Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different generations of doodles?*

The info below is for goldendoodles, but you can simply substitute an Old English Sheepdog (for the Golden Retriever) as the purebred parent for sheepadoodles.

F1 = Golden Retriever + Poodle 

 

An F1 Goldendoodle means “First Generation" Goldendoodle.  One parent is a purebred Golden Retriever and the other is a purebred Poodle so the puppies are 50%/50%.  The F1 generation is a great choice for people who are fond of the Golden Retriever traits - personality and looks. This generation will typically have loose, wavy coats and the only downside is they still tend to shed some but less than a purebred Golden Retriever.

 

F1b = F1 Goldendoodle + Poodle

 

The “b” stands for “back cross" which means that the original hybrid cross has been bred back to a purebred parent (preferably a poodle).  The result is a puppy that is 75% poodle and 25% Golden Retriever. Puppies of this generation typically have wavy to curly coats and low-very low shedding.  The F1b generation is a good choice for allergy sufferers or those who prefer less fur around the house.

 

*Some breeders will cross an F1 Goldendoodle back to a Golden Retriever which would still be called an F1b goldendoodle as the “b” simply means bred back to a purebred parent, however most breeders will avoid this type of F1b!  This is because the result would be a dog that sheds as much as Golden Retriever.  Always ask what breed and generation each of your puppy’s parents are.

 

F2 = F1 Goldendoodle + F1 Goldendoodle (We do not breed this generation due to a high risk of improper coat and shedding))

 

F2b = F1 Goldendoodle + F1b Goldendoodle

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This generation has a little more of the Golden Retriever traits while still being a good choice for mild allergy sufferers.  Puppies are about 62.5% Poodle - 37.5% Golden Retriever.  Breeders must be careful with this generation and improper coat. The F1 parent will carry one copy of IC (improper coat that they inherited from their golden retriever parent).  Coat testing will ensure the F1b parent does not also carry a copy of IC because they could pass IC on to their puppies causing them to have the traditional flat, high shedding retriever coat and no facial furnishings.  This generation can produce puppies that have a wavy coat rather than the tight, curly coat.  Some prefer this to the "poodle coat",  however the trade off can mean more shedding than the curly coats.  Shedding will still be lower than a retriever.

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F1bb = F1b + Poodle (Similar to F1b but with more Poodle)

 

The more b’s, the more Poodle!  In this generation, an F1b Goldendoodle has been backcrossed to a purebred Poodle. The result is 88% poodle and 12% Golden Retriever.  The result is a predictably curly, low-shedding coat that is great for allergy-sufferers.  This generation can be considered multigenerational by some breeders.

 

F3 or Multi-Generational 

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The multigenerational doodle can be any combination of Goldendoodle parents past the third generation. Multigenerational doodles are typically one of the best options for allergy sufferers as long as the breeder preforms coat testing to ensure proper coats, facial furnishings, and low shedding.

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What are the different colors and coat types of Doodles? 

 

solids: cream, tan, apricot, red, black, brown 

 

others: sable, phantom, silver, merle, abstract, parti 

 

*Please keep in mind that Poodles carry a fading gene so some colors may fade over time.

 

coat types: curly, wavy, straight, flat (flat means improper with no facial furnishings and we test to rule that out!)

 

You will need to groom your doodle every 6-8 weeks and brush your doodle often, depending on what coat type they have or how short you would like to keep them.

 

What size will my doodle be?

 

We do not like to guarantee a size, just as we don't like to guarantee that a puppy will not shed at all or that a certain color puppy will stay that color.  Puppies are generally an average of their mom and dad's size when full grown.  Genetics are involved though so there could be a few outliers.  It also depends on what and how much food a puppy/dog is fed when it leaves us.  Keep in mind breeders tend to label their sizes differently.

