Despite the prejudice toward rescued mixed breeds, one cannot argue that they still make good companion pets after undergoing behavioral modification and medical attention in various rescues. One great example of this is the Goldendoodle breed.
In the US, numerous rescues are devoted to rehabilitating abandoned and surrendered Goldendoodles.
To give you the cream of the crop, I’ll be sharing with you my top Goldendoodle rescues across different states together with their contact details. Let’s start!
RECOMMENDED READING: Most of the Goldendoodle rescues in this list follow the same adoption process. If you want to ace your application, I suggest that you read our ultimate adoption guide which features key tips and techniques starting from choosing the breed to home introduction.
Top 10 Goldendoodle Rescues to Find Goldendoodles for Adoption
Although all Goldendoodle rescues share the common goal of rehoming homeless Doodles, we can’t deny the fact that some truly excel and stand out in fulfilling such charitable service.
In this section, I have listed the 10 best Goldendoodle rescues in the US along with their brief history, facilities, and services provided.
1. International Doodle Owners Group (IDOG) Rescue – Texas
IDOG has been rehoming and rescuing Goldendoodles and Labradoodles since 2006. This national non-profit organization follows a foster scheme rescue setup.
They work with various shelters across the country to reduce the number of Doodles who end up undergoing euthanasia. Currently, IDOG’s scope of service covers North America and some parts of Canada.
IDOG saves Goldendoodles regardless of coat color, age, and health status. They also accept surrendered Doodles from owners who can no longer take care of them.
Those who have health issues are given immediate medical attention, while those with behavioral issues are monitored and trained before clearing them for adoption.
The adoption process of IDOG follows a smooth and simple process. Interested applicants should file an application which contains information about their lifestyle, living condition, and preferences.
Reference calls to the applicant’s veterinarian and the landlord will also be conducted by the evaluator.
Home visits will be done to check the suitability of the home for the dog’s safety and security. If the evaluator deemed the applicant as deserving, the adoption process would proceed.
However, it should be noted that this Goldendoodle rescue does not transport their Doodles.
You should pick up the dog from the rescue personally. Besides, meet and greet is also an essential part of the application process. The adoption fee on IDOG ranges from $100 to $750.
International Doodle Owners Group (IDOG) Rescue Information and Details:
Address: 6711 Stella Link Road, Suite 344, Houston, TX 77005
Email: rescue@idogrescue.com
Special Note: You can also check them out on Facebook.
2. Doodle Dandy Rescue (DDR) – Texas
DDR is manned by over 500 active rescue volunteers. Their mission is not only to rescue abandoned Goldendoodles but also to ensure that all of the rescued Doodles will thrive on living a happy life.
They rehabilitate and rehome Doodles across Texas and their service areas include San Antonio, Houston, and Austin.
The Goldendoodle rescue practices in DDR include administering medical examinations to all rescued Doodles. Spaying, neutering, deworming, and medications for heartworm are just a few of the medical treatments they provide.
They also give behavioral training to ensure that the dogs are ready to be rehomed and adopted. The adoption process on DDR includes filing of the application, reference calls, home visits, and meet and greet.
On average, the adoption fee costs $600. The fee can increase or decrease depending on the expenses spent in taking care and tending to the needs of a specific dog.
If you are interested in adopting a Goldendoodle from DDR, here are some of their requirements:
You must be at least 21 years old.
All of your current pets should be neutered/spayed.
You must be willing to participate in obedience and socialization training sometimes.
You must have a good record as a responsible pet owner.
You must be willing to travel for the meet and greet.
If you are renting, you must be able to provide proof that pets are allowed in your apartment.
Doodle Dandy Rescue (DDR) Information and Details:
Website: Doodle Dandy Rescue (DRR)
Email: doodledandyrescue@gmail.com
Special Note: You can also find them on Instagram.
3. NorCal Poodle Rescue (NCPR) – California
Since its establishment in 1985, this California-based Goldendoodle rescue has already saved and rehomed more than 2,000 Doodles.
They take in the dogs that can no longer be supported by local shelters and owners. NCPR solely functions through the efforts of dedicated volunteer staff.
All of the Goldendoodles that are rescued by NCPR receive medical examination and treatment. Neutering, spaying, and microchipping are administered to ensure the healthiness of the rescued dogs.
Their behavior and temperament are also monitored before they are cleared for adoption.
The adoption fee on NCPR varies depending on the age and health status of the dog. Toys, minis, and mixes also have different adoption fees. In general, it ranges from $250 to $700.
The adoption process in NCPR is pretty much similar to other Goldendoodle rescues. An application form containing questions regarding the applicant’s lifestyle and preference should be filled out and submitted.
A rescue representative will conduct screening and a home visit to ensure that the applicant’s house is safe for the dog. Once approved, the adoption will then proceed after the meet and greet.
