Groodles are a favourite among families for good reason.
Friendly, intelligent, and easy to train, they combine the best traits of the Golden Retriever and the Poodle.
When responsibly bred, Groodles are generally healthy and well-balanced. But like all crossbreeds, they can inherit certain health issues, particularly from the Golden Retriever side. Joint conditions, skin sensitivities, and eye problems are among the most common concerns.
Being aware of these risks helps you recognise early changes, make informed care decisions, and support your dog’s health through every stage of life. Understanding what your Groodle may be prone to is a key part of responsible ownership.
With the right care and veterinary support, Groodles can live long, active lives.
A proactive approach, built on regular health checks, quality nutrition, and early intervention, makes all the difference.
Are Groodles a Healthy Breed?
Groodles are widely considered a healthy, long-lived crossbreed, often reaching 12 to 15 years of age. Thanks to hybrid vigour, many benefit from a broader gene pool than pure breeds. This can reduce the risk of some inherited conditions, but it doesn’t eliminate them entirely, especially since both Golden Retrievers and Poodles share predispositions to joint and eye issues.
From a veterinary perspective, being “healthy” isn’t just about avoiding disease. It means maintaining good joint function, skin health, and dental condition well into the senior years. For Groodles, this relies heavily on early intervention. Regular vet checks help pick up subtle signs of hip or elbow dysplasia, dental disease, or skin sensitivities long before they become painful or costly problems.
A balanced, consistent diet plays a critical role too, along with controlled exercise during growth to protect developing joints. This kind of early care lays the groundwork for a Groodle to enjoy an active, happy life.
For feeding advice tailored to Groodles and their common sensitivities, explore our Vet-approved Groodle Feeding Guide & Nutrition Tips
Common Groodle Health Issues
Groodles are generally robust, but there are several conditions they’re more likely to face due to their parent breeds. Knowing these risks allows you to spot problems early and act quickly, often preventing more serious complications down the track.
Dental Disease
Dental problems are common in Groodles, particularly in smaller or mini varieties. Crowded teeth and tartar build-up can lead to gum inflammation and periodontal disease, which may cause chronic pain or even impact heart health if left untreated.
Signs to look for include:
- Bad breath
- Red or bleeding gums
- Visible tartar
- Reluctance to chew harder foods
Daily brushing is the most effective prevention. Dental chews and regular professional cleans help maintain oral health throughout life.
Looking to prevent dental issues before they start? Our guide covers what works:
Smart Dental Care: How Proactive Steps Can Save You Money & Protect Your Dog's Health
Joint Problems
Groodles are at risk of hip and elbow dysplasia, especially from the Golden Retriever side. These conditions affect how the joints form, often leading to stiffness, arthritis, and reduced mobility as the dog ages. Patellar luxation, though less common, can also appear in smaller Groodle crosses.
Watch for:
- A swaying gait
- Difficulty rising
- Intermittent limping or skipping
Mild cases can be managed with weight control, joint supplements, and gentle exercise. Severe cases may require surgery. Regular checkups can catch changes before they become harder to treat.
Want to support your Groodles movement long-term? Our mobility guide walks you through what helps:
Dog Arthritis Treatment: Vet Tips for Pain Relief and Comfort
Skin Allergies
Skin and food allergies are frequently seen in Groodles. They may present as chronic itching, red or flaky skin, and recurrent ear infections. Some dogs also lick or chew their paws excessively.
Common triggers include:
- Food proteins like chicken or beef
- Fleas
- Dust mites or grass pollens
Management often includes a tailored diet, antihistamines, medicated shampoos, and prescription treatments. Early diagnosis can help prevent long-term discomfort and secondary infections.
See our vet-written guide on skin conditions for more tips on supporting your dog’s allergies:
Scratch the Itch: Understanding and Treating Skin Conditions in Dogs
Ear Infections
Groodles have dense, floppy ears that limit airflow and trap moisture. This environment encourages yeast and bacterial growth, especially after swimming or baths.
Typical symptoms include:
- Head shaking
- Scratching at the ears
- A sour smell
- Redness inside the ear canal
Treatment involves vet-prescribed ear drops and regular cleaning. Long-term prevention includes weekly ear checks and drying ears thoroughly after water exposure.
