Groodles are one of the more rewarding breeds to bring into an active household, which is a big part of why they've become such a popular family dog in Australia. Here's what actually sets them apart:

• Low-shedding coat from the Poodle side. Groodles inherit a coat that sheds very little and produces less of the dander that triggers most allergies. No dog is completely hypoallergenic, but this is one of the breeds that people with mild allergies can often live with comfortably.
• Highly trainable. Both parent breeds are among the smartest and most eager-to-please dogs there are, so Groodles tend to pick up training quickly. That intelligence is also why they're a common choice for therapy and assistance work.
• Sociable and gentle. From the Golden Retriever, Groodles get a friendly, patient temperament. They're good with children, usually get along with other dogs, and love being around their people rather than left on their own.
• Built for an active family. Groodles have real energy and enjoy walks, swimming, and games of fetch. If your household is up for a daily outing, a Groodle will happily keep up.
  

What to Ask a Groodle Breeder Before You Buy

There are plenty of breeders around, but picking the right one can be tricky. Some breeders interbreed their dogs to the point where the puppies are no longer healthy. Here are some questions to ask a Groodle breeder before you buy a puppy:

• Do they health-test the parents? Because Groodles come from Golden Retrievers and Poodles, they can inherit conditions such as hip and elbow issues or eye problems from either side, so a responsible breeder screens the parent dogs before breeding them.
• Do they vaccinate the puppies? Many breeders will vaccinate their puppies before they sell them to you. We will give the puppy's vaccination card to you.
• How long have they been breeding? When you buy a puppy, you want one from an experienced breeder. Ask how long they've been in business, as this gives you an idea of how well they know dogs.
• Do they socialise the puppies? Your puppy's temperament depends a lot on how well they're socialised from a young age. We raise our puppies according to the Victorian Code of Practice, and they run regular audits on our facilities and welfare.