NorCal Poodle Rescue (NCPR) Information and Details:
Website: NorCal Poodle Rescue (NCPR)
Address: 10126 Alta Sierra Dr # 282 Grass Valley, CA 95949
Phone: 925-322-0223
Email: norcalpoodlerescueinc@gmail.com
Special Note: You can also visit their Facebook page for updates.
4. Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue (DVGRR) – Pennsylvania
DVGRR is one of the few rescue centers in the country that have a dedicated facility.
This non-profit organization was established in 1994 and had since then rehomed abandoned Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, Golden Retrievers, and Labrador Retrievers across Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, and New Jersey.
The spacious kennel facility of DVGRR includes an in-house veterinary clinic, an activity center, and an open field.
These facilities not only enabled DVGRR to accommodate many Goldendoodles that need new homes but also serve as venues for seminars and training sessions.
All of the dogs that enter DVGRR receive the necessary medical care, necessities, grooming, and training they deserve. The facility where they stay is regularly cleaned and sanitized including the beddings and toys.
In filing an adopting application to DVGRR, you will need to pay a $35 non-refundable processing fee. The adoption fee for each Goldendoodle varies depending on their age and health condition.
Healthy younger dogs have higher adoption fees compared to older ones, but generally, it ranges from $300 to $1,000.
Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue (DVGRR) Information and Details:
Address: 60 Vera Cruz Road, Reinholds, PA 17569
Phone: 717-484-4799
Email: info@dvgrr.org
Special Note: They have a Facebook page.
5. Doodle Rescue Collective Inc. (DRC) – Rhode Islands
DRC is a foster-based rescue center that focuses on rehabilitating Goldendoodles and Labradoodles across the United States and Canada.
Since its foundation in 2008, DRC has already saved and rehomed more than 4,000 surrendered and abandoned Doodles across the country through the efforts of dedicated volunteer members.
As a standard practice, this Goldendoodle rescue provides the basic needs of each rescued Doodle. Regardless of age, gender, and coat color, all dogs are given medical care, food, shelter, and the affection that they deserve.
Their behavior and temperament are also monitored and documented which are used in finding the perfect match for them.
The adoption fee in DRC ranges from $300 to $1,000 depending on the age, health, and temperament of the dog. The expenses accumulated in taking care of each dog will also be factored into the adoption fee.
Interested adopters should be aware of the requirements and criteria set by DRC in adopting. The minimum age for the adopters should be 21 years old. They do not allow the adoption to families with children 10 years old below as well as pet shipping.
A physical fence is strictly required. They also rarely allow the adoption to families living in urban places for the safety and welfare of the dogs.
Doodle Rescue Collective Inc. (DRC) Information and Details:
Website: Doodle Rescue Collective Inc. (DRC)
Address: 77 Buttonwoods Avenue, Warwick, RI, 02886
Email: info@doodlerescuecollectiveinc.org
Special Note: They are also active on Facebook.
6. Golden Retriever Rescue Resource (GRRR) – Ohio
GRRR operates and rescues Golden Retrievers and Goldendoodles across Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana. They function solely through donations and volunteer efforts and they operate on a foster scheme adoption.
Their dedication in saving the lives of abandoned and homeless Golden mixes even reached foreign countries like when they had successfully rescued eight Golden Retrievers from China’s meat trade.
All of the dogs in GRRR are provided with the necessities including food, shelter, vaccine shots, and medical care.
Rescued Goldendoodles and Golden Retrievers that have health issues are treated right away with all expenses shouldered by the rescue. The temperament and behavior of the rescued dogs are also monitored to see if they are fit for adoption.
The adoption fee in GRRR varies depending on the age and health condition of a specific dog. Their process of adoption follows the standard flow which includes application, reference calls, home visits, and meet and greet.
However, GRRR is quite specific of the following:
The adopter should have a fenced yard.
Applicants will be required to participate in obedience training.
The rescue does not allow the adoption for families with toddlers or infants.
Current pets of the applicant should have up-to-date vet care.
Golden Retriever Rescue Resource (GRRR) Information and Details:
Address: PO Box 57, Waterville, Ohio 43566
Phone: 888-980-1326
Email: grrradoption@yahoo.com
Special Note: They also have a Facebook page.
7. Michigan Doodle Rescue Connect (MDRC) – Michigan
MDRC accepts Goldendoodles and other Doodle dogs from owners and breeders who can no longer support them for various reasons. Currently, their rescue service covers Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, and Indiana.
The prime goal of MDRC is to match Goldendoodles to people by evaluating the pup’s condition and personality as well as the lifestyle and preference of the adopters.
The adoption process of MDRC is geared towards the interest of the dogs and not the applicants; thus, the process is not on a first-come-first-served basis but rather a matching scheme.
