10 Goldendoodle Health Issues That Could Make You Rethink Your Decision

Goldendoodles are the result of the hybrid cross between purebred Golden Retrievers and purebred Poodles. They were first bred in the 1990s to create guide dogs for visually impaired individuals with allergies.1 

While generally healthy, these designer dogs can be prone to certain health issues inherited from their parent breeds.

As a responsible pet owner, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential health concerns your furry friend may face. Here are the 10 most common health issues in Goldendoodles, providing insights on symptoms to watch for.

1. Hip & Elbow Dysplasia

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Goldendoodles, like their Golden Retriever and Poodle parents, are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. This genetic condition causes abnormal joint development, leading to pain and mobility issues.

Symptoms:

  • Limping or lameness
  • Stiffness or decreased range of motion
  • Clicking or popping sounds in the joints
  • Muscle loss in the affected limb

2. Eye Problems

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Goldendoodles can inherit various eye disorders from their parent breeds, such as cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and glaucoma. These conditions can lead to vision loss or even blindness if left untreated.

Symptoms:

  • Cloudy or hazy appearance in the eye
  • Redness or discharge
  • Squinting or excessive blinking
  • Bumping into objects or hesitation in low light

3. Allergies

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Like many other breeds, Goldendoodles can suffer from allergies, including environmental, food, and contact allergies. Allergic reactions can cause skin irritation, itching, and digestive issues.

Symptoms:

  • Excessive scratching or licking
  • Redness or rashes on the skin
  • Ear infections
  • Gastrointestinal problems like vomiting or diarrhea

4. Ear Infections

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The floppy ears of Goldendoodles can trap moisture and debris, making them more susceptible to ear infections. Regular cleaning and monitoring can help prevent these painful conditions.

Symptoms:

  • Odor coming from the ears
  • Redness or swelling in the ear canal
  • Excessive head shaking or scratching at the ears
  • Discharge or crusting in the ears

5. Digestive Issues

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Goldendoodles may experience various digestive problems, such as gastritis, colitis, pancreatitis, and bloat (GDV). These issues can range from mild to life-threatening and often require veterinary intervention.

Symptoms:

  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Abdominal pain or swelling
  • Lethargy or weakness

6. Weight Management

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Goldendoodles, especially those with a Golden Retriever parent, can be prone to obesity. Maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise is essential for preventing joint problems and other health issues.

Symptoms:

  • Difficulty feeling ribs under the skin
  • Lack of a visible waist
  • Excess fat around the base of the tail
  • Reluctance to exercise or play

7. Thyroid Issues

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Hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, is common in Goldendoodles. This can lead to weight gain, skin problems, and lethargy.

Symptoms:

  • Unexplained weight gain
  • Dry, flaky skin and coat
  • Cold intolerance
  • Decreased energy levels

8. Addison’s Disease

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Addison’s disease, or hypoadrenocorticism, is an endocrine disorder that affects the adrenal glands. Goldendoodles are at a higher risk for this condition, which can cause a variety of symptoms.

Symptoms:

  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Lethargy and weakness
  • Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances

9. Von Willebrand’s Disease

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Von Willebrand’s disease is a blood clotting disorder that can affect Goldendoodles. This inherited condition can cause excessive bleeding after injuries or surgeries.

Symptoms:

  • Prolonged bleeding from minor cuts or injuries
  • Nosebleeds or bleeding gums
  • Blood in the urine or stool
  • Anemia or pale gums

10. Sebaceous Adenitis

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Sebaceous adenitis is a skin disorder that affects the sebaceous glands, which produce oils that keep the skin and coat healthy. Goldendoodles can inherit this condition from their Poodle parent.

Symptoms:

  • Dry, flaky, or scaly skin
  • Hair loss or thinning coat
  • Musty odor coming from the skin
  • Skin infections or irritation

While this list may seem daunting, it’s important to remember that not all Goldendoodles will experience these health issues.

Regular check-ups with your veterinarian, a balanced diet, and plenty of exercise can go a long way in keeping your Goldendoodle happy and healthy.

Source:

  1. Northridge Doodles
davin
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.