An Apricot Goldendoodle Flopped Into the Leaf Pile Grinning Ear to Ear
Joy looks like this: a curly apricot Goldendoodle lying belly-low in a pile of crunchy orange leaves, his mouth open in a wide grin and his tongue peeking out. His coat is a mass of soft curls, his dark eyes gleam, and leaves are stuck all over his legs. A cluster of pumpkins in orange and pale green sits nearby, and behind them, a porch with a pot of orange mums, rubber boots, and a spiderweb on the railing completes the scene. Let's call him Apricot, or Cot for short. He clearly wants to play.
Goldendoodles are playful, energetic dogs who love to be part of the action. They combine the friendliness of Golden Retrievers with the smarts of Poodles, and often love swimming, fetch, and rolling in anything interesting. Their curly coats pick up leaves, burrs, and twigs, so regular brushing, especially after outdoor play, helps prevent tangles and mats. Because they're so sociable, they do best when included in family time.
A pile of leaves is wonderful, but check it before the roll. Hidden sticks, thorns, and sharp seed pods can hurt, and damp leaves may be moldy. Acorns and some fall mushrooms are harmful if eaten, so watch what he snuffles. After a leaf session, comb through the curls and check paws, ears, and belly for burrs and ticks. A rinse or wipe-down keeps the house clean, too. If he seems to have eaten anything strange, call your vet.
Cot beams from his bed of leaves, ready for another roll. Fall may be the best season for a happy dog.
