Last Updated on August 26, 2021
Goldendoodles are a mixture of the breeds Golden Retriever and Poodle. As with any breed, there are potential issues you want to consider before adopting/purchasing. Being aware of issues is part of being a responsible pet owner. Today we will go over what’s wrong with Goldendoodles.
There can be some health and behavior issues that come with Goldendoodles you should know about before deciding to add one to your family.
Goldendoodles are great dogs that have the perfect hair for those that suffer from allergies. With their intelligence, they are easily trainable and make great family pets. But as with any dog, there are things to learn before you get one.
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What’s Wrong With Goldendoodles?
I need to start by saying that all dogs have some issues. None are perfect.
Usually, these issues don’t hold dogs back from being great pets. Some just require a little more attention. It’s a good idea to learn all you can about a dog breed before you get one so you won’t be shocked if something comes up.
Hereditary Issues with Goldendoodles
Addison’s disease and hip dysplasia are the two most common hereditary issues concerning Goldendoodles.
According to AKC, Addison’s disease “occurs when the adrenal glands fail to produce the hormones that they are in charge of in the body”.
To learn more about Addison’s disease you can check out this article by the AKC.
Hip Dysplasia is very common in larger dog breeds. The hip is a ball and socket joint and when the joint doesn’t fit or develop properly the ball and socket can grind against one another. Eventually, this can lead to loss of use of the joint.
Supplements can help dogs slow down the deterioration of the hip which causes hip dysplasia. As always, talk to your veterinarian before giving your dog anything.
Worst-case scenario surgery might be necessary. Again, the AKC has a great article on hip dysplasia which goes into more detail about the signs, symptoms, and treatment options.
Behavioral Issues with Goldendoodles
Please keep in mind that a lot of these behavioral issues are common in all dog breeds and just because one Goldendoodle has this issue, doesn’t mean yours will. Some do and some don’t. This is just to keep you informed about some things you might see in your Goldendoodle.
Separation Anxiety
Dogs are by nature, pack animals. When their pack leaves for extended periods of time and they are alone that can be tough. Some Goldendoodles suffer from this and it’s called separation anxiety.
Separation anxiety can be very hard for dogs. When you leave for school or work, they worry that you will never come back. This can lead to several unfavorable behaviors.
- Excessive barking
- Pooping or peeing on the floor
- Destruction of property
There are a few ways you can minimize your dog’s separation anxiety. The first way is to make sure your dog is well exercised. If your dog is tired, they are more likely to take a nice long nap while you are gone instead of chewing up the furniture.
See also – What you need to know about anxiety in dogs
Another way is to make sure your dog has access to plenty of toys and games to keep them occupied while you are gone. Goldendoodles are very smart dogs and love to have their minds stimulated. Here are some great toys you can get to keep them happy.
Excessive Barking
Excessive barking can come from separation anxiety but it also can be a result of not getting enough exercise or mental stimulation. As I mentioned before, Goldendoodles are intelligent and require not only physical exercise but also mental exercise.
Another way to keep your dog from barking too much is to introduce them to as many situations as you can. Barking can be a result of being afraid of a new person or place. Maybe seeing cars drive by the house or kids outside playing.
If you introduce your dog to those kids and have them around them as they play it won’t be something they are afraid of and are less likely to go bonkers with the barking. Socializing your dog to both the neighborhood humans and dogs is great for keeping down the barking as well as your dog’s mental happiness.
Curiosity
Have you ever heard the phrase, curiosity killed the cat?
Goldendoodles are extremely intelligent and therefore very curious about the world around them. When you introduce them to a new situation they want to learn more. Oftentimes this isn’t a problem but occasionally it is.
If they see an animal they have never seen before they can try to run after them. This can be hazardous for your dog but also for you if you are holding the leash. Proper leash training is essential to curb this type of behavior.
Having really good obedience training with any dog is a very good idea. You need to be able to communicate basic commands and have them obey both for your safety and for theirs.
What’s Good and Bad about Goldendoodles?
We have discussed a lot of things that are wrong with Goldendoodles in this article. Here is a list of what we have talked about so far.
- Addison’s disease
- Hip dysplasia
- Separation anxiety
- Excessive barking
- Curiosity
But please don’t let that stop you from getting a Goldendoodle. Many of those traits are found in all dog breeds.
Let’s talk a little bit about what the great things are about Goldendoodles.
- Intelligent and easily trainable
- Very little shedding so great for allergy sufferers
- Friendly and loving
Conclusion – What’s Wrong with Goldendoodles?
There is a reason why this breed is so popular. They are a wonderful family friend that will always be eager to spend time with you.
And despite the list of “cons”, it would be impossible to find a breed of dog that doesn’t possess a con or two. All dogs can be incredible family members. With love and training, any dog can be your fur baby for life.
You won’t regret the decision to get a Goldendoodle. You will probably regret that you didn’t get two!
