Caring for a Goldendoodle Puppy
Labradoodles were the first doodles bred in the early 1980s when a breeder in Australia successfully crossed a labrador with a standard poodle for a vision-impaired person. Since then, hybrid doodles have become popular pets because of their reputation as smart, loving, allergy-friendly dogs. Along with Aussiedoodles, Bernedoodles, schnoodles, and whoodles, one of the most common designer breeds is a goldendoodle.
Bred from a golden retriever and a poodle, goldendoodles are known to be playful, loving and intelligent. The crossbreed varies in size based on the size of poodle used as a parent:
- Large goldendoodles are bred from standard poodles and grow to weigh 50 to 60 pounds.
- Medium goldendoodles come from miniature poodles with an adult weight around 40 pounds.
- Mini gooldendoodles are crossed with toy poodles and typically weigh about 25 lbs when fully grown.
Goldendoodle Temperament
No matter the size, goldendoodles are affectionate, friendly, and dedicated to their families. They are intelligent dogs that require training and, fortunately, are relatively easy to train because they are motivated to please their owners. They are a high-energy breed that will get into mischief without daily exercise. Their gentle nature makes them great family pets.
Grooming Goldendoodles
Because goldendoodles rarely shed, people with mild allergies are often able to welcome them into their families. However, no dog is truly hypo-allergenic because they all have dander, saliva, and urine, which is where allergens exist. The downside of less shedding is that their fur is prone to matting, particularly if they have a double coat. The curly coat of a goldengoodle needs to be brushed several times per week and requires professional grooming every 8-12 weeks.
Puppy Care
No matter the breed, all puppies need preventive and wellness care with a trusted vet. Puppies from rescues and breeders alike start veterinary care within the first few weeks of life. Once they’ve found a loving home with you, puppies should establish care with your family vet within two weeks and have regular visits throughout the first year.
Standard puppy wellness care includes:
- A physical examination
- Parasite testing and deworming
- Vaccinations
- Heartworm and flea prevention
- Spaying or neutering
Our team at Animal Medical Hospital & Urgent Care provides a vast array of veterinary services from wellness care to surgery to boarding and spa services. Whatever kind of care your pet requires, we’re here to guide you through.