How Much Does a Goldendoodle Cost? (2024 Updated)

With Golden Retriever and Poodle parents, the Goldendoodle snatches up hearts. As a mix of two in-demand breeds, it’s no surprise that many dog lovers want them as pets, no matter how much a Goldendoodle costs.

The puppy price, however, extends beyond paying the breeder or shelter. A responsible owner should always consider the extra costs of providing food, shelter, hygiene, and regular care for their Goldendoodle.

Not sure how much to prepare for your new Goldendoodle puppy? Read on to know all possible expenses for maintaining a healthy dog. This article will surely help you plan financially.

How Much Does a Goldendoodle Puppy Cost?

The average Goldendoodle price from reputable Goldendoodle breeders costs between $2,000 and $5,000. The range gap is significant due to the wide varieties this mix breed can come in. Factors such as quality, bloodline, gender, health, and the breeder’s reputation primarily affect the final puppy price.

As you would notice, the cost of a Goldendoodle is quite higher compared to other mixed breeds. This is because demand for these lovable dogs has increased greatly within the dog community.

The Goldendoodle’s price also depends on the size. Golden Retrievers could be bred with Standard, Miniature, and Toy Poodles to get a Goldendoodle. Standard Goldendoodles tend to inherit their Golden Retriever parent’s size.

Gender also plays a part in the cost of Goldendoodles. Female Goldendoodles are usually priced higher due to their ability to produce puppies. However, take note that this may not always be the case since quality or bloodline also affects pricing, too.

A good quality Goldendoodle from a champion bloodline would also cost you more. Its average price is along the higher end of the range as these dogs receive better puppy care and health testing.

Mini Goldendoodles and teacup Goldendoodles are more expensive, as they are the most in-demand among the available sizes.

Here are the average prices depending on the Goldendoodle’s size:

The Goldendoodle price could be affected by the pup’s overall appearance as well. Many breeders value rare Goldendoodle colors more than common ones. The puppy prices for unique-colored dogs could be higher.

Due to its popularity, you will find a Goldendoodle almost anywhere. You must be alert, however, for puppy mills and backyard breeders selling unhealthy pups for a lower price.

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Goldendoodle From a Shelter?

If you think the Goldendoodle cost from a reputable breeder is out of your budget, you can opt for adoption. Typically, the adoption cost for Goldendoodles in rescues is between $200 and $400.

Adoption fees usually differ based on the location and the caring methods for the dogs.

Nonetheless, remember that most Goldendoodles in shelters and rescues are usually old, past their prime, or maybe recovering from trauma or disease, such as hip dysplasia.

Like purebred breeds, some designer variations, such as the mini Goldendoodle, are also hard to come by in shelters.

First-Time Expenses of Goldendoodle Ownership

Aside from the cost of the actual Goldendoodle puppy, you must also prepare for the initial expenses of raising one. You may also need to spend a little extra if you are a first-time dog owner.

Goldendoodles, like all their parent dogs, have basic needs such as food, bowls, bed, grooming essentials, papers, medicine and vitamins, toys, and other things to keep them healthy, content, and safe.

Here is a list of the initial Goldendoodle costs you may encounter when raising one:

• Food and Treats: Depending on size and activity level, a Goldendoodle puppy will require different quantities of meals and treats. A smaller Goldendoodle will need less food than a standard-sized one. You’ll spend between $70 and $110 for healthy and quality selections.
• Bowls: Buying plastic bowls may be cheaper, but it could affect your Goldendoodle’s food and break easily. Opting for stainless food and water bowls is the best way to go. They are durable and easier to clean. Depending on the size and type, feeding bowls may cost you between $10 and $30.
• Toys: All dogs, including Goldendoodles, undergo a teething stage where they chew on anything to occupy themselves and ease pressure on the gums. High-quality chew toys range in price from $30 to $60.
• Beds: After a full day of play and activities, your dog will surely get all the rest it needs in high-quality beds. A good rest equals a happy pup. High-quality beds can cost between $40 and $200, depending on size.
• Collars and Leashes: A leash and a collar will be needed when you take your Goldendoodle outside for dog walking and training. Leashes and collars that are strong and rust-free may be purchased in pairs for $15 to $50.
• Crates and Carriers: For owners who want to raise puppies indoors, crate training may seem unnecessary, but anxious Goldendoodles sometimes look for independence and shelter. Depending on size and material, the price range for a strong and long-lasting dog cage is between $50 and $370.
• Grooming Essentials: As its purebred Poodle parent is known to be hypoallergenic, you can expect the same with Goldendoodles. Its curly coats, however, can mat easily, meaning it still needs regular grooming to maintain a good hairstyle. You’ll spend between $50 and $160 on a premium brush, soap, conditioner, pair of nail clippers, and other grooming items.
• Initial Vet Visits: An initial checkup with a qualified veterinarian is necessary to ensure your dog grows normally and healthily. A routine checkup for a Goldendoodle cost from $100 to $500.
• Initial Vaccine Shots: Vaccinations are crucial for growing puppies. It protects your dog from unwanted diseases it may catch growing up. You must spend between $50 and $200 for the initial shots.
• Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medication: These medications are necessary to keep your pup safe from diseases that could also affect your family, such as flea-borne typhoid and roundworms. If your pup hasn’t received these medications yet, be ready to spend anywhere between $40 and $300.
• Neutering or Spaying: Neutering and spaying have several health benefits. Spending between $50 and $500 on these operations is recommended to ensure your dog’s health and avoid problems like certain diseases, marking behavior, and unwanted pregnancies.
• Microchipping: You can microchip your Goldendoodle for around $40 to $60. This will improve the probability that your dog will be found as soon as possible if it goes missing.
• Dog License: A dog license will help identify you as a Goldendoodle owner in case your dog gets lost or is involved in an unexpected event. This can ensure that they are brought back to you. This will cost you between $10 and $20.
• Other Essentials: Other needs for owning a Goldendoodle include pee pads, carpet cleaners, poop bags, disinfectants, and more. Allot between $20 and $50 for these items.

