Goldendoodle Generations Explained: F1, F1B, F2, Multigen Differences

Understanding Goldendoodle generations

Goldendoodles are loved for their friendly personality, teddy-bear appearance, and reputation for being low-shedding. But if you've spent even five minutes in a Goldendoodle Facebook group, you already know there's a lot of confusion around generations: F1, F1B, F2, Multigen… what does it all mean?

This guide breaks everything down in a clear, conversational, and evidence-backed way so you can understand exactly how each generation behaves, sheds, and grooms—and which type fits your lifestyle best.

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC) and veterinary experts, coat type and shedding tendencies in mixed breeds depend heavily on genetics. Because Goldendoodles combine two very different breeds—the Golden Retriever and Poodle—generation labels help predict the coat, grooming needs, and allergy-friendliness of each dog.

Let's go through each generation with real grooming experience, expert references, and user-tested results.

What Are Goldendoodle Generations and Why Do They Matter?

Goldendoodle generations describe how far a dog is from the original Golden Retriever × Poodle cross.

The letters mean:

• F = Filial (first generation)
• Number = Generation level
• B = Backcross (bred back to a Poodle or Golden)

These labels exist because Goldendoodles don't have breed standards like purebreds. Predictability improves as breeders refine lines.

In simple terms:

• F1 = 50/50 mix
• F1B = 75% Poodle
• F2 = F1 × F1
• Multigen = advanced generations (F3 and beyond)

Generations matter because they affect:

• Shedding level
• Coat curliness
• Allergy friendliness
• Grooming difficulty
• Size predictability
• Cost of professional grooming
• Likelihood of matting

Based on PetMD and AKC coat-care guidelines, Poodle genetics strongly influence shedding and grooming frequency. The curlier the coat, the more brushing and professional maintenance required.

Now let's break down each generation with real-world grooming advice and expert-backed insights.

What Is an F1 Goldendoodle? (First Generation, 50/50)

F1 Goldendoodle showing typical wavy coat

What does "F1 Goldendoodle" actually mean?

An F1 Goldendoodle is the first-generation cross between a purebred Golden Retriever and a purebred Poodle. They are genetically 50% Golden, 50% Poodle.

F1s tend to have the classic wavy "teddy bear" look people imagine when they picture a Goldendoodle.

Because the genetics are split evenly, F1s often have fewer coat issues than curlier generations.

What are F1 Goldendoodle coat characteristics?

F1 coats are typically:

• Wavy to loose curly
• Light to moderate shedding
• Softer and more relaxed in texture
• More predictable in length but less predictable in allergy-friendliness

According to the AKC's general shedding guidance, Golden Retrievers are heavy seasonal shedders. Because F1s still carry half Golden genes, many will shed—just not as much as a pure Golden.

Important note: People who need guaranteed low shedding should not choose an F1.

What grooming do F1 Goldendoodles need?

You should expect the following:

Home Brushing Routine

• Brush 3× per week
• Use a pin brush for the topcoat
• Use a slicker brush for areas that tangle (neck, armpits, ears)

Based on PetMD's brushing recommendations for long-coated breeds, brushing several times a week helps reduce matting and evenly distribute natural oils, which is why many owners use a combination of tools like our Dog Brushes: Ultimate Brush Pack – Slicker, Pin Brush & Dematting Rake to properly maintain both the topcoat and high-tangle areas.

Professional Grooming

• Every 8–10 weeks
• Coat is easier to maintain than curlier generations
• F1s tolerate slightly longer periods between grooms

Tested by Real Owners: Before/After Example

Many owners report that an F1 with a wavy coat can skip a day or two of brushing without mats forming. I've seen F1s go three days without brushing and still detangle easily—something impossible for an F1B.

Stories from F1 Owners

One owner shared that their F1 barely mats unless the dog spends a day swimming—then mats form behind the ears almost overnight. This aligns with groomer data showing that moisture accelerates tangling in wavy coats.

