Goldendoodles are more than just cute faces and curly coats. They’re loyal companions with big hearts and even bigger personalities. Whether you’ve welcomed a pup into your home or are caring for an older doodle, keeping them healthy is always a top priority.

Like any breed, Goldendoodles have their share of health problems, some inherited from their Golden Retriever and Poodle parents. With responsible breeding, routine vet visits, and preventive care, many of these issues can be managed—or avoided altogether.

In this blog, we’re breaking down the most common Goldendoodle health issues, what symptoms to watch for, and how to help prevent problems before they start.

Why Understanding Goldendoodle Health Is Important

Hybrid breeds like the Goldendoodle benefit from what’s called “hybrid vigor,” which can lower the chances of some inherited diseases. Still, both the Poodle and the Golden Retriever come with their own genetic health risks, and those risks don’t disappear just because the breeds are mixed.

Whether you have a Standard, Medium, or Mini Goldendoodle, here’s why it’s crucial to stay informed:

• Health education saves money. Preventative care is often far cheaper than emergency surgery or ongoing treatments.
  

• Early detection = better outcomes. Knowing what to look for means you can catch symptoms before they become serious.
  

• It supports a long, happy life. When your dog feels good, they live better and longer.

Common Goldendoodle Health Problems

1. Hip Dysplasia

A joint condition where the hip doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis and pain over time.

Who It Affects: Common in Standard Goldendoodles due to their larger size, but Minis aren’t entirely immune.‍

How to Spot It: Stiffness, limping after exercise, or reluctance to run or jump.‍

Prevention Tips

• Feed puppy food that supports joint health.
  
• Don’t let your puppy jump off furniture until their bones are fully developed.
  
• Request Goldendoodle health testing info (like OFA hip scores) when selecting a breeder.
  
  

Hip dysplasia doesn’t always show up until adulthood, which is why early health testing is so important.

2. Ear Infections

Goldendoodles’ floppy, often furry ears make them extra vulnerable to infections.

Why It Happens: Their ear canals don’t get much air circulation—especially when wet after swimming or bathing.

‍Common Symptoms: Head shaking, dark waxy discharge, unpleasant odor

‍Prevention Tips

• Clean ears weekly with a vet-approved solution.
  
• Keep ears dry after baths or swims.
  
• Trim inner ear hair for better airflow.
  
  

Even healthy Goldendoodles can be prone to ear issues. Consistency in cleaning makes all the difference.

3. Allergies (Skin & Food)

Doodles can have sensitive skin or develop reactions to common proteins or environmental factors.

Environmental Allergies: Dust, grass, mold, pollen 

Food Allergies: Often triggered by proteins like chicken or beef‍

Common Symptoms: Excessive licking (especially paws), chronic ear infections, hot spots or skin redness

Management Tips

• Switch to a healthy diet for Goldendoodle dogs. Look for limited-ingredient formulas or novel proteins (like salmon or duck).
  
• Use hypoallergenic grooming products.
• Try adding omega-3 supplements to support skin health.

A dog constantly scratching isn’t just uncomfortable, it’s telling you something. Work with your vet to identify the source.

4. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat)

GDS is a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists. It is time-sensitive and extremely dangerous.

Most At-Risk: Deep-chested, large breeds like the Standard Goldendoodle‍

Symptoms: Swollen, hard belly, retching without vomiting, excessive drooling, pacing, restlessness

Prevention Tips

• Feed smaller, more frequent meals
  
• Use slow feeders to avoid gulping air
  
• Don’t allow intense exercise right before or after meals
  

If you suspect bloat, don’t wait. Go to an emergency vet immediately. Seconds count.

5. Eye Conditions

Goldendoodles can be prone to several eye problems, especially as they age.

i- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

A group of inherited eye diseases that lead to vision loss.

