Goldendoodles are the crossbreeds of two beloved breeds — the intelligent Golden Retriever and the playful Poodle. These crossbreeds are loving, loyal dogs that make great companions and family pets. They are smart and train easily, and they enjoy a wide variety of activities and dog jobs. To get the most out of your Goldendoodle, it’s important to be prepared for your new pet’s care and training needs. The more you know ahead of time, the smoother the transition into puppy parenthood will be for everyone in your family.

Whether you buy a Goldendoodle from a reputable breeder or adopt one from a shelter, preparing your home and family for the arrival of your new pup is essential to ensure a happy and healthy life together. This includes buying all the necessary supplies and setting up a safe, comfortable and secure environment for your dog. You’ll also want to be sure that everyone in your family is on the same page as far as responsibilities and expectations are concerned.

The responsibilities of owning a Goldendoodle include proper grooming, regular exercise, nutritious food and water, as well as frequent visits to the veterinarian for routine health checks. The type of coat your Goldendoodle has will have an impact on its maintenance needs — straight, wavy or curly hairs shed less than their parents’ coats, but they require regular brushing to prevent matting. This dog breed is also prone to ear infections due to their floppy ears, so ensuring that you regularly clean and check them for signs of infection will help avoid the onset of painful and uncomfortable conditions.

Like all dogs, Goldendoodles are prone to many of the same common health problems as their parents, including hip and elbow dysplasia, von Willebrand’s Disease, juvenile cataracts, hypothyroidism and other issues related to their eyes. They are prone to both glaucoma and cataracts, which are caused by increased pressure in the eye. Watch for symptoms such as bulging eyes, watery or bloody discharge, dilated pupils and cloudy or opaque appearance of the eye lenses. If you notice any of these, contact your veterinary professional right away as early treatment is key to preventing vision loss.

As with all dogs, providing your Goldendoodle with a high-quality diet and plenty of healthy exercise will help to maintain their good health and prevent behavioral issues. Make sure to monitor your dog’s weight to avoid obesity, which can lead to several serious health conditions. A regular consultation with your veterinary professional will help you determine the amount of food your Goldendoodle requires to be at a healthy weight.