How Do I Care For A Doodle Puppy?

Goldendoodles are one of the most popular dog breeds—and for good reason. These curly-coated cuties aren’t just adorable, they’re smart, social, and usually great with kids. If you’re thinking of adding a doodle puppy to your household, read on for a puppy primer from our team at Arlington Animal Hospital. 

First: What is a Goldendoodle?

The goldendoodle is a mix between a poodle and a golden retriever, and provides pet owners with the best of both breeds: the low-shed qualities of a poodle and the easy going temperament of a golden retriever. 

Veterinary Care

Schedule a wellness exam right away for your new pup to stay on track with recommended vaccines and parasite control. Your pet’s wellness exam is also when we’ll discuss your puppy’s nutritional needs, spaying or neutering, microchipping, and puppy behavior. 

House Training

When it comes to new puppy initiatives, housetraining leads the pack! Thanks to the goldendoodle temperament, training should go smoothly with patience and consistency. Shower your puppy with praise (and maybe a treat or two) every time he has a successful potty break, and never punish your pup for accidents. Check out our simple strategies for successful house training.  

Nutrition

Doodle puppies burn a lot of energy and should be fed three or four times a day until they’re 6 months old. Choose a high-quality, nutritionally balanced, veterinarian-recommended diet. 

Teaching Your New Dog Old Tricks

Because of their intelligence, goldendoodles can pick up simple commands at a young age. Training your dog to “stay,” “sit,” or even ring a bell when he needs to go outside isn’t just practical; it’s also a great way to engage his mind and build his confidence. Plus, he’ll lap up the attention! 

Exercise

Goldendoodles have a lot of energy and feel their best when they get plenty of exercise and stimulation. Your goldendoodle will appreciate long walks, hiking, jogging, swimming, or just going to the backyard for a spirited game of fetch. 

Socialization

Goldendoodles love spending time with their family “pack,” plus, doodles are usually accepting of strangers. Be sure to socialize your doodle pup early and often with other dogs, and he’ll grow into a social butterfly who gets along with other pets and their people.  

Goldendoodle ’Dos

Whether your doodle inherited the curly coat of a poodle or the longer locks of a golden retriever, routine grooming needs to be part of his care plan. How often should a goldendoodle be groomed? On average, plan for haircuts every six to eight weeks. Between trips to a professional groomer, keep his coat brushed to reduce tangles and dirt. 
The animal lovers at Arlington Animal Hospital can’t wait to meet your doodle puppy! Please contact us to schedule an appointment or if you have any questions about caring for your goldendoodle.