FAQ
Frequently asked questions about our Goldendoodles and Cockapoos, Visiting, Deposits, Payments, Grooming, Shipping, etc.


Are Cockapoos and Goldendoodles good family pets?  Easy to train?

Absolutely, and they are very intelligent.  Cockapoos and Goldendoodles are easily trainable and
wonderful with children.  They are generally very outgoing, friendly and loyal companions.  Both are
great as family pets, service and therapy dogs.

How far is Carriage House Cockapoos & Goldendoodles from us?   

2 hrs from Richmond, 2 1/2 hrs from DC, approx. 3 hrs from Maryland & Northern Va.  My opinion is that
distance should be the last thing to consider.  To drive 3 hrs or more for a new member of the family that
will be with you for hopefully 15 yrs or more is well worth the trip once or twice!

We will deliver to Maryland, DC, West Virginia, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Delaware and areas
throughout Virginia.  We will also meet you at Dulles Airport.   See our Delivery page for more
information.

Do Cockapoos or Goldendoodles shed?

Some do and some do not.  In general they low to non-shedding with very little to no dander.  See more
detailed information below about shedding and dander as it pertains to generations.  


Can you explain the different Goldendoodle and Cockapoo Generations?

The first generation (F1) standard size Goldendoodle was the first to be bred. It is the product of a
standard Poodle crossed with a Golden Retriever. Most first generation Goldendoodles either don't shed
or shed lightly, and are compatible for most families with mild allergies.

The backcross (F1B) Goldendoodle is produced by crossing an F1 Goldendoodle with a Poodle. These
dogs will have a higher success rate for non-shedding, and are recommended for families with moderate
to severe allergies.
The first Generation Cockapoo is the product of breeding a Poodle to a Cocker Spaniel.  They are
generally low to non-shedding.  Cockapoos are very friendly, loyal and loving companions.

What color are Cockapoos and Goldendoodles?

Cockapoos come in just about every color.  They are Cream, Buff, Apricot, Red, Sable, Chocolate, Black,
Black & tan, Black with white markings and every Parti combination.

Goldendoodles are generally light Golden to Honey in color but they are also black, Red & Parti mainly.  
Teddy Bear Goldendoodles are generally lighter in color but there can be some variety in a litter from the
Sires side of the family.

Grooming Cockapoos and Goldendoodles

As a hybrid cross, Goldendoodles and Cockapoos tend to have a way coat.  Something in between the
poodle and Cocker or Golden Retriever.  Some families prefer to have a puppy with a longer coat that
would require brushing more frequently.  Some families prefer a shorter coat.  Brushing your puppy
weekly is recommend.  More infromation pertaining to grooming can be found on our Puppy Care page.


Can you explain Hybrid Vigor?

Goldendoodle and Cockapoo Puppies that are a first generation cross are said to exhibit hybrid vigor.  
This refers to the fact of breeding two unrelated purebred lines to produce healthier puppies than either
parent line.  These hybrids have an average life expectancy of 3 yrs longer than that of  their parent
breeds.  Our Parent dogs are selected by us based on their pedigree and from mostly show breeders who
also carefully select their breeding stock for health, temperament and correctness.  With any cross-breed
(including the Goldendoodle and Cockapoo), you have the benefit of a more diverse gene pool which
greatly reduces the chance that your dog will suffer from a recessive illness.  

We stand behind the health of our puppies with a 2 year Health Guarantee


Are Hybrids Mutts?

No.  A "mutt" is a term (whether used affectionately or pejoratively) referring to a dogs of mixed-breed
heritage where the contributing breeds are unknown (or guessed at based on certain physical traits).
Until the dog is grown, it remains unknown what size, look, or personality traits it has inherited.  
Purebred breeders use this term to describe hybrids for whatever their reasons may be.  All breeds known
today have been developed over the years by cross breeding dogs to develop each breed.  It's nothing new.  
Our parent dogs are purebreds.  Their puppies are hybrids derived from the intentional mating of their
purebred parents.  This is not to imply that there is anything wrong with a mutt.  We've had mutts as part
of our family over the years and they have been wonderful family pets!  