MDRC has a well-structured plan in catering to the specific needs of each dog in terms of physical, mental, and medical necessities.
Behavioral training is also conducted to condition the dog before adoption. Plus they have an on-site grooming spa where they provide relaxation and massages to rescued dogs.
Their adoption process is similar to other Goldendoodle rescues. First, they evaluate the applicants through their application forms.
An interview through a phone call will be conducted as well as an on-site interview to find the Goldendoodle that perfectly matches the applicant. The adoption fee varies depending on the age and condition of the dog.
Michigan Doodle Rescue Connect (MDRC) Information and Details:
Phone: 989-486-3315
Email: midoodlerescue@outlook.com
Special Note: They are active on Facebook.
8. Doodle Rock Rescue (DRR) – Texas
Doodle Rock Rescue is dedicated to rehabilitating and rehoming abused and homeless Goldendoodles and other Doodles across the United States.
They prioritize saving the dogs from shelters with high euthanasia rates in the country. Since their establishment in 2017, they have already salvaged and rehomed more than a thousand rescued Doodles.
Although they take in dogs regardless of the state or region where they came from, DRR only allows adoption in areas inside the 350 miles radius of Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas.
The adopters need to be near to the rescue so that DRR can monitor every dog they rehome. Besides, a home visit will also be conducted as part of the adoption process.
The rescued Goldendoodles receive medical care while they live in the comforts of the volunteers’ homes. Their temperament and behavior are also monitored to see if they are fit for adoption.
The adoption fee on DRR varies depending on the age, size, and breed of the Doodle. Nonetheless, the fees range from $150 to $750 depending on the factors mentioned.
In applying for adoption in DRR, here are the basic requirements you should meet:
You must be at least 21 years old.
Your location must be within 350 miles of DFW, Texas.
Picking up the dog must be done within three days after approval of adoption.
The Goldendoodle must live indoors as part of the family.
Current pets must be neutered/spayed.
A secured fence is required.
Doodle Rock Rescue (DRR) Information and Details:
Website: Doodle Rock Rescue (DRR)
Email: information@doodlerockrescue.org
Special Note: They have a Facebook page.
9. Carolina Poodle Rescue (CPR) – South Carolina
CPR is a non-profit organization that functions through the efforts of an all-volunteer staff from Carolina, Virginia, New York, Texas, and Georgia. They have already saved and rehomed over 5,000 Doodles and these numbers continue to increase each day.
All of the Goldendoodles that undergo rehabilitation receive immediate medical care upon rescue. They are spayed/neutered and vaccinated before being cleared for adoption.
The behavior of each dog is also evaluated and monitored to find their perfect match. Currently, CPR shelters the rescued Goldendoodles in their facility called the Dreamweaver Farms.
The adoption fee varies depending on the age and condition of the Doodle. Meanwhile, the adoption process is quite thorough. They match the adopters and dogs through careful evaluation and screening.
Here are some of CPR’s basic requirements for adoption:
The families who want to adopt must have a fenced yard.
Applicants who have family members under 5 years of age will not be approved.
All of the current pets of the adopter must be neutered/spayed.
The adopter must be able to visit the facility for the meet and greet.
The dog must be picked up personally and not shipped.
Carolina Poodle Rescue (CPR) Information and Details:
Website: Carolina Poodle Rescue (CPR)
Address: 6705 Union Highway Pacolet, SC 29372
Phone: 864-489-3559
Email: info@carolinapoodlerescue.org
Special Note: They have a Facebook page.
10. Somerset Cottage Poodle Rescue (SCPR) – Virginia
SCPR primarily rescues and rehabilitates Goldendoodles, Poodles, Poodle mixes, Bichons, Maltese, Shih Tzu, and other toy breeds.
This non-profit organization was founded in 2013 and has since then rehomed more than 800 dogs. Most of the Doodles they take in came from high-kill shelters that can no longer support the dogs.
This Goldendoodle rescue adheres to a foster scheme and their volunteers across the Northern Virginia area take care of the rescued dogs.
All of the Goldendoodles in SCPR are complete with vaccine shots and have undergone deworming, flea and tick medication, spaying/neutering, and heartworm prevention.
The adoption fee in SCPR varies depending on the breed, age, and condition of the dog. The aforementioned medical expenses were also factored in the fee. Typically, the cost ranges from $300 to $1,000.
SCPR accepts adopters from outside the state. However, they do not ship their dogs so you would really need to personally pick up the dog at the facility. They also do not allow adopters with children at home under the age of 10.
Somerset Cottage Poodle Rescue (SCPR) Information and Details:
Email: scpoodlerescue@gmail.com
Special Note: They are also active on Facebook.
Another thing that can help you significantly with your dog hunt is reading our ultimate dog adoption guide. This, alongside the Goldendoodle rescue options from our directory, will increase your chances of bringing home the dog you desire.
