If you’re looking for a new puppy to add to your life, you might be researching many different breeds of dogs to see which is the best fit for you.
We’ve covered a lot of helpful info in our articles about Labrador Retrievers and Labradoodles, but here we’re going to answer some of your questions about another common type of dog you might be considering, the Goldendoodle.
Specifically, we’re going to help you learn more about Mini Goldendoodles, which are a very popular cross between a Miniature Poodle and another wonderful dog, the Golden Retriever.
Many people who are thinking about getting a Lab or Labradoodle also consider Goldendoodles, as the breeds have much more in common than you might first realize.
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We’re going to go over some Frequently Asked Questions about Mini Goldendoodles, then expand on some further details to help you get to know them better.
Mini Goldendoodles – FAQ and All You Need to Know
What Are Mini Goldendoodles?
Mini Goldendoodles are a designer mixed breed of dog created by breeding a purebred Miniature Poodle (or Toy Poodle) and a purebred Golden Retriever. They are different from and smaller in size than regular Goldendoodles because they are bred with a Miniature Poodle, rather than a Standard Poodle.
This type of designer dog has grown in popularity because people want dogs with less shedding while still enjoying some great personality features in their dog!
What Are the Different Types of Mini Goldendoodles?
There are several common types you might see breeders refer to in discussing their dogs. The most common ones you’ll hear of are F1, F1b, and F2 Mini Goldendoodles.
F1 Mini Goldendoodle: a dog that is 50% Miniature Poodle and 50% Golden Retriever (a first-generation Mini Goldendoodle).
F1b Mini Goldendoodle: a dog that is 75% Poodle and 25% Golden Retriever (created by breeding an F1 Goldendoodle with a dog that is 100% Miniature Poodle). This dog will possess more Poodle traits.
F2 Mini Goldendoodle: a dog that is 50% Miniature Poodle and 50% Golden Retriever, but is considered a second-generation dog (created by breeding two F1 first-generation Mini Goldendoodles together). This type can have a lot of variance in coat, shedding, and traits, so you might not see this type bred as often.
You might also see other types of Mini Goldendoodles and some referred to as multi-generation, but these are the most common types.
Do Mini Goldendoodles Shed?
Yes, it’s possible that your Mini Goldendoodle will shed. However, it’s likely they will shed dramatically less than a purebred Golden Retriever or purebred Labrador Retriever. The amount of shedding you will see in your dog depends somewhat on the type of Mini Goldendoodle you get.
If you want a lower-shedding dog, you might want to consider one of the types with a higher Poodle percentage, such as the F1b Mini Goldendoodle, which is 75% Poodle. Golden Retrievers as purebreds are known to be extremely high shedders, as are Labradors, but Poodles are not. So the higher the Poodle percentage in your dog, the lower the shedding you will likely see.
How Big Do Mini Goldendoodles Get?
Mini Goldendoodles usually grow to be 13-20 inches in height. The weight of Your Mini Goldendoodle depends on what generation you get and the traits that your particular breeder was breeding for.
F1 Mini Goldendoodles may grow to be about 35-50 lbs.
F1b Mini Goldendoodles are smaller and may grow to be 15-35 lbs.
F2 Mini Goldendoodles can vary more and may be between both these other types, about 30-50 lbs.
How Much Do Mini Goldendoodle Puppies Cost?
The average cost of a Mini Goldendoodle puppy is about $1500-$3000. Because these types of dogs are considered “designer,” you might pay more than you would for other breeds of dogs. It will vary depending on the breeder you choose, the reputation of that breeder, and what traits they are breeding for.
We have a guide to help you know what to look for in a breeder and how to find the best one, no matter what breed of dog you’re searching for, which you can read here.
Are Mini Goldendoodles Good With Children?
Both Poodles and Golden Retrievers are known for being great dogs for families and children, so a Mini Goldendoodle will likely be a wonderful family dog!
As with any other type of dog, good socialization and training are important, and it’s critical that your children learn appropriate behavior around dogs to keep them (and your dog) safe.
Are Mini Goldendoodles Hypoallergenic?
There are no truly guaranteed hypoallergenic dogs, but there are some types of dogs that might be less likely to aggravate your allergies. We explain more in our guide to help you understand the truth behind hypoallergenic dogs.
If you’re suffering from dog allergies but really want to get a Mini Goldendoodle, you might consider getting an F1b, because they will possess more of the Poodle traits (and less of the Golden Retriever). You should talk to your breeder and see what traits they are breeding for and what characteristics their dogs usually possess.
Now that we’ve covered some of the most frequently asked questions about Mini Goldendoodles, let’s go over some areas in more detail that you might still need more information about.
Temperament and Breed Traits of Mini Goldendoodles
Since Mini Goldendoodles are bred between two amazing dogs, the Miniature Poodle and the Golden Retriever, they exhibit some of the best qualities of each breed.