Living Conditions

Whether you live in an apartment or have a large yard.  Both breeds are happy in either.  Cockapoos and
Goldendoodles are very easy going and lovable dogs.  They would adapt to most living conditions as long
as they are given moderate daily exercise.

Can we visit your Kennel facility?

First of all, we pride ourselves in NOT having a kennel based breeding program.  Our dogs are raised in
our home as part of our family.  Families searching for a puppy tend to "kennel hop", visit pet shops and
shelters and could possibly bring disease here and infect our puppies.  Parvo is deadly to puppies and
can be carried in on shoes, clothing and even vehicle tires.  Only families on our Waiting list are allowed
to visit because we know they are no longer searching.  No exceptions!  We absolutely will not risk the
lives of our Goldendoodle and Cockapoo  puppies.


When can I visit my Cockapoo or Goldendoodle puppy?

Our Cockapoos and Goldendoodles must be 5 weeks old before they are allowed visitors.

Visits and Pick ups are typically on Saturdays

Visits are usually scheduled the Saturday following your puppy turning 5 wks old.

Pick ups are generally scheduled the Saturday following your puppy turning 8 wks old if your pup is born
on a Tues, Wed, Thurs, for example.  If your pup is born on a Saturday or Sunday, pick up will be the
wknd they turn 8 wks.  Please email if you have any questions.  

When choosing your puppy please make a note of the due date so that you can plan in advance to visit.  
Sundays are our only day to spend as a family because our Saturdays are usually busy with visits or pick
ups.  If you are unable to make it on visiting day,  we'll send updated photos to you.


When can I take my puppy home?

Goldendoodles and Cockapoos must be 8 weeks or older before they can leave us.  If you are unable to
pick up your puppy at 8 weeks, we can board your puppy up to two weeks.  Information on Boarding can
be found on the Waiting List page.


Can my puppy be registered?

No.  These are hybrid dogs.  AKC only registers purebred dogs.  You're puppy's parents are registered!


How much do your Cockapoos and Goldendoodles cost?

Pricing is located on the Cockapoo and Goldendoodle pages.  Occasionally we receive emails from people
asking what our lowest price is.  We do not negotiate rates for our puppies.  It is very expensive and time
consuming to raise healthy, quality dogs and puppies.  If you find a bargain breeder, you'll save in the
beginning but you'll pay more later in Vet bills.












How do we choose our puppy?

If you have made a deposit to choose a puppy from one of our future litters, you can find information on
choosing your puppy on our Waiting List page.

Must we spay/neuter our puppy?

Yes,  puppies can be spayed or neutered at around 6 months of age.  We do not sell our puppies to
breeders or pet shops.


What if I can no longer keep my dog?

You must contact us.  We will either bring the dog back here with us or help you find a suitable home.  
Our puppies are never to be surrendered to a shelter!  


Should I choose a male or female?

That's entirely up to you.  There's not a big difference between males and females.  Males tend to be a bit
larger & playful longer.  Females are a bit more independent and slightly smaller.  Contrary to popular
belief, females "hump" more than males do.  Males generally do not have stud like behaviors if neutered
at around 6 months of age.  


Do Cockapoos or Goldendoodles get along well with other animal? Cats?

Yes, puppies adapt to their new families and playmates well.  If you were introducing an adult, that
would be another story entirely.

Do you ship?  

We offer delivery within a reasonable driving distance.   If you'd like to fly in and fly your puppy back
with you, you can.  Airlines charge a small fee to bring a puppy on board with you.  We do not ship our
puppies alone in cargo.
Is the deposit applied toward the cost of the puppy?  When is my balance due?

This time is extended to 6 weeks of age when choosing from available puppies posted on our Available
puppies page.  Information about final payments and types of payments accepted is posted on our
Deposits are applied toward the cost of the puppy.  Balances are due when the puppy is 5 wks old.
Waiting list page.
We like to be sure that families will pick up their puppy at 8 wks of age.  If families should change their
mind, we have time to find another suitable home for the puppy.