How to Train a Goldendoodle: 8 Tips to Keep Your Fluffy Buddy in Check
Let’s get real: Goldendoodles are adorable, smart, and charming. But they can also be tiny tornadoes of chaos if left unchecked.
One moment they’re stealing your socks, the next they’re trying to “help” you clean the kitchen floor with their tongue. Sound familiar?
Here’s the deal: training your Goldendoodle doesn’t have to feel like herding cats. Here are 8 tips you NEED to know.
1. Start Training From Day One
Not tomorrow. Not next week. Day one. Puppies are little sponges, soaking up everything they see (and chew). The longer you wait, the harder it gets to undo bad habits. Goldendoodles are smart—like, scary smart—so start teaching them what’s okay and what’s not ASAP.
- Teach the basics: Sit. Stay. Come. Keep it simple.
- Use short, 5-10 minute training sessions (puppy attention spans are short).
- Always end on a win. Reward them for getting it right.
Think about it: would you let a toddler run the show for a month and then suddenly decide to set boundaries? Nope. Same rules apply here.
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2. Use Positive Reinforcement—Because It Works
Here’s the secret: dogs love being told they’re amazing. Goldendoodles especially thrive on praise, treats, and belly rubs. Want them to sit? Reward them the second their butt hits the floor. Want them to stop chewing your shoes? Replace it with a toy and throw a puppy party when they chew that instead.
What not to do? Punishment. It’s outdated, doesn’t work, and can make your dog anxious. Plus, let’s be honest—you’re not trying to raise a sad dog.
3. Socialize Like Their Life Depends on It
Okay, this one’s huge. Goldendoodles are naturally friendly, but if they don’t meet enough people, dogs, or environments early on, they can turn into anxious messes.
Take them everywhere (within reason). Introduce them to everyone—the neighbor, the mailman, your friend who talks way too loudly.
Pro tip:
Socializing doesn’t just mean introducing them to people. Let them experience new sounds, smells, and textures. Got hardwood floors? Cool. Take them somewhere with grass, gravel, and even sand. A well-socialized dog is a confident dog.
4. Set Clear Boundaries (And Stick to Them)
Do you want your dog on the couch? No? Then don’t let them up there “just this once.” Dogs thrive on consistency. Mixed messages confuse them—and let’s be real, inconsistency usually ends with your dog calling the shots.
- Create house rules: Decide what’s off-limits (e.g., jumping, furniture, begging).
- Use baby gates or playpens to set physical boundaries.
- Redirect bad behavior every single time.
It’s not mean. It’s structure. And trust me, your Goldendoodle will love you for it.
5. Exercise = A Tired Dog Is a Good Dog
Goldendoodles have energy for days. Skip their walk, and suddenly they’re zooming around your house like a caffeinated squirrel. Don’t set them (or yourself) up for failure.
- Daily exercise is non-negotiable. Aim for 30-60 minutes of walking, running, or fetch.
- Add mental stimulation: Puzzle toys, hide-and-seek, or even teaching new tricks.
Pro tip: If your dog’s still bouncing off the walls after a walk, you didn’t walk them long enough. 🙃
6. Train in Short Bursts (Keep It Fun!)
You know how your brain checks out during long meetings? Same with dogs. Long, boring training sessions are a waste of everyone’s time. Instead:
- Stick to 5-10 minute sessions, 2-3 times a day.
- Use a mix of commands, games, and play.
- Celebrate wins like they just solved world peace.
Training should feel like a game for your dog. If they’re wagging their tail, you’re doing it right.
7. Be Patient (Seriously, Chill Out)
Here’s the thing: your Goldendoodle isn’t a robot. They’re going to mess up. They’re going to test your patience. But freaking out isn’t going to help anyone.
- Expect mistakes. It’s part of the process.
- Focus on progress, not perfection.
Remember, training isn’t about controlling your dog. It’s about building trust and communication. Stay calm, stay consistent, and keep showing up.
8. Get Everyone on the Same Page
Nothing undoes training faster than mixed signals. If you’re saying “off the couch” but your partner’s letting them snuggle during movie night, guess what? Your dog’s going to do whatever gets them the most belly rubs.
- Set family rules. Everyone needs to follow the same commands and rewards system.
- Communicate. If one person is slacking, remind them what’s at stake: chaos and chewed-up shoes.
Bonus Tip: Celebrate Your Wins
Training a dog isn’t easy. There will be days when you feel like giving up. But here’s the truth: every small win adds up. The first time they sit on command, the first time they stay when the doorbell rings—it’s all progress.
Training isn’t about having a perfect dog. It’s about creating a bond with your furry best friend that makes life better for both of you. So, take a deep breath, grab those treats, and get to work. Your Goldendoodle’s counting on you.
Final Thoughts
Training your Goldendoodle doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start early, stay consistent, and keep it fun. These dogs are smart, loyal, and eager to please—you just need to show them the way.
And hey, if all else fails, at least you’ll have a hilarious story about the time your dog stole your lunch off the counter. 😊
Go crush it!
I’ve spent 10+ years in dog training, digging into what makes dogs (and their humans) tick. At Smart Dog Learning, I share my no-nonsense, fun approach to training so you can enjoy life with a well-behaved, happy pup—no boring lectures, just practical results 😉
