Introducing the small but mighty, Mini Goldendoodle. Do not be fooled by their size, these adorable dogs put a lot of heart and love into 17 inches of teddy bear size.
With the appearance of a walking teddy bear, these cute designer mixes are perfect for most dog-parents. However, due to their incredibly social, fun-loving, and devoted nature, they are best suited to being family dogs.
I’m sure we have all encountered this mix at some point in our lives, either in real life or on social media. But what is there to know about these fun-loving little dogs?
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Mini Goldendoodle Pictures
What Is a Mini Goldendoodle?
This pooch is a mixed cross breed between a golden retriever and a Miniature Poodle. First bred by Monica Dinkens in 1969, these lovable little dogs have been growing in popularity ever since.
Coming into fame in the 1990s, they have had a whole host of famous owners including Tiger Woods, Blake Lively and Usher.
These dogs are a designer crossbreed, which were bred to develop hypoallergenic guide dogs. The standard Goldendoodle soon had the smaller miniature Poodle bred into the line, and the Mini Goldendoodle was born.
This dog is not to be confused with the Petite Goldendoodle, which is a cross between a Golden Retriever, a poodle and Cocker Spaniel.
As this designer pooch is not a purebred dog, there is no exact science to breeding them or any officially recognized breed standard. As a result, there are three generations:
- A first generation is known as a F1, this is a purebred Golden Retriever crossed with a Miniature Poodle.
- The second generation is known as a F1B Mini Goldendoodle, this is a F1 crossed with a Miniature Poodle.
- The third generation is known as a F2, this is where a puppy has two Goldendoodle parents.
The mix is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, but it is recognized by the Continental Kennel Club, if both parents are registered pedigree dogs.
Miniature Goldendoodle Appearance
Mini Goldendoodle Size
This designer mix is usually between 14 to 17 inches tall, and will weigh between 15 and 30 pounds but this can vary from dog to dog. Remember that females will be towards the smaller and lighter end than males.
A good rule of thumb is to take both parent’s height, add them together then divide by two. You can also do this to get a rough prediction of your puppy’s weight.
Colors
It is very difficult to predict the coloring and coat of this dog as it is a crossbreed. The color can vary from cream to black, with many different shades in between.
The most common colors to find are golden and chocolate brown. Mini Goldendoodles are usually solid in color but can occasionally have bicolor coats.
Coat
Unclipped, your pooch’s hair is usually between 4 and 7 inches long.
A Miniature Goldendoodles coat also varies a lot in look and texture. Some dogs have fur that is shaggy like a Golden Retriever, others have curls like a Poodle, and some dogs are perfect hybrids. This will all be based on their parents genes.
Temperament
For us to understand this designer dog, it is important to look at the puppy’s purebred parents.
Starting with the friendly and intelligent Golden Retriever, this is one of the most popular dogs in America renowned for their consistent temperament. Originally bred to be gundogs but now used as assistance and guide dogs, Golden Retrievers are a friendly face to come home to every day. Seen in America since 1932, this dog has a devoted and loving nature and makes the perfect family pet.
One of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world, the Poodle, was bred to be a retriever and gun dog. Hailing from France and Germany, this stunning dog is known for its intellect. There are three sizes of Poodle: standard, miniature and toy. The Miniature Poodle was used not only to sniff out truffles in the woods but was a favorite among the lords and ladies of France as a lapdog. While often considered to be posh dogs, as a result of their heritage, the truth is that Poodles are fun, whimsical dogs who live to please their owners.
Both parents of the Goldendoodle score in the top 4 of 150 dogs ranked for intelligence.
This results in a very friendly, affectionate and intelligent dog.
They are very curious and social dogs and will always want to be a part of what is happening, from bringing groceries in from the car to family movie night, this little dog wants to be a part of it all.
Mini Goldendoodles have a protective and caring temperament, and therefore tend to bark as guard dogs. They will bark at the perceived intruder in order to protect their family. With good socialisation as a pup, they will soon lose this tendency.
Like both parents, these mixtures are a social breed, at their happiest when with people, and have a good temperament with children. Most days, your dog will be content to follow you and your family about the house.
This dog will get along famously well with other family pets and dogs providing they are introduced and socialized correctly.
Can A Mini Goldendoodle Be A Family Dog?
Yes. Like most Labrador or Retriever mixes, they make great family dogs.
These dogs are very well suited for first time owners. Loving and loyal, they live to please their owner’s, and make wonderful first pets. They are also incredibly well suited to family life, as they are well known for their patience with younger children.
Training Guide
This designer mix is the product of Golden Retrievers and Miniature Poodles.
The influence of the Golden Retriever makes them keen to please and the Poodle makes them very intelligent. This results in a dog that loves to learn and will be very happy to please their owner. Consistent, fun and short training sessions will make this breed easy to train.
Positive reinforcement and clicker training are both great methods of dog training for this mix. This positive reinforcement will also build a strong working relationship with your dog and encourage trust and build a strong bond together.
As a result of Mini Goldendoodle dogs loving and affectionate nature, they tend to develop separation anxiety. This can be treated with patience, care and training. From day one, try leaving your puppy alone for a few minutes at a time, and slowly work up to longer periods.
With lots of positive reinforcement on return (e.g. praise and play), your dog will soon learn that there is nothing to fear.
Caring for a Golden Retriever Miniature Poodle Mix
Exercise Requirements
The Miniature Goldendoodles’ bouncy and enthusiastic nature means they are always up for an adventure, making exercise easy; this is common in most Retriever mixes.
This dog doesn’t need to be told that it’s time for “walkies” twice, they’ll probably be in the car before you.