Dealing with itchy or smelly ears? Our ear health guide covers what to look for and how to help:
From Itchy Ears to Infections: The Vet’s Guide to Pet Ear Health
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
PRA is a genetic eye disease that leads to gradual vision loss. It’s linked to the Poodle lineage and can appear in Groodles if breeding dogs are not DNA-tested.
Early signs may include:
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Bumping into furniture
- Hesitancy in dim light
There is no cure, but dogs can adjust well to vision loss with lifestyle support. Responsible breeders should always test for PRA before breeding.
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat)
Bloat is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that affects large, deep-chested dogs, including many Standard Groodles. It occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood supply and causing rapid shock.
This condition can develop suddenly and requires emergency veterinary treatment.
Early signs to watch for include:
- A swollen or firm abdomen
- Unproductive retching
- Restlessness or pacing
- Drooling or signs of pain
Without immediate intervention, GDV can become fatal within hours. Surgery is typically required to correct the twist and prevent recurrence. In high-risk dogs, a preventative procedure called gastropexy may be recommended by your vet.
To help reduce risk, avoid large meals followed by vigorous exercise. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals and using slow-feeder bowls may also be beneficial.
For home support, explore our vet-recommended ear cleaners, joint supplements and hypoallergenic foods to help manage these common issues day-to-day.
Preventative Care Tips for Groodles
Routine Health Checks
Schedule wellness exams at least once a year. These visits help your vet detect early signs of hip or elbow dysplasia, dental disease, and skin sensitivities. Puppies and senior dogs may need more frequent checkups as their needs change.
Vaccination and Parasite Protection
Keep your Groodle protected year-round with up-to-date vaccinations and parasite prevention. Dogs with sensitive skin can react strongly to flea bites, so consistent flea, tick, and worm control is especially important.
Browse our parasite protection products
Bravecto Chewable Tablet for Medium Dogs (10-20kg)
Bravecto Chews have been shown to achieve more months of protection purchased in a year than monthly flea and tick products.
Bravecto Chewable Tablet is effective for the treatment and control of ear mite (Otodectes cynotis), demodex mite (Demodex spp.) and
sarcoptic mange (Sarcoptes scabiei) after a single treatment.
Bravecto flea and tick control is helping veterinarians nationwide make a difference in dog and cat owners’ lives with flea and tick control. That’s because only Bravecto (fluralaner) kills fleas and ticks for 12 weeks* with one convenient chew or topical dose.
12 Weeks of Protection
Potentially fewer gaps in protection with 12-week* flea and tick control
Fast-Acting
Starts killing fleas and ticks within hours and lasts for 12 weeks
Safe
Proven safe and effective for both dogs and cats for 12 weeks
Enhances Compliance
Convenient long-lasting protection means less chance of noncompliance
For dogs, Bravecto Chew and Spot-on are safe for puppies from 8 weeks of age, weighing at least 2 kg. Both of these products are safe for use in breeding, pregnant and lactating dogs.
NexGard Spectra for Medium Dogs (7.6 - 15 kg)
NexGard Spectra (Green) is suitable for medium dogs from 7.6 – 15 kg in bodyweight.
With NexGard Spectra, your dog will receive the most complete protection against fleas, ticks, mites, lice, heartworm and intestinal worms, all in one tasty chew. Did you know that some parasites that affect pets can be transmitted to people? Using NexGard Spectra aligns with guidelines from infectious disease experts who recommend monthly deworming of all dogs to reduce the risk.*
Features & Benefits
- The most complete protection against fleas, ticks, mites, lice, heartworm and intestinal worms, all in one tasty chew.
- A tasty beef-flavoured chew that dogs love.
- Convenient monthly dosing that’s easy to remember.
- Can be given with or without food.
- Safe for puppies from 8 weeks of age and 1.35 kg bodyweight.
- Not affected by bathing, swimming or shampooing.
- Safe to use in breeding, pregnant and lactating females.
