Mini Goldendoodle: Comprehensive Guide

Nothing is prettier than a baby animal, and a Mini Goldendoodle is the epitome of adorable charm with its tiny size and fluffy, irresistibly cute outlook. I got one for myself a year ago. Since then, life has been no less than a treat.

Now since you are here, either you are a Goldendoodle lover or also thinking of adopting one. Right? Well, starting from its introduction to the comparison, breed, size, weight, care, health concerns, etc–this blog post has almost everything you need to know about a Goldendoodle. 

Currently, this breed has taken Instagram and TikTok by storm. Sounds quite obvious that it is going to improve your social and virtual status as well. But being in the ocean of information, it is pretty difficult to find a reputable breeder/seller to find the best option for yourself.

But there are so many things that you need to know before getting started. Keep on reading so that you can reach a better decision to adopt one or not. 

What is a Mini Goldendoodle?

A Mini Goldendoodle is a crossbreed dog. You can get a Mini Goldendoodle by mating a Golden Retriever with a Poodle. Since both these breeds have very positive traits, the Goldendoodle was developed to possess the combination of both. 

Although AKC has not accepted it as a proper dog breed, it is now being adopted and retried by the masses because of its friendly nature and several other positive traits. 

They are becoming extremely popular these days as a family pet. Kids love them because of their intelligence, versatility, and affection. 

Differences Between Mini, Micro, Miniature, and Toy Goldendoodles

Goldendoodles come in different sizes. Many times, the terms, like micro, mini, and toy are used alternatively but there is a clear difference between them. 

Difference between a Mini and a Micro Mini Goldendoodle

Although the term “Micro Mini” is not a standard size category recognized by breed organizations, it is widely used to refer to the smallest size of a Goldendoodle. The Micro Goldendoodle also refers to the same dog. Mini Goldendoodle refers to a size greater than Micro Goldendoodle.

When choosing a Goldendoodle, it’s a crucial matter to communicate with the breeder to understand the size expectations and other characteristics of the individual dog you are interested in, regardless of the specific terms used.

People often seek out Micro Goldendoodles when they want smaller dogs without compromising on personality or charm.

What is a Miniature Goldendoodles?

Miniature Goldendoodles are mid-size Goldendoodles. They are typically bred using a combination of a Miniature Poodle and a Golden Retriever. 

Generally, their weight is around 15 to 30 points and the height ranges between 13 to 20 inches at the shoulder. 

What is a Toy Goldendoodle?

As the name suggests, the term “Toy” is used to refer to the smallest size category. They are developed by breeding a Toy Poodle and a Golden Retriever. 

Generally, a Toy Goldendoodle weighs between 10 to 20 pounds and their height can range from 10 to 15 inches at the shoulder.

Here is a brief comparison of all the categories of Goldendoodles in terms of size, weight, breed composition, and suitability. 

Characteristics of a Mini Goldendoodle

Temperament and Behavior

Generally, Mini Goldendoodles are recognized for their gentle and calm behavior with others. They are not aggressive at all. They exhibit a strong desire to satisfy their owners, displaying loyalty, sociability, and a delightful playfulness. 

Since both poodles and golden retrievers are acknowledged for their intelligence, Mini Goldendoodles inherit this characteristic. This also makes it an easy dog to train. 

Although some individuals erroneously perceive mini Goldendoodles as aggressive when they nip or chew during their teething phase, these behaviors are, in fact, a natural and integral part of their developmental process.

Intelligence and Trainability

Due to their sharp minds, Goldendoodles are often quick learners, making them relatively easy to train. This adaptability and receptiveness to instruction make them suitable for various training activities, including obedience training, agility, and even complex tricks.

It’s important to note the high energy levels of Goldendoodles. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them content. This can be considered as one of the cons of adopting a Goldendoodle. 

Adaptability to Different Living Situations

Whether in urban apartments or spacious suburban homes, Goldendoodles tend to adjust well to their environment. Their flexible nature allows them to thrive in different living situations, provided they receive the necessary care, attention, and exercise. 

Additionally, their sociable and friendly disposition makes them adaptable to diverse family dynamics and lifestyles. However, it’s important to ensure they receive proper training, socialization, and regular physical activity to support their overall well-being in any living setting.