Being a smaller size dog, they do not require nearly as much exercise as their larger, more energetic cousins. This is not to say that these dogs don’t mirror their energetic personalities, a 20 to 30 minute walk, twice a daily, will suit them perfectly.
Because of their heritage, these dogs also love to swim, so taking them to any body of water will result in a very happy dog.
Indoor or outdoor play will also benefit your dog massively. They will love to fetch and play games of chase to stimulate his or her gundog origins (i.e. Poodle parent).
They are a very social and loving dog, and therefore walks will provide them with time to meet new people and other dogs.
Try walking your dog in a dog park to stimulate this natural social ability.
As a result of their intelligence, Goldendoodles grow bored very quickly if not exercised. Therefore, you will find your dog is much better mannered when they are exercised regularly.
Grooming and Shedding
Mini Goldendoodles are often listed as hypoallergenic dogs. The degree of shedding varies from dog to dog, but overall these dogs shed much less than other dogs. However, not all Goldendoodles are hypoallergenic as it depends on their breeding so be sure to confirm this at the time of purchase or adoption.
Depending on your dog’s specific coat, unclipped fur will require brushing/combing as frequently as every other day.
Try using brushes such as a pin brush or a wide-toothed comb. Clipped fur will be more manageable and will require brushing weekly.
If you do wish to clip your dog’s fur, it will need clipping every few months. Bathe as required but do so with a mild shampoo as these dogs tend to have sensitive skin.
Feeding and Diet
Goldendoodles require a diet that has quality sources of protein and fat.
There is potential that your dog may be allergic to grains; because of their Retriever parent. If this is the case with your pup, try looking for a kibble which is grain-free, and instead contains quinoa or oats.
Try to avoid food with common allergens like corn, soy, wheat and dairy. It is also best to try and pick an all-natural dog food, so avoid anything with preservatives, colors and flavors and aim for those feeds with whole proteins such as chicken and eggs.
Feeding your Golden Retriever-Miniature Poodle Mix should eat high-quality dry kibble, roughly 1.5 to 2 cups daily.
You may do well to encourage your dog into a routine of eating when you do, as this will work well in your daily lifestyle.
You may find that as your puppy grows up, they will grow at roughly the following rate:
| Age | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| 6 months | 7 pounds | |
| 12 months | 24 pounds | 21 pounds |
| 18 months | 30 pounds | 27 pounds |
This is only an approximation, however, if there is a drastic difference between your own puppy’s weight and what is above, or if there are any huge changes in your dog’s weight, it may be best to consult your vet.
Known Health Problems
As most Mini Goldendoodles are a first generation cross (i.e. F1), they tend to exhibit the phenomenon of hybrid vigour. This is where the cross of two unrelated parents results in a healthier offspring.
Provided both parents are healthy, this mix will be a very happy and healthy dog.
However, Poodles and Golden Retrievers are prone to hip dysplasia, so it is important to look out for this and get a hip score done on the parents.
There are also reports of genetic skin conditions with this dog. It is possible to test for this, so when purchasing a puppy, requesting a genetic health test may be a good idea. Due to the miniaturization of the breed, there is now a significantly increased risk of certain diseases such as breathing and eye problems.
How Long Do Mini Goldendoodles Live For?
Your designer hybrid, providing they are loved, well cared for and fed a correct diet will live from 10 to 15 years of age.
Buyer’s Guide
When purchasing a Miniature Goldendoodle puppy, a good breeder should be able to present a certificate that certifies that both the parents have good hip and eye scores.
Ideally, there would also be an elbow test for knee and elbow clearance and a DNA test to rule out progressive retinal atrophy.
Due to their ever-increasing popularity, these dogs are a favourite of puppy mills. Always ask to see the dog with the mother, and request health tests to insure the wellbeing of your puppy. To source reliable Mini Goldendoodle breeders, try searching for breeders in your area through the Goldendoodle Association of North America (GANA).
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How Much Do Mini Goldendoodle Cost?
Mini Goldendoodle Puppies are on the more expensive side, with purebred dealers usually selling for between $1,500 and $3,500. Prices vary depending on the breeder and the size of the dog.
Litters tend to average about 3 puppies and, combined with their current high demand, means you may struggle to find a puppy.
Quick Breed Summary Table
| Breed Characteristics | |
| Size: | 15-17 inches tall (male) 14-15.5 inches tall (female) |
| Weight: | 15-30lbs |
| Lifespan: | 10-15 years |
| Coat: | Short coarse fur, double coat |
| Color: | Golden, cream, red, black or brown |
| Do They Shed: | No (Hypoallergenic) |
| Temperament: | Loving, loyal, intelligent |
| Intelligence: | High |
| Activity Levels: | 25 to 30-minute walk twice a day, plus play time |
Summary
Is the Miniature Goldendoodle right for you?
Playful, intelligent and caring, these dogs will slot perfectly into all aspects of life.
Their smaller size makes them much more manageable than their larger cousins and means they are much more adaptable to apartment life if space is a premium.
All this designer mix really wants is a walk in the park, a good meal, a game or two before a snooze at your feet and a loving family to play with.
More Golden Retriever and Miniature Poodle Mixes
Want a Golden Retriever mix or Miniature Poodle mix but aren’t keen on the Mini Goldendoodle? Check out these other hybrid dog breeds:
Golden Retriever Mixes
- German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix
- Golden Shepherd
- Golden Retriever Pitbull Mix
- Australian Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix
- Golden Retriever Corgi Mix
- Golden Retriever Husky Mix
- Golden Cocker Retriever
- Goberian
We’ve also had 3 Golden Retrievers over the years.
Loved your article on the mini golden poodles … Hoping to get one in the heat future . I am a parent of a Maltese right now .