Have you ever seen a Goldendoodle with a smooth straight coat? For years I think I have but just didn’t realize it. Pawhaps you have too – but you didn’t know it either.
Straight coat Goldendoodles have a stronger resemblance to the Golden Retriever and are absoDoodletutely gorgeous.
Meet Samford, an 8 month old straight coat Goldendoodle…
Photo courtesy of Mary Matus (Samford’s Doodle Mom!)
Most people are only aware of “two” coat types found in the Goldendoodle but there are actually three…
- Loose and wavy – Jaxson…
- Curly – Harley…
- Straight – Samford…
Photo courtesy of Sully and Sammy’s Instagram page.
All coat types inherit the personality traits of both the Poodle and the Golden Retriever. They all possess the pretty face, large eyes, long lashes and that endearing smile.
SMOOTH, STRAIGHT, FLAT –
I’ve read articles and have seen this particular coat type described three ways – smooth – straight and flat.
Of the three types of coats found on a Goldendoodle – I believe the straight coat is the rarest of them all. However, Goldendoodles with straight coats are becoming very popular.
Straight coat Goldendoodles rarely occur in F1 or F1B generations. They’re more common in F2 and F2B generations. Referred to as the “Golden Retriever coat” – they are very easy to maintain and require minimal brushing.
There’s no “Teddy Bear” look nor will they have the “beard” around the muzzle, They will not show any signs of “crimping” or curl on the forehead. Their coat is silky smooth and classified as low to moderate shedding.
HOW WILL YOU KNOW? –
For Goldendoodles – as puppies, it’s difficult to determine what kind of coat type your Dood will have once he/she is an adult. Experienced Doodle breeders are able to tell you because they understand the DNA of their doods along with the generations.
The best rule of thumb is –
look at the fur around the face and muzzle, not the body. Puppies with crimping or waves in their muzzle hair will typically have either wavy/shaggy or curly coats, although it’s not possible to tell which until they’re older. Smooth face and muzzle fur indicates a straight Goldendoodle coat type. Source: Everything Doodle
Photo courtesy of Sully and Sammy’s Instagram page.
Goldendoodles will have several different “hair moments” before their first barkday. It’s interesting to watch the adult hair move in and take residence. For weeks Harley the puppy looked like he licked an electrical socket. Hair was sticking out everywhere!
DOODLES ARE COOL –
The Goldendoodle continues to be a well liked, sought-after family pet. We receive many emails about coat types because people are still learning about this cross breed.
No matter what their hair does – curl, wave or lay still – I adore their playfulness, cuddliness, and loyalty. They are great companions for all human lifestyles. #especiallymine
*GOLDEN hugs & DOODLE kisses to Mary for letting us use photos of Sammy.
You don’t need a new year to make a change, all you need is a Monday ❤
April 1, 2018
My love.. Gracie Mae a soon to be 4 year old Goldendoodle! She rocks our world everyday❣️Wish I could share a picture.
April 1, 2018
I’d love to see a photo – feel free to email it to me, [email protected] Thanks for stopping by, please come back again real soon.
January 28, 2019
I have two Goldendoodles. One has wavy hair and the other is straight. Love them both.
I tried to attach a pic but can’t.
February 3, 2019
Aren’t two Doods just the best? I love having two in my life. Thanks so much for reading, please come back again soon.
August 9, 2019
I have a flat golden doodle named Bailey. She is almost 2 years old. I don’t know what to do with her as far as grooming goes. She does shed unfortunately, and was wondering if getting her groomed would help?
Thanks,
Lori
August 12, 2019
Hello Lori – Unfortunately having her groomed will only keep her hair shorter – but the shedding will still occur. Sounds like she inherited the flat hair from the Golden side and at close to two years old, I doubt if her coat is going to change drastically again. Perhaps a regular regiment of brushing will help – that and using the correct brush. I always ask my groomer which brush to purchase – like people, all Doodles don’t have the same texture therefore the instrument will be different. Jaxson and Harley don’t use the same brush because their hair is different. I brush them after their morning walk – at least 5 times a week. A lot of it had to do with getting them used to being handled as puppies, then it was to keep them looking fresh for the photo’s I take for this website and then so that they looked clean before entering the hospital. They are so accustomed to it, we are done in a matter of minutes. Hope some of this information is of some use to you. Thanks so much for stopping by – please come back again soon.
June 26, 2020
I want very much to adopt a female
Goldenrod that is between 1 and 6
years old that is light in color.
Can you help me to find one.
Please let me know my email is
[email protected]
July 2, 2020
Hello Sandy – I do not have anything to do with adoption however, I can suggest you look into an organization found on FaceBook called Doodles and Poodles Rescue. Best of luck – please keep us posted.
