Do Goldendoodles Like to Cuddle? Facts & FAQ

As one of the most popular designer dogs, the Goldendoodle is the best of the Golden Retriever and Poodle. That means, in most cases, you’ll get a big, intelligent, affectionate, and playful dog that is nearly hypoallergenic. That’s the reason they were bred in the first place!

Many dog owners question whether Goldendoodles like to cuddle as much as Golden Retrievers, which are the most huggable, cuddly canines in the dog world. The answer is yes, Goldendoodles are big-time cuddlers (most of the time). They make perfect companions and excellent pets.

What can you do to ensure your Goldendoodle puppy grows up to love cuddling and handling? We have the details for you below, plus tips, advice, and valuable opinions.

Why Do Goldendoodles Enjoy Cuddling?

If you’re wondering why Goldendoodles love cuddling so much, all you have to do is look at the traits of their parent breeds, the Golden retriever and Poodle. The average Golden Retriever loves to be handled, petted, and cuddled and they’re known worldwide for this endearing trait.

Poodles are also well-known for their affectionate nature, and both breeds are excellent with children. Yes, all dogs are unique, but the odds are definitely in your favor that your Goldendoodle will become your biggest cuddle buddy!

Do All Goldendoodles Enjoy Cuddling?

Some adult dogs don’t like to cuddle for different reasons. For example, if your Goldendoodle communicates with its body, cuddling might make it feel restrained or confined. Another example is that dogs have a keen fight-or-flight reflex, and when cuddling, you take away one of their main means of escape.

In effect, once a dog becomes an adult, if they don’t like to cuddle there isn’t much you can do about it. They might still be lovable and affectionate, but getting really close and cuddling up a storm won’t be on their agenda. That’s why it’s best to start a Goldendoodle on the path to being a cuddler as early as possible.

How To Ensure Your Goldendoodle Enjoys Cuddling

If you want to get your Goldendoodle used to cuddling, the best time to start is when you adopt them and bring them into your home. That’s the day you need to start socializing your Goldendoodle puppy.

Socializing is a way to get a dog used to handling and other people touching them, other pets being friends and not food, and any situation where they need to remain calm.

Can a Goldendoodle Suddenly Stop wanting to Cuddle?

If you’ve socialized your Goldendoodle well and they love cuddling and being petted, it will usually enjoy it for its entire life. However, if your furry friend suddenly stops, it might be a sign that something is wrong, has changed, or is bothering them. If your Goldendoodle has always been a big cuddler and one day suddenly stops, consider taking a trip to your veterinarian and getting your pet examined. The chance it has some type of health issue is a distinct possibility, as well as the possibility that your precious pet has been injured in some way that you can’t detect.

Do Goldendoodles Get More Cuddly as They Get Older?

While all dogs are different, and your Goldendoodle might not want to cuddle as much, anecdotal evidence suggests that most dogs will cuddle with you more as they age. There are several reasons, including that your Goldendoodle is losing their sight or hearing and feels more secure when cuddling. Also, after many years by your side, your Goldendoodle will rely on you for everything and be very thankful to be in your care, which can increase its willingness to cuddle up with you.

Do Goldendoodles Feel Safe when Cuddling?

One of the main reasons a dog, including a Goldendoodle, likes to cuddle is because dogs are pack animals, and as pack animals, they cuddle together for warmth and safety. When you adopt a Goldendoodle, you and your family (if you have one) become its pack, and for that reason, cuddling with you is almost second nature. Cuddling is also a time when Goldendoodles feel safe, secure, and content, knowing that their pack leader (you) loves them and will protect them from harm.

Final Thoughts

If you were wondering whether the Goldendoodle you’ve adopted (or will adopt soon) will be a huggable hound, wonder no more! The average Goldendoodle loves cuddling, hugging, petting, and hanging out close to their owners. While many dogs like cuddling, Goldendoodles are some of the best at it, thanks to their Poodle and Golden Retriever bloodlines.

Not all dogs are born cuddlers, so socializing your Goldendoodle early is highly recommended. The more exposed your pet is to cuddling, the more used to it they will become. Many will then seek out cuddles and hugs from their owners because cuddling makes them feel safe and part of a pack. We hope your lovable Goldendoodle turns into the cuddling companion you’ve always wanted!

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Featured Image Credit: Lopolo, Shutterstock