Golden Retrievers are large-breed dogs known for excellent water skills, and love of retrieving. They are usually gentle-natured, and very playful. Like their friend the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retrievers are active and energetic dogs.
Poodles are one of the most intelligent breeds of dogs and have a curly coat that doesn’t usually shed much. They have been a popular breed of dog for years for people with allergies. Poodles were also bred as hunting dogs and are great performers in the water.
Your Mini Goldendoodle will likely be a playful, energetic, and fun dog who’s just a little smaller in size. They are usually friendly, great with families, and have moderate activity requirements.
A Mini Goldendoodle will not likely need as much strenuous exercise or activity as a purebred Golden Retriever or Labrador Retriever would need.
For many people trying to get a dog while living in smaller homes or apartments, Mini Goldendoodles can be a great choice to manage a dog in a smaller living space!
Your Mini Goldendoodle probably won’t be a very aggressive or territorial dog. They will be more likely to succeed as a family dog that cuddles on the sofa rather than as a watchdog or guard dog.
Health Issues You Might See with Mini Goldendoodles
Just like their purebred counterparts, mixed breed or “designer dogs” can inherit wonderful traits or also some possible health issues. That’s why it’s important to choose your breeder very carefully! We can’t stress enough how choosing the right breeder can make all the difference in having a good outcome.
Poodles are sometimes prone to certain illnesses, such as epilepsy, adrenal disease, and thyroid problems.
Golden Retrievers have many of the same health issues we see in Labradors, such as:
- cancer
- joint issues (such as hip dysplasia)
- thyroid problems
- allergies
- eye problems
You will want to make sure that you research your breeder carefully, and that you have discussed any health issues with them. A great breeder should be able to provide you with health certification about your dog’s hips, eyes, and possibly other conditions that they have tested for in advance before breeding.
As we discuss in our article on the explosive popularity of breeds like the French Bulldog, breeder research remains the critically important first step in the process of locating a great dog.
Once you’ve selected the right breeder, answered your health questions, and have chosen your dog, be sure to check out our guide for the 7 Things To Do Before You Bring Your New Puppy Home!
In addition to considering a Mini Goldendoodle, many people who love both Golden Retrievers and Labradors will also research the Goldador breed, which is another designer dog created by breeding a Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever together.
You can read more about Goldadors in our article here, to help decide if they might be a good fit for you when making the decision for your next puppy.
Annual Costs of Owning a Mini Goldendoodle
After the cost of purchasing a Mini Goldendoodle, or adopting a rescue, you will have typical costs of health and care of your dog throughout the first year and beyond.
Food for your dog will be around $20-$40 a month, depending on what kind of food you select, and how much your dog eats due to their size. Read more about what to look for in a great pet food in our guide to picking the best food for your dog.
Pet supplies, such as crates, leashes, toys, and other household items will cost you about $200-$500 the first year, with subsequent years being cheaper, although you certainly can spend a lot more than this if you want to!
Vet bills and health care costs will probably be the largest chunk of your budget when it comes to the life of your dog.
The first year you will have many vet appointments for your new puppy, and will probably spend $500-$1000 or more on shots and wellness checks, including heartworm prevention medication and flea/tick medication, if your vet recommends it.
If you are doing spay or neuter surgery or microchipping your dog, you will have additional expenses as well. We’ve paid (for Labradors) spay/neuter surgery costs between $250-$1100, depending on where we’ve lived. Microchipping can also be done for about $40-$50.
Don’t forget dog boarding or daycare fees if you are working or traveling and can’t take your dog with you. These will vary depending on where you live, but they can be anywhere from $20-$80 a day per dog.
Grooming and Care of a Mini Goldendoodle
Mini Goldendoodles require regular, frequent brushing and sometimes grooming visits. Some people choose to shave their coats down a little bit in hot weather or give them a “summer haircut.” This is optional depending on where you live, and you might not want to shave very much off, because their coat gives them some protection.
You will want to brush your dog to keep their coat looking lovely. Depending on what type of Mini Goldendoodle you get, your dog’s coat might be wavy, thick, curly, and denser. The grooming amounts will vary a bit depending on the nature of your dog’s individual coat.
You might find keeping your Goldendoodle on a regular schedule with grooming appointments makes it easier. You can take your dog to for regular baths, cuts and nail trims to a groomer if you prefer.
Keep them clean and on a regular schedule of baths. You can also do baths at home and leave the heavier grooming to the pros!
Summary – Mini Goldendoodles
Is the Mini Goldendoodle the right breed of dog for you? Mini Goldendoodles are a dog with a great personality in a smaller size body. If you’re looking for a playful, adorable, and energetic family dog with possibly less shedding, and a slightly smaller size, the Mini Goldendoodle might be the perfect choice for you.
Make sure you do thorough research on any breeder you select, and be aware of the possible health issues and costs you might need to consider ahead of time.
Still deciding on what breed of dog fits you best? Check out our guides to Labradoodles and the Labrador Retriever breed to help make your decision easier!