November 2, 2019
I have a Goldendoodle that is 8 months old, her hair looks like it is crimped! I’ve never seen anything like it!? I’m also the breeder of this pup. She’s very unique! Have you ever seen one like this before??
March 27, 2022
We have a flat hair and we could not be more happy. She is the smartest puppy I have ever had and the sweetest as well.
April 10, 2022
Hi Veronica – I have no doubt – flat coated doodles are rare and always gorgeous (in my opinion) often mistaken for a Golden Retriever (which is another incredible version of canine love) once you proudly explain she’s a doodle – it generates the best conversations with total strangers. You are blessed to have her in your lives – but then I suspect you already know that 🙂 Thanks so much for stoppage by. Come back again soon…
November 18, 2019
Hi , I am interested in a petit Goldendoodle with straight/ flat coat. Is there a lot of shedding with straight/flat coat?
December 2, 2019
Susan, I am no expert, but from all that I’ve read, the flat coat is coming from the Retriever gene, therefore I would imagine (although I could be wrong) that there would be more shedding then the average Doodle, but probably not as much as a purebred Retriever. Have you spoken with a reputable breeder about that? I am sure they would be the experts on answering your question.
April 12, 2020
Are they hypoallergenic?
June 2, 2020
I would imagine so, if you’re concerned about the shedding factor, from what I understand when the two seasons change they have been known to shed more than the curly or wavy doods.
April 6, 2021
I have been searching for a straight coated Golden doodle for a year ! Can you help me by sharing where you got yours ? many thanks
penny whiting – [email protected]
August 2, 2021
Hello Penny – so sorry for the delay. I do not have a straight coated Doodle, unfortunately I have yet to come across a breeder who can consistently produce straight coated litters. Not sure that is even possible. Sorry I wasn’t of more help.
October 12, 2019
My f1b Goldendoodle is 4 months old and has zero curls. He has a few crimps around his ears but that’s it. If I didn’t know the breeder I’d swear their was no way his pooch is 75% poodle.
October 14, 2019
The hardest thing about doodles is waiting an entire year for their adult coat to come in. We all have been through it – just remember what you see now (whether you like it or not) is not what you will see next year this time. Have fun loving your Dood instead, they are all adorable in my book!
October 25, 2019
How can I find a straight haired labradoodle puppy
October 27, 2019
Brian – unfortunately, I cannot help you with that one. The majority of doodle breeders I have had the pleasure of talking to, are quite honest about how rare these beautiful creatures are. I think you would have to start contacting breeders and/or find someone who has one and ask about their breeder. I wish you the best of luck! Please keep me posted.
May 17, 2020
Glad I found this post! Our sweet goldendoodle only has curls on her ears and anyone that meets her keeps saying she isn’t a doodle. She’s beautiful and we love her!
June 2, 2020
What’s hair got to do with it! LOL Thanks so much for reading, please come back again soon and enjoy your gorgeous pup!
July 4, 2020
I’m really concerned, what is the difference beteween poodles and doodles sheepadoodles etc etc
July 6, 2020
Hello Jamie – not sure I understand your question/concern. Doodles have a certain percentage of Poodle in their DNA. This includes Sheepadoodles (Sheep dog and Poddle mix).
April 2, 2018
We are supposed to have flat coats, but when I get wet, mine curls up and Mom goes mad. The thinning brush comes out and my furs get straight again. I like the look of the flat doodle, but we normally only notice the curly ones like you guys.
April 11, 2018
I don’t’ think I’ve ever seen your coats curly, I’ve got to go back to your website now and look at some photos! Either way, I think you’re the prettiest girls with fluffy tails I’ve ever seen 🙂
April 2, 2018
Fascinating. I guess I’m i the group that probably has never seen this type of coat. Although there are scads of doodles in my ‘hood, they tend to be the curly variety.
April 11, 2018
Well now you’ll be on the look-out when you’re walking through your “hood.” LOL
May 15, 2019
Hi I just acquired my double doodle Buckeye he has a smooth muzzle and head but his body is wavy , he is 4 months old so gentle not boisterous at all a little frightened acting do you think this is because the breeder adobted them out at 4 months . He is quite a big dog now I have his
Papers. Can you tell me anything about why he won’t come to me won’t walk laying sleeping on the rug mostly I just got him I’m a little worried about him since he is a pup still at 4 months and should be very active. He is an adorable dog.