It is advised to socialize your Goldendoodle. Take it with you everywhere. Else it may behave differently. This is one of the reasons that introverts i.e. people loving social solitude should not adopt a Goldendoodle. 

Interaction with Children and Families

The gentle nature and friendly attitude of Goldendoodles make them well-suited for interaction with kids, forming strong bonds, and fostering a positive environment within the household.

Most importantly, getting a Goldendoodle is a pretty easy way to teach your children about important life skills. Encouraging both young and older kids to take care of their little friends would help them understand the importance of nurturing, care, and healthcare. 

Not only that it add much to their knowledge, it teaches them to be disciplined. For example, if the time for eating, exercising, and walking are fixed for your Goldendoodles, the children will align their activities accordingly.

Moreover, there are several different tasks related to your puppy that can be assigned to kids of different ages. Younger kids can help in cleaning up while the older ones can feed them at the appropriate time. 

Another important aspect is that this bond helps your children respect pets and other living things on the planet. 

The best part of all this is that your children are always safe as Goldendoodle would not do any harm to them as they always love to socialize. They’d always love to curl up on the couch with them to watch cartoons on the TV and would also run around the yard to get the ball.

Common Concerns and Misconceptions

Are Mini Goldendoodles Good House Dogs?

You don’t need to worry if you have a very small house or an apartment. Goldendoodles would live in flats at any height or size. Because of their small size, they can adjust to almost any place. It’s just that there must be someone around them all the time at the house as they are prone to anxiety. 

Goldendoodles are known for their adaptive nature in various living environments. The non-aggressive nature of Goldendoodles could not make them an outside dog. That is why they should be kept within the house to roam around with the owner. 

Are Mini Goldendoodles Good Guard Dogs?

Goldendoodles do not have natural guarding instincts. If you are looking for a breed to protect your property, German Shepherds or Rottweilers could be a better choice. One of the reasons for this setback is that both of their parents i.e. Poodle and Golden retrievers are not considered traditional guard dogs. 

Surprisingly, if Goldendoodle come across a stranger, they are more likely to make a friendship rather than attacking them. Moreover, they do not bark a lot. That is why they are not terrifying but become more cute when they do so.

But one aspect that could be helpful for you to protect yourself is their sensitivity towards surroundings. Goldendoodles have a very alert mind. They are very aware of what is around them. They may not bark but will anticipate any danger. 

Are Mini Goldendoodles Protective of Their Owners?

A Goldendoodle should not be adopted to protect yourself from danger. They can be a good guide for visually impaired people to roam around a park. They can only record their protest by barking at the elements they don’t like. But eventually, they cannot guarantee any protection for their owners. 

Whether they can be trained to guard your house, the answer is yes but to a very small extent. They can display protective behavior by standing between the danger and the owner. They would bark but would hardly be of any use. The owners often command their Goldendoodles using commands like “watch”, “alert” etc. 

Are Mini Goldendoodles Good Family Dogs?

Because of the soft and cuddly nature of Goldendoodles, they’d always seek your attention. Love is what they eat and love is what they drink as well. A small gesture of appreciation and love charges their emotions. 

Not only they are a good companion for your kids but will also love to listen to cult-classic songs with your grandparents on FM Radio. They love playing games and in some cases, they are good spectators as well and they appreciate you for your triumph. 

If you want to upsurge the love quotient of your family, Goldendoodle is your dog. It would be a great entertainer and an ideal family pet. If you already have another pet at your home, it would be a loyal friend with that as well. 

Choosing a Mini Goldendoodle

Factors to Consider When Getting a Mini Goldendoodle

So what factors to know about Mini Goldendoodles before adoption? There are so many things to consider and most of those are related to your personal choice. There is no right or wrong approach when choosing a Goldendoodle but here is the checklist of 13 minimum aspects that you are ready to face or should be aware of:

1. Reputable Breeders:

Research and choose a breeder with a positive reputation. Ensure the breeder adheres to ethical breeding practices.

2. Goldendoodle Breed Standard:

Have you familiarized yourself with the official breed standard? Confirm that your breeder follows these standards.