Other Sources for Goldendoodle Rescues or Shelters for Adoption
Aside from the Goldendoodle rescues presented on the list above, you can also find Goldendoodles that are ready for adoption on the following pet adoption sites:
Petfinder – Petfinder is an online pet database that advertises and lists available pets for adoption – including Goldendoodles. It is affiliated with various Goldendoodle rescues and shelters across the country. If you use the location filter on their website, you’ll find the adoptable Goldendoodles near you.
Adopt-a-Pet – This is the largest non-profit pet website in North America. You can easily find a Goldendoodle available for adoption anywhere in the US. They have a network comprising thousands of animal welfare organizations and shelters across the country.
Petango – This online pet platform is connected to more than 1,800 shelters and rescues across the US. You can find any dog breed for adoption on their website including Goldendoodles and other Doodle breeds. They also operate nationwide so you needn’t worry about your location.
Local Animal Shelter and Rescue Organizations – There might be Goldendoodle rescue centers near your location that were not mentioned in our top picks and directory. You can try visiting the nearest shelter or rescue in your area to see if they have available Goldendoodles for adoption.
Why Do People Put Goldendoodles up for Adoption or in a Rescue?
Despite the intelligent and affectionate characteristics of Goldendoodles, some of them still end up in shelters.
Some of the reasons why owners surrender their Goldendoodles are the following:
The owner didn’t expect that the Goldendoodle would be energetic.
The owner is moving to another area.
The Goldendoodle didn’t do well with other pets and children.
The dog has shown aggression or has bitten someone.
They can no longer support the needs of the dog.
The previous owner died.
The owner wasn’t ready to take in the dog.
As for most of the reasons, you might have noticed that they reflect on the readiness of the owner in owning a Goldendoodle.
No dog deserves to end up unwanted and abandoned. Make sure that you are knowledgeable and prepared before adopting a Goldendoodle.
How Much Should It Cost to Adopt a Goldendoodle?
Based on the adoption fees of the top picks, the cost for adopting a Goldendoodle ranges from $200 to $1,000 depending on the age and condition of the dog.
It is more economical than buying from a breeder since commercially available Goldendoodle puppies cost around $2,000 to $5,000.
Aside from that, you also get to free your pockets from the following expenses which are already shouldered by rescues:
After picking up your Goldendoodle from the rescue, the first thing you would want to do is to give it a fresh and clean look. Watch this Goldendoodle as it enjoys a total grooming service!
Crosby Goldendoodle Groom<a href="https://youtu.be/R9qpdbfLR1g" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.bubblypet.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FR9qpdbfLR1g%2F0.jpg" alt="Crosby Goldendoodle Groom" width="1280" height="700" /><br />Watch this video on YouTube</a>
Is It Difficult to Adopt a Goldendoodle From a Rescue?
Adopting a Goldendoodle from a rescue is not difficult if you are prepared for the adoption process. Being ready means learning and understanding about the breed you will adopt as well as the policies of the rescue you intend to adopt from.
Most Goldendoodle rescues set guidelines and requirements that should be followed by the applicants. You will have the upper hand if you research ahead about the criteria they follow in evaluation and screening.
Some of which include the distance from your location to the rescue, minimum age, children restriction, fence requirements, and home suitability.
If you have ticked all of the requirements they are asking, your adoption application will surely run smoothly and easier.
3 Tips for Getting Approved by a Rescue to Adopt a Goldendoodle
The Goldendoodle adoption process can be overwhelming. You should be equipped with the right knowledge and strategies to ace it.
I can offer you three tips that worked with most adopters I know:
Research about Goldendoodles. If you are knowledgeable about the breed, you will surely ace the rescue interviews. Most Goldendoodle rescues put high emphasis on the interest of their dogs. They are more than willing to let the people who know the needs and characteristics of the breed very well adopt one of their dogs.
Follow and adhere to the rescue guidelines. No matter how knowledgeable you are about the breed, if you are not able to meet the basic requirements of the rescue, your adoption won’t be approved. Most of the guidelines refer to the suitability of homes to dogs (fence yard, pools, and other pets).
Regularly ask for updates and visit the facility. Visiting the facility will help you get closer to the dogs. It is also a sign that shows your commitment to your decision to adopt. You can also take the chance to ask about the things you still don’t know about the breed. It’s a plus point to your application!
Final Thoughts
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty on Animals (ASPCA), 3.3 million dogs end up in shelters yearly and Goldendoodles contribute to the increasing number.
If you are not after the bloodline and show quality, it is much better to adopt a Goldendoodle than to buy from breeders.
However, regardless if you will adopt from rescues or buy from breeders, you must always consider your readiness to become a responsible owner.
Owning a Goldendoodle is a lifetime commitment that requires patience, understanding, caring, and endless affection.
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