Here is a summary of all the first-time expenses you need to consider before taking your Goldendoodle home:

Keep in mind that many of these charges are one-time expenditures. Choose high-quality things that could last for a long time to prevent frequently buying them, saving you money in the long run.

Further, as a breeder myself, I would suggest looking for reputable readers of Goldendoodles who will already save you a lot of costs by taking care of most of these initial expenses and may also provide some of these items as freebies along with the puppy’s purchase.

A cousin of mine once got a very good deal with a breeder who offered him a female Goldendoodle, along with a free pet carrier, food and water bowl, leash and collar, and even a dog bed. This saved him a few hundred dollars, which he was able to use to purchase other essentials.

Annual Cost of Owning a Goldendoodle 

Spending money on a Goldendoodle is not a one-time thing. Responsible owners should be ready to answer the costs of their pups’ needs for their lifetime.

The expense of keeping a Goldendoodle goes outside the cost of its food, treats, and other necessities. These include recurring expenses, such as grooming, routine veterinary care, etc.

For your convenience, here is a table summarizing the annual cost of owning a Goldendoodle:

For designer dogs like Goldendoodles, routine checkups are essential to preventing health problems. You may spend $200 to $400 a year for a visit to the vet once every two months.

The average annual cost highly depends on the dog’s size. Some items for miniature Goldendoodles, such as crates or collars, may cost less as they are smaller.

Keep in mind that the table only includes estimates. The annual expenses for this designer dog can either be lower or higher, depending on your chosen items, inclusions, and lifestyle.

Other Potential Expenses to Consider

As we’ve discussed the expected startup and yearly expenses for this breed’s needs, you must also be aware now that there may be unexpected costs connected with owning one.

The following are some examples of unexpected charges you may face, including their average price:

• Training: If you are unsure about training your pup yourself, you can always ask experts for help, especially if you want to raise your Goldendoodles as guide dogs. Spending $50 to $100 on training classes is a great investment to help your dog become a well-rounded furry companion.
• Pet Daycare: A pet daycare service may charge between $20 and $30 daily. If you have to leave your dog for business or vacation, this facility has professionals who can look after your mini Goldendoodle.
• Pet Passport: Getting a pet passport is a must if you’re uncomfortable leaving your furry friend behind. A United States pet passport can cost anywhere from $38 to $1,235. The cost varies depending on the licensed veterinarian clinic you visit, your pet’s breed, and where you go to and from.
• Kennel Club Registration: Goldendoodles are recognized as designer dogs and cannot be registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC). However, you can register it with the Continental Kennel Club (CKC). Registration fees range from $10 to $25. You may also register your puppy for $25 with the Goldendoodle Association of North America (GANA).
• Pet Insurance: Apart from routine medical visits, pet insurance is a wise investment. A charge of $500 to $900 is far less expensive than emergency room visits and unforeseen veterinarian fees.

Although these possible additional fees are optional, it is preferable to consider them in your budget. Having an emergency fund or saving a few bucks each month for your Goldendoodle is very recommended.

Best Places to Find Goldendoodle Puppies for Sale and Adoption

If you’ve reached this point, this means you are now seriously considering taking home a Goldendoodle and are prepared to shoulder the costs of raising one. The next step is finding responsible breeders.