Each chew contains:
- 37.5 mg afoxolaner and
- 7.5 mg milbemycin oxime
Claims
- Rapidly kills fleas
- Controls flea allergy dermatitis
- Treats and controls ticks
- Treats and controls mange and mites
- Treats and controls biting lice
- Prevents heartworm disease
- Treats and controls roundworm, hookworm and whipworm
- Prevents flea tapeworm infestations
- Monthly treatment
*Australian Companion Animal Zoonoses Advisory Panel (2021) Companion Animal Zoonoses Guidelines.
See product label for full claim details and directions for use.
Milpro Film-Coated Allwormer Tablets for Dogs (5-25kg)
Milpro Wormer Tablets provide broad-spectrum control of all major intestinal worms, including roundworm, hookworm, whipworm, tapeworm, and hydatids. Monthly use also prevents heartworm, making it a comprehensive solution for your pet's worming needs.
Key Benefits:
- Effective Broad-Spectrum Control: Treats and controls all major intestinal worms.
- Heartworm Prevention: Monthly dosing protects against heartworm.
- Highly Palatable: Liver-flavoured film-coating ensures easy administration.
- Convenient Design: Small, ovoid tablets can be hidden in food or given by hand.
- Tailored Dosing: Available in various sizes with scored tablets for precise dosing.
Choose Milpro for a highly effective, easy-to-administer worming solution that fits your pet's lifestyle.
Recommended For:
Dogs and puppies from 2 weeks of age and weighing at least 0.5kg
The cat formulation is not suitable for use in dogs.
Dental Care
Groodles benefit from a regular dental care routine. Brush their teeth daily using a dog-safe toothpaste. Dental chews and professional cleaning can help reduce plaque, but brushing remains the most effective method
Browse our vet recommended dental products
Petosan Toothbrush
Petosan dental products for pets have been developed by a team of Scandinavian dentists, veterinarians and a leading edge toothbrush manufacturer.
Petosan Complete Dental Kits
For Small Dogs (<6kg): Contains a small double headed toothbrush, a tube of toothpaste and a finger cloth (finger brush). Ideal for dogs who are new to toothbrushing.
For Large Dogs (>16kg): A plastic outer protective case contains a large toothbrush, a tube of toothpaste and a finger cloth.
Petosan OralCleaner Finger Cloth
A reusable, antibacterial microfibre finger brush which removes plaque and bacteria from your dog's mouth. It is easier to use and provides better cleaning than finger toothbrushes. The Finger Cloth is an ideal way to start toothbrushing your dog.
Petosan Toothpaste
This tasty poultry-flavoured toothpaste has been specifically formulated for pets to help remove plaque and prevent the build-up of tartar. No rinsing required.
Petosan Toothpaste Poultry Flavour 70g
Petosan dental products for pets have been developed by a team of Scandinavian dentists, veterinarians and a leading edge toothbrush manufacturer.
Petosan Complete Dental Kits
For Small Dogs (<6kg): Contains a small double headed toothbrush, a tube of toothpaste and a finger cloth (finger brush). Ideal for dogs who are new to toothbrushing.
For Large Dogs (>16kg): A plastic outer protective case contains a large toothbrush, a tube of toothpaste and a finger cloth.
Petosan OralCleaner Finger Cloth
A reusable, antibacterial microfibre finger brush which removes plaque and bacteria from your dog's mouth. It is easier to use and provides better cleaning than finger toothbrushes. The Finger Cloth is an ideal way to start toothbrushing your dog.
Petosan Toothpaste
This tasty poultry-flavoured toothpaste has been specifically formulated for pets to help remove plaque and prevent the build-up of tartar. No rinsing required.
Aquadent FR3SH Dental Water Additive for Cats and Dogs
Transform your pet’s oral hygiene with Aquadent FR3SH™ Dental Water Additive for Cats and Dogs - a highly effective and palatable water additive designed to control plaque and reduce bad breath in dogs and cats. This advanced formula utilizes FR3SH™ technology, harnessing the power of natural ingredients to target and neutralize bad breath from both oral and digestive sources.
Key Benefits:
- Targeted Formula: Combats bad breath at its root by addressing both oral and digestive causes, promoting fresh breath and improved oral health.
- Convenient Use: Effortlessly integrate into your pet’s daily routine. Simply add to their drinking water using the included dosing cap.
- Veterinary Expertise: Crafted by veterinary dental specialists to ensure safety and effectiveness for both cats and dogs.
