Goldendoodles love to play, but they also need plenty of physical exercise. A fenced yard and frequent walks are ideal, but you can take your pup on jogs, hikes, swims or even participate in dog sports together.

They are not suited to living outdoors or in kennels, but they do well in apartments with a fenced yard and regular play time. They need daily attention, and they thrive when surrounded by family and friends.

Grooming

Whether your Goldendoodle has a straight coat (resembling more of the Golden Retriever's coat) or a curly (more like the Poodle's), they need consistent grooming to prevent mats and maintain their health. The right tools and techniques make it easy to get your Goldendoodle looking and feeling their best.

You'll need a few essentials, including: a slicker brush for removing loose fur, a pin brush for smoothing the coat, a comb with teeth closer together for checking for mats and tangles, and dog-safe shampoo and conditioner. Nail clippers or a nail grinder are also important for keeping your doodle's nails in check, as they grow quickly and can curl and tangle around their eyes.

Regular ear cleaning with a veterinary approved solution is important for promoting skin and ear health. And bathing on a schedule that works with your pup's lifestyle, keeping in mind that over-bathing can cause dry skin issues.

Training

A well-trained Goldendoodle makes a happy and confident pet. They learn to play and interact with their family members in positive ways. This helps them avoid behaviors that lead to separation anxiety, which can contribute to health issues like hip dysplasia and Von Willebrand's disease.

Puppy training involves establishing a routine for eating, potty breaks, nap times and playtimes. This includes crate training, which helps your dog sleep soundly through the night and establishes a sense of safety for them in their environment.

It also involves teaching basic obedience skills and using clicker training, which teaches your Goldendoodle to associate the clicking noise with food rewards. Both Golden Retrievers and Poodles have a high food drive, so using treats for obedience training is usually effective with them.

Guided socialization is another important part of puppy training. During this time, your Goldendoodle will be exposed to different environments and people under controlled conditions so they can build confidence around new situations and unfamiliar people.

Health

As with all breeds, Goldendoodles have unique health needs. They typically require regular brushing and professional grooming to prevent matting, tangling, and other skin conditions. Their floppy ears are also prone to ear infections, so regular cleanings and checks are necessary to keep them healthy.

They also have high energy levels and need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. This includes activities like running, swimming, and playing fetch. They can easily become bored and may engage in destructive behaviors if not stimulated enough. This is why mental stimulation, such as training sessions and puzzle toys, is important for them.

They should receive a series of core vaccines as puppies and boosters throughout their lives. You can get reminders for these appointments on the Vetted app, making it easier to stay on top of their care. This is especially helpful for those with busy schedules! You can also purchase pet insurance for your Goldendoodle to help pay for any unexpected or expensive health care expenses.

Care

With the right amount of care, your Goldendoodle puppy can lead a happy and healthy life. Regular veterinary visits, a healthy diet, and proper exercise are all essential to your pup's well-being.

Keeping your pup's nails properly trimmed is another important step in caring for your Goldendoodle. Trimming their nails every other week will prevent them from becoming overgrown and can help with circulation and joint health as well.

Goldendoodles have floppy ears, which can be very attractive and endearing, but they also make it easy for germs, mites, and other unwanted microbes to get trapped inside their ears. This can lead to ear infections, so it's important to clean your dog's ears regularly with a vet-approved ear cleaner.

Your pup will need a series of core vaccinations as well as heartworm medication. Typically, puppies receive this series of vaccines when they're 8 weeks old. Puppies also need annual check-ups to catch any potential illnesses or health complications before they become severe.