Mini Goldendoodle – 19 Need to Know Facts – 2023

Updated: November 15, 2023. Are you on the hunt for a furry friend and find yourself drawn to the Mini Goldendoodle? You’re not alone! These miniature bundles of joy are soaring in popularity, and for good reason.

First off, their size is just perfect for most homes. Weighing between 15 to 35 pounds, Mini Goldendoodles are compact enough for apartment living but still hearty enough for plenty of playtime. This breed is the ideal middle ground for those who love the Goldendoodle’s charm but are looking for a smaller companion. They can also be the perfect size for someone looking for a dog they can take on pet friendly vacations.

But what truly sets them apart is their coat. Mini Goldendoodles (aka a designer dog) inherit a low-shedding coat from their Poodle lineage, making them a fantastic choice for families with pet allergy sufferers. Say goodbye to constant vacuuming and hello to more cuddles!

Moreover, these dogs are not just pretty faces with friendly dispositions. Mini Goldendoodles often serve as therapy dogs, thanks to their empathetic nature and gentle demeanor. They’re not just pets; they’re compassionate companions, offering emotional support and unconditional love.

Eager to learn more about Mini Goldendoodles? Keep scrolling! We’ve got more insights on their traits, care, and health.

19 Know Facts About The Mini Goldendoodle

1. Breeding

Similar to their standard-sized counterparts, a Mini Goldendoodle is a hybrid of a purebred Golden Retriever and a Poodle. However, the key difference lies in the size of the Poodle parent. For Mini Goldendoodles, a Golden Retriever is typically bred with either a Mini poodle or Toy Poodle, as opposed to the Standard Poodle used in breeding full-sized Goldendoodles.

This breeding choice results in the smaller size of the Mini Goldendoodle. However, it’s important to be cautious about where you acquire your Mini. Simply breeding a larger dog with a smaller one does not guarantee a smaller-sized goldendoodle. We’ll dive deeper into the specifics of this breeding process and its implications later in the post.

Breed Standard

The Goldendoodle stands out among designer dogs for having an established breed standard, upheld by reputable breeders. However, it’s not recognized by the American Kennel Club as a purebred. Though, the Goldendoodle Association of North America (GANA) is trying to change that. The breed standard encompassing the four Goldendoodle sizes: Petite, Miniature, Medium, and Standard. This standard includes specific criteria for size, appearance, and temperament – the latter being a unique aspect not commonly found in AKC conformation show breed standards.

A little known fact about the Goldendoodle’s breed club is that they adopted an “Open Stud Book” policy. This allows any purebred Poodle, Golden Retriever, or Goldendoodle to be considered for breeding, aiming to diversify the Goldendoodle’s gene pool and mitigate health issues associated with limited genetic diversity.

Goldendoodle Generation Classifications

Goldendoodle generations refer to the specific breeding combinations used to create these dogs. Understanding these generations is important because they can influence the dog’s appearance, size, coat type, and hypoallergenic qualities.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common Goldendoodle generations:

• F1 Mini Goldendoodle: This first-generation cross involves a purebred Miniature or Toy Poodle and a purebred Golden Retriever. The result is a Mini Goldendoodle that’s typically 50% Poodle and 50% Golden Retriever.

• F1B Mini Goldendoodle: An F1B is created by breeding an F1 Mini Goldendoodle back to a Miniature or Toy Poodle, making it 75% Poodle and 25% Golden Retriever. This generation often has a curlier coat and is more likely to be hypoallergenic, which is preferable for those with allergies.

• F2 Mini Goldendoodle: This is a second-generation Mini Goldendoodle, produced by breeding two F1 Mini Goldendoodles together. They retain the 50-50 mix of Poodle and Golden Retriever, but their traits, especially in terms of coat type and shedding, can be more varied.

• F2B Mini Goldendoodle: An F2B is a backcross in which an F2 Mini Goldendoodle is bred back to a Miniature or Toy Poodle. This generation will be 62.5% Poodle and 37.5% Golden Retriever, typically inheriting the Poodle’s hypoallergenic and low-shedding coat.

