is fun… until a puppy swallows it. Small toys, batteries, and ribbon can also be dangerous if chewed or ingested.
Keep your Goldendoodle safe by:
-
Cleaning up wrapping supplies quickly
-
Keeping kids’ new toys out of reach
-
Storing batteries safely
-
Tossing ribbons and bows after gifts are opened
Think of this as “toddler-proofing,” but fluffier.
6. Set Up a Calm Puppy Zone
Holiday gatherings can be overwhelming for young puppies — especially loud ones.
A designated puppy space can include:
This gives your Goldendoodle a safe place to decompress, nap, and avoid overstimulation.
7. Fireplaces, Candles & Wax Warmers
Puppies don’t understand heat, flames, or open fires.
Stay safe by:
-
Using fireplace screens
-
Keeping candles out of reach
-
Choosing electric or battery-operated candles
-
Avoiding scented wax warmers near puppies with sensitive noses
A little prevention goes a long way.
8. Doors, Guests & Outdoor Temperatures
With guests coming and going, doors open a lot — and Goldendoodle puppies are fast.
Tips:
-
Watch doors during gatherings
-
Use baby gates to block exits
-
Keep your puppy leashed when greeting guests
-
Limit outdoor time in freezing temperatures
Remember: Goldendoodle puppies still need protection from cold weather, even with fluffy coats.
The Heart of Holiday Puppy Safety
A Goldendoodle puppy brings more joy to the holiday season than almost anything else — but the holidays bring new sights, smells, and potential hazards your puppy has never seen before.
With a little preparation and awareness, your family can enjoy every magical moment safely.
And trust us — watching your Goldendoodle experience their first snow, first Christmas tree, and first cozy winter snuggle?
It’s unforgettable.
If you’re bringing home a holiday Goldendoodle puppy this year and want help preparing, we’re always here to guide you every step of the way.
by Kristin Zeyer | Dec 1, 2025 | Goldendoodle Puppies
Goldendoodles are one of the most popular family dogs in the U.S.—and for good reason. They’re friendly, loyal, intelligent, low-shedding, and wonderfully adaptable to both active homes and relaxed lifestyles. As longtime Goldendoodle breeders here at KZ Doodles, we’ve spent years studying their temperament, health, coat genetics, size variations, and what makes this breed so special.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about Goldendoodles, whether you’re researching your first puppy or exploring which size, color, or generation is right for your family.
1. What Is a Goldendoodle?
A Goldendoodle is a designer hybrid created by crossing a Poodle with a Golden Retriever. They combine:
This makes Goldendoodles wonderful for families, allergy-friendly households, therapy work, and active lifestyles.
Why families love them:
✔ Gentle with kids
✔ Highly trainable
✔ Loyal & affectionate
✔ Low-to-non shedding
✔ Fun, goofy personality
2. Why Goldendoodles Were Originally Bred
Goldendoodles were first bred in the 1990s to create a family dog with:
-
A gentle Golden Retriever temperament
-
A hypoallergenic Poodle coat
-
High intelligence for therapy and service roles
As breeders, we see the same traits today — they’re naturally intuitive, people-centered, and eager to please.
3. Goldendoodle Temperament & Personality
Goldendoodles are known for:
-
Affection — loyal and human-focused
-
Playfulness — love toys, fetch, outdoor adventures
-
Gentleness — especially around children
-
Intelligence — fast learners, respond well to training
-
Sociability — get along with other pets
Their goal is simple: be close to their people.
4. Goldendoodle Sizes (Petite, Mini, Moyen, Standard)
At KZ Doodles, we specialize in Mini and Petite/Mini Goldendoodles, which typically range:
Petite/Mini
Moyen Goldendoodle
A size between Mini and Standard:
Standard
5. Goldendoodle Generations (F1, F1B, F2, Multigen)
Understanding Goldendoodle generations helps you predict coat type and shedding level.
F1 (50% Golden / 50% Poodle)
F1B (75% Poodle / 25% Golden)
Multigen (Multi-Gen)
6. Coat Types (Wavy, Curly, Straight)
Goldendoodles come in three primary coat types:
Wavy Coat
Low-shedding, soft, “teddy bear” look.
Curly Coat
Tighter curls, best for allergies.
Straight Coat
More Golden Retriever influence; less common in our program.
7. Goldendoodle Colors (Red, Cream, Parti, Tuxedo & More)
We produce several highly desired colors:
Rich mahogany shades — extremely popular.
Cream Goldendoodles
Light, fluffy coats with a soft, elegant look.
Parti Goldendoodles
Two-color pattern: coat is at least 50% white.
Tuxedo Goldendoodles
A patterned coat with a white chest that resembles a tuxedo.
Abstract / White Markings
Splashes of white on chest, face, or paws.
8. Grooming Needs & Coat Maintenance
Goldendoodles are low-shedding, not low-maintenance.
