Bringing a new dog into your home is a life-changing decision. Whether you already have pets or a first-time pet owner, making a decision to bring a new dog into your space requires careful consideration of your lifestyle and personality. Goldendoodles are an increasingly popular breed and are a good choice for a companion dog.
What Exactly is a Goldendoodle?
A Goldendoodle is a crossbreed between a Golden Retriever and a poodle. This gentle and affectionate breed makes for a great family dog. The Goldendoodle was created in the early 1990s and is considered a designer breed.
Physical Features
The Goldendoodle is a medium-sized breed with adult dogs weighing in between 30-45 Ibs. This breed also can come in miniature, small standard, and large standard sizes. The size will vary depending on what Poodle the Golden Retriever is bred with. The most common color for this breed is golden(hence the name) but the colors can also range from black, copper, cream, or even red. The hair is Golden Retriever type wavy but can also be curly much like the Poodle. This breed will have longer hair around the body, legs ears, and tail.
Puppies
This is a perfect breed for families. They very much enjoy human interaction and very dedicated to their human families. However, like puppies of other breeds, it is important that they are socialized and trained early on.
Lifespan and Health Concerns
With proper care and nutrition-the average lifespan of a Goldendoodle is 10-15 years which is about average for this medium-sized breed dog. There are some common ailments to look out for in this breed. Goldendoodles are prone to ear infections due to their ear design. Their floppy ears can result in reduced airflow to the ear canal which can cause chronic ear infections. These ear infections can be managed with proper veterinarian care. Hip Dysplasia is also a common ailment of the aging Goldendoodle. Again, proper vet care and nutritional supplements can possibly eliminate or at least reduce the discomfort associated with this condition.
Senior Years
Dogs approach old age at different times depending on size and breed. As your Goldendoodle ages, you will notice that she begins to slow down or have a harder time getting up or jumping onto furniture or into your car. The fur on the muzzle and around the eyes will become grey or white and the coat may begin to lose some of its shine. Your senior Goldendoodle might also require a special diet. These are all common signs of aging. You should work with your vet to determine the best way to care for and manage your elderly dog.
Is the Goldendoodle the Right Breed for You?
The Goldendoodle is a gorgeous breed with proper nutrition and care will experience very little to mild health ailments. If you are looking for a family-friendly companion, a Goldendoodle might be the right breed for you.