Goldendoodles, a charming crossbreed of Golden Retrievers and Poodles, have rapidly gained popularity due to their friendly nature, intelligence, and often hypoallergenic coats. While they are generally healthy dogs, they are susceptible to certain health issues inherited from their parent breeds. As a responsible pet owner, it's crucial to be aware of these potential problems to ensure your furry friend lives a long, healthy life. Here are the most common health issues in Goldendoodles and tips on how to manage them effectively.
JOINT ISSUES (ESPECIALLY HIP & ELBOW DYSPLASIA)
Goldendoodles have issues with their joints, especially as they age. Typically, it’s in their hips and elbows, which is understandable seeing as they are active dogs with bigger middle bodies. This issue can lead to arthritis or lameness over time.
Symptoms: Lameness in the hind legs, difficulty rising, reluctance to run, jump, or climb stairs.
Management: Maintain a healthy weight, provide joint supplements (like glucosamine), engage in regular exercise, and consider surgical options if necessary. Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect early signs.
EYE PROBLEMS
There are a few health issues related to Goldendoodle’s eyes that can occur in their lifetime. Eye conditions such as extra eyelashes, entropion, cataracts, glaucoma, and problems in their retinas can become an issue with this breed. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a group of genetic diseases that cause the retina to deteriorate over time, leading to eventual blindness.
Symptoms: Night blindness, dilated pupils, bumping into objects, and reluctance to go out in the dark.
Management: No cure exists, but early diagnosis through genetic testing can help manage the condition. Keeping the environment safe and consistent aids your dog in adjusting to vision loss.
ALLERGIES
Allergies in Goldendoodles can be caused by food, environmental factors, or seasonal changes, leading to skin irritation and discomfort.
Symptoms: Itchy skin, redness, excessive licking, ear infections, and gastrointestinal issues.
Management: Identify and eliminate the allergen through dietary changes, hypoallergenic shampoos, medications, or allergy shots. Regular grooming and a clean living environment help reduce environmental allergen exposure. If the allergy is food related, a diet designed for food sensitivities is a great choice.
EAR INFECTIONS
Goldendoodles’ floppy ears can trap moisture and debris, making them prone to ear infections caused by bacteria, yeast, or mites.
Symptoms: Ear scratching, head shaking, redness, odor, and discharge from the ear.
Management: Regular ear cleaning with vet-approved solutions can prevent infections. If an infection occurs, veterinary-prescribed ear drops or medications are necessary.
STOMACH & DIGESTION ISSUES
Even the healthiest standard Goldendoodle might deal with some tummy trouble. Often, stomach and digestion issues are short-term problems caused by eating something they shouldn’t have. It’s just a matter of time before it passes.
Symptoms: Gas, Loose Stool, Frequent vomiting, Bloody stool, Weight loss, Sustained loss of appetite
Management: Treatment for most of these conditions may require a change in diet or medications. A dog food that contains prebiotics (like Jiminy’s Cravin’ Cricket) is a great choice to help improve your dog’s gut microbiome.
Get your dog checked out if symptoms don’t subside, and always keep an eye on any odd behavior around food. For most Goldendoodles, dinner time is the most exciting part of the day.
WEIGHT MANAGEMENT
A common health issue with Golden Retrievers, half the mix of the Goldendoodle, is weight management problems. They love to eat, and that can lead to overindulgence.
Symptoms: Mobility issues can be a result of weight problems, in addition to having digestive problems, issues with going to the bathroom, and more.
Management: The top way to ensure your Goldendoodle is not affected by issues related to their weight is to keep them in a healthy body condition, provide them with a high-quality diet, and measure their daily portion. This includes counting the number of extra treats they consume in their daily portion.
KEEP YOUR GOLDENDOODLE HEALTHY WITH JIMINY'S
It doesn’t take much to keep a Goldendoodle happy and healthy—but knowing a little about the health risks for this breed puts you ahead of the pack.
Diet matters! Jiminy’s Cravin’ Cricket and Good Grub dog foods contain insect protein which can play an important role in managing your Goldendoodle’s issues.
- This novel protein provides food allergy relief for your goldendoodle along with an immunity boost
- Prebiotics help to improve the gut microbiome feeding the good bacteria in your goldendoodle’s intestines
- A natural source of Glucosamine, insect protein supports joints and it also contains calcium for strong bones
- Fiber helps keep your dog full between meals – less begging for handouts!
FINAL THOUGHTS
While Goldendoodles are generally healthy and robust dogs, being aware of these common health issues can help you take proactive measures to ensure their well-being. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, consistent exercise, and staying informed about potential health risks are crucial. With proper care and attention, your Goldendoodle can lead a long, happy, and healthy life. Enjoy every moment with your lovable, curly-haired companion!
Frequently Asked Questions — Goldendoodle Health Issues
Q: What health issues are Goldendoodles most commonly prone to?
A: Goldendoodles can be predisposed to several health concerns inherited from their Golden Retriever and Poodle parents, including joint issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, eye problems, allergies (skin and food), and ear infections.
Q: What are the signs of hip dysplasia in a Goldendoodle?
A: Signs include stiffness, limping, reluctance to run or climb stairs, and decreased activity. Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip joint doesn’t form properly, leading to pain and possibly arthritis as the dog ages.
Q: Can Goldendoodles develop eye problems?
A: Yes — Goldendoodles may be at risk for eye conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cataracts, and glaucoma. These can lead to vision changes or loss if not identified early.
Q: Why do Goldendoodles get ear infections?
A: Their floppy, furry ears can trap moisture and debris, creating an environment that encourages bacterial and yeast growth — making ear infections common. Regular ear cleaning and drying after water exposure helps reduce risk.
Q: Are allergies common in Goldendoodles?
A: Yes — Goldendoodles can experience skin and food allergies, which may show up as itching, redness, hot spots, licking paws, or chronic ear problems.
Q: What is bloat and can it affect Goldendoodles?
A: Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), or bloat, is a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists. Deep-chested dogs like larger Goldendoodles are at risk. Immediate veterinary care is essential if symptoms (distended belly, retching, restlessness) appear.
Q: How can I help prevent common health issues in my Goldendoodle?
A: Preventive steps include choosing a reputable breeder with health screenings, scheduling regular vet checkups, maintaining a balanced diet and healthy weight, and providing proper ear care and grooming to reduce risks of infection and skin issues.
Q: Do Goldendoodles have a shorter lifespan because of these issues?
A: Goldendoodles are generally healthy and can live 10–15 years, but early detection and management of hereditary or lifestyle-related conditions improves their quality of life and longevity.
Q: Should I get pet insurance for my Goldendoodle?
A: Pet insurance can help cover costs associated with common health issues like ear infections, allergies, joint conditions, and genetic concerns — especially if you want financial peace of mind for unexpected vet bills.
