Miniature Goldendoodle

by Angela Vuckovic

Published: April 28th, 2023

About Miniature Goldendoodle

Weight

15-35 lbs

Lifespan

10-15 years

Group

Not applicable

Best Suited For

Families with children, apartment dwellers, single owners, active seniors

Comparable Breeds

Goldendoodle, Poodle, Labradoodle

Height

13-20 inches

Danielle W Press/Shutterstock

Miniature Goldendoodle Basics

The Miniature Goldendoodle is an exciting and relatively new designer dog breed that combines the best traits of two popular breeds: the Golden Retriever and the Miniature Poodle. While this might not sound like a particularly good combination, the result of this unusual cross is simply perfect, both inside and out. As a result, these doggos are becoming increasingly popular among people who are looking for a pet that is friendly, intelligent, and easy to train.

The Miniature Goldendoodle has a lot to offer to every potential owner. From their goofy antics to the unwavering loyalty and love they have for their owners, these gorgeous dogs are truly a joy to be around. Whether you are a solo owner or want a family pet that will get along with kids, this dog breed will find its place by your side. Thanks to their adaptability, they can thrive in different settings, from urban city environments and apartment living to houses with a backyard where they can play and explore. In this article, we'll take an in-depth look at everything you need to know about the Miniature Goldendoodle, including their history, appearance, temperament, health, care requirements, and more.

Origin

Like most modern designer dog breeds, the Miniature Goldendoodle is a relative newcomer to the scene – a crossbreed that originated in the United States in the late 1990s. Breeders aimed to create a smaller version of the popular Goldendoodle, which is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Standard Poodle. Naturally, the Miniature Goldendoodle was developed by crossing a Golden Retriever with a Miniature Poodle, which resulted in a dog that is smaller in size but still retains the friendly and intelligent nature of the Golden Retriever and the hypoallergenic, low-shedding coat of the Poodle.

While the Miniature Goldendoodle doesn’t have a long history to speak of, we need only look to their parentage to realize the breed’s many qualities. Both the Poodle and the Golden Retriever are popular, well-known dog breeds with a hefty history behind them. As the name suggests, the Golden Retriever was originally bred for retrieving shot game and fowl, and has its roots in Scotland, in the 19th century. Since then, it has become a popular and very friendly pet dog breed. The Poodle, similarly, has origins in hunting. It was bred as a water dog, used to flush out and retrieve waterfowl. It has its roots in Germany, and possibly dates to the Middle Ages.

Pedigree

Kathy images/Shutterstock

Being a relatively new crossbreed, the Miniature Goldendoodle doesn’t really have a pedigree. Breeders are never 100% certain about the way a new litter would turn out – some puppies might look more like one parent and others could favor the second breed in the mix. Still, there are a few pedigree features that can be determined with certainty, when it comes to the Miniature Goldendoodle. This is a small to medium-sized dog that typically weighs between 15 and 35 pounds and stands between 13 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder. Their coat is slightly wavy or curly and can be a variety of colors, including cream, gold, red, black, and chocolate.

Food/Diet

Food is a very important aspect of the well-being of every dog. In fact, it is the cornerstone of good health. The Miniature Goldendoodle will require a healthy and balanced diet to stay in top shape. High-quality dog food that is appropriate for their size, age, and activity level is recommended. Still, meals should be given in moderation and appropriate servings, in order to avoid overfeeding. Dogs are voracious, and when given a chance, they’ll eat more than is needed. This can turn into obesity, and with that comes a string of problems.

Of course, a healthy diet is all about the nutrients. And one of the most essential nutrients for dogs is protein. It is particularly important for Miniature Goldendoodles as they are an energetic, lean, and active breed. Good sources of protein include high-quality meat, fish, and poultry – these should be the first ingredient on the list. It is important to note that dogs are carnivores and require animal-based protein to stay healthy.

In addition to protein, Miniature Goldendoodles also require a balanced diet that includes plenty of complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Carbs provide them with energy, while fats are essential for the absorption of certain vitamins and the maintenance of healthy skin and coat. Vitamins and minerals are necessary for the proper functioning of the body's systems, including the immune system, bones, and teeth.

Training

If you want to be a proud owner of an obedient, fun, and sociable dog, then you should certainly not overlook training. Luckily, Miniature Goldendoodles are intelligent and highly trainable dogs, and with consistent training, they can learn a variety of commands and behaviors, and become good-natured and obedient pets. Of course, it is always best to start training your Miniature Goldendoodle as early as possible, ideally when they are still puppies. And although puppies have a short attention span, they will soak up all new commands eagerly. So, keep those training sessions short and positive, and you will quickly reap good results.

You should keep in mind that harsh methods will never work. Miniature Goldendoodles respond well to positive reinforcement, which means you should always offer praise or treats for a job well done. To ensure good progress, reward your dog immediately when they exhibit a desired behavior, such as sitting or staying, in order to reinforce it.

You should also stay patient and consistent in your training. Don’t do it half-heartedly, risking meager results. Consistency is key when training a dog. Use the same commands and reward system every time you train, and avoid confusing your dog by changing things up. Dogs love routine and repetitions. Also, avoid getting frustrated or angry with your dog, and take breaks when you or your dog becomes tired or frustrated. Arm yourself with plenty of patience, and you’ll have no issues achieving good results.

Weight

Despite being called miniature, these dogs are not entirely tiny. The Miniature Goldendoodle is a small to medium-sized breed and can weigh between 15 and 35 pounds on average. Likewise, their height averagely reaches between 13 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder.

Temperament/Behavior

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Both Poodles and Retrievers are loved, far and wide, thanks to their fun and affectionate personalities. The Miniature Goldendoodle inherits plenty of those loveable traits and is known for being a friendly and social dog that loves spending time with their family. They are intelligent and easy to train, which makes them great candidates for obedience training and other dog sports. They are also active and energetic and require regular exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy.

Miniature Goldendoodles are great with children and other animals and make excellent family pets. They have a gentle and affectionate nature and love to cuddle with their owners. They are also highly adaptable and can be comfortable living in a variety of environments, from small apartments to large houses with yards. All this makes them wonderful pets that can be suited for a wide variety of owners. Of course, they will thrive the most in a family setting, where they can be showered with all the fun and affection they can get. In turn, you will get a pet that loves to form strong bonds, entertain, and also to cuddle, and spend some quality time on the sofa. All in all, they are dogs with colorful characters and are super easy to love.

Common Health Problems

The Miniature Goldendoodle is generally a healthy breed, with no major problems that could be considered