Goldendoodles are one of the most popular dogs around, and these friendly, outgoing pups often find themselves at home with families and individuals who love to lead an active lifestyle.
Goldendoodles are generally healthy dogs with a long lifespan, though they can be prone to certain health issues, like many other breeds of dog. Our article tells you how you can help your Goldendoodle live longer and ensure that they are happy and in good health throughout their lives.
What Is the Average Goldendoodle Lifespan?
The average lifespan of a Goldendoodle ranges between 10 and 15 years. There are a few different factors that contribute to this mixed-breed’s longevity. Proper care, exercise, and any inherited genetic health issues all play a part in your dog’s lifespan.
If you want to help your dog live as long as possible, it is important to take your Doodle for regular veterinary visits and pay attention to their health and behavior so you can catch potential issues before they become life-threatening.
Common Goldendoodle Health Issues
There are a few different health complications that Goldendoodles are prone to, and these are generally inherited issues from their Poodle or Golden Retriever parents.
Common health complications for goldendoodles include:
- Hip dysplasia – This happens when the hip joint is not formed correctly, leading to dislocation, trouble moving, and joint pain.
- Allergies – A Goldendoodle can develop environmental allergies or allergies to their food, and symptoms typically include itching and skin problems.
- Von Willebrand disease – Inherited from both parents, this disease causes trouble with blood clotting.
- Addison’s disease – Goldendoodles are especially prone to this disease that affects adrenal hormones and causes problems with digestion, appetite, and stress responses.
- Epilepsy – This is a seizure disorder that Goldendoodles can potentially inherit from both of their parent dogs.
- Eye problems – Goldendoodles are prone to eye issues such as cataracts and other vision problems as they age.
It’s important to keep an eye out for signs of these health issues, as early intervention and care help your dog live happily and stay healthy.
Tips to Help Your Goldendoodle Live Longer
The following tips can help your Goldendoodle live a long, happy life. Engaging in all of these tips while caring for your dog gives them the best chance of a long lifespan.
Choose an Ethical and Responsible Breeder
Ethical breeding is key to finding a Goldendoodle that is set up for a happy life with as few genetic and health issues as possible. Goldendoodles are a mixed breed, and while this breed is not standardized according to American Kennel Club (AKC) standards, you can still expect them to look very much like a mix between the Golden Retriever and the Standard Poodle.
If you can’t find a goldendoodle in a shelter, it’s important that you find a dog through a breeder that puts the health of the dogs in their care first. Because Goldendoodles are a popular mixed dog breed, there are backyard breeders who do not adhere to ethical breeding standards. Unsafe and irresponsible breeding practices can lead to serious health issues for dogs, including genetic issues. These problems can lead to a shorter lifespan for your Goldendoodle.
Always double-check with a breeder and speak to them about the breed. Responsible and ethical Goldendoodle breeders will be able to answer all of your questions. You should also be welcomed to tour a breeder’s property to meet dogs in person. In general, you should refrain from finding Goldendoodles on websites like Craigslist and Facebook, as these breeders may be operating unethically and causing health problems for their puppies.
Give Them Plenty of Exercise
Exercise is essential for all dogs, but Goldendoodles have playful and energetic natures that require lots of exercise. Make sure your Doodle receives regular daily walks, dedicated playtime, and socialization with other dogs and people.
Taking the time to keep your dog well-exercised and healthy can benefit their overall health and encourage a longer lifespan.
Choose the Right Food for Your Goldendoodle
Diet and nutrition are important considerations for your dog, as you want your Goldendoodle to receive the calories and nutrients they need without overeating or gaining weight. Obesity is one of the biggest problems when it comes to your dog’s longevity, and a healthy diet can prevent this.
Make sure that you are feeding your Goldendoodle the right amount of food for their size and consider switching to a veterinary-recommended food if necessary. Some dogs may be prone to certain health problems, such as kidney or urinary problems, and their diet can help relieve symptoms and encourage good health.
Keep Your Goldendoodle Mentally Active
Mental stimulation is just as vital as physical stimulation, and dogs that are bored can become anxious, stressed, and even aggressive. Keeping your dog mentally stimulated helps to keep them engaged and happy, improving their overall quality of life and encouraging a long lifespan.
Provide your Goldendoodle with puzzle toys, take them on adventures whenever possible, and keep your dog focused during training sessions to help to keep their mind active as they age.
Make Grooming a Priority
Although Goldendoodles are a lower-shedding breed, their coat and hair can be prone to matting if not groomed regularly. Matting can cause discomfort and even lead to skin irritation if not managed.
Regular bathing and daily brushing can help keep a Goldendoodle’s coat and skin in good condition. Not only can regular at-home grooming keep your dog’s coat in good condition, but brushing and bathing a dog can help detect any spots of itchiness or allergies, as well as any points of pain.
Depending on your Goldendoodle’s coat type, you may want to consider professional grooming appointments to keep up with care and maintenance.
Stay On Top of Dental Care
Dental health is connected to the health of the rest of the body, and keeping your Doodle’s teeth in good condition helps them to stay free of pain and illness. It’s easy for tooth diseases and gum problems to emerge in your dog without you noticing, and regular teeth brushing plus visits to your vet can help you catch any dental issues before they become more serious.
Don’t Neglect Preventative Healthcare
Preventative healthcare for your Goldendoodle includes things like spaying and neutering, routine vet visits, and household adaptations to help your dog get around more easily. Spaying and neutering have been shown to help your dog live longer and be happier, while yearly vet visits ensure your dog is feeling fine year after year. As your Goldendoodle ages and becomes a senior, they should receive a vet visit twice a year.
Additionally, you may need to add steps or ramps around your home, place soft beds on the floor, or invest in other comfort items for your Goldendoodle as they age. Not only can these items help to prevent further joint or mobility problems, but they keep your dog comfortable and enjoying each day with you.
When Should I Take My Goldendoodle to the Vet?
Sometimes, certain symptoms may present themselves in your Goldendoodle that require emergency medical attention. You should keep the following emergency symptoms in mind and seek immediate medical care should your Goldendoodle exhibit one or more of the following symptoms.
- Pale gums
- Prolonged vomiting or diarrhea
- Inability to walk or move
- Seizures
- Unconsciousness
- Bleeding
- Swollen or tender abdomen
- Lethargy
- Difficulty breathing
- Difficulty using the bathroom
If you cannot make an appointment with your regular vet and you have a concerning health issue with your Goldendoodle, you may need to visit your local emergency vet to receive care. The quicker you address an emergency health issue, the better chance your Goldendoodle has at fully recovering.
Loving Your Goldendoodle Companion
Loving your Goldendoodle means helping them to live a long healthy and happy life. This can be done with lots of exercise, meeting your dog’s nutritional needs, and ensuring regular veterinary care is received.
You can monitor your dog’s behavior and engage in preventative healthcare as needed to keep your Goldendoodle companion feeling their best and enjoying every day that you get to spend with them.
Sources:
Author Waitz, Krista, “Addison’s Disease”, Goldendoodles, October. 2028, https://goldendoodles.com/health_hereditary/addisons_disease.htm
Author Kanowski, Karyn, BVSc MRCVS, “Seizures in Goldendoodles: How Common Are They & What to Do (Vet Answer)”, Dogster, July 31. 2024, https://www.dogster.com/ask-the-vet/seizures-in-goldendoodles