Expect:
-
Regular brushing (3–4x/week)
-
Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks
-
Ear cleaning & nail trimming
-
Coat maintenance to prevent matting
9. Training: Why Goldendoodles Are So Smart
Goldendoodles are incredibly trainable. Most puppies in our program:
-
Learn basic commands quickly
-
Respond well to positive reinforcement
-
Thrive with structure and consistency
-
Excel at crate training
-
Adapt easily to routines
Their intelligence comes primarily from the Poodle side — making training enjoyable rather than stressful.
10. Health, Lifespan & Wellness Tips
Typical Goldendoodle lifespan: 12–16 years.
Common wellness notes:
-
Regular exercise
-
High-quality food
-
Consistent grooming
-
Routine vet care
-
Early socialization
Reputable breeders focus on genetic health testing to promote long-term wellness.
11. Goldendoodle Pros & Cons
✔ Pros
✖ Cons
12. When to Spay or Neuter Your Goldendoodle
Many veterinarians recommend:
-
Females: 6–12 months
-
Males: 9–12 months
However, timing depends on size, development, and vet guidance. Always consult your vet for personalized recommendations.
13. How Much Do Goldendoodles Cost?
Pricing can vary based on:
-
Color
-
Size
-
Coat type
-
Breeder reputation
-
Training
-
Health guarantees
Our puppies are $3,500 and come with structured early socialization, temperament evaluations, and genetic health testing — ensuring families receive a well-prepared, confident puppy.
14. Choosing the Right Breeder
A responsible breeder should provide:
At KZ Doodles, our families consistently share how confident, social, and easy-to-train their puppies are from day one.
15. Frequently Asked Questions
• Are Goldendoodles hypoallergenic?
They’re low-shedding, making them one of the best breeds for allergy-sensitive homes.
• How big will my Goldendoodle get?
Most of ours mature between 15–25 lbs.
• Do Goldendoodles need a lot of exercise?
Moderate daily activity is ideal — walks, playtime, mental stimulation.
• Are Goldendoodles good with kids?
Yes — their gentle, patient nature makes them fantastic family pets.
• How long do Goldendoodles live?
12–16 years with proper care.
Final Thoughts
Goldendoodles truly are the perfect blend of intelligence, affection, beauty, and family-focused temperament. Whether you’re exploring coat colors, sizes, training tips, or the history of the breed, we hope this guide helps you feel more confident and excited about welcoming a Goldendoodle into your family.
As a dedicated Idaho Goldendoodle breeder, our goal at KZ Doodles is to raise puppies who are healthy, loving, well-socialized, and ready for their forever homes.
If you’re preparing to adopt or want updates on upcoming litters, we’re here to help every step of the way.
by Kristin Zeyer | Nov 28, 2025 | Goldendoodle Puppies
Thinking about surprising your family with a Christmas puppy? A Mini Goldendoodle might just be the most unforgettable gift you ever give — and one your family talks about for years. These tiny, fluffy companions have become one of the most popular holiday puppies, and it’s easy to see why. From their gentle personalities to their allergy-friendly coats, Mini Goldendoodles bring joy that lasts long after the holiday lights come down.
At KZ Doodles, we raise Miniature, Petite, and small Standard Goldendoodles with health, temperament, and early socialization at the core of every litter. With several holiday litters going home in December 2025 and January 2026, many families are already planning for the perfect Christmas surprise.
Here are the top reasons a Mini Goldendoodle might be the only Christmas gift your family will remember.
1. They’re the Perfect Size for Families
Mini Goldendoodles typically range from 10–35 lbs full grown, depending on the pairing. Christmas litters like Daphne x Dexter and Timber x Reggie are expected to mature between 10–25 lbs, making them an ideal size for homes of all types — cozy apartments, busy households, or families with young kids.
They’re big enough to keep up with adventure…
but small enough to fit on every lap on Christmas morning.
2. Their Coats Are Beautiful — and Low-Shedding
Mini Goldendoodles are known for their soft, fluffy coats that come in stunning shades like:
-
deep red
-
cream
-
red with white abstract
-
apricot blends
Most of our holiday litters have straight or wavy coats with low-to-non shedding qualities, making them a great option for allergy-sensitive homes.
3. They Have the Sweetest Temperaments
Families often choose Mini Goldendoodles because of their loyal, gentle, people-focused personalities. They love kids, love cuddles, and love being right in the middle of family life — especially during the holiday season.
A Mini Goldendoodle is the kind of puppy that wants to be part of every Christmas tradition, from opening presents to lounging by the fire.
4. They’re Incredibly Smart and Easy to Train
Goldendoodles inherit intelligence from both the Poodle and the Golden Retriever. Their eagerness to please makes early training — crate, potty, and basic manners — much smoother than many breeds.
Families bringing home Christmas puppies appreciate how quickly Mini Goldendoodles learn routines during holiday break when everyone is home.
5. They Bond Quickly With Kids
There’s something special about the way Mini Goldendoodles connect with children. They’re gentle, patient, and naturally playful — making them one of the best family-friendly breeds.
When a child wakes up on Christmas morning to a fluffy red Goldendoodle waiting with a bow…
it’s a moment everyone remembers forever.