July 23, 2019
Hi Brenda – first let me ask you – have you taken your puppy to the vet for a full exam? If not, that’s where I would start. If you have, did you discuss your concerns with your vet? Often puppies are shy, cautious and may sleep a great deal. That doesn’t necessarily raise a red flag. But if after a decent period of time in your house – around your family, you don’t see his confidence growing and/or he is still not progressing I would definitely call for another consultation with the vet. As far as his coat – Doodles will display several different coats up until about 15 months of age, smooth, flat and a little wavy could mean anything at four months old. It’s a waiting game, but what I’ve found – at the end of the day I have yet to see a doodle that isn’t absoDOODLEtutely PAWdorable. Hope I’ve helped – if even a little bit. 🙂
April 2, 2018
I did not know about the flat-coated! That appeals to me since I love goldens so much, and Sammy is so cute! However, I love the looks of your boys too.
It would be fun to just pick a puppy, sight unseen, and see what you ended up with! 🙂
April 11, 2018
When I first brought Harley home, I remember waiting for his hair to get curly, but it never did. As I watched him grow I grew to love him with his fluffy hair. You’re so right, anyway they come, they are adorable. The flat haired Doods are adorable, and like you – they tend to appeal to the Golden Retriever lover with out all the loose hair. Hope all is well with you – hugs to Luke!
May 21, 2020
We bought Pitch from a breeder in Montana — thought we were getting a black labradoodle, but found upon arrival that he was actually a double-doodle. He was an adorable puppy, very affectionate and fun. They had told us that his mother was the wavy haired (instead of kinky, like most golden doodles) and Pitch has taken after her. I didn’t know about the three types of hair on golden doodles and it always puzzled me why everyone we would encounter at the parks would ask if Pitch was a flat-coated retriever. I even used one of those dog-identifier apps on my phone and it said “100% flat coated retriever”. But Pitch’s papers were a labradoodle/golden doodle mix.
The article about straight coated doodles was great — and the only difference between her straight coat and Pitch’s is the color. Don’t know if I can attach a picture to this, but Pitch’s hair is the straight (just slightly wavy), very silky and soft to the touch. He does shed, but it’s more of a fluff that he sheds, not fur. He is incredibly cuddly and loves people.
Although they are rare, I highly recommend the straight coat variety — beautiful!
June 1, 2020
You know, I’m watching the increased popularity of the double doodle lately. Seems more people are interested in them and I am wondering if it’s because of the coat.Your thoughts?
April 2, 2018
I’ve never seen or heard of a Goldendoodle with straight hair! Your friend Samford looks like a Golden Retriever, I’m trying to see the difference between him & a Golden. I think I like your beautiful wavy, curly Doodle fur best!
Love & biscuits,
Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them
April 11, 2018
Cathy, if you look at the face of both of them – you will see that the flat haired Dood’s face is slightly boxier than a standard Golden. That’s the way I see the difference. Many people gravitate to the flat haired Doods because of their love for the Golden Retriever without the loose hair.
April 3, 2018
I never knew what a straight coat doodle looked like until this past weekend… at least I think that’s what Maisy is. I’m not entirely certain but she’s different than the wavy or curly doodles I’ve seen/looked after before. This little girl is 5 months old and holy cow Cathy, you should see my hands from her sharp, tiny little razor blades in her mouth. I LOOOOOVE puppies but I don’t miss those teeth. LOL
I gotta say, Samford (love the name) is such a handsome dude. What do the fellas think of Sammy?
April 11, 2018
Those teeth can be murder can’t they? LOL Sammy is a FB friend, we’ve never met him in person. I love the flat haired look, but I suspected many people don’t know anything about that option. They have a strong appeal to those who love Golden Retrievers, and I can see why, they look so much like them. Less loose hair to deal with also. How have you been?
April 4, 2018
Aw, your friend Samford is adorable with his straight fur! Though your boys are just as adorable! And, really, you can’t lose with either a Poodle or a Golden Retriever personality! I grew up with poodles; my own first dog was a poodle; and of course Callie and Shadow were/are Goldens. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
April 11, 2018
He sure is. I can now spot them on the street by studying their faces. To me, they are boxier than a pure bred Golden Retriever, and that helps me get it right. Such sweet pups too.I agree, these two breeds make my heart melt – in any form or fashion.
May 2, 2018
My doodle puppy has the flat “wirey”/wavy hair currently. He’s only 4 months so his coat is still going through lots of changes. I just got him groomed today, so the flat/wavy coat is even more obvious. When his fur is grown out he gets recognized more as a doodle.
Enjoy the site, lots of good and fun stuff to read here.