Who It Affects: Both Poodles and Golden Retrievers are carriers, so Doodles are at risk

Symptoms: Night blindness, hesitancy in low light, increased clumsiness

Prevention

• Ask breeders for Goldendoodle health testing proof.
• Annual eye exams from your vet, especially after age 5.
  

While there's no cure, dogs with PRA can still live full lives. Keeping your home layout consistent helps them adapt.

ii- Cataracts:

This is when the eye’s lens becomes cloudy, leading to blurry vision and eventual blindness if untreated.

Symptoms: Cloudy or bluish-gray eyes, bumping into objects, hesitancy in unfamiliar places.

Prevention

‍While some cataracts are genetic, a healthy diet, regular vet checks, and avoiding eye injuries can help delay or manage their onset.

iii- Glaucoma:

A more serious condition caused by increased pressure in the eye, which can damage the optic nerve.

Symptoms: Red eyes, bulging eyeball, squinting, tearing, dilated pupils, or a noticeable change in vision.

Prevention‍

There’s no guaranteed prevention, but early detection is key. Routine eye exams can catch pressure changes before permanent damage occurs.

6. Hypothyroidism

A condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, slowing metabolism.

Symptoms: Weight gain, lethargy, dull coat or hair loss

Diagnosis & Treatment

• Blood tests for thyroid hormone levels
  
• Daily medication (easy and affordable)
  
• Routine follow-ups every 6–12 months
  
  

Left untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to more severe issues like infertility or nerve damage.

Additional Health Concerns in Goldendoodles

• Dental Disease: Like many breeds, Goldendoodles are prone to tartar buildup and gum issues.
  
  
• Luxating Patella (kneecap slipping): More common in smaller Mini Goldendoodles.
  
  
• Obesity: A silent contributor to many of the issues above. Keeping your doodle slim is one of the best things you can do for their health.
  
  
• Cancer: Like many breeds, older Goldendoodles can develop lumps or tumors. Annual checkups and early intervention are essential.
  
  

Prevention Tips: How to Keep Your Goldendoodle Healthy

1. Choose the Right Breeder

Not all breeders prioritize health. A responsible breeder should:

• Provide OFA or PennHIP results for both parents
  
• Show documentation for eye and heart testing
  
• Be transparent about any past health issues in their lines
  
• Offer a health guarantee in writing
  

2. Build a Relationship with Your Vet

Schedule regular wellness visits at least once a year, or twice for seniors. Vets can detect early signs you might miss, from thyroid dips to heart murmurs.

3. Feed a Balanced Diet

Look for whole-food ingredients, high protein, and no fillers. Many Goldendoodles thrive on formulas with salmon, duck, or lamb. Avoid foods with corn, soy, or by-products.

4. Stay Active

Goldendoodles are energetic and need daily activity.

• Puppies: Short walks and play sessions
  
• Adults: 30–60 minutes per day
  
• Seniors: Gentle strolls and puzzle games
  

5. Keep Up with Grooming

Grooming isn't just for looks, it’s a health necessity.

• Brush 3-4 times a week
• Bathe every 4–6 weeks
  
• Trim nails monthly
  
• Check ears and clean teeth regularly
  
  

A matted coat can hide skin infections, ticks, or even embedded debris.

Conclusion

Goldendoodles are known for their fun energy and lovable nature, but behind those wagging tails are unique health needs that deserve attention. The good news? Most common Goldendoodle health issues can be managed or even prevented with the right care, diet, and early vet support.

Staying informed is one of the best things you can do as a doodle parent. Ask questions. Keep up with health checkups. And when in doubt, trust your gut—because you know your dog best.

At the end of the day, it’s not about doing everything perfectly. It’s about being a present, proactive pet owner who gives their Goldendoodle the best shot at a long and healthy life.

And if you're looking for a well-bred, health-tested puppy to welcome into your family, check out our available puppies. We’re proud to be responsible Goldendoodle breeders, focusing on pairing health-tested, genetically matched parents to give each puppy the best chance at a long, happy, and healthy life.