Alright, so I went down the rabbit hole, decided I needed a dog in my life. And not just any dog. Everyone, and I mean everyone, kept yapping about Goldendoodles. Then I heard about the “red F1 Goldendoodle.” Sounded specific, sounded like a plan. Or so I thought.
Getting Started with the Whole Thing
First off, finding one. Man, that was a whole process. I started looking around, calling people, checking online. It wasn’t like just popping into a store. Lots of breeders, lots of questions, and waiting lists. Felt like I was applying for a top-secret club or something. Finally, found a litter, picked out a little red fluffball. Excitement was an understatement.
Then came bringing the puppy home. Let me tell you, those first few days were something else. You see all these cute pictures online, right? Well, reality is a bit messier. They tell you Goldendoodles are friendly and outgoing. My little guy was friendly, alright – friendly with chewing everything in sight. Outgoing? More like out-of-control at times. Energy for days. My apartment suddenly felt like a racetrack.
The Training Adventure, or Misadventure
Okay, training. This is where it got real. People say F1 Goldendoodles are highly intelligent and eager to please because of their Poodle side. Yeah, intelligent, I’ll give ’em that. Smart enough to figure out how to get into trouble, that’s for sure. Eager to please? Debatable. Seemed more eager to please himself with my socks.
I read all the stuff: consistency, positive reinforcement. So, I stocked up on treats. My pockets were always full. Every time he even looked like he was thinking about peeing outside, BAM, treat. Sit? Treat. Stay for half a second? Treat. It felt like I was running a treat-based economy. But you know what? It slowly started to work. Slowly.
And the advice about not using punishments? Absolutely true. Tried raising my voice once when he grabbed something he shouldn’t have. He just got scared and confused. Definitely didn’t help. So, positive vibes only, even when I wanted to pull my hair out.
- Crate training: That was a journey. First few nights? Oh, the howling. Heartbreaking. But they say it’s highly recommended, gives them a safe space. Stuck with it, and eventually, he started going in on his own. Victory!
- Alone time training: Also highly recommended. Didn’t want him freaking out every time I left the house. Started with short periods, gradually increased it. Still get the sad puppy eyes, but at least the house is intact when I get back. Mostly.
Living with the Red Fuzzball
Socializing was interesting. They’re supposed to be very social dogs, thriving on interaction. Took him to the park. First few times, he was basically a furry limpet stuck to my leg. But eventually, he came around. Now he tries to make friends with every dog, person, and leaf he sees. It’s pretty funny to watch.
His affectionate demeanor is probably the best part. After a long day, having this furry creature curl up next to you, it’s pretty great. He follows me everywhere. Bathroom, kitchen, you name it. My little red shadow. Sometimes it’s a bit much, like when I’m trying to cook and he’s underfoot, but mostly, it’s nice. Makes the place feel more alive.
It’s not all sunshine and perfect Instagram photos, though. The grooming for that red coat? More work than I thought. And the energy. Still got tons of it. Daily walks are non-negotiable, rain or shine. But overall, this whole red F1 Goldendoodle experience? It’s been a ride. A chaotic, furry, slobbery, but ultimately rewarding ride. Wouldn’t trade the little guy, even if he does still occasionally try to eat the mail.