- High Palatability: Designed for easy acceptance by pets, with no noticeable reduction in water consumption.
Enhance your pet’s dental care with Aquadent FR3SH™ and enjoy fresher breath and a healthier mouth with minimal effort.
Available in: 250ml and 500ml Packs
Nutrition
Feed a balanced, high-quality diet tailored to your Groodle’s size and life stage. Look for food that supports joint health, digestive function, and skin condition. Dogs with food sensitivities may require a hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient formula.
Browse our range of food and nutritional products
Dry Dog Food - Vet Approved Diets
Browse our extensive range of Dry Dog Food today and find food your puppy or adult dog is guaranteed to love. We stock a wide range of leading brands including Royal Canin, Advance, Hill's, Eukanuba, and more. Our Puppy Food range is perfect for puppies of any size, and we also offer a wide range of Prescription Diets for your dog, to help with Weight Management, Skin & Food Sensitivities, Mobility Issues, Sensitive Stomachs and more. Browse our range today on Vets Love Pets.
Wet Dog Food - Vet Approved
Enjoy our wide range of the best wet dog food in Australia for your adult, Puppy or senior dog, available in cans and pouches. We stock a wide range of leading brands including Royal Canin, Advance, Hill's and more. We also offer a wide range of prescription wet food diets for your dog, to help with Weight Management, Skin & Food Sensitivities, Gastrointestinal Health and more. Browse our range today on Vets Love Pets.
Wet Dog Food for Puppies - Vet Approved
Ensure the best for your growing puppy with our Wet Dog Food for Puppies. Made with high-quality ingredients and vet-approved for wholesome nutrition. Shop our best puppy food range today at Vets Love Pets.
Exercise and Enrichment
Groodles thrive on activity and mental stimulation. Regular walks, play sessions, and light training help maintain muscle tone and support healthy joints. Avoid over-exercising young dogs while their joints are still developing.
Shop our exercise products
Black Dog Wear Smart Lead Regular 150cm with Buckle
Black Dog Wears' Smart Lead Range
Sizes- Mini, Small & Regular sizes - for Tethering dogs from 1kg up to 26 kg.
Smart Leads are one of those Why hasn't anyone thought of that before designs.
A quality lead for everyday use, with the added advantage of being length adjustable and enabling you to securely tether your dog to a tree or pole without unclipping the lead from your dog, or tying knots in it.
The rated strength is related to the breaking strain of the Plastic Buckle in the handle when used for tethering. In normal walking the lead is substantially stronger, but the rated strength is due to the plastic buckle being the least strong component.
Care should always be exercised when tethering a dog, to make sure the dog is safe and supervised, that pathways are not restricted by the tethered dog (not all people are comfortable near dogs) and keep in mind that an agitated dog could easily chew through any lead to escape.
(for tethering larger dogs go to our New Double-Ended 150cm Stainless Steel Lead)
Length Adjustable 80 to 150cm with buckle- 12, 20 or 25mm wide webbing - with corresponding sized snaphook.
Smart Leads are rated for tethering strength - based on the breaking strain of the buckle in the handle. The Lead is significantly stronger when the buckle is not in use.
Gentle Leader Harness Medium
The Gentle Leader Harness is designed to gently discourage your dog from pulling while walking on a leash. It's so simple - easy to fit, and easy to use.
Unlike traditional collars, The Gentle Leader Harness never causes coughing, gagging or choking because the chest strap rests low across the breastbone, not on the delicate tracheal area.
Traditional harnesses actually encourage dogs to pull harder because of the opposition reflex. That's the reflex that causes sled dogs to pull against pressure and do what they do. The Gentle Leader Harness unique front-chest leash attachment stops pulling by steering your dog to the side and redirecting his attention towards you. And, its patent pending martingale loop provides extra leverage for easy, relaxed control and prevents harness twisting and gapping.
Features include:
- Quick snap buckle on both the shoulder and belly straps to make it easier to get the harness on and off your dog.
- Soft but strong nylon and 4 adjustment points provide maximum comfort and reliable fit.
- Complementary colour of the belly strap makes it easier to identify each strap, while keeping the overall look pleasantly colour-coordinated. You can quickly see which strap goes over the shoulders and which goes under the belly.
