Facts & Origin
Golden Retriever and Miniature Poodle in one
The Miniature Goldendoodle is a purpose-bred designer hybrid breed that is the result of crossing a Golden Ret riever with a Miniature Poodle. The idea behind this cross was born in the 1990s, when an attempt was made to combine the positive, people-oriented nature of the Golden Retriever with the intelligent, low-hairiness Poodle - but in a smaller, more suitable format for everyday use than the standard Goldendoodle.
The aim was to create a dog that combined the gentle nature and family suitability of the Golden with the compact size, intelligence and often allergy-friendly coat structure of the Poodle. The Mini version quickly became popular with families, allergy sufferers and urban owners.
Name synonyms for the Miniature Goldendoodle
In addition to the common name Miniature Goldendoodle, variants such as Mini Goldendoodle, Mini Golden Doodle or occasionally simply Mini Doodle are also in common use. Sometimes it is also mistakenly confused with other smaller Doodle breeds such as the Labradoodle Mini, although these are different crosses.
Criticism of the Miniature Goldendoodle
As with many designer dogs, there are certain criticisms of the Miniature Goldendoodle. One of these concerns the unpredictability of appearance and character, as it is not a standardized breed. Particularly in the first generations (F1), there can be great differences - from a stocky, curly poodle type to a smooth retriever coat, anything is possible. Even the often advertised "hypoallergenic coat" is not guaranteed.
Another point concerns health planning. If no serious health checks are carried out when breeding, hereditary diseases of both parents - such as hip problems or eye diseases - can be passed on unnoticed. There is also criticism that many Mini Goldendoodles are bred en masse and marketed as "perfect family dogs" without paying attention to individual needs or character suitability.
Suitability of the Miniature Goldendoodle
The Miniature Goldendoodle is an extremely friendly, social and adaptable dog that is suitable for many lifestyles if reared and kept well. It loves close contact with its family, usually shows a great willingness to learn and is generally easy to train.
Its moderate size and friendly nature make it interesting for families with children as well as for individuals or older people - provided you are prepared to invest time in grooming, activity and social contact. The Mini Goldendoodle needs attention, exercise and closeness, but in many cases is an ideal everyday companion.
| Alternate Name | Mini Goldendoodle, Mini Doodle |
| Origin | UK - Germany |
| Life expectancy | 10 - 17 years |
| Care requirements | high-maintenance - low-maintenance |
| Activity level | average |
| FCI group | not recognised |
| AKC group | not recognised |
| KC group | not recognised |
More Miniature Poodle mixes
Attitude, character and temperament of the breed
Possible character traits of the Miniature Goldendoodle
The Miniature Goldendoodle is considered to be lively, friendly and very people-oriented. The combination of Poodle and Golden Retriever often results in an intelligent, good-natured and easy-to-handle dog that seeks close family ties.
Many Mini Goldendoodles are playful, social and adaptable. They enjoy being active together, love to learn and enjoy the attention of their humans. Especially with consistent, loving training, they develop into balanced and obedient everyday companions. Some dogs can be more sensitive, especially if the Poodle character dominates - this means that clear but gentle communication is important.
Character
Usage
Health and breeding information
Possible diseases of the Miniature Goldendoodle
Despite the often more robust health of mixed breeds, the Miniature Goldendoodle can have hereditary diseases from both parents. In the Golden Retriever, these include hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases and heart problems. In the Poodle, eye diseases, epilepsy and patellar luxation are also possible risks.
Another point concerns the coat: if it becomes very thick and curly, skin problems or matting can develop if grooming is neglected. Responsible breeding with veterinary care, good coat care and regular exercise are therefore important prerequisites for a long, healthy dog life.
This is what a Miniature Goldendoodle can look like
The Miniature Goldendoodle is a small to medium-sized dog, usually between 35 and 45 cm high at the shoulder and weighing around 7 to 16 kilograms. Its appearance can vary, as the mixture of both breeds results in very different coat and body shapes.
Typical is a soft, wavy to curly coat that sheds little, but must be brushed regularly and professionally trimmed if necessary. There are many color variations - from cream, gold, apricot and brown to black or multi-colored mixtures.
The Mini Goldendoodle's expression is often open, friendly and attentive, with large dark eyes that give the face a gentle, inquisitive look. Overall, he appears charming, playful and always a little "smiley".
| Fur length | medium |
| Fur | wavy - curly |
| Ear shape | Triangle - Floppy Ear |
| Tail | fanned out - lang |
| Anatomy | strong, dainty |
| Size ♀ | 28 - 56 cm |
| Weight ♀ | 3 - 32 kg |
| Size ♂ | 28 - 61 cm |
| Weight ♂ | 3 - 34 kg |
| Suitable For | Beginner, Blind people, Children, Seniors, suitable for allergy sufferers, Beginner, Children, Seniors |
Known Diseases
Hip dysplasia (HD)
Hip dysplasia (HD) is a genetic condition in dogs where the hip joint is not shaped properly. This leads to pain, stiffness and restricted movement.
Elbow dysplasia (ED)
Elbow joint dysplasia is a chronic disease complex of the elbow joint of fast growing dog breeds.
Epilepsy
Definition: Dog has epilepsy if, for example, at least two epileptic seizures occur more than 24 hours apart.
Cataract
Cataracts are still one of the most common causes of blindness, even in dogs.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a slowly progressive death of the retina in dogs.
Eye diseases
Often occur with allergies and intolerances.
Patellar luxation
Patellar luxation is the term used to describe a displacement of the kneecap, which is one of the most common causes of lameness in dogs.
Ureteral ectopy
Ureteral ectopy (also known as ureteral ectopia) is an inherited condition where the ureter (known as the ureter) does not end in the bladder as usual due to a misalignment.
FAQ
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Yes, a Golden Retriever and Miniature Poodle mix can be left alone for short periods of time. However, they need plenty of exercise and stimulation when left alone so that they do not become bored or destructive.
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No, Miniature Goldendoodles are not prone to excessive barking. However, like all dogs, they can bark when they are excited, nervous or want to attract attention.
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A Golden Retriever Miniature Poodle mix needs a moderate amount of exercise. They should have daily walks and plenty of opportunity to play and run around in a safe, fenced-in area.
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Yes, Golden Retriever and Toy Poodle mixes are generally good with children. They are known to be patient, gentle and loving, which makes them great family dogs. Of course, however, no dog should be left alone with children unsupervised.
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Yes, Miniature Goldendoodles usually shed.