• F3 or Multigenerational Mini Goldendoodles: These are Mini Goldendoodles bred beyond the second generation. They can be a mix of various combinations like two F2 Mini Goldendoodles, or an F2B bred with an F1B. The breeding at this stage becomes more intricate, resulting in a wider range of traits.

For a more in-depth understanding of the Goldendoodle Generation visit our post on Goldendoodle Generations: F1, F1b, F1bb, F2, F2b, Etc

2. Is there more than one type of Goldendoodle?

Another little know fact about the Goldendoodle is that there are three types of Golden Retriever/Poodle Mix breeds; the English, the American and the Australian Goldendoodle. However the three all trace back to the same Scottish lineage, with variations in appearance and size due to different breeding practices across the Atlantic.

English Goldendoodle

The English Goldendoodle is a cross between an English Golden Retriever, typically cream-colored, and a white or cream-colored Poodle, resulting in a predominantly cream or white Goldendoodle. English Golden Retrievers are known for being shorter and stockier compared to their American counterparts, with shorter, wavier fur.

While often perceived as healthier, the English Golden Retriever, like the American variant, is prone to similar health conditions. Notably, the European-bred Golden has a lower cancer rate, though it’s still high compared to other breeds. The English, American, and Canadian Golden Retrievers all trace back to the same Scottish lineage, with variations in appearance and size due to different breeding practices across the Atlantic.

American Goldendoodle

The American Goldendoodle is typically a mix of an American Golden Retriever, often red or apricot in color, with a Poodle of any color. This leads to a variety of shades in their offspring, ranging from cream and apricot to even black.

Australian Goldendoodle

The Australian Goldendoodle (aka mini Groodles) differs from its American and English counterparts. Rather than a direct Golden Retriever-Poodle mix, it’s a cross between an English Goldendoodle and an Australian Labradoodle. The key distinction is that the Australian Goldendoodle can encompass up to seven different breeds in its lineage, as opposed to the two-breed mix of the American and English varieties.

Which is better? The mini Goldendoodle or the mini Labradoodle. We compare the two crossbreeds in our post Goldendoodle vs Labradoodle: Which is Better?

3. What is the temperament of a Miniature Goldendoodle?

The temperament of a Miniature Goldendoodle is generally friendly, affectionate, and outgoing. These dogs are known for their social and amiable nature, often showing a strong desire to bond with their human families. As a hybrid breed, they inherit the best traits from their parent breeds – the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle and the friendly, easygoing personality of the Golden Retriever.

Mini Goldendoodles are typically gentle and patient, making them great companions for families with children. They are also known for being adaptable, able to fit into various living situations, whether it’s a large house with a yard or a smaller apartment setting.

Being intelligent and eager to please, they are usually easy to train. This intelligence, combined with their social nature, often makes them excellent candidates for roles such as therapy or service dogs.

However, like any breed, individual temperaments can vary. Socialization and training from a young age are important to ensure that they grow up to be well-rounded and well-behaved dogs. Also, due to their social nature, they may not do well with long periods of solitude and can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.

4. Are Mini Goldendoodle good apartment dogs?

Yes. Thanks to their size they can fit perfectly well into apartment life. The main thing you need to be aware of is that they can suffer from separation anxiety.

But, if you train them early on to be comfortable when they are alone and if you provide them with enough exercise, mini Goldendoodles can live a very happy life in an apartment.

5. How big do Mini Golden doodles get?

The miniature Goldendoodle generally weighs between 15 to 35 pounds and can stand anywhere from 13 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder when fully grown. However, this range can differ based on the specific breeding.

Since the Miniature Goldendoodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and either a Miniature or a Toy Poodle. The size of the Poodle parent greatly influences the size of the offspring. If the Poodle parent is on the larger end of the Miniature spectrum, the resulting Mini Goldendoodles may be larger. Conversely, if a smaller Toy Poodle is used, the puppies might lean towards the smaller end of the scale.

You also need to know that because Mini Goldendoodles are a mixed breed, their genetics can be less predictable than purebreds. Even within the same litter, there can be significant variation in size and appearance.

If you are looking for a smaller doodle but are concerned with them being in proportion check out the Cockapoo and mini Cavapoo. Or maybe you want a bigger mini, then a Mini Bernedoodle may be a good choice

6. Is a Mini Goldendoodle easy to travel with?

The mini Goldendoodle makes a great travel companion. Their small size allows you to travel with ease. Plus, their friendly nature makes it easier to take them places. Especially since most establishments require dogs to be well-behaved and friendly with other dogs.

