Last updated on June 7th, 2023 at 09:02 am
Goldendoodles are an increasingly popular hybrid dog breed that results from breeding a Golden Retriever with a Poodle. The Mini Goldendoodle is a smaller version of this breed that has become especially sought after due to their adorable size and affectionate temperament. If you’re considering getting a Mini Goldendoodle, you may be wondering about their life expectancy. After all, adding a pet to your family is a big commitment, and you want to ensure that you can enjoy many happy years with your furry friend. We’ll explore the average lifespan of Mini Goldendoodles and some factors that can influence their longevity.Â
The Mini Goldendoodle breed
The Miniature Goldendoodle is a popular designer dog breed that is a cross between a Miniature Poodle and a Golden Retriever. This breed is known for its friendly and outgoing personality, hypoallergenic coat, and small size, making it an excellent companion for families and individuals alike.
Here are some key things to know about this breed:
- Size: This dog typically weighs between 15 to 35 pounds and stands 13 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder. This makes them a great option for those who want a smaller dog that is still active and playful.
- Coat: The Mini Goldendoodle has a curly or wavy, low-shedding coat that is considered hypoallergenic. This makes them a great choice for people with allergies or those who want a dog that does not shed excessively.
- Temperament: They are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They love spending time with their family and are great with children and other pets. They do not do well being left alone for long periods of time and may develop separation anxiety if not properly socialized.
What is the lifespan of a mini Goldendoodle?
The average lifespan for mini golden doodles is 12 to 16 years, but they can live up to 20 years if they’re taken care of properly.
Miniature breeds tend to live longer than full-sized breeds because their bodies don’t have as much space for cancer cells to grow.
mini goldendoodle life stages
Puppyhood (0-6 months)
The puppyhood stage is the first and most important stage in a Mini Goldendoodle’s life. During this stage, puppies will learn essential skills that they will carry with them for the rest of their lives. They will start to develop their personalities and become socialized with other animals and humans.
At this stage, puppies will be weaned from their mother and start to eat solid food. They will also begin to learn basic commands and start house training. As their teeth grow, they will start to chew on everything they can get their teeth on, so it’s essential to provide them with plenty of chew toys.
Adolescence (6-18 months)
The adolescence stage is a challenging stage for Mini Goldendoodle owners. During this stage, puppies will go through hormonal changes, which can cause them to be more stubborn and rebellious. They may also start to test their boundaries and become more independent.
It’s essential to continue training during this stage to ensure that your puppy is well-behaved and obedient. They may also start to lose their puppy teeth during this stage, so it’s essential to provide them with plenty of chew toys.
Adulthood (1-7 years)
The adulthood stage is when Mini Goldendoodles reach their full size and maturity. They will be fully trained and well-behaved, and their personalities will be fully developed. During this stage, it’s essential to provide them with plenty of exercise to keep them healthy and happy.
They may also start to develop health issues during this stage, such as hip dysplasia, allergies, and dental problems. Regular check-ups with the vet are essential to catch any potential health problems early.
Senior years (7+ years)
In the senior year stage, Mini Goldendoodles start to slow down and become less active. They may start to develop health problems related to old age, such as arthritis and mobility issues. Providing them with a comfortable and safe environment is essential to ensure they remain happy and healthy.
During this stage, it’s also important to pay attention to your dog’s diet and ensure they are getting the right nutrients to maintain their health.
Mini Goldendoodle health problems
Von Willebrand’s Disease
Von Willebrand’s disease is a blood clotting disorder that affects the mini Goldendoodles. It is also known as VWD, von Willebrand disease, factor VIII deficiency or vWD. The disease causes abnormal bleeding due to a deficiency in a protein called von Willebrand factor (vWF).
Mini Goldendoodles are prone to this condition because of their genetic makeup. The breed has a high gene mutation prevalence affecting the protein involved in blood clotting. This makes them more likely to develop this disease than other breeds.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. This can lead to a number of symptoms, including weight gain, dry skin, hair loss and more.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Progressive Retinal Atrophy, or PRA, is a genetic disease that affects a dog’s retina. The retina is the part of the eye that helps your dog see. Over time, PRA causes vision loss in your dog.
PRA can affect any dog breed, but it’s more common in Miniature Goldendoodles. This is because the gene for PRA has been found in Mini Goldendoodles and their ancestors.
Bloat
Bloat is a condition that can lead to the dog’s stomach becoming too full or distended with gas, which can be potentially dangerous. According to PetMD, several factors increase the risk of bloat, including rapid weight gain, stress, and exercise immediately before or after eating and eating rapidly.
