
Goldendoodles are a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, and like any breed, they can be prone to certain health issues. Unfortunately, cancer is one of them.
Research suggests that Goldendoodles may inherit a higher risk of certain types of cancer from their parent breeds. Studies have shown that Golden Retrievers are at a higher risk of developing hemangiosarcoma, a type of cancer that affects the blood vessels.
In addition to hemangiosarcoma, Goldendoodles may also be at risk for other types of cancer, including osteosarcoma, lymphoma, and mast cell tumors. These cancers can have a significant impact on a Goldendoodle's quality of life and longevity.
It's essential to work with a reputable breeder who health tests their breeding dogs for genetic disorders and cancer. By doing so, you can reduce the risk of your Goldendoodle developing cancer.
Suggestion: Different Types of Goldendoodles
Goldendoodle Health
Goldendoodles are prone to multiple types of cancer, including Hemangiosarcoma, Osteosarcoma, and Lymphoma. These cancers can affect various parts of the body, such as the blood vessels, bones, and lymphatic system.

The most common cancers seen in Goldendoodles are Hemangiosarcoma, Osteosarcoma, and Lymphoma. Hemangiosarcoma affects the blood vessels, while Osteosarcoma affects the bones and Lymphoma affects the lymphatic system.
As Goldendoodles age, you may see many lumps and bumps appear, which can be a sign of cancer. Your vet will take a small sample of the tumor with a needle and look at the cells under the microscope to determine if they are malignant.
Many signs can lead you to think that your Goldendoodle has cancer, including diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, and seeing a growth. If you notice any of these signs, it's essential to take your Goldendoodle to the vet right away.
Here is a comparison chart outlining the key information about the three cancers mentioned:
While Goldendoodles are prone to cancer, they are also less likely to have breed-specific diseases than their parent breeds. However, they can still inherit health issues from their parents, such as Hip dysplasia, Subvalvular aortic stenosis, Sebaceous adenitis, Addison’s Disease, and Cataracts.
Cancer in Goldendoodles

Goldendoodles are prone to multiple types of cancer, including Hemangiosarcoma in their blood, Osteosarcoma in their bones, and Lymphoma in their lymphatic system.
The most common cancers seen in Goldendoodles are Hemangiosarcoma, Osteosarcoma, and Lymphoma.
If your Goldendoodle is sick or doesn't seem like they're feeling better, it's essential to take them to the vet right away. Some health issues can be extremely serious and require immediate life-saving intervention.
Regular check-ups with your vet can help detect any early signs of cancer. Limiting your Goldendoodle's exposure to sun, smoke, and other harmful substances can also help prevent cancer.
Here are the most common cancers seen in Goldendoodles:
- Hemangiosarcoma
- Osteosarcoma
- Lymphoma
Osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, commonly affects the wrist, shoulder, and knee in Goldendoodles. Swelling of the bone, limping, and pain in their joints are common signs of osteosarcoma.
If your Goldendoodle is diagnosed with osteosarcoma, aggressive treatment, including amputation of the affected leg and chemotherapy, can improve their prognosis to about 1 year.
Causes and Diagnosis

Cancer diagnosis in dogs is starting to involve blood tests, such as the Cadet tests for certain blood or bladder cancers. These tests can help identify if cancer is likely, but they don't specify the type of cancer.
The Nu.Q Veterinary Cancer Screening Test and the OncoK9 tests are also available, which can help determine if cancer is present. However, they don't provide information on the specific type of cancer.
These new tests are available at most labs, and some companies even offer molecular-level testing to determine the type of lymphoma present.
What Causes Cancer?
Cancer can be a complex and multifaceted issue, and its causes can vary depending on the type and breed of dog. Genetics play a role in the development of cancer, particularly in older dogs.
Hemangiosarcoma, a common type of cancer in dogs, can be seen in dogs as young as 8 years old, but it's more common in large older breed dogs.
Genetics can also be a contributing factor to the development of cancer in dogs, making it a crucial aspect to consider when it comes to a dog's health.
Related reading: Goldendoodles Breed
How Is Diagnosed?

