Doodles enjoy the benefits of "hybrid vigor," as does any hybrid, whether plant or animal. Mendel, a Catholic monk, discovered the behavior of genes while growing pea plants in his monastery garden. The truths he discovered are still relevant today and especially when breeding dogs. He coined the terms dominant and recessive and explained the behavior of pairs of genes in his pea plants. Scientists have found since that time, that pairs of genes are responsible for numerous characteristics in plants, animals and humans. When dogs of any given breed are bred to other dogs of the same breed, for generations, some negative characteristics can become more prevalent in that gene pool. When recessive genes that have previously been hidden come together, two apparently healthy dogs can produce puppies with health concerns like hip disorders, eye diseases and cancer. When dogs of different breeds are mated to produce a litter of puppies, although distasteful to the purists who think breeds should never be crossed, healthier puppies are produced. While some breeders may disagree, the scientific evidence is conclusive. No single breeding can be used as proof, but years of hybrid production prove that hybrids have increased viability referred to as "hybrid vigor." If for no other reason than health, an F1 doodle, that is a first generation cross between two purebreds, is an excellent choice for a family pet or service dog. Numerous crosses with poodles have become popular because of the poodle intelligence and affectionate personality. The loyalty and mellow personality of the golden retriever makes the goldendoodle a very popular choice for families looking for the ideal dog. Our goldendoodles are no exception and are in fact bred from healthy parents, who come from healthy grandparents, and then fed on free range chickens, eggs and organic goats milk.