If you plan to travel by air or train with them, make sure you get a mini Goldendoodle whose full-grown size is under 20 pounds. Most airlines and trains require dogs to be under 20 pounds. This includes the weight of the carrier.

7. Do Mini Goldendoodles shed?

Mini Goldendoodles are known for their low to moderate shedding. They inherit this trait from the Poodle side of their lineage, as Poodles are well-known for their hypoallergenic coats that shed very little. However, because Mini Goldendoodles are a crossbreed, the degree of shedding can vary.

An F1 Mini Goldendoodle (50% Golden Retriever and 50% Poodle) may shed more than an F1B Mini Goldendoodle (which is 75% Poodle). The more Poodle genetics a Mini Goldendoodle has, the less likely they are to shed significantly. This is why F1B or even F2B generations are often preferred by those looking for a more hypoallergenic dog.

To learn more about shedding in Goldendoodles read our post on Do Goldendoodles Shed? The Truth about Shedding

8. Are Mini Goldendoodles hypoallergenic?

For allergy sufferers, the answer to whether Mini Goldendoodles are hypoallergenic is a bit of a mix – both yes and no. Here’s a closer look at why.

Allergies in people are commonly triggered by proteins found in a dog’s skin cells, saliva, or urine, with dander (tiny flakes of skin) being a key allergen. When dogs shed their hair, they also release dander into the air. This can be problematic for allergy sufferers, as inhaling dander can trigger allergic reactions.

However, Mini Goldendoodles are often bred to shed less. This reduced shedding means they’re less likely to release significant amounts of dander, potentially making them a more suitable option for those with allergies. To ensure minimal shedding, it’s crucial to find a breeder who conducts thorough genetic testing.

But shedding isn’t the only way allergy sufferers can be exposed to allergens. Contact with a dog through licking, petting, brushing, or cleaning up can also introduce these proteins to allergy sufferers.

For those concerned about allergies, the most effective strategy is to spend time with the Mini Goldendoodle you are looking to get or its parents before bringing one home. This experience can help gauge how your allergies might respond to their presence. But even this is not guarantee that you won’t be allergic once you are living with them full-time.

9. Will my Mini Goldendoodle have long wavy hair?

Both the Golden Retriever and the Poodle typically have long hair on their bodies, and this trait is often passed on to Goldendoodles. However, the distinct long facial hair, prominent eyebrows, and wavy coat associated with the classic ‘doodle’ look depend on the inheritance of the furnishing gene. This gene, dominant and carried by the Poodle, only needs to be inherited once for the traits to be expressed.

Thus, an F1 Goldendoodle, being a first-generation cross between a Poodle and a Golden Retriever, usually inherits this gene, resulting in the characteristic teddy bear appearance. However, in later multi-generational Goldendoodles, there’s a chance of not inheriting this gene if they receive two non-furnishing genes from the Golden Retriever lineage.

Just by looking at a dog, it’s not always clear which genes they’ll pass on to their offspring. So, even two wavy-haired Goldendoodles can produce puppies with varying coat types – wavy, straight, or curly, especially on their face.

Fortunately, there are genetic tests available that can determine whether a dog carries the genes responsible for the desired ‘teddy bear’ look. This testing can be a valuable tool for breeders and prospective owners who are particularly interested in this aesthetic trait.

10. What colors do Mini Goldendoodles come in?

The mini, like the standard, can come in a variety of colors. Goldendoodles can inherit any of the colors from either the Golden Retriever or Poodle.

Golden Retrievers carry genes for shades of cream, apricot and red, while Poodles can carry genes that include shades of cream, apricot, red, black, chocolate (dark brown), silver and gray coloring.

Poodles also carry the genes for popular color patterns, like Parti, and Phantom and less the less popular gene for fading.  

11. Are Miniature Goldendoodles high maintenance?

Miniature Goldendoodles can be considered moderately high maintenance, primarily due to their grooming needs and exercise requirements.

