On average, Goldendoodle life expectancy is between 10 and 15 years. These great dogs are the embodiment of man’s best friend and will live a long and healthy life with care and dodging severe illness.
Read on to learn more about a Goldendoodle’s lifespan and what you can do to ensure your dog has the best conditions to maximize it..
How Long Do Goldendoodles Live?
Goldendoodles can live for up to 15 years; however, many may only live for about ten years. These dogs are lively and will be playful well into their latter years, creating many memories for their families.
You may, however, start to notice your dog aging with the following symptoms:
- Cloudy or hazy eyes.
- Difficulty navigating the home.
- Bad breath.
- Lump around the body.
- Weight loss or weight gain.
These signs likely mean your dog may be getting older and heading into its twilight years.
What Impacts the Lifespan of a Goldendoodle?
Many factors can impact your Goldendoodle’s lifespan and make it shorter or longer. Be mindful of these factors when deciding which care to give your precious pup.
Genetics
One of the most significant factors in the canine lifespan is genetic makeup. This makeup is crucial to deciding if your dog has genetic ailments or anomalies. For example, if your dog’s parents have a genetic condition that ended their life too soon, your dog is especially susceptible to that condition.
Consider inquiring about your dog’s parents’ health, if possible, as this can give you an idea of any conditions your Goldendoodle may develop.
Health Conditions
Health conditions can be genetic, but sometimes these conditions can pop up as a roll of the dice. These conditions can be hereditary, but they also may happen randomly. Health conditions like canine cancer, periodontal disease, and kidney failure are among the most common conditions that can end your dog’s life.
Be proactive with any health conditions or symptoms you notice by taking your dog to a veterinary clinic.
Environment
The environment your dog spends most of its life will hugely impact how its health progresses into its twilight years. For example, dogs in homes with chronic smokers will likely have a less healthy life than those who do not have secondhand smoke exposure or other hazardous chemicals in the home.
Additionally, dogs in homes with plenty of space to roam and play will be healthier than those in smaller locations with little space. Diet and exercise in dogs, much like people, are imperative for your Goldendoodle to enjoy a long, healthy life.
What Health Conditions Can Impact a Goldendoodle’s Lifespan?
Several health conditions can impact the life expectancy of your Goldendoodle, including:
- Hip dysplasia
- Subvalvular aortic stenosis
- Addison’s Disease
- Cataracts
- glaucoma
These conditions can shorten your dog’s lifespan, especially unaddressed for too long. Let’s take a closer look at these ailments and the early signs you should look out for.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a hereditary condition that usually appears in retrievers and other big dogs. This condition can make movement difficult for your dog and inhibit them from the luxuries of everyday life.
Dogs with hip dysplasia can still enjoy a long life, but they will have trouble maneuvering, running, and playing. A veterinarian can address this condition and prescribe medication to make your dog more comfortable.
Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis
Subvalvular aortic stenosis is a heart condition that frequently happens in dogs. This condition occurs when the left ventricle doesn’t flow properly, and it builds pressure within. Subvalvular aortic stenosis is a genetic condition that can pass from parent to puppy.
Sometimes, surgery can treat this health condition that is most common in large dog breeds, including retrievers, German Shepherds, and Great Danes.
Addison’s Disease
Dogs with Addison’s Disease cannot produce corticosteroid hormones from their adrenal glands. This disease has treatments available, and dogs can live normal, healthy, happy lives.
Your dog must visit the veterinary clinic regularly to ensure they are doing well and in good health. Some dogs may see the quality of their life diminished if this condition does not receive proper care.
Cataracts
Cataracts are common for dogs, although they usually happen in older dogs. However, some younger dogs are born with cataracts which can give them difficulty seeing and give their vision an obstructed view.
Veterinarians can remove cataracts and offer help as you and your pet navigate the difficulty that comes with this condition.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a common problem for dogs, which affects the back of the eye, leading to pressure. Glaucoma causes are wide-ranging, including tumors, lens dislocation, or bleeding inside the eye.
Veterinarians can help address glaucoma and help your dog live more comfortably. Although not life-threatening, this condition can reduce your dog’s quality of life.
How To Lengthen Your Goldendoodle’s Lifespan
Thankfully, there are many ways to ensure your dog lives as long as possible. Make sure to give your high-quality dog foods and give them plenty of space for exercise.
Choose High-Quality Meals
The best way to ensure your dog lives as long as possible is to choose meals that are as healthy as possible. Some research shows that artificial dyes can cause some canine cancers and hyperactivity in dogs. Choose meals with natural ingredients, no synthetic dyes, and no by-products.
Offer Plenty of Space
Your Goldendoodle will need plenty of space to live a healthy and happy lifestyle. Consider allowing them plenty of time to roam, taking them on walks, or going on an adventure to a dog park several times a week. When in doubt, take them outside for an afternoon walk.
Exercise Often
Make sure your dog gets exercise often. Even a simple daily walk can get their blood pumping and ensure their cardiovascular health stays intact. A walk or run around the park can do wonders for your pet and ensure they live as long as possible.
Frequently Check for Lumps
Just like humans, dogs need to be checked often for lumps, bumps, and creepy crawlies. Consider using a comb to look around your Goldendoodle’s body for anything out of the ordinary. Although it’s normal for a dog to have minor lumps and bumps or a random tick, you should take precautions by consulting with your local veterinarian.
Goldendoodle Life Expectancy – Final Thoughts
Goldendoodles live between 10 and 15 years. However, you can combat common health ailments to ensure they live as long as possible and stay to create more memories with you. However, your Goldendoodle may be prone to some illnesses and health conditions, such as glaucoma, Addison’s Disease, cataracts, and hip dysplasia.
Follow the tips above; high-quality diet, plenty of exercise, and regular visits to the vets, and your Goldendoodle will have the best chance of a long and healthy life full of fun and love.