What Is an F1B Goldendoodle and Why Is It the Most Popular?

F1B Goldendoodle with curly coat

What does "F1B" mean?

An F1B Goldendoodle is created when an F1 Goldendoodle is bred back to a Poodle ("B" means backcross).

Genetic breakdown:

• 75% Poodle
• 25% Golden Retriever

This makes the F1B the most predictable in terms of low shedding and allergy friendliness.

What are F1B Goldendoodle coat characteristics?

F1B coats are typically:

• Curly or very curly
• Dense, wool-like, or fleece-like
• Minimal to no shedding
• The most "hypoallergenic" option (although no dog is 100% hypoallergenic)

According to PetMD and AKC grooming expert guidelines, curly-coated dogs require more maintenance due to the tightness of curls and the coat's tendency to trap debris.

Why F1Bs shed less: More Poodle genetics = more single-coat traits = less shedding.

What grooming do F1B Goldendoodles need?

Home Brushing Routine

• Brush daily (yes—daily)
• Use a slicker brush for deep brushing
• Use a metal comb to confirm no hidden mats
• Use detangling spray, especially after baths or swimming

F1B coats mat the fastest because the curls interlock. Based on AKC grooming guidelines for Poodles, daily brushing is necessary to avoid painful matting.

Professional Grooming

• Every 6–8 weeks
• Budget: grooming costs 20–40% more due to coat density

Groomers often say the F1B is "the most work but the most rewarding" when maintained correctly.

Common Issues With F1B Goldendoodles

1. Matting behind the ears

The ears rub against the face, causing friction-based tangles.

2. Tear staining

F1Bs with light coats show staining more easily. According to the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists, tear staining is often caused by porphyrins—not hygiene alone.

3. Paw pad overgrowth

Curly coats grow into the paw pads, causing slipping risks.

4. "Furnishing explosion" around 6–8 months

This is when puppy fluff transitions to adult coat—matting skyrockets.

First-Hand Grooming Case Study

I once helped groom a 10-month-old F1B who hadn't been brushed in four days. The result?

• Severe matting in the armpits
• Rope-like mats behind the ears
• Mats under the collar line
• A full shave-down was required
• Owner cried afterward (very common)

After adjusting to a daily brushing routine, the dog maintained a fluffy 1.5-inch coat with no matting for the next groom.

F1B = maintenance + consistency.

What Is an F2 Goldendoodle and How Predictable Are They?

F2 Goldendoodle showing coat variation

What does "F2 Goldendoodle" mean?

An F2 is created when F1 Goldendoodle × F1 Goldendoodle.

Genetic breakdown: Still 50% Golden, 50% Poodle—but more genetic variation.

Think of F2s as a "genetic shuffle."

What are F2 Goldendoodle coat characteristics?

F2 coats are the most unpredictable:

• Some dogs look like Golden Retrievers
• Some look like Poodles
• Some look like F1s
• Shedding can be low, moderate, or high

This is why reputable breeders often avoid F2s unless working in a structured program.

According to canine genetics studies, second-generation mixes show higher coat diversity due to recessive genes resurfacing.

What grooming do F2 Goldendoodles need?

Grooming needs depend on which parent the coat favors:

If coat is Golden-like:

• Daily brushing during shedding season
• Grooming every 8–10 weeks
• Deshedding tools (undercoat rake, Furminator)

If wavy:

• Brush 3–4× weekly
• Groom every 8–10 weeks

If curly:

• Treat like an F1B (daily brushing)

F2 owners must assess coat type early—ideally by 10 weeks.

Anecdote From an F2 Owner

One owner told me their F2 shed "like a Golden but tangled like a Poodle," which is the worst possible combo. This happens in F2s more than any other generation.

What Is a Multigen Goldendoodle and Why Are They Becoming Common?

Multigen Goldendoodle with consistent coat

What does "Multigen" mean?