12. Are Mini Goldendoodles easy to groom?

Mini Goldendoodles are relatively easy to groom, but they do require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and to prevent matting, especially if they have the longer, wavy or curly coat common in the breed. Their grooming needs will depend on the type of coat they inherit – straighter coats like the Golden Retriever’s are generally easier to maintain, while curlier Poodle-like coats require more frequent and thorough grooming.

Key grooming tasks include regular brushing, at least a few times a week, to remove tangles and prevent mats from forming. Depending on the coat, some Mini Goldendoodles may need daily brushing. They also need baths, but not too frequently, as over-bathing can strip their coat of natural oils.

In addition to coat care, their grooming routine should include regular nail trims, ear cleaning to prevent infections (especially in dogs with floppy ears), and dental care.

Professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks is required to keep the Mini Goldendoodle looking neat and to prevent skin and coat problems.

13. How much exercise do Mini Goldendoodles need?

Miniature Goldendoodles are high energy dogs, therefore they are happiest when they are moving. They need at least 60 minutes of exercise a day, ideally split into multiple sessions.

A mix of physical activities and mental stimulation, like walks, playtime, and interactive games, is beneficial. They adapt well to the owner’s lifestyle, so exercise can vary from longer hikes to shorter, more frequent walks.

It’s important for puppies not to be over-exercised, and mental exercises like training are equally important. Regular exercise helps prevent boredom and health issues, enhancing their overall well-being and strengthening the owner-pet bond .

Of course, all dogs are different and have different exercise needs. If your dog starts to get into trouble they probably need more exercise.

14. What are the training requirements of a mini Goldendoodle?

Mini Goldendoodles, with their intelligence and desire to please, have moderate training needs that respond best to positive training methods. Here are some essentials for their training:

1. Early Socialization: Exposing them to various people, animals, and environments early is key for well-rounded behavior.
2. Consistency and Patience: Regular, consistent training sessions are crucial. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques like praise, treats, and play.
3. Basic Obedience: Teaching them basic commands like ‘sit’, ‘stay’, ‘come’, and ‘heel’ is vital. This not only ensures good behavior but also keeps them safe.
4. Mental Stimulation: These dogs are intelligent and enjoy mental challenges. Puzzle toys, hide-and-seek games, and learning new tricks can keep their minds active.
5. Leash Training: Gentle guidance on the leash, rewarded with treats and praise, helps them learn to walk without pulling.
6. Potty Training: Consistent potty training with a regular schedule is important, especially for puppies.
7. Crate Training: Crate training can be beneficial for house training and providing a safe space for the dog.

15. What are the health issues with a Mini Goldendoodle?

Miniature Goldendoodles are an overall healthy breed but they can develop health conditions that are common to both the Golden Retriever and miniature Poodle.

Your best chance of having a healthy dog is by getting them from a reputable breeder that does complete genetic health testing on their breeding dogs.

Breeders that leave things up for chance may not know that they are breeding diseases into the dogs.

Goldendoodle health concerns include:

• Ear Infections – Goldendoodles can be prone to ear infections. This is due to their long hairy ears that can reduce air flow and increase moisture that can cause infections
• Sebaceous adenitis – Skin disease
• Hip dysplasia – This is a condition in which the thigh bone becomes displaced from the hip joint. There is a strong genetic component with this condition, which can be avoided through genetic testing
• Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis – Disease which causes a narrowing at the aortic valve of the heart
• Addison’s disease – Also known as hypoadrenocorticism, this disease decreases hormone production from the outer part or cortex of the adrenal gland
• Various eye diseases – Common eye diseases include progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts and glaucoma
• Von Willebrand’s disease – a blood condition that affects clotting

To minimize the risk of buying a dog with health issues, ask the breeder for proof of health testing on both the parents.

Possible Health Testing includes:

• Hip certifications from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals,
• OFA heart clearance
• Certification from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation that the eyes are healthy
• An OFA elbow clearance for standard Goldendoodles,
• An OFA knee clearance for small or medium-size Goldendoodles
• A DNA test for progressive retinal atrophy

For more information, see the Ribbon Requirements set by the Goldendoodle Association of North America

16. How long do Mini Goldendoodles live?

Mini Goldendoodles typically have a lifespan of around 12 to 15 years. This range can vary depending on various factors including genetics, overall health, diet, and the level of care they receive.