6. They Thrive in Both Active and Relaxed Homes
Whether your family loves hiking, traveling, or spending cozy evenings indoors, Mini Goldendoodles adapt beautifully. They’re happy to join adventures but equally content curled up at your feet.
This flexibility makes them a great match for:
-
first-time dog owners
-
busy families
-
retirees
-
multi-pet households
7. Christmas Timing Works Perfectly for Puppy Training
One of the biggest advantages of bringing a Goldendoodle home at Christmas is time.
Most families already have built-in time off — which means:
This helps create strong early habits and sets your puppy up for long-term success.
8. Their Red Holiday Litters Are Stunning
Our upcoming holiday litters feature some of our most anticipated colors:
These shades photograph beautifully and are highly sought after for Christmas-themed puppy photos.
9. They Grow Into the Most Loyal Companions
Today’s Christmas puppy becomes next year’s hiking buddy, road-trip partner, and daily dose of comfort. Goldendoodles are known for forming deep, lasting bonds and becoming true family dogs.
They’re not just a holiday surprise.
They’re a lifelong friend.
10. A Mini Goldendoodle Makes Christmas Meaningful
A Goldendoodle puppy isn’t just a gift — it’s a memory. Families tell us year after year that bringing home a Doodle for Christmas was one of the most joyful experiences they’ve ever had.
From the first cuddle to the last bow-wrapped photo, this gift doesn’t get returned, forgotten, or outgrown.
Holiday Litters Arriving December 2025 – January 2026
Here’s a look at the Christmas and winter litters families are reserving now:
Daphne x Dexter — Miniature Goldendoodles
Timber x Reggie — Petite/Mini Goldendoodles
-
10–20 lbs full grown
-
Red with white abstract
-
Straight/wavy coats
-
Going home December 2025
-
One spot available
Ruby x Toby — Miniature Goldendoodles
-
25–35 lbs full grown
-
Red with white abstract
-
Straight coats
-
Going home January 2026
-
Open waitlist
Thinking About a Christmas Puppy?
If your family is dreaming of bringing home a Goldendoodle for the holidays, now is the perfect time to join a waitlist. Our Christmas puppies typically reserve quickly, especially red minis and petites.
A Mini Goldendoodle isn’t just a holiday surprise —
it’s a memory your family will cherish forever.
by Kristin Zeyer | Nov 21, 2025 | Goldendoodle Puppies
Adding a puppy to your family is one of the most exciting decisions you’ll ever make—especially when little kids are part of the picture. But choosing the best puppy for children isn’t just about picking the cutest face (even though, let’s be honest, they’re all adorable ). It’s about finding a puppy with the right temperament and traits to create a safe, happy, and lasting bond with your kids.
At KZ Doodles, we work with families every day who want to give their children the joy of growing up with a puppy. Here’s what we’ve learned about the traits that make for the very best family dogs.
6 Must-Have Traits in the Best Puppy for Children
💛 Gentle Temperament
Kids are full of energy—and sometimes a little clumsy. The best puppy for children should be gentle and not too rough or mouthy. A puppy who can handle tugging, cuddles, and the occasional toddler tumble is a safer match for little ones.
💛 Patient & Tolerant
Puppies that show patience (instead of frustration) when handled are ideal. Young children give big hugs, sometimes a little too tightly, and a tolerant pup takes it all in stride.
💛 Confident but Calm
The sweet spot for family dogs is confidence without hyperactivity. A curious, calm puppy adjusts quickly to new sights and sounds without being timid or overly excitable.
💛 Loves People & Cuddles
Let’s face it: kids want a snuggle buddy. Puppies that naturally gravitate toward people and enjoy affection become instant best friends for children.
💛 Easy to Train
Families need a puppy that learns quickly. Smart, eager-to-please pups make training a positive experience, helping kids feel involved in teaching their furry friend.
💛 Early Socialization with Kids
The best puppy for children has already been exposed to little ones. Puppies raised around kids grow up more confident, tolerant, and ready to be part of a family environment.
Why Temperament Matters More Than Looks
It’s easy to fall for a certain coat color or size, but temperament is what determines if a puppy truly fits into your home. The right match means fewer frustrations, smoother training, and a stronger bond between your children and their new puppy.
Puppies and Kids: Building a Lifelong Bond
The magic of pairing the right puppy with children is hard to describe. Kids learn responsibility, compassion, and patience, while puppies thrive in a home filled with love and activity. Together, they grow, learn, and create memories that last a lifetime.
When families ask us about the best puppy for children, our answer is simple: look for gentle, patient, and people-loving pups who have been carefully socialized. That’s the foundation of a safe and happy home—for both kids and doodles alike.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering adding a puppy to your family, remember: the best puppy for children isn’t just the cutest one. It’s the one whose temperament and upbringing make them the perfect fit for your home. When you choose thoughtfully, you’re not just getting a pet—you’re giving your kids a best friend and a lifetime of unconditional love.
Recent Comments