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~Standard size ~ 

Height: over 21 inches at withers  Weight: 50+ lbs

 

~Medium size~  

Height: 17-21 inches at withers Weight: 40-50 lbs 

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~Mini size~*

Height: 15-20 inches at withers Weight: 30-40 lbs

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*This is the smallest size we breed.  We do not incorporate the miniature or toy poodle in our breeding program at this time as they are known to not be as good with young children.  We use the moyen poodle for our smaller sized doodles as they tend to take on the temperament of the standard poodle.  

 

What genetic conditions are parents tested for and guaranteed for the lifetime of the dog?

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Poodles:​

• Degenerative Myelopathy

• GM2 Gangliosidosis

• Neonatal Encephalopathy with Seizures

• Osteochondrodysplasia

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration

• Cardiac cleared by our vet

Goldendoodles:​

• Degenerative Myelopathy

• Ichthyosis

• Neonatal Encephalopathy with Seizures

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy I & II

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration

• Von Willebrand Disease I & II

• Cardiac cleared by our vet

Golden Retrievers:​

• Degenerative Myelopathy

• Ichthyosis

• Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis 5

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy I & II

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration

• Cardiac cleared by our vet

Old English Sheepdog:​

• Cerebellar Degeneration

• Degenerative Myelopathy

• Exercise-Induced Collapse

• Multidrug Resistance 1

• Primay Ciliary Dyskinesia

• Cardiac cleared by our vet

Sheepadoodles:​

• Congenital Methemoglobinemia

• Degenerative Myelopathy

• Exercise-Induced Collapse

• GM2 Gangliosidosis (Poodle Type)

• Multidrug Resistance 1

• Neonatal Encephalopathy with Seizures

• Osteochondrodysplasia

• Primay Ciliary Dyskinesia

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Rod-Cone Dysplasia 4

• Von Willebrand Disease 1

• Cardiac cleared by our vet

 

*We also coat test for Improper Coat and Furnishings, shedding, and type of coat curly, wavy, straight.  All of our puppies will be fully furnished.

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​How often do you breed your females?

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It was once thought that skipping cycles and giving mom a break was the best practice, however, there has been research done by reproductive vets that suggests otherwise.  According to them, skipping cycles once a female has begun to breed, can actually be harmful to them and expose them to health issues such as pyometra (uterine infection) and pseudopregnancy (hormone surges that can cause physical, emotional, and mental issues).  We prefer to breed them on back-to-back cycles if possible and retire them at an early age.  Of course, this all depends on whether the female is healthy enough so we consult with our vet on a case-by-case basis. We NEVER breed on the first cycle, but will begin on the second as long as the female is around 18-24 months old and has cleared all health testing.

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What food do you feed your puppies?

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Victor Purpose Nutra Pro ​

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Which gender should I choose?

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Females tend to be more active and need more mental stimulation whereas males tend to be more laid back.  Females are generally easier to train and have a higher drive to learn whereas males can sometimes take a little longer to train.  Sometimes female dogs bond better to males in the family whereas males bond better to females.  Of course these statements are not always the case.  Also, you need to consider the other pets in your family.  Typically if you have a dominant female, we would suggest a male.  Two females can sometimes have more issues whereas two males can be more laid back and have less issues.  You are always better off not picking a dominant puppy if you already have a dominant dog.  It's best if your companions complement each other!

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How does your adoption process work?

 

You can read all about it here!

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Once placed on the main wait list, how long should I expect to wait?

 

Unfortunately we can not tell you exactly as there are many factors to be considered.  Each of our litters typically have about 6-10 puppies.  We have some families waiting on a particular color, gender, or a better time frame, but if you're flexible, it will move quicker.  It also depends on how many litters we have planned and when females have their cycles.  We will keep our website updated frequently with the latest news of breedings, pregnancies, etc.  

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Do you choose puppies for families or will I be able to pick out my own puppy?  Do you temperament test?

