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On average, dogs live for 11 to 12 years, but their exact lifespan differs based on their size and breed.1 Science has proven that smaller breeds tend to live longer. Scientific research has shown that smaller breeds generally live longer than larger ones and it is believed to happen because larger dogs tend to age faster.
The Goldendoodle, a mix between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, is a relatively new breed, so the data about them isn’t long-standing or extensively backed by science. The average lifespan of a Goldendoodle is approximately 12–13 years, with some extending to 15 years or more. As a large-sized breed, their lifespan is influenced by their size and weight. If you want your pet to live longer, make sure to maintain excellent healthcare and choose them from a reputable breeder.
Goldendoodle Average Lifespan
Goldendoodles can live for 12–13 years. Jamie Whittenburg, a Kingsgate Animal Hospital vet, says that you should only buy from a breeder that conducts hip testing through PennHIP and OFA screening, heart, and genetic testing prior to breeding to ensure optimal health and wellbeing for your Goldendoodle.
The Life Stages of a Goldendoodle
A Goldendoodle goes through the following life stages:
- Puppy (birth to 8-12 months): Puppies are energetic and curious, and they like to chew on everything. This is a critical time for training and mental stimulation to harness their intelligence.
- Young Adult (12 months to 2-3 years): During this stage, Goldendoodles continue to grow and develop their personality. You should switch them to adult dog food, adjust exercise routines, and maintain training using positive reinforcement.
- Mature Adult (2-10 years): Goldendoodles are calmer but still energetic, requiring at least two hours of daily exercise. Swimming is a great activity as they typically enjoy water.
- Senior (10+ years): Goldendoodles in their senior years need regular vet check-ups, gentle exercise, and potentially medications or supplements to manage age-related health issues. You should adapt their care to their changing needs.
How to Tell Your Goldendoodle’s Age
If your dog is still young, you can determine their age by examining their teeth. A dog’s baby teeth should start to erupt at 3-4 weeks old. Adult teeth start erupting when the dog is 16 weeks old, and all permanent teeth finish erupting at 6-7 months of age.
Another way to estimate your dog’s age is to conduct a DNA test. The lab will check your dog’s blood and examine the telomere length of their DNA. Telomeres are the protective ends on chromosomes that shorten as animals age. The length of telomeres is used as a biomarker of human aging, and it may help you gauge your pup’s approximate age.
How to Care for Your Goldendoodle for a Long Lifespan?
Caring for your Goldendoodle can help them live a long life. Here are some ways to keep your pet healthy.
Feeding & Diet
Obesity becomes the root cause of many health conditions that can deteriorate your pet’s quality of life. You can prevent this by feeding your Goldendoodle a complete and balanced diet.
You should always look for dog foods compliant with the Association of American Feed Control Officials standards.
It is recommended not to overfeed your Goldendoodle and, generally speaking, divide your pet’s daily calorie intake into two feedings. Consult a vet to determine the right amount of food for your Goldendoodle. Also, don’t let treats exceed 10% of their daily caloric intake.
Environment
Goldendoodles like to live in a family environment where they can play with their pet parents and siblings. They don’t mind being around other dogs, provided that they have received socialization training early in life. They have also been known to successfully hang out with cats if socialized properly.
They need at least two walks per day that last a minimum of 30 minutes. Some options for physical activity include walking, hiking, playtime with pet siblings, and running.
Care
Caring for Goldendoodles involves not keeping them on their own for too long. The family-loving breed tends to get anxious when left alone. Some signs of separation anxiety are destructive behavior, vocalization, pacing, and toileting indoors.
Make sure you can give your dog the company they need before adopting one. If your Goldendoodle has a hard time staying at home alone, you could hire a pet sitter. Alternatively, you can ask a neighbor or family member to give your four-legged friend company while you’re gone.
Grooming & Cleaning
Once you get a Goldendoodle, your hairdresser appointments are not the only thing you need to book. The breed has a beautiful coat that benefits from professional grooming and regular brushing.
If you do not brush your dog’s coat regularly, it might get matted or tangled. You should also book an appointment with a professional every 1-3 months, depending on your dog’s needs.
Goldendoodles do not need frequent baths. If your canine friend likes playing out in the yard, you can let them splash in the tub for a bit to get clean.
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Ask your professional groomer if your dog needs a trim above their eyes so that they can see properly. Ensure you keep their eyes clear of debris and germs.
Inspect your Goldendoodle’s ears every few days. If your dog plays in water or takes a bath, dry their ears quickly, too.
Healthcare
Like every dog breed, Goldendoodles are susceptible to certain health problems. Hereditary health problems can be present at birth (congenital) or develop over time. Some laboratories offer genetic testing, and even a Goldendoodle DNA bundle, for common conditions in this breed such as degenerative myelopathy, progressive retinal atrophy, and von Willebrand disease type I. Considering their Retriever and Poodle background, Goldendoodles commonly suffer from hip dysplasia. The first step in ensuring the good health of your dog is to buy them from a responsible breeder who conducts genetic testing to only breed healthy dogs.
After the pup comes home, it’s your responsibility to feed them well to keep them healthy. There are many options out there, you can consider fresh food options or high-quality dry foods with suitable ingredients.
It also helps to get medical attention as soon as possible. If you notice signs of any disease, consult a vet immediately. An early intervention might help prevent the condition from worsening.
Conclusion
We all want our pet friends to be our lifelong companions. While that’s not possible, you can surely take some steps to ensure your Goldendoodle stays by your side as long as possible.
It all starts with the purchase. Only buy a Goldendoodle from a reputable breeder. Follow the diet guidelines the vet recommends. Also, look for signs of congenital diseases in your Goldendoodle, and get them early treatment to prevent serious issues.
Featured Image Credit: JarieMame, Shutterstock
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