There is no doubt that America and the rest of the world loves dogs. Millions of households have dogs and these dogs become like another member of the family. While there are many breeds to choose from, one that has become incredibly popular is the Goldendoodle.
Be sure to click here to learn more about this wonderful mixed breed and to learn if it is right for you and your family. But if you are going to get any dog, but especially one as energetic as a Goldendoodle, you need to be willing to put the time in to ensure it stays healthy and active.
This article is going to go over a few helpful tips to ensure your Goldendoodle can remain healthy and active throughout its life.
Ensure it Gets Enough Exercise
The first key to a healthy Goldendoodle (or any pup) is to give it enough exercise. Many dogs thrive when they have something to do, and while they may be okay cuddling on the couch every now and then, they love to go for runs, play fetch, and do other things with their owner.
While the exercise needs of dogs can vary, all dogs need some sort of exercise to stay in good shape. Goldendoodles in particular will benefit from about half an hour of exercise every day, but won’t be upset if it is a little more, either. If dogs don’t get enough exercise to burn off their energy, they can often be a major handful and never give you a break.
Feed it the Right Amount of Quality Food
The amount of food you feed your dog is crucial. Many dogs are prone to overeating, so if you free-feed them, it can be very easy for them to gain weight, especially if they are not getting enough exercise. Instead, feed them twice a day, once in the morning and once around dinner time.
Goldendoodles should often be fed about 1-4 cups of food a day, depending on their size and how old they are. Younger and smaller dogs will generally need less than older and larger dogs will.
But in addition to how much they eat, what they eat is also important to think about. Choose a nutritious option, that is made with real ingredients and is specifically formulated to provide a dog with all it needs to thrive. Also, avoid feeding most table scraps to your pet, as it can lead to the development of bad habits, and some human foods simply aren’t safe for dogs.
Keep it Groomed
Goldendoodles shed relatively infrequently and are about as hypoallergenic as dogs come. As a result, it is up to you to keep the dog groomed. These dogs will need to have their coats cut every couple of weeks, or potentially every month or two if you keep their coats longer. Be sure to brush them often, too.
If you never groom your Goldendoodle, their coat can become a matted mess and get so long it can actually negatively impact their quality of life and health. In addition to getting groomed by professionals, it is a good idea to frequently bathe your dog, too. Of course, having minimal hair shedding in your home is great, but this means more grooming requirements fall on your shoulders vs. a dog that sheds a lot.
Include Mental Activity, Not Only Physical
While physical activity like playing fetch, going for walks, and playing in the yard is important, these dogs also need to be stimulated mentally. Both goldens and poodles are among the most intelligent dog breeds, so this mixed breed is very smart.
If these dogs aren’t challenged mentally, they might get bored and begin acting destructively. They will try to find their own things to do for fun and explore, which often aren’t things you want them to do. Train your dogs well, and ensure you provide them with mentally-stimulating games and puzzles to solve.
Take the Dog For Regular Vet Visits
Taking the dog for regular vet visits is another way to keep them healthy. This should be done at least once a year, and potentially more if the dog has a history of health-related issues. Even if they seem fine, there could be an issue they aren’t reacting to, or that is slowly getting worse behind the scenes. It is better to put in the effort to make sure than to simply hope your pet is healthy.
While frequent vet visits aren’t always cheap, there are some things you can do to cut the costs of pet care and vet visits. This includes brushing your dog’s teeth, protecting them from parasites, and considering pet insurance.
In conclusion, keeping Goldendoodles happy, healthy, and active can take some work, but it is well worth it to give your furry friend the best life possible.
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