May 8, 2018
I’m looking for a red mini goldendoodle …male .My dog which was a poodle just went to rainbow bridge after 18 years. I have lots of love to give and time. Or another toy poodle dark red male .
May 9, 2018
Hi Leonora – thanks so much for stopping by, unfortunately I do not have any connections with adoption. I do however, highly recommend ww.Idogrescue.com for Goldendoodle / Labradoodle re-homing! I wish you the best of luck.
August 3, 2018
I was wondering if you could give me any further information on straight coated doodles. Mine just turned 7 months and started shedding like crazy!! She didnt do this before so I dont know if this is just her puppy fur or summer shed or what. Would you please be able to help!! Not many people have info on straight coated doodles. Thanks!!
August 6, 2018
Hi Devan – so sorry for the delay. I was trying to do as much research as I could regarding this subject. There are many different theories (as I am sure you have already figured out) as too the straight haired goldendoodle. Here is a link that defines the “furnishings” connection to the various coats of the goldendoodle: https://www.goldendoodleassociation.com/about-the-breed/coat-types-and-colors/ I will tell you – because your doodle is still so young, there are many phases that she will go through before she’s at least 12 months old. So if there’s more shedding than you anticipated, don’t leap from the ledge yet. This could be temporary. Have you reached out to your breeder yet? Look at the link, then give them a call. Please keep me posted…
December 2, 2018
We just welcomed Oliver in to our family. He’s a multi-gen red Goldendoodle and currently 4.5 months old. He has a liver nose and paw pads, and super light eyes. And the smoothest, softest coat ever! He has facial furnishings. I’m so intrigued by what he will look like as an adult. In any case, we are madly in love with him!
January 2, 2019
Based on what you described – who wouldn’t be madly in love with Oliver? He sounds PAWdorable. His coat could possibly change before he’s about 13/14 months old, but then again it might not. That’s the beauty of the crossbreed. Please keep up with us (subscribe to the blog) and let me know how he looks on his first birthday. Thanks for stopping by.
January 14, 2019
Hi Cathy I have 2 minature goldendoodles. First generation. Will the pups look like there parent or will the pups turn out with straight hair
Thanks fidelma from ireland
January 14, 2019
Hello Fidelma – Your pups “should” end up with either curly or wavy hair. Chances of a first generation ending up with straight hair is super rare. Keep in mind though, a Goldendoodle will change his/her coat at least three times before the age of one. Look for the final coat to show itself around his/her first birthday. Thanks so much for stopping by, I would love to visit your country one day. Please send me pics of your mini Dood’s. Come back soon…
January 31, 2019
Can i email a picture of my goldendoodle and you tell me what you think? Some family members seem to think shes a retriever and we are confused
February 3, 2019
Hello Jake, I understand however, I am not the right person to ask. Goldendoodles have so many different looks especially before the age of one. Have you asked the breeder for information on the parents? If you don’t know the parents, have you thought about one of those DNA tests for dogs? They aren’t very expensive and it will tell you exactly what your dogs lineage is. Best of luck to you.
January 8, 2020
My dood at 4 mos looks like Max. I hope she stays that way. Not fond of the curly. She has a courser fur now and just a hint of wave. No curl.
February 21, 2020
How’s the hair now? Still course and not as curly?
January 8, 2020
I did a DNA on my baby due to the way I found her. 50/50 and no known pre-dispositions to some genetic health conditions. Happy I did it.
February 21, 2020
Excellent!
March 13, 2019
We just got our baby. He is three months old from MO and appears to be flat coat. We love him. He is already going to the bathroom outside with just 48 hours of training. I am blown away by how smart he is. He is such a cuddle bug and the cat is even warming up to him. Fingers crossed this just keep going in this direction!
July 23, 2019
Hello Archer’s Mom – gotta tell you I love that name (Archer) – keep in mind his coat will continue to change up until he’s close to 18 months of age. But no matter what the final coat turns out to be, I am sure he will always be a cuddle bug – it’s just their nature. Thanks so much for reading, please come back and enjoy your new addition to the family.
April 3, 2019
I have a goldendoodle micro mini f1b that is 4 month old now. He does not have a facial beard, and has been shedding allot since we got him at 2 months old. He is more a smooth coat, and wondering if anyone has had an experience with shedding, and does it ever stop. Recently i noticed his fuzzy baby hair along his neck and entire back is gone, and has developed a darker wavy, coarser hair.
July 23, 2019
Hello Elina – From everything I’ve ever read (and to some extent experienced) – Goldendoodles will change coat texture at least three times before they reach about 18 months of age. What you see now at 4 months will more than likely not be around much longer. Because these are cross breeds it’s difficult to determine so early what type of coat he will end up with. Your breeder can predict somewhat – what he thinks will be the coat from past litters of the same lineage. Time will tell. So for now, please just enjoy your pup and embrace the changes! Hope this helped a little!