A Multigen (F3 and beyond) Goldendoodle usually comes from:

• F1B × F1B
• F1B × Multigen
• Multigen × Multigen

These lines are often selectively bred for coat consistency, making them more predictable than F2s.

What are Multigen Goldendoodle coat characteristics?

Most Multigen lines are bred for:

• Low to non-shedding coats
• Curly or soft fleece
• Improved allergy-friendliness
• Fewer genetic surprises

Many top breeders now prefer Multigens because they can consistently produce coats families expect.

What grooming do Multigen Goldendoodles need?

Multigens with curly coats = same routine as F1B

Multigens with fleece coats = moderate brushing (3–4× weekly)

Fleece coats often feel softer, fluffier, and easier to brush—they glide through tools more smoothly.

Real Observation From Groomers

Groomers frequently report that Multigens are easier to maintain than F1Bs because the curls are "less tight." Still, matting is possible if brushing is inconsistent.

How Can You Identify Your Goldendoodle's Generation?

If you adopted your dog or your breeder provided no info, use these indicators:

1. Look at coat type

• Wavy = possibly F1 or F2
• Curly = F1B or Multigen
• Flat coat = likely F2

2. Check muzzle style

Shorter, poodle-like muzzles are more common in F1B and Multigen.

3. Examine shedding

• Shedding = F1 or F2
• No shedding = likely F1B or Multigen

4. Genetic Tests

Embark and Wisdom Panel provide coat genetics (IC, furnishings, curl)—most accurate method.

Generation Comparison Chart

Which Goldendoodle Generation Is Right for You?

Here's the simplest breakdown:

Choose an F1 if…

• You want the happiest medium: not too curly, not too straight
• You want low to moderate shedding
• You want easier grooming

Choose an F1B if…

• You want the highest chance of no shedding
• Allergies are present in your household
• You don't mind daily brushing and higher grooming costs

Choose an F2 if…

• You understand the unpredictability
• You don't mind shedding or variation
• You're adopting from a rescue or low-cost breeder

Choose a Multigen if…

• You want a predictable low-shedding coat
• You want a more refined line
• You want either fleece or curly coat consistency

FAQ: Goldendoodle Generations

Do Goldendoodles stop shedding after a certain age?

No. Shedding depends on coat type, not age.

Are F1B Goldendoodles really hypoallergenic?

They are the most likely to be low-shedding and allergy-friendly, but no breed is 100% hypoallergenic.

Which generation is easiest to groom?

F1 or fleece-coated Multigens.

Which generation is hardest to groom?

Curly F1Bs—tight curls mat faster.

Do F2 coats get worse during adolescence?

Yes. Shedding and coat change can be dramatic between 6–14 months.

Can I keep a Goldendoodle long and fluffy?

Only with consistent brushing. Long coats = high maintenance.

Final Thoughts

In general, the Goldendoodle generations that tend to work best for allergy-sensitive households are those with a higher proportion of Poodle genetics. These generations are more likely to be low-shedding, more hypoallergenic, and still benefit from hybrid vigor, which refers to the potential health advantages seen in mixed-breed dogs.

Based on coat predictability and grooming outcomes, the generations most often chosen for these reasons are:

• F1B Goldendoodle (75% Poodle, 25% Golden Retriever)
• F2B Goldendoodle (62.5% Poodle, 37.5% Golden Retriever)
• F1BB Goldendoodle (87.5% Poodle, 12.5% Golden Retriever)

If being hypoallergenic or low-shedding is not a top priority, it's better to focus on coat type rather than generation alone. Goldendoodles with a higher percentage of Poodle ancestry typically develop curly coats that shed less but require significantly more grooming and brushing.

Conversely, Goldendoodles with more Golden Retriever genetics—such as F1 or some F2 Goldendoodles—are more likely to have wavy or straighter coats that are easier to brush but tend to shed more consistently.

Choosing the right Goldendoodle ultimately comes down to balancing shedding tolerance, grooming commitment, and coat preference rather than relying on generation labels alone.