3. Generations:

Understand the generational classification (F1, F1B, etc.). Consider how the generation affects traits and characteristics.

4. Coat Colors:

Learn about acceptable coat colors for Mini Goldendoodles. Confirm the breeder provides accurate coat color information.

5. Coat Types:

Recognize the variations in coat types (straight, wavy, curly). Choose a coat type that aligns with your preference and lifestyle.

6. Size:

Confirm the expected size and weight of your Mini Goldendoodle. Ensure the size aligns with your living space and preferences. 

7. Suitable Homes:

Assess your living situation and ensure it’s suitable for a Mini Goldendoodle.

Consider factors like space, yard size, and activity levels.

8. Enhanced Health:

Have you made yourself aware of the common breed-related issues? Request health clearances for common breed-related issues. Choose a breeder committed to the overall health of their dogs.

9. Staying Healthy:

Be informed, that taking care of your Goldendoodle could cost you a little bit more than any conventional dog. You will have to schedule regular veterinary check-ups. Be ready to follow a balanced diet and monitor weight for overall well-being.

10. Exercise:

Plan for daily exercise to meet their energy needs. Incorporate both mental and physical activities.

11. Crating your Mini Goldendoodle:

Introduce crate training early for comfort and safety. Use the crate as a positive space for relaxation.

12. Non-shedding:

Be aware that while they are low-shedding, they may still require grooming. You will have to brush regularly to prevent matting and maintain a healthy coat.

13. Grooming:

You will have to establish a grooming routine based on coat type. Include bathing, brushing, and regular ear and dental care.

Understanding Regret and Addressing Concerns

I have often seen people saying, “I regret getting a Goldendoodle because of the aspects like associated costs”. 

Well, the concern is valid to some extent. In some cases, people spend on their Mini Goldendoodles way more than they spend on their children. But the joy and companionship that it brings, supersedes the costs. 

Just be informed that owning a dog is a liability and you must be aware of the associated risks. 

Growth and Development

If you are going to own a mini Goldendoodle, you should be aware of the pace at which it grows because the cuteness of being a small pup fades away with time. 

Size Progression from Puppy to Adult

Typically, a Mini Goldendoodle reaches the size of an adult within a year which is around 12 inches in height. Moreover, it weighs around 8 pounds. The following table is provided as a reference to help you buy an appropriate Goldendoodle from a breeder. 

These are not standard statistics as I have stated based on my personal experience. Micro Goldendoodles can vary in size, even within the category. You should consult a reputable breeder to know the expected size of your furry friend before deciding.

Most importantly, you should avoid puppy mills, choose responsible sources, and ensure a healthy and happy companion for years to come.

Factors Influencing the Growth of Mini Goldendoodles

The Growth of Mini Goldendoodle is influenced by genetics inherited from Golden Retrievers and Poodles, along with factors like nutrition, healthcare, exercise, environment, age, genetic testing, feeding schedule, socialization, and spaying/neutering. 

A balanced diet, regular vet check-ups, proper exercise, and responsible breeding practices contribute to their overall well-being and development.

Since all the Goldendoodles are different, they are differently affected by different aspects mentioned above. 

Full-grown sizes and Weights

A standard Goldendoodle usually weighs from 50 to 75 pounds, with some exceeding this range.

Medium Goldendoodles typically weigh between 40 and 50 pounds.

The largest Goldendoodle that I have observed so far was around 110 lbs. 

Mini Goldendoodle Generations (F1, F1B, F2, F2B, F2BB, F3)

So what are these F1, F1b Goldendoodles types all over the internet? Pretty confusing right?

Well here is the thing. These are not the types but breeds and variations of Goldendoodles. Here is a brief explanation for all of these. 

F1 (First Generation Goldendoodle)

An F1 Goldendoodle is a first-generation crossbreed between a purebred Poodle and a purebred Golden Retriever. The resulting puppies are typically 50% Poodle and 50% Golden Retriever. F1 Goldendoodles may have a variety of coat types and may shed to varying degrees.

