Goldendoodle Health: What We’ve Learned as Breeders and What We Wish Every New Owner Knew

Bringing a Goldendoodle into your life is exciting. If you are anything like the families who adopt from us, you are probably already thinking about how to keep your future puppy healthy, happy, and thriving.

After years of raising Goldendoodles, working closely with veterinarians, and staying connected with the families who take our puppies home, we have learned something important. Most health issues do not appear out of nowhere. Many are preventable or manageable, especially when you know what to look for early.

This post is not meant to scare you. It is meant to be honest and helpful. These are the health topics we talk about with every family and the lessons we wish more owners understood from the start.

Common Goldendoodle Health Issues

Goldendoodles are generally healthy dogs, but like any breed, they can inherit certain conditions from Golden Retrievers and Poodles. Here are the issues we educate families on most often.

Hip Dysplasia

One of the most common concerns. Hip dysplasia happens when the hip joint does not form correctly, which can lead to stiffness or mobility issues. Mild cases are often manageable with good weight control and balanced exercise. Severe cases sometimes need medical treatment. Ethical breeding and OFA screening help reduce risk.

Allergies

Doodles can be prone to environmental or food allergies. You may notice itchy skin, paw licking, or recurring ear problems. Once you identify the trigger, most allergy issues become manageable.

Ear Infections

Floppy ears trap moisture. Dogs who swim or get frequent baths benefit from regular ear cleaning. It is simple, quick, and prevents infections.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

An inherited eye condition that can eventually lead to vision loss. It cannot be fixed, which is why DNA testing before breeding is essential.

Hypothyroidism

This condition affects metabolism and often shows up in adult dogs. It can cause weight gain, low energy, or coat changes. It is usually controlled well once diagnosed.

None of these issues mean a Goldendoodle cannot live a long, joyful life. Awareness helps you stay proactive rather than reactive.

How We Focus on Prevention at Deer Valley Doodles

Health begins long before a puppy goes home. Here is what we prioritize in our breeding program.

Responsible Breeding and Full Health Testing

Every breeding dog is screened for conditions common in Goldendoodles. This includes OFA hips and elbows, cardiac evaluations, and DNA panels for inherited conditions such as PRA. No breeding program can avoid every issue, but thoughtful pairing makes a meaningful difference.

Coat Types and Grooming Needs

Coat type influences shedding, allergy friendliness, and grooming frequency. Goldendoodles are not guaranteed to be hypoallergenic. Wavy coats need grooming. Curly coats need even more. Honest expectations matter.

Nutrition and Weight Management

What you feed your Goldendoodle affects their joints, skin, ears, and overall well being. Puppies need high quality food and controlled portions to avoid rapid growth that stresses developing joints. A healthy adult weight is one of the best predictors of long term joint health.

Age Appropriate Exercise

Puppies benefit from movement and play but do not need long runs or high impact jumping. Protecting developing joints leads to healthier adulthood.

Routine Veterinary Care

Annual wellness exams, dental care, parasite prevention, and routine bloodwork help catch issues early.

Grooming as Health Care

Regular brushing and professional grooming keep your Goldendoodle comfortable and prevent matting, which can cause skin irritation. When mats form, groomers cannot brush them out. They have to shave the coat to the skin and your fluffy Goldendoodle instantly transforms into a very smooth, very naked stranger. It all grows back, but most owners only let that surprise happen once. Grooming is not optional for a Goldendoodle. It is an important part of keeping them healthy.

What I Wish More New Owners Knew

These are the surprises that catch many first time Goldendoodle families off guard.

• Goldendoodles need more grooming than most people expect

• Coat type and shedding vary, even within the same litter

• Energy levels differ from dog to dog

• Early socialization shapes confident, well adjusted dogs

• Ethical breeders matter more than most people realize

• Many Goldendoodles have natural instincts for therapy or service work

Signs Your Goldendoodle May Need a Vet Visit

Trust your instincts. You know your dog best. Watch for:

• Limping or stiffness

• Persistent scratching or licking

• Red, smelly, or irritated ears

• Sudden appetite or weight changes

• Cloudy eyes or unusual discharge

• Noticeable shifts in behavior or energy

Behavior changes are often the first sign that something is off.

Supporting Long Term Health

The healthiest Goldendoodles are not only well bred. They are well loved. Here are the habits that make a big difference over time.

• Keep your dog at a healthy weight

• Maintain a predictable daily routine

• Provide mental stimulation through training and play

• Prioritize dental care

• Offer consistency, affection, and connection

Goldendoodles thrive when they feel safe and included.

Final Thoughts from a Breeder Who Cares Deeply

Raising Goldendoodles is personal for us at Deer Valley Doodles. Our goal is to produce healthy, well adjusted puppies and to support the families who love them long after pickup day.

If you are asking questions, researching health, and preparing for the responsibilities of dog ownership, you are already ahead. And if you ever need guidance or honest advice, we are always here.

Healthy Goldendoodles are not the result of luck. They are the result of intention, care, and working together. Click here to learn more.