June 25, 2019
Hey Cathy! I loved the article. I have a 4 month old goldendoodle first generation (golden retriever mom and a standard poodle dad) my little guy came out as adorable as ever! He is black with a white chest and a touch of white on his chin. There were a lot of brown and golden pups but he stood out to me. I have quickly realized how much he looks like a golden. Many people mistake him for a black lab mix. The only thing that gives the doodle away are his curly ears. It’s awesome how different doodles can be!
July 1, 2019
Kahhleel – I’m finding more and more straight haired doodles here in SC. We just brought a cutie pie on as a pet therapy pup and she is adorable. Even though many people mistake her for a pure Golden – once you touch her there is a significant difference between the feel of the coat. The Doodle seems to maintain a softer coat – even the straight haired doodles. I agree with you – doodles are different – but they are my heart dogs for sure. Thanks so much for reading – please come back again soon.
November 18, 2019
Cathy, where are you located in SC? Im looking for breeders that have flat coated Doodles.
December 2, 2019
Hello Brian – I am in Charleston SC. I have finally found a reputable local breeder – Jenna Lee Designer Doodles. Look her up, not sure if she has any flat coated Doods, but she may be able to steer you in the right direction. Keep me posted
February 26, 2020
We just got a black mini golden doódlé with perfectly straight, curly, fluffy, soft fur. I always thought I would want a curly one but I love his fur. Years ago we had a purebred golden retriever and this baby’s fur is straighter. Lol. He has the most loving personality and loves everyone and life. He saves me for the sadness of losing my almost 13 year old Maltipoo♥️
June 10, 2020
Look at you! You’ve got your very own therapy dog! He sounds adorable.
February 28, 2020
I do believe my 12.8 year old golden doodle is slowly returning to her puppy coloring. She was born light coffee beige, turned almost all white over the years, and is now turning beige again particularly on her ears and back. It’s very cool to see. I have photographed it to watch the progression. She is a very soft fine hair GDoodle. And I noticed it a few months ago. The groomer mentioned it as well.
June 10, 2020
Thats very, very interesting. I also want to commend you – your Dood is almost 13 years old? That is AMAZING!!!! I like that fact that you are taking photo’s of the transformation. It must be fascinating to see the side by side comparisons. Thanks so much for reading – please come back again soon.
March 17, 2020
Our new 4 month old mini goldendoodle boy comes from a goldendoodle mommy 20lbs and a black miniature poodle 12lbs. He has the longest, straight thick silky hair I have ever seen. If I didn’t know better I would think he was a black Maltese. Lol. He has the golden ears and cute rear end and the rotten and sweet and cuddly all rolled into one. Years ago we had a full golden and I see a lot of her traits in him. I pray he keeps the coat he has now
June 10, 2020
He may – but be prepared if it changes ever so slightly between now and when he’s about a year old. He sounds like he is adorable. Enjoy him, spoil him rotten LOL Thanks so much for reading – please come back again soon.
May 18, 2020
Looking for a breeder of a flat hair golden doodle
June 1, 2020
The only breeder I am comfortable endorsing is Jenna Lee Designer Doodles. I am not sure if she breeds specifically flat haired doodles or not.
September 4, 2020
We researched and decided a golden doodle was what we wanted no shedding. We got Bella and she’s 4 months old F2 very straight. We love her to bits however a little sad she’s a shedder!
After reading this I now understand I am not the only one! She’s rare! If we were to breed her wht should we breed her with?
January 26, 2021
There is still a possibility that her hair texture may change before she’s 18 months old. If it doesn’t I have no doubt she has stolen your hearts regardless to her hair! As far as breeding, that’s a question to ask breeders (which I am not) I would have no idea how to guide you with that. Best of luck, please keep me posted and thanks so much for reading, come back again…
August 18, 2019
Thanks for stopping by Avon! Come back again soon…
December 28, 2019
Hello, we have a double golden doodle named cooper. He will be three months in January. His hair is completely straight and he shead a lot. The only thing curly is his ears, but his fur is like fuzz. When he gets a bit older will the shearing stop some and you think his hair will stay straight?
December 30, 2019
Hello Deidra – with a Dood that young it is virtually impossible to determine what his adult coat will look like. Have you spoken to the breeder? Many times they can give you a better guess as to what type of adult coat Cooper may have by the time he turns a year old. Doodles typically change coats three times before their first birthday. Hope that helps – take care and thanks for reading.