Diagnosing cancer in dogs can be a complex process, but there are several tests and procedures that veterinarians use to determine if a dog has cancer. Blood tests, such as the Cadet tests for certain blood or bladder cancers, are becoming more common.
These tests can help identify if cancer is likely, but they don't specify the type of cancer. Your vet may also use non-invasive procedures, like radiographs and abdominal ultrasound, to take a closer look at your dog's internal organs.
Some common tests that your vet may want to run include a CBC and Blood Chemistry Panel, which can show if your dog has a low red blood cell count, indicating a mass inside that's bleeding.
Your vet may also want to take radiographs of your dog's abdomen or chest to see if there is a mass on the liver or spleen. Abdominal Ultrasound can also be used to see if there is a mass present on the liver or spleen.
Intriguing read: Dog Cancer Lump

If a mass is visible with an ultrasound, your vet can take a few cells with a needle, known as FNA and cytology, to examine under the microscope. However, the most accurate way to determine the type of tumor is through a biopsy, where the mass is surgically removed and sent to a veterinary pathologist for review.
Treatment and Prognosis
The prognosis for hemangiosarcoma in Goldendoodles is generally poor, with a median survival time of about 1 to 3 months when treated with surgery only.
Chemotherapy can help improve survival time, but even with treatment, less than 10% of dogs survive to one year.
A low-grade tumor may have a better prognosis, especially if chemotherapy is given after surgery, which can increase survival time to about 6 months.
Here's an interesting read: Canine Cancer Prognosis
Treating Goldendoodles
Treating Goldendoodles involves a range of options, but surgery is often the first line of treatment for hemangiosarcoma.
The goal of surgery is to remove the tumor and affected tissues, which can improve quality of life and potentially increase survival time.
Chemotherapy may be used in conjunction with surgery to target any remaining cancer cells.
Goldendoodles with hemangiosarcoma may also undergo radiation therapy to shrink the tumor before surgery.
Prognosis in Goldendoodle?

The prognosis for Goldendoodles with hemangiosarcoma is generally poor.
Surgery alone offers little hope, with a median survival time of just 1 to 3 months. Less than 10% of dogs survive to one year.
Chemotherapy can improve survival time, but it's still a challenging fight. Using the doxorubicin-based protocol, dogs can live up to 6 months with treatment.
A low-grade tumor may have a slightly better prognosis, especially if chemotherapy is given after surgery.
Broaden your view: Boxer Dogs and Cancer
Prevention and Risk
Genetics can play a role in the development of hemangiosarcoma in Goldendoodles.
Hemangiosarcoma is more common in large older breed dogs.
While it's not a guarantee, being aware of the age factor can help you prepare for potential health issues as your Goldendoodle gets older.
Goldendoodles over 8 years of age are more likely to develop hemangiosarcoma.
Keeping a close eye on your dog's health as they age can help you catch any potential problems early on.
Goldendoodle Ownership: Reduced Pain & Heartache

As a dog owner, it's reassuring to know that Goldendoodles have a lower chance of cancer, which means less pain for our furry friends. This is a huge deal, especially for families who want to bring a new puppy home.
Having a lower chance of cancer is a significant advantage of owning a Goldendoodle.
Poodles and their hybrids, like Goldendoodles, have a lower chance of cancer, which is a major plus for many dog owners.
If this caught your attention, see: Goldendoodle Dog
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the downsides of Goldendoodles?
Goldendoodles come with some potential downsides, including a susceptibility to hip dysplasia, anxiety, and allergies, as well as high costs. Regular exercise and mental stimulation can help mitigate these issues, but it's essential to be aware of them before bringing a Goldendoodle home
What is the lifespan of a Goldendoodle?
Goldendoodles typically live between 10-15 years, with those bred from smaller Poodles often living longer than those bred from Standard Poodles.
Are Goldendoodles prone to testicular cancer?
Male Goldendoodles may be at risk for testicular cancer, a health concern that can be influenced by hormonal factors
Sources
- https://www.goldendoodleadvice.com/expert-weighs-in-on-10-common-goldendoodle-health-issues/
- https://highdesertfamilydoodles.com/breeders-blog/goldendoodles-are-healthier
- https://www.boston25news.com/news/heartbreak-dog-owners-popular-breed-more-prone-now-cancer/A43KB3XW3RDJXKIX5NYNCZF7X4/
- https://doodledoods.com/doodle-health-issues/
- https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/features/dogs-and-cancer-get-the-facts
Featured Images: pexels.com