Top 5 Health Concerns for Goldendoodles 

Goldendoodles are known for their playful energy, loving nature, and low-shedding coats, making them a favorite among families and first-time dog owners alike. As a cross between Golden Retrievers and Poodles, they tend to be smart, social, and eager to please. Our team loves caring for these joyful companions and knows how important their well-being is to the people who love them. Like all breeds, Goldendoodles can be prone to certain health issues. Here are the top five concerns we commonly see in our practice and how we can help catch them early to keep your doodle healthy and happy: 

1. Skin Allergies and Ear Infections 

Goldendoodles’ floppy ears and thick, curly coats are adorable—but they can also lead to issues like ear infections and skin problems. Moisture and debris easily get trapped in their ears, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. Their skin can also be sensitive, with hot spots and allergic reactions common in warm or damp conditions. 

If your Doodle is scratching at their ears or skin, shaking their head, licking or chewing at certain areas, or seems generally uncomfortable, it might be time for a check-up. Redness, odor, discharge, scabs, or hair loss are all signs that something’s not right. 

How we can help: 

• Skin / Ear Cytology – We examine samples under a microscope to check for infections like bacteria, yeast, or mites. This helps us choose the most effective medication based on what’s actually causing the problem. 
• Culture Testing – This goes a step further than cytology. It helps us identify the exact type of bacterial or fungal infection that’s making your Doodle uncomfortable and determines which medications will work best to treat it. 
• Allergy Tests – Blood or skin testing can reveal environmental allergy triggers. This helps us tailor your Doodle’s diet and develop a personalized allergy treatment plan. ● Food Trials – If we suspect a food allergy, we may try different diets to determine if food is the underlying issue. 
• Medications – We provide options for both immediate relief and long-term management of skin and ear issues related to allergies or infections. 

2. Dental Disease 

Goldendoodles may have big smiles, but their mouths still need regular care. Like many breeds, they’re prone to dental disease—especially due to their love of chewing and their genetic mix,

which can include crowded or uneven teeth. Plaque and tartar can build up quickly, leading to gum inflammation, bad breath, tooth loss, and even infections that impact the heart or kidneys. 

Bad breath is often the first sign, but pain, drooling, or trouble eating can indicate more serious issues. Regular brushing, dental chews, and vet check-ups are key to keeping your Goldendoodle’s mouth, and overall health, in top shape. 

How we can help: 

• Oral exam – We check for plaque buildup, alignment issues, and signs of gum infection. We also evaluate for loose, broken, or crowded teeth 
• Dental X-rays – These allow us to see below the gumline where serious issues can hide. X-rays help identify pockets of infection under the teeth, bone loss from the jaw, and damaged roots, which can all cause unrealized pain. This helps the veterinarian determine if any teeth need to be pulled or if infections need additional treatment 
• Professional cleaning – Just like people, Doodles need regular dental cleanings to remove plaque and tartar. Dental cleanings under anesthesia performed by a veterinarian are the safest and most effective way to thoroughly clean your Doodle’s teeth. This can help prevent the spread of bacteria, protect their airway, and allow the vet to remove any teeth that may be causing problems. This also lets the vet identify issues that aren’t visible during a regular exam 
• Home care guidance – We can recommend brushing routines, dental diets, or safe chews to help maintain your dog’s oral health between visits. 

3. Stomach and Digestion Issues 

Goldendoodles are known for their sensitive stomachs. They can be prone to digestive upset, food sensitivities, and even chronic conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). What starts as occasional tummy trouble can lead to nutrient deficiencies, dehydration, or more serious health concerns if not addressed. A check-up with one of our doctors may be needed if you are noticing signs such as diarrhea, vomiting, inconsistent appetite, or frequent gas. 

