Are you thinking of adding a Goldendoodle to your household, or maybe you just brought one home as your newest family member? Goldendoodles are very popular mixed breed dogs full of personality and intelligence. These adorable pups are widely known for their friendly temperament and low-shed curly coat.
In this Goldendoodle care guide, we cover diet, grooming, dental care, bonding, grooming, and the common potential health concerns that all new Goldendoodle owners need to know about. As always, if you have any concerns about your pet’s health, speak with your veterinarian. This article is intended for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice.
Table of Contents: Goldendoodle Care Guide
- What Food Should a Goldendoodle Eat?
- How Much Water Should a Goldendoodle Drink?
- What Treats Can a Goldendoodle Have?
- Are Goldendoodles Susceptible to Seasonal or Occasional Allergies?
- Are Goldendoodles Easy to Train?
- How Often Should a Goldendoodle Be Groomed?
- Can I Groom a Goldendoodle Myself?
- How Do I Bond With My Goldendoodle?
- Do Goldendoodles Need Their Teeth Cleaned?
- What Common Health Considerations Should I Be Aware Of?
- How Often Should I Take My Goldendoodle to The Vet?
What Food Should a Goldendoodle Eat?
Goldendoodles thrive on a complete and balanced diet that supports their energy levels, coat health, and digestion. Choose high-quality dog food that lists a real animal protein as the first ingredient and contains essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and vitamins.
It’s always best to consult your veterinarian when selecting a food, especially if your dog has sensitivities or special dietary needs. Be sure to follow the feeding guidelines provided on the label and adjust feeding based on your dog’s age, weight, and activity level.
How Much Water Should a Goldendoodle Drink?
Like all dogs, Goldendoodles should have access to clean, fresh water at all times. As a general rule, dogs need about one ounce of water per pound of body weight per day, but this can vary based on age, temperature, and activity. Puppies and active dogs may need more frequent hydration. If you notice excessive thirst or changes in drinking habits, speak with your vet.
What Treats Can a Goldendoodle Have?
Goldendoodles typically enjoy soft chews, freeze-dried meats, and bite-sized training treats. Look for dog-friendly options made with high-quality, recognizable ingredients and minimal fillers. Treats should complement your dog’s daily nutrition, not replace it, and should account for no more than 10% of their daily calorie intake. Avoid feeding your Goldendoodle table scraps or human foods, as many ingredients used in home cooking aren’t suitable for dogs.
PetLab Co. offers a range of tasty, protein-rich treats made with high-quality ingredients, perfect for rewarding your Goldendoodle’s good behavior. Options like our Wild Caught Salmon Bites and Beef Jerky Treats make for a satisfying, protein-rich snack your Goldendoodle will love.
Are Goldendoodles Susceptible to Seasonal or Occasional Allergies?
Yes, Goldendoodles can be sensitive to seasonal or environmental allergens, such as grass, pollen, or dust, as well as certain food ingredients like wheat, chicken, or soy. If you notice potential signs of sensitivity, such as frustrating licking of paws, increased head shaking, or changes to the frequency and consistency of stools, consult your vet for professional advice on how best to support your pup.
Are Goldendoodles Easy to Train?
Yes. Goldendoodles are intelligent, eager to please, and often quick learners. Positive reinforcement, using praise, affection, or small training treats, is typically very effective. Start your dog training plan with simple commands like sit, stay, and come, and gradually build to more advanced cues. Keep sessions short and consistent, and use mental enrichment to keep your Goldendoodle engaged.
How Often Should a Goldendoodle Be Groomed?
Goldendoodles generally require professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks, depending on their coat type and lifestyle. Their curly or wavy hair can become matted if not regularly maintained. At home, brush your Goldendoodle several times a week to reduce tangles and maintain their gorgeous curly coat.
Can I Groom a Goldendoodle Myself?
Yes, many pet parents choose to handle some grooming at home. Invest in a slicker brush, grooming comb, and dog-specific shampoo. Regular brushing, trimming around the eyes and paws, and checking ears can all be done at home. For full trims or detangling mats, consider seeking help from a professional groomer.
How Do I Bond With My Goldendoodle?
Bonding with your Goldendoodle requires time, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Regular walks, playtime, grooming sessions, and training all help build trust. These dogs thrive on companionship, so integrating them into daily routines and making time for 1:1 attention goes a long way in strengthening your connection.
Do Goldendoodles Need Their Teeth Cleaned?
Yes. All dogs benefit from regular dental care, and Goldendoodles are no exception. Brushing your dog’s teeth several times a week with a pet-specific toothbrush and toothpaste can help manage tartar buildup and support fresh breath. Annual dental care visits to the vet are important to keep on top of any potential issues before they develop into bigger problems.
Want to further support your dog’s oral hygiene? Add PetLab Co. ProBright® Advanced to their daily routine. This vet-reviewed dental powder is formulated with ingredients like brown algae and probiotics to help target tartar and support a fresher mouth. Just use the included scoop to give ProBright Advanced to your dog once a day, as a complement to regular toothbrushing.
What Common Health Considerations Should I Be Aware Of?
Goldendoodles can inherit health traits from both parent breeds, the Poodle and the Golden Retriever. Some common health considerations and traits to be aware of include:
- Ear discomfort (due to floppy ears and moisture)
- Seasonal or food sensitivities
- Joint stiffness with age
- Dental tartar accumulation
Routine veterinary care, a balanced diet, regular grooming, and proactive health support can help your dog thrive well into their senior years.
How Often Should I Take My Goldendoodle to the Vet?
Goldendoodle puppies should see the vet multiple times in their first year for vaccinations and wellness checks. Adult dogs should have an annual exam, and senior dogs (typically 7+ years) may benefit from semi-annual visits.
Regular checkups help track weight, catch early signs of health changes, and ensure your pet stays up-to-date on vaccinations and routine care.
Building a loving relationship with your Goldendoodle starts with setting up a consistent care routine, including diet, grooming, exercise, and dental hygiene, and working closely with your veterinarian. With regular checkups, kindness, and plenty of playtime, you and your Goldendoodle can enjoy making many wonderful memories together.
