Goldens and poodles are similar in the sense that they are sociable and easy to train. However, these all-time favorite breeds still differ in several ways.
Standard poodles and golden retrievers are amazing family dogs, as well as companions for active individuals but there are several subtle differences to consider. Golden retrievers are calmer and more patient, they may be more attuned to the owner, and even therapeutic. Poodles are a little more independent and vigilant. Both breeds need plenty of attention and exercise. Poodles are the preferred breed for people with allergies or those who strongly prefer non-shedding pups.
Start with sorting out the basics and move on to the more complex traits, such as the dog’s personality, for instance.
A golden retriever could be better for you if:
- You live in a warm climate
- You would like a very balanced, friendly toward everyone, pet. Poodles are also friendly dogs but may need more time to warm up to strangers
- You prefer a dog that is less likely to bark
A poodle could be better for you if:
- You or someone in your household is allergic to dogs: although no pet is truly hypoallergenic, poodles are among the breeds that cause reactions in fewer people than most other dogs
- You have a strong preference for a pet that does not shed: poodles shed very little but their fur does need some regular care and maintenance
Golden Retriever vs Standard Poodle: the Basics
| Breed | Golden Retriever | Poodle |
| Size | up to 24 in (61 cm) | 15+ in (38+ cm) |
| Weight | 60-75 lbs (28-34kg) | 45-70 lbs (20-32 kg) |
| Life expectancy | 10-12 years | 12-16 years |
| Coat colors | dark golden, light golden, cream | apricot, black, brown, cafe-au-lait, red, silver, white |
| Exercise needs | moderate to high | moderate to high |
| Good with kids? | yes! | yes! |
| Hypoallergenic? | no | yes, but some people could still be allergic |
Poodles and Goldens are Among the Easiest-to-Train Breeds
Standard poodles and golden retrievers are equal here. Both breeds learn new commands and skills extremely quickly: they are in the top 5 easiest-to-train dogs.
- They retain new skills with few repetitions
- They respond to commands outside, in unfamiliar, noisy, and overstimulating environments, and when you talk to them from a distance. This ability should not be taken for granted because most other dogs do not focus as well outside, especially if the owner is far away.
- Both goldens and poodles respond quite well to being trained by novice trainers, so there is no need for a professional.
Being attuned to the owner is a separate category but it helps the dogs of both breeds to learn well, too.
Personality and Temperament
In general, golden retrievers and standard poodles have very different personalities and temperaments. As always, remember there is plenty of variation even within one breed – all dogs are individuals, after all.
In comparison, golden retrievers are calmer and more patient. They adapt better and live in sync with the owner and the entire household. Golden retrievers have a more therapeutic presence thanks to their ability to pick up on the emotional cues of people.
Standard poodles could be more independent and stubborn. These pups are a little less likely to tolerate attention when they want to rest, for example. It is important to keep that in mind if you have young kids in the household.
Both standard poodles and goldens love outdoor games and do well in social situations, such as attending a crowded event in a public park or spending time on the beach.
Energy Level, Exercise Needs
Standard poodles and golden retrievers are energetic, athletic, and dynamic dogs. Adult healthy dogs of these breeds need at least an hour of daily exercise – a long walk or a couple of shorter walks, a hike now and then, outdoor games, and so on.
It is hard to overstate the intelligence of the dogs of both breeds, they are smart canines. For that reason, your pet will appreciate any variety of activities you can offer. Hikes are an amazing option because they imply new experiences and plenty of mental stimulation, along with exercise.
It is worth noting that both poodles and golden retrievers do very well in compact living spaces, including apartments, provided that you take them out for walks appropriately, of course. In other words, these dogs are active but not to the point that they would need a large yard available.
Shedding and Grooming Needs
Poodles shed very little but caring for their coats can be time-consuming. Your poodle should be brushed thoroughly at least twice a week, possibly more, depending on how long you keep your pet’s coat. The fur has to be trimmed every few weeks. You could learn how to do it but many owners prefer to take them to professional groomers for bathing and trimming sessions.
Golden retrievers do shed moderately or heavily, depending on the season. Their fur does not have to be trimmed but needs to be brushed a few times a week. Many owners do trim their pets’ coats in the summer but brushing could be a more effective way to make the fur more breathable. Like most dogs, goldens need baths every few weeks or as needed.
The Dog and People with Allergies
If you are allergic, your odds of allergy-free life are better around poodles than golden retrievers.
Golden retrievers are not considered hypoallergenic dogs.
Breeders of poodles often claim that these pets are hypoallergenic but, in reality, there is always a chance that a person could develop allergies. When it comes to dogs, it is not clear what proteins in their bodies are responsible for allergenic reactions, or at least there is less clarity than in the case of allergenic cats. But an allergen can be shed through saliva, for example, so the fact that the dog does not shed fur is not always an important factor.
That said, a poodle might be a better option for a person with allergies but it is still best to spend some time with the dog, ideally at least an hour. Usually, you will know pretty quickly if the animal is triggering a reaction.
If You Have Kids in the Household
Both Golden Retrievers and poodles are excellent family pets, especially if the kids in your household are of school age.
If you have very young children, a Golden Retriever could be a better choice, thanks to their patience and generally mellow and loving natures. They are much less likely than poodles to be protective of their space and could tolerate an overstimulating toddler better. Of, course, you should always supervise the interactions between young kids and pets, for everyone’s comfort and safety.
If your kiddos are older and have some self-discipline around their pets, both breeds are fabulous activity companions and fun, interactive pets who will bring much joy to the entire family.
If You Have Other Pets
Although both breeds are entirely capable of living with other pets peacefully and happily, golden retrievers usually need less time and effort to accept a new pet in the house. They are also more friendly with other dogs they meet outside.
Poodles could be more territorial around a new animal brought into the house, or more vigilant and vocal. They still do usually adapt and coexist very peacefully with other pets. Poodles are loud and opinionated, so your dog is quite likely to bark at other dogs and small wild animals outside.
Is a Poodle or a Golden Retriever Better for a New Dog Owner?
One of the most important aspects that makes either a standard poodle or a golden retriever a good choice for people who are new to owning a dog is these breeds’ trainability and their social personalities.
Keep in mind that both breeds are prone to separation anxiety. That could become an issue if you are gone for over five hours daily and your dog would need to stay alone regularly. There are ways to address the problem but unexpected behavioral problems could pose a challenge if your dog struggles with separation anxiety.
Poodles need more maintenance for their coats than most prospective owners realize. As for golden retrievers, these pups rarely come with any surprises as pets.
The Cost of Welcoming and Maintaining Your Dog
The initial and maintenance costs are important factors for most households.
If you are in the U.S., golden retriever puppies can cost anywhere from about 1000$ to 3000$. There is more variety in prices for poodles, but the range is lower. It is usually 500-2000$, depending on your geographical area. Standard poodles are less expensive than the smaller sizes of the breed.
The maintenance costs for either dog are comparable, including the cost of pet health insurance.
Always check out your local shelter or rehoming websites. Both poodles and goldens are often found in shelters because they are such popular breeds of dogs, so more people take a puppy but find themselves unable to provide care for their pet. This post lists several great websites where you can search and find a puppy or an adult dog of the breed of your interest.
To Conclude
Depending on your household, either breed could be an amazing addition to your family. Frankly, despite some clear differences, golden retrievers and standard poodles are still similar in many ways.
A dog of either breed is likely to adapt to your family’s life and become a loyal and beloved family member.