These are some of the most trustworthy places to look for Goldendoodle pups for sale:

• Hermeier Doodles – Hermeier Doodles take great care in selecting the ideal puppy for each customer’s personality and preferences. The puppies they sell are subjected to regular vet visits, toilet training, and socialization. Goldendoodles from this breeder are also desensitized from fireworks, screaming infants, automobile horns, and other canine irritants.
• Colorado Golden Doodlebugs – Kim Brehon, an AKC breeder, established Colorado Golden Doodlebugs in 2000 and has been in business since. A Goldendoodle puppy from this breeder has a two-year health guarantee against hereditary health issues, including hip dysplasia. In addition, every puppy they sell has a 30-day pet insurance policy.
• Almond Blossom Doodles – Almond Blossom Doodles is a family-run California-based kennel founded in 2004. This Goldendoodle breeder focuses on teddy Bear English Goldendoodles. Every Almond Blossom Doodles puppy comes with a two-year health guarantee.
• Fox Creek Farm Goldendoodles – At Fox Creek Farm, those looking to find a Goldendoodle will meet puppies raised with care and expertise. Known for their gentle temperament, these Goldendoodles are the product of a thoughtful breeding program focused on health and socialization. Their puppies can be delivered by car to many states, including Pennsylvania.

To avoid spending a thousand dollars on a professional breeder, you may always adopt a quality Goldendoodle from a reputable rescue center.

Many rescues dedicated to recovering homeless Poodle mixes like Goldendoodles are listed below:

• Somerset Cottage Poodle Rescue (SCPR) – SCPR’s primary mission is to rescue and rehabilitate Goldendoodles, Poodles, Poodle mixes, and other toy breeds. This non-profit group was started in 2013 and has rehomed over 800 dogs since then.
• Carolina Poodle Rescue (CPR) – CPR is a non-profit organization run entirely by volunteers from North Carolina, Virginia, New York, Texas, and Georgia. Upon rescue, all Goldendoodles undergoing rehabilitation get rapid medical attention and health testing. Before being cleared for adoption, dogs are spayed/neutered and vaccinated.
• Doodle Rock Rescue (DRR) – Since 2017, Doodle Rock Rescue has focused on rescuing Goldendoodles and other Doodles from shelters with high euthanasia rates. The rescued dogs undergo health testing while living in the homes of volunteers. DRR, however, only allows adoption in areas within the 350 miles radius of Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas.

The adoption price varies depending on the age and health of the rescued canines. Basic veterinarian operations, including neutering, spaying, and microchipping, are all included in the price.

Money-Saving Tips for Goldendoodle Owners

When you eventually make a choice to bring this adorable mix home, you’ll be making a significant and long-term financial commitment.

It will be expensive, so developing your practicality will surely ease your possible expenses.

Here are some practical and money-saving tips for Goldendoodle owners:

• Make your own dog food. The best way to save money is to keep them strong and healthy by providing the best food. By doing extensive research and consulting with your vet, you may be able to provide enough nutrients for your pup by whipping up a recipe specially made for them. You can also save money by buying its ingredients and your weekly or monthly groceries.
• Groom your Goldendoodle yourself. This breed requires frequent maintenance since the Goldendoodle’s coat is prone to matting. You would save between $150 and $350 a year if you could learn to cut their wavy and curly coats and attend to their hygiene needs at home. Regularly grooming your pup is also a good bonding experience for you both.
• Use coupons and discounts. Pet stores and services frequently offer loyalty programs, including discounts on food, grooming, and veterinary services. Asking reputable stores about their current specials and promotions will definitely keep you under budget.
• Prepare an emergency fund. It is better to be prepared when medical help is suddenly needed. One way to begin preparing is to save a little bit each month to prepare for potential unexpected vet bills. This will save you from worrying about an accident or an emergency.

These suggestions are easy, and it won’t harm to try them. You may also anticipate learning more tips as you spend more time with your new wonderful Goldendoodle.

Watch this helpful video regarding at-home Goldendoodle grooming:

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Is the Cheapest Goldendoodle?

The lowest Goldendoodle puppy price from a reputable breeder is around $2,000. Puppy mills and backyard breeders will definitely offer much less but would eventually cost you in the long run.

However, adopting a Goldendoodle from rescues and local shelters could cost as low as $250. This is because they are usually adult dogs and have been through rehab.

How Much Is a Teddy Bear Goldendoodle?

A teddy bear Goldendoodle is a mixed breed between a Poodle and an English Cream Golden Retriever. These pups from reputable breeders could cost from $3,000 and up as their demand is also high.

Why Are Goldendoodles So Expensive?

The cost of a Goldendoodle is high as they are a type of designer dog that dog breeders aim to perfect. There is also a great demand for this mixed breed.

A respected Goldendoodle breeder also usually invests a significant amount of time and money in ensuring a healthy, well-socialized litter, which naturally raises the price of their puppies.

Final Thoughts

Goldendoodles are considered high-maintenance and pricey designer dogs. Thankfully, their popularity and demand as a mix of its parent dogs make it easier to locate credible Goldendoodle breeders.

Adopting a Goldendoodle could take some effort. Before taking one home from breeders, a possible owner must first learn the Goldendoodle cost to see if they can afford to raise one.

Make sure to get pups from those with a good breeder reputation to avoid getting an unhealthy puppy. Surely, Goldendoodle puppies cost a fortune, but they are worth the price.

After knowing the Goldendoodle price and the associated expenses in owning one, do you think you are financially and physically ready to take home one? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!