Goldendoodles are loving, high-energy dogs that love to play and be with their humans. Whether they are puppies or adults, they need exercise, socialization with other people and dogs, and activities to keep their minds engaged. They also need to be taught obedience and other behavioral skills in order to be well-adjusted family members.

Like any breed, the Goldendoodle comes with its own set of health risks. These range from genetic conditions to eye and joint issues. Being aware of these can help pet parents better care for their pups and prevent or slow down the progression of conditions.

Genetic Conditions

Goldendoodles can suffer from a variety of genetic conditions, such as heart disease, hypothyroidism, cataracts, and hip dysplasia. These can all be passed down from their parents or exacerbated by other factors, such as obesity or vigorous exercise. For this reason, it is important that pet parents keep up with their puppy’s routine health exams and vaccinations. Using an app such as Vetted can make it easier to remember important dates, such as the series of core vaccines that Goldendoodle puppies receive starting at eight weeks of age.

Eye Conditions

Golden doodles are susceptible to two eye conditions: glaucoma and cataracts. Pet parents should look out for a build-up of watery discharge from the eyes, dilated pupils, and redness around the eyes. Keeping up with regular eye exams and contact lens maintenance can reduce the risk of these conditions and allow pet parents to catch them early.

Ear Infections

Because of their floppy ears, Goldendoodles are prone to developing ear infections. They should be checked regularly for skin irritation, itchiness, moisture in the ears, and odor. If these symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian for treatment.

Nutritional Conditions

Like all dogs, Goldendoodles require a well-balanced diet of food that is appropriate for their life stage. Excess protein and calories can lead to weight gain, kidney issues, and other nutritional deficiencies. Pet parents should also limit the amount of treats that their dog consumes, as these can add unnecessary calories to their diet.

Grooming Needs

Regardless of the type of coat your Goldendoodle has, they will need to be brushed at least twice per week, or daily for curly and wavy coats, to prevent matting and tangles. Having a reputable groomer is essential for maintaining your dog’s coat and skin health. It is important to introduce your dog to grooming gradually, especially if they are a puppy. You can do this by starting with basic trims and removing items from their environment that may be choking hazards, such as shoes, toys, pens, and purses.

Puppy proofing is also important for Goldendoodles as they explore their new environments. This can include removing anything from their reach, such as small items on the floor, wires that they might chew, and hiding cords under furniture or behind rugs. Finally, you will need to brush your dog’s nails and trim their paw pads on a regular basis.