F1b (First Generation Backcross Goldendoodle)

An F1b Goldendoodle is a cross between an F1 Goldendoodle and a purebred Poodle. This breeding is done to increase the Poodle genetics in the offspring, usually to produce dogs with a curlier coat that sheds less. F1b Goldendoodles are 75% Poodle and 25% Golden Retriever.

F1bb (First Generation Backcross to Backcross Goldendoodle)

An F1bb Goldendoodle is a cross between an F1b Goldendoodle and a purebred Poodle. This generation has an even higher percentage of Poodle genetics (87.5% Poodle and 12.5% Golden Retriever) and is often bred for a non-shedding, hypoallergenic coat.

F2 (Second Generation Goldendoodle)

An F2 Goldendoodle is a cross between two F1 Goldendoodles. This generation maintains a 50-50 split of Poodle and Golden Retriever genetics.

Multigen or Higher Generations:

When breeders continue to cross Goldendoodles with other Goldendoodles or Poodles, they may use terms like Multigen or higher generation to describe dogs with multiple generations of Goldendoodle ancestry. These dogs may have more consistent traits and can be desirable for those seeking specific characteristics.

Care and Maintenance

Out of many aspects affecting your adoption decision, care, and maintenance should be the most vital. This is because it indirectly affects the associated costs. Let’s dig into this matter a little more. 

Exercise Requirements for Mini Goldendoodles

Although Goldendoodles are energetic, they require regular exercise. A regular exercise session of 1 to 2 hours keeps them mentally and physically stimulated.

If you are a busy person, this can be taken as a con or a setback for owning a Goldendoodle. 

Some of the activities that you can take your little friend to are jogging, brisk walking, playing fetch, etc. This contributes to the mental stimulation of the fellow. It is also recommended to buy some puzzle toys and conduct some interactive play sessions that would make it more intelligent. 

It is significant to note in this context that the exercise and training needs of Goldendoodles vary with their age. You should consult your vet to get customized routines and tailored advice for better well-being. 

Even if your Goldendoodle is very small, controlled playtime and gentle exercise is vital to keep it from minor injuries. You can keep on increasing its exercise time till it reaches its full growth in 12 months. 

Grooming Needs and Shedding Tendencies

I’ve been often asked if a Goldendoodle needs too much grooming. The concern is pretty obvious because of its consistent good looks. The answer to this question is not one size fits all. 

First of all, you need to under the the variety of coat types, the Goldendoodle comes with. They need regular brushing to prevent matting. You need to make the coat look clean and tangle-free. It is recommended to do a brushing session at least 2 times a week. If you need any professional grooming, you can take it to the groomer every 6th week. This would maintain its coat’s length and overall a good collective appearance. 

I would highly recommend brushing the teeth of your dog twice a day using a dedicated Goldendoodle toothpaste and brush. If you find this a little demanding, do it at least once a day or do it whenever you get the chance. 

Their coat is normally low-shedding and hypoallergenic. This feature makes Goldendoodles a good choice for people with allergies. But it does not necessarily mean that it will not cause any allergic reaction.

To get an idea, I would recommend spending some time with a friend’s Goldendoodle or just borrowing it for some days. 

Health Considerations and Common Issues

Generally, Goldendoodles are considered healthy dogs. But like any other breed, they are sensitive to a few health issues explained below:

Hip Dysplasia: It is a genetic condition in which the hip joint doesn’t develop properly. This potentially leads to arthritis.

Elbow Dysplasia: Very similar to hip dysplasia, this condition affects the elbow joint which results in excessive pain and lameness.

Ear Infections: Goldendoodles with floppy ears are often prone to ear infections. You should regularly go to a vet for cleaning and check-ups to prevent this.

Allergies: Some Goldendoodles may have allergies, often manifesting as skin issues or digestive problems.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): It is a genetic eye disorder that can lead to blindness.

Hypothyroidism: It is an underactive thyroid gland that can affect the dog’s metabolism and energy levels.

Heart Issues: It is a bit surprising but certain heart conditions may be inherited from the parents or can develop over time.

A very straightforward solution to most of the mentioned health concerns is to take care of the dog’s diet and regular sessions of exercise. You should take your Goldendoodle to the vet immediately after observing any discomfort. Always buy your Goldendoodle from a responsible and reputable breeder who does all the genetic testing and takes care of all of these health concerns. 

