After using Docker in production for a few years, here are a few patterns that keep our builds fast and deployments predictable.
Multi-stage builds
Always use multi-stage builds. Compile and bundle in one stage, copy only the artifact into a minimal runtime image.
Layer caching
Order your Dockerfile so dependencies install before source code changes. This keeps the slow npm install or go mod download layers cached.
Health checks
Add HEALTHCHECK instructions so your orchestrator knows when a container is actually ready, not just started.
More tips in future posts.