Being a crossbreed, Mini Goldendoodles benefit from the phenomenon of “hybrid vigor,” where mixed-breed dogs often have fewer health problems and longer lifespans than their purebred counterparts. However, they can still inherit health issues common to their parent breeds, such as hip dysplasia, eye disorders, and heart conditions.

Proper care, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, routine veterinary check-ups, and preventive healthcare, plays a crucial role in ensuring a long and healthy life for a Mini Goldendoodle. Maintaining a healthy weight is also important, as obesity can lead to a host of health problems and potentially shorten their lifespan.

17. Where can I find a Miniature Goldendoodle?

There are a few options when it comes to finding a Miniature Goldendoodle:

Reputable Breeders: Start by researching reputable breeders who specialize in Miniature Goldendoodles. Look for breeders who prioritize the health, temperament, and well-being of their dogs. They should be transparent about their breeding practices, health screenings for genetic conditions, and offer support for new owners. Websites of breed-specific clubs and registries can be good resources to find such breeders.

Rescue Organizations and Shelters: Consider adopting from rescue organizations or shelters. While specific Miniature Goldendoodle rescues are rare, many general and breed-specific rescues occasionally have Goldendoodles. Adoption is a great option to provide a loving home to a dog in need.

18. How much does a Mini Goldendoodle Puppy Cost?

The cost of an 8-week-old Mini Golden doodle ranges from $500 all the way up to $12,000. How much you pay for a mini will depend on where you get them. On the lower end of the cost spectrum your puppy will most likely come from a puppy mill.

To learn more about the cost of a Goldendoodle mini and what you get in each price range, check out our post on What does a Goldendoodle Cost?

19. What are the differences between a Standard Goldendoodle and a Mini?

The primary differences between a Standard Goldendoodle and a Mini Goldendoodle are size, temperament, and sometimes, activity level. Here’s a closer look at these differences:

1. Size: Standard Goldendoodles are larger, typically 50-90 pounds and over 20 inches tall, while Minis are smaller, weighing 15-35 pounds and standing 13-20 inches tall.
2. Temperament: While both Standard and Mini Goldendoodles generally share a friendly, intelligent, and affectionate nature, the smaller Mini Goldendoodles can sometimes be more energetic and playful, reflecting the temperament of the Miniature or Toy Poodle. Standard Goldendoodles may exhibit a slightly calmer demeanor, akin to the Golden Retriever.
3. Energy Level: Mini Goldendoodles tend to be more energetic and playful, needing more frequent exercise, while Standard Goldendoodles are generally a bit calmer.
4. Space Requirements: Minis are better suited for smaller living spaces like apartments, whereas Standards may thrive better in homes with more space.

Some breeders are also breeding medium sized doodles that fill in the size gap between the mini and the standard, but this is still not a common size for a Goldendoodle.

So, is the Mini Goldendoodle the perfect dog?

While they have many great traits, they are not a low maintenance dog if you factor in their grooming, exercise and social needs. But if you are looking for a friendly, affectionate, active dog that you can go places with, the mini might be the perfect dog for you.

Is the Goldendoodle the right dog for you? Join us to find out why the Goldendoodle is not for everyone. 

Bringing Home a Mini Goldendoodle

Once you decide you want a Mini Goldendoodle, you should start thinking about what you need for when you bring your puppy home. Puppies require many things, like a leash and collar, food bowls and toys.

One of the things you might not think about is where your puppy will go to the bathroom. Having an established place to train your puppy to go outside will make potty training easier. To learn more, check out our posts on Potty Training a Puppy: Made Easy and Outdoor Dog Potty Area Guide.

Miniature Goldendoodle Resources

• Goldendoodle Association of North America (GANA)
• Doodles Part 1 – Amy Lane: The Goldendoodle Association of America
• Animal Genetics – Hair Shedding Genes
• Pet allergy – From the Mayo Clinic
• Breed review by Embrace; Goldendoodles
• What is Patellar Luxation?
• How smart is your dog? – WebMD
• Backyard Breeders Trying to Make Money by Breeding “Designer Dogs”; Dogster.com