Training and Socialization

Training Tips for Mini Goldendoodles

Generally, three basic obedience training methods can result in positive results and an improved relationship with your Goldendoodle. 

1. Clicker training
2. Rewards of food
3. Rewards of toys

Clicker Training

Certified dog trainers often use this technique to increase the emotional element of obedience within the instinct of Goldendoodles. They hold a small device that creates clicking sounds.

Whenever you need to appreciate your Goldendoodles for properly “sitting” or being “alert”, the click sound is made before rewarding the dog with food or any other prize. Gradually, the dog starts associating the click sound with the gesture of appreciation.

Food Rewards

You always need to know what motivates your pet to do anything. Food is generally a very convincing reward for dogs. Luckily, there is a very good food drive within Goldendoodles as well. Offering high-value food items like baby carrots, cold cuts, hot dog bits, and pieces of cheese would motivate your Goldendoodle to abide by the commands. 

Rewards of Toys

Many certified dog trainers use dedicated Goldendoodle toys to motivate them. They are often given a choice between a treat and a toy. This helps judge the personality of the dog. Using a specific synthetic scent on the toy will also motivate the dog to search for its toy as well.

Some trainers also use this technique for working dogs to search for convicts and drugs. But Goldendoodle may not be a good choice for such jobs. 

Socializing Mini Goldendoodles with Other Pets

Goldendoodles are not only friendly with humans but with other animals as well. They can even get along with cats. You can feel free to adopt one if you already have one. Surprisingly, they are good with cats as well. 

It would not be a bad idea to adopt two dogs at a time to deal with their innate issue of separation anxiety, an aspect we’d explore a little more in the next section. 

Addressing Behavioral Challenges

So far, we have discussed most of the positive aspects of Mini Goldendoodles. But there are some behavioral considerations that you should also know before filling the breeder’s pocket. 

Separation Anxiety

It’s an extremely common behavioral concern often reported by Goldendoodle owners. The distress caused by a Goldendoodle not only bothers the owner but the fellow dogs as well.

It refers to a certain condition in which the Goldendoodle becomes anxious and exhibits distressing behavior when kept separate from its owner for a certain time. Since this breed is highly sociable and loves to interact, keeping it always from humans breaks its behavioral patterns.

Some of the evident signs and symptoms in such cases are: 

In such cases, there are several management strategies and behavioral modification techniques that can be used to alleviate this issue. 

Behavioral Management Strategies

You need to be very careful to switch the mood of your Goldendoodles back to the previous state. For this, a multi-faceted approach is needed. Here is what you can do. 

Calming Aids: Consider pheromone diffusers or anxiety wraps to reduce anxiety levels.

Desensitization: Gradually expose your Goldendoodle to alone time, starting short and increasing duration.

Counter-conditioning: Associate positive experiences by offering treats or toys exclusively during alone time.

Enrichment: Provide mental and physical stimulation with interactive toys, puzzles, and chew toys.

Routine: Establish a consistent daily schedule with exercise, feeding, and designated alone time.

Crate Training: Introduce crate training slowly, making it a secure and comfortable space.

Professional Help: If none of the above helps, consult a dog trainer or behaviorist for severe or persistent separation anxiety.

Key Takeaways

Mini Goldendoodles make fantastic additions to dog-loving families. However, an important aspect to consider is the potential health issues such as allergies and hip dysplasia. Most importantly, the matter of separation anxiety must be considered. It’s an ideal pet for introverts who do not like roaming around people but dogs. 

While searching for a Mini Goldendoodle puppy, it is essential to choose a responsible and well-reputed breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of dogs on any other aspect of their business.

Proper grooming for Goldendoodles is essential which includes activities involving brushing, coat maintenance, and trimming around the eyes, ears, and paws.

Positive reinforcement training techniques are effective for teaching basic commands, ensuring your mini doodle becomes a well-behaved and lovable companion.

If you find yourself a responsible dog owner, consider adding the essence of joy to your family with a mini Goldendoodle. It would be an awesome family member loved by your kids.