Sizes: Measure around the girth:
- Petite: 30-40cm (Teacup breeds)
- Petite/Small: 35 - 45cm (Toy Breeds)
- Small: 38 - 51cm (Jack Russels, Shelties)
- Small/Medium: 45 - 60cm (in between size)
- Medium: 51 - 71cm (Border Collies, Spaniels)
- Medium/Large: 60 - 84cm (in between size)
- Large 66 - 91cm: (Labs, Golden Retreivers, German Shepards, Rottweillers)
- X-Large: 86 - 117cm (Giant Breeds and oversized dogs)
Colours: Black, Blue, Red & Purple
Sporn Head Halter
The Sporn Head Halter is an easy-to-use harness for friendly pull control. It provides gentle guidance on the withers not on the face. It stops pulling instantly and with its non muzzle look, taking your best buddy for a walk will be made 100 times more enjoyable with the Sporn Head Halter.
Grooming Routine
Their wavy or curly coat needs frequent brushing to prevent mats and skin irritation. Schedule professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks, and check ears, nails, and skin regularly at home.
Shop our vet recommended grooming products
Gripsoft Slicker Brush
Gripsoft products are easy to use and designed to give a professional finish. The soft, rubber-sheathed, non-slip ergonomic handle provides maximum comfort, grip and control.
Slicker Brush: Use to remove dead and shedding hair from your pets and help untangle mats and snarls. The version with soft pins is specially designed for pets with sensitive skin and fine, silky coats.
Gripsoft Nail Clippers
Gripsoft products are easy to use and designed to give a professional finish. The soft, rubber-sheathed, non-slip ergonomic handle provides maximum comfort, grip and control.
Gripsoft Nail Trimmers can be used to trim the nails of any breed to maintain comfortable nail length. Deluxe Nail Trimmers include a cutting guard for additional safety and ease of use.
PAW Gentle Ear Cleaner
PAW Gentle Ear Cleaner is a natural, gentle ear cleaner that effectively cleans your pet's ears without irritation.
Its effective formulation means you only need to use it once a week, making it more comfortable for your pet and easier for you. It contains:
- Purified hydrolysed oats for a mild, effective product for cleaning your cat or dog’s ears.
- No alcohol, harsh chemicals or acids commonly found in other cat or dog ear cleaners, so it’s more comfortable for your pet.
Hydration and Observation
Monitor your Groodle’s water intake and energy levels. A sudden change in thirst, appetite, or behaviour can signal an underlying health issue. Stay alert and check in with your vet if something feels off.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the life expectancy of a Groodle?
Most Groodles live around 12 to 15 years. Good nutrition, weight management, and early vet intervention can support a longer, healthier life.
How can I tell if my Groodle comes from healthy breeding lines?
Ask your breeder for health clearances, including hip and elbow scores and DNA tests for conditions like PRA. Reputable breeders are transparent about their screening practices.
What are the early warning signs of health issues in Groodles?
Look for changes like stiffness after resting, recurring ear infections, itching or skin redness, bad breath, or reluctance to play. Catching these early makes management much easier.
Should Groodles take joint supplements from puppyhood?
Your vet may recommend starting joint support for some Groodles, especially larger ones. It’s best to tailor this to your dog’s growth and breed lines.
How often should I take my Groodle to the vet for checkups?
At least once a year for adults, but twice-yearly is often better, especially for older dogs or if early signs of joint or dental disease are present.
Groodles are generally a healthy, happy breed—but like any dog, they thrive with early, vet-guided care. By knowing the common risks, choosing quality nutrition, and staying alert to small changes, you’ll give your Groodle the best chance to stay active and well for years to come.
This article was written by Dr Jack Ayerbe
References
Vets Love Pets follows rigorous sourcing standards, drawing only from peer-reviewed veterinary studies, recognised university research, and trusted industry or government bodies. Every fact is checked against credible, evidence-based references to keep our content accurate, transparent, and veterinarian-approved.
- National Institutes of Health (NIH). Expression of Behavioural Traits in Goldendoodles and Labradoodles
- Vetted Pet Health. Goldendoodle Preventative Care - Everything You Need To Know!
- Animal Answers. Groodle Health Problems