How we can help: 

• Physical exam – We’ll start by evaluating your Doodle’s symptoms, lifestyle, and current diet. A hands-on exam helps identify signs of discomfort, bloating, or weight loss. ● Fecal tests – Checks for intestinal parasites, bacterial overgrowth, or abnormal gut flora that may be causing diarrhea or other symptoms. 
• Blood tests – Evaluate organ function, inflammation levels, and hydration status. Some additional screening tests may be recommended for specific conditions like pancreatitis or Addison’s disease, which are more common in breeds like Goldendoodles. 
• Imaging (X-rays and ultrasound) – Helps us visualize the GI tract to check for obstructions, foreign objects, or abnormalities in the stomach, intestines, pancreas, or liver.
• Food trial – In cases of suspected food allergies or intolerances, we may recommend a prescription diet trial. This helps us identify ingredients that may be triggering digestive problems and allows the gut time to heal. 
• Long term treatment plan – Whether your Doodle needs a diet change, probiotics, medication, or a slow reintroduction of foods, we’ll develop a plan to support long-term gut health and comfort. 

4. Bone & Joint Issues 

Goldendoodles are prone to several joint conditions, especially due to their Poodle and Retriever genetics. Common issues include hip and elbow dysplasia, where joints don’t form properly, leading to instability, pain, and long-term damage. They’re also at risk for cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tears, a knee injury that often causes sudden limping or difficulty bearing weight. 

Over time, these problems can lead to arthritis, which causes stiffness, discomfort, and decreased mobility—especially as your Doodle gets older. Early screening, weight management, and appropriate treatment can help your Goldendoodle stay active, comfortable, and living their best life. 

How we can help: 

• Physical Examination – We carefully observe your Doodle’s movement, including how they walk, sit, and stand. During the exam, we also assess range of motion in the joints and perform gentle palpation to check for pain, stiffness, swelling, or abnormal joint movement, all of which can be early signs of joint disease. 
• Genetic testing – Since hip and elbow dysplasia often have a hereditary component, genetic screening can help identify whether your Doodle is at increased risk, assisting with early intervention. 
• X-rays – X-rays allow us to see the internal structure of the joints, helping us identify abnormalities in bone development, joint alignment, and early arthritic changes that may not be visible on the outside. 
• Medical Management – For dogs diagnosed with joint issues, we often recommend a combination of joint supplements, prescription diets, pain medications, and physical therapy. These treatments can slow disease progression, manage discomfort, and improve your Doodle’s quality of life. 
• Surgical Intervention – In more advanced or severe cases of joint disease or injury, surgery may be the most effective option to significantly reduce pain, improve joint function, and help your dog return to a more active, comfortable life. 

5. Obesity 

Goldendoodles can be prone to weight gain, especially if they aren’t getting enough exercise. Carrying extra pounds puts added stress on their joints, which can worsen conditions like hip dysplasia, arthritis, and CCL injuries. Obesity also raises the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and

can shorten your Doodle’s lifespan. While overfeeding and lack of activity are common culprits, underlying medical issues, such as hypothyroidism, can also contribute to weight gain. That’s why regular checkups, weight monitoring, and a personalized nutrition and exercise plan are key to keeping your Goldendoodle healthy and active. 

How we can help: 

• Weight Checks – We carefully track your Doodle’s weight at every visit to monitor changes over time. Regular weight measurements help us identify gradual gains or losses that might not be obvious at home, allowing for early intervention. 
• Body Condition Scoring (BCS) – This is a hands-on assessment where we evaluate your dog’s fat coverage and muscle tone to determine their overall body condition. BCS helps us not only identify if your Doodle is overweight or underweight, but also estimate how much weight they need to lose or gain to reach a healthy, balanced state. This personalized evaluation guides our nutrition and exercise recommendations to get your Doodle to an ideal weight safely. 
• Blood Tests – Blood work is important to rule out underlying medical issues that can contribute to weight changes, such as hypothyroidism or other hormonal imbalances. Detecting these conditions early ensures your Doodle receives the right treatment alongside diet and lifestyle adjustments. 

We’re here to care for your Doodle like one of our own. Schedule a visit today so we can work together to keep your loyal, energetic companion happy, healthy, and thriving. Give us a call at (954) 473-8090 or book an appointment here!