Miniature Goldendoodles are very prone to bloat because of their genetic makeup. They are prone to developing large amounts of gas in their intestines due to their flat faces and double coats.
Bone and Joint Problems
The most common bone and joint problems in this breed include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and patella luxation.
Hip dysplasia occurs when the hips are malformed or out of alignment, causing pain when walking. Elbow dysplasia is a condition where the bones in the elbow joint do not grow normally. It can cause lameness and inflammation around the joint, which can lead to arthritis later on in life. Patella luxation is a condition where the kneecap slips out of place due to an injury or abnormality with the ligaments holding it in place. This can cause lameness, pain, and stiffness in the joints below it, such as those in the stifle (knees).
Allergies
Allergies can be caused by food, environment, and even stress. They can manifest as itching, sneezing, scratching, and coughing. The most common allergy triggers are pollen and dust mites.
Ear Infections
They are an infection of the outer ear canal and the middle ear. The most common cause is bacterial otitis media, which is often caused by colds and allergies. The bacteria can also be spread from other dogs or cats that have been in contact with the same environment as your dog.
Dogs with floppy ears, like mini goldendoodles, are at a higher risk of getting ear infections than dogs with erect ears because the folds trap moisture and debris, which can lead to bacteria growth.
Ways to Extend the Lifespan of Your Dog
I understand that dogs are not just pets but also cherished members of our families. We all want our furry friends to live long, healthy, and happy lives. However, just like us, dogs are also prone to various illnesses and diseases that can affect their lifespan. Fortunately, there are many things that pet owners can do to extend the lifespan of their dogs. Here are some ways to help your dog live a longer and healthier life:
Regular Veterinary Check-ups
One of the most important things you can do for your dog is to take them to the vet for regular check-ups. Regular veterinary care can help to detect health problems early on before they become serious. It is recommended that dogs see their veterinarian at least once a year for a check-up, but older dogs or dogs with medical conditions may need to see their vet more often.
Balanced and Nutritious Diet
Feeding your dog a balanced and nutritious diet is essential for their overall health and well-being. A well-balanced diet will provide your dog with all the essential nutrients they need to stay healthy, including protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. A diet that is tailored to your dog’s specific needs and lifestyle will help maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity, which can lead to health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems.
Regular Exercise
Exercise is crucial for maintaining your dog’s physical and mental health. Regular exercise can help to prevent obesity, reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes, and keep your dog’s muscles and joints healthy. Depending on your dog’s age, breed, and activity level, they may need different amounts and types of exercise. It is best to consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate exercise regimen for your dog.
Proper Dental Care
Just like humans, dogs can develop dental problems such as gum disease and tooth decay. These problems can lead to pain, infection, and even organ damage. Regular dental care can help prevent these issues. Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly and providing them with dental chews or toys can help keep their teeth and gums healthy.
Vaccinations
Vaccinations can protect your dog from a variety of illnesses and diseases, including rabies, distemper, and parvovirus. It is essential to keep your dog up-to-date on their vaccinations to ensure they are protected from these diseases.
Avoid Toxins
Many things in your home or yard can be toxic to your dog. To extend your dog’s lifespan, you should make sure to keep your dog away from toxic substances such as pesticides, certain human foods (e.g., chocolate, onions, grapes), and household cleaners. It is also important to keep toxic plants out of your dog’s reach.
Mental Stimulation
Mental stimulation is crucial for your dog’s overall health and well-being. Boredom and lack of mental stimulation can lead to behavioural problems such as anxiety, destructive behaviour, and depression. Providing your dog with toys, puzzles, and training exercises can help keep their minds stimulated and prevent these problems.
FAQ
Are mini Goldendoodles smart?
Mini Goldendoodles are intelligent and have a great work ethic. They love to learn but also need plenty of exercises and mental stimulation to keep them from getting bored or stressed out.
Mini Goldendoodles are very trainable dogs, and they’re especially good at picking up commands for tricks or special behaviours—like fetching your keys or finding your wallet when you’ve misplaced it. Mini Goldendoodles are also highly adaptable and can be trained for almost any situation.
Do mini Goldendoodles like to cuddle?
Mini Goldendoodles are known for their cuddly demeanour. They love to cuddle with their owners and other people in the household, and they’ll even cuddle with other pets!
Final Thoughts
While it is true that the life expectancy of a Miniature Goldendoodle may be shorter than a standard pet dog, it does not mean their life will be cut short. The size difference doesn’t mean that they grow to an old age any quicker or slower than other dog breeds.