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Although some breeders have now moved to choosing puppies for families, we still believe in giving families the opportunity to pick out their own puppy along with our assistance.  We temperament test and offer families a peek into their personalities around 7-7 1/2 weeks old, however the focus is truly on creating positive experiences in a puppy's first year of life along with implementing basic obedience training.  We think this is a great article from the Puppy Culture curriculum we currently use.  Click here to read the article.  If you would like for us to pick out the puppy we think is the best fit for you, we will be happy to!

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Can we come visit?

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We love meeting people and showing off our doodles and puppies, however, please understand that we are a busy family and these puppies are raised in our home.  We like to be fair and if we let one family, we would want to let everyone, and this would not be realistic to constantly have people in and out of our home.  We can not allow anyone to visit the puppies except for their potential owners and we have to limit those visits to pick and take-home day.  We are not the owners of the puppies, but are only their caretakers while they're here and must keep them as safe as possible while also protecting the privacy of our family and home.  With that being said, we really look forward to pick and take-home day where families can come and meet us and pick out their puppy!  We send weekly "pupdates" and post many pictures and videos on Facebook!  We also host"Doodle Romps" (or family reunions) on our land!

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Why are deposits non-refundable?

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This is a great article form Good Dog that answers this question!  Click here to read the article!

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When should I spay/neuter?

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This is a great question to discuss with your vet as each dog needs to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.    There is new research that shows early spay/neuter may not be healthy as it was once thought to be.  Because of this, our health contract states that puppies should be spayed by 18 months but not before 9 months.  

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How do sheepadoodles differ from goldendoodles?

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Generally both goldendoodles and sheepadoodles make wonderful family pets and they are actually very similar!  The 3 main personality traits we use to describe our goldendoodles are friendly, smart, and loyal.  They are easily trainable and generally do well with everyone they meet.  We describe our sheepadoodles as intelligent, loyal, and sensitive.  They are extremely smart, affectionate, lovable, goofballs!  Both are high energy dogs, however we find that sheepadoodles tend to be calmer than the more excitable goldendoodle.  Sheepadoodles also have a softer, fluffier coat than goldendoodles. Because sheepadoodles can be sensitive, they may be more likely to alert you by barking as that is their nature.  They are naturally more alert and reactive.  Early socialization and positive reinforcement is super important for both breeds as well as regular exercise and play!  Find out more about these wonderful breeds here:

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https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/sheepadoodle

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https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/goldendoodle

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I have a few more questions, what is the best way to contact you?

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The best and fastest way to contact us is by email or text between the hours of 10 am-4 pm Mon-Sat.

email: mcclellanddoodles@gmail.com

text: 704-689-1488   

We'll be happy to schedule a phone call once you've placed an application and it's been approved, however please understand we are usually working with several families at a time.  Our main focus is always on raising healthy, well-rounded puppies for these families while keeping moms healthy too.  This is why we've tried to answer most questions to the best of our ability here on our website.

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New Puppy Shopping List

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• Victor Purpose Nutra Pro food

• 36in or 42in crate to fit adult size of dog (with dividers)

• Adjustable collar

• 6-foot leash

• Healthy training treats

• Cleaning solution with odor eliminator

• Teething toys

• Food and water bowls

 

*We also send out an email to families, once their puppies are here, with more specific supplies/details*​

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Included with your puppy!

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• ​Thorough vet examination by a licensed veterinarian.

• First round of shots (DHPP) administered by our vet.

• 3 rounds of dewormer from our vet

• Microchip

• 2 year health guarantee - lifetime on genetic conditions

• Parents are genetically health tested and coat tested.

• Raised on puppy culture - including ENS

• Started on crate and potty training

• Weekly "pupdates"

• Temperament evaluation

• In-person puppy pick 

• Invitation to our private family facebook group and annual "doodle romps" (reunions)

• Go-home bags which include health records, microchip info, toy with mom and siblings scent, Arin's Good Girl Dog Treats, sample baggie of food, and a bully stick

• Lifetime support!

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