Goldendoodles are active and intelligent dogs that need daily exercise and mental stimulation to remain happy and healthy. Regular walks, runs, and training sessions are great for them, as well as puzzle toys and interactive games that challenge their intelligence.

Establish a consistent schedule for your puppy that includes daily routines such as feeding, potty breaks, playing, naps and training exercises. Positive reinforcement is the best way to train a puppy. Avoid yelling, time outs and physical punishment; they only make your dog fearful and confused.

Training

Training provides structure and boundaries for Goldendoodles, minimizing the occurrence of undesirable behaviors. Proper training techniques and consistent repetition help puppies learn obedience commands, such as sit, stay, and come. This also teaches them to respond to verbal and physical cues from their owners, strengthening the bond between them.

Negative behaviors, such as chewing or digging, are often a result of boredom or anxiety. Regularly exercising your Goldendoodle, through walks, runs, playtime in the yard, and interactive games, can prevent these behaviors by burning off pent-up energy.

Establishing a daily puppy schedule that everyone in the family follows can also improve behavior and minimize issues like house soiling, chewing, or digging. Keeping your dog on a consistent routine with meals, potty breaks, playtime, and sleep can provide them with a sense of security and predictability. This is especially useful when house-training a new puppy. It can also make the process of crate training easier, as your puppy will associate time in their crate with rest and relaxation.

Health care

Goldendoodles tend to have good health due to their hybrid vigor and responsible breeding practices. But, like all dogs, they're prone to a variety of health complications.

Skin issues and allergies – Because of their long, silky hair, Goldendoodles are prone to skin irritation and allergies. Look out for itchy skin, dandruff, red or flaking, dry ear wax, and a recurring ear infection.

Eye conditions – Both Poodles and Golden Retrievers are susceptible to eye problems such as cataracts. Signs of an eye infection to watch for include a crusty or cloudy eye, rubbing at the eyes, squinting, or a change in vision capabilities.

Cancer – A heartbreaking diagnosis for any pet, Goldendoodles are no exception. The most common cause of death in senior pets is cancer, so early detection and treatment are key.

Exercise

Exercise is a fun way to spend quality time with your Goldendoodle and can be a great bonding experience. It also helps burn excess energy and improves mental health. This is important, because overly energetic dogs can become destructive or act out in ways that can put themselves and others at risk.

Exercise can be as simple as playing with a ball, letting your Goldendoodle run around the yard or participating in a positive reinforcement training session. It is also a good idea to offer your Goldendoodle toys that work with their minds, such as puzzles or interactive games.

Remember to speak with your veterinarian about appropriate exercise for puppies. Avoid high-intensity exercises such as jogging, as these can damage their developing bone growth plates. Excessive barking or whining can also be a sign that your Goldendoodle is not getting enough exercise.

Grooming

Grooming is an important part of caring for Goldendoodles. It keeps their coats looking shiny and healthy, while preventing tangles and mats. It’s also a good way to keep their nails, ears, and face clean.

Groomers recommend brushing your dog at least once a day with a slicker brush. Start at the head and work your way down, making sure to reach the undercoat. Be sure to comb out any tangles as you go. You can also use a detangling spray or comb to help loosen up any mats.

Bathing should be done about every 4-6 weeks with a mild dog shampoo. Pet groomers suggest rinsing thoroughly and then drying with a towel or a low heat setting on a hair dryer. Avoid over-grooming, as this can strip the natural oils from the coat and skin. Instead, grooming should be a pleasant experience that makes your Goldendoodle feel happy and loved.