If you've spent any time researching doodle dogs—like Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, or Sheepadoodles—you’ve likely come across terms like F1, F1B, and F1BB. But what do they actually mean?
Let’s break it down in simple terms to help you understand how these generations impact your doodle’s coat, traits, and potential health benefits.
💡 What Does “F” Stand For?
The “F” simply stands for Filial—a term used in genetics to describe generations. The number and letters that follow describe how far removed the dog is from its original purebred parents (Poodle and Retriever, for example).
🐶 F1 Doodle (First Generation)
- Cross: Purebred Poodle × Purebred Retriever (or another breed)
- Example: Golden Retriever × Poodle = F1 Goldendoodle
- Coat Type: Can range from wavy to curly
- Traits: Balanced genetics from both breeds, often less predictable coat or shedding level
- Great For: Families wanting a good mix of both parent breeds
🐶 F1B Doodle (Backcross Generation)
- Cross: F1 Doodle × Poodle
- Example: F1 Goldendoodle × Poodle = F1B Goldendoodle
- Coat Type: Usually curlier and more Poodle-like
- Traits: More hypoallergenic, lower shedding
- Great For: Allergy-sensitive households
🐶 F1BB Doodle (Double Backcross)
- Cross: F1B Doodle × Poodle
- Example: F1B Goldendoodle × Poodle = F1BB Goldendoodle
- Coat Type: Even curlier, tighter curls
- Traits: Highest chance of being non-shedding and hypoallergenic
- Great For: Families with serious allergies or who want a very Poodle-like coat
🐶 F2 Doodle (Second Generation)
- Cross: F1 Doodle × F1 Doodle
- Traits: Less consistent coat types, sometimes more shedding
- Less common among breeders unless selectively bred for specific traits
🐶 F2B, F2BB, Multigen Doodles
You may also see:
- F2B = F1 Doodle × F1B Doodle
- F2BB = F2B Doodle × Poodle
- Multigen Doodle = Any Doodle beyond F2 generation
These crosses aim to refine coat qualities and reduce shedding even more. But remember, every doodle is unique—you can still get variation even within the same generation.
📝 So… Which Generation Is Best?
There’s no one-size-fits-all. It depends on your needs:
- Want a mix of both breeds? → F1
- Need low shedding? → F1B or F1BB
- Want tighter curls or allergy-friendly coats? → F1BB or Multigen
No matter the generation, doodles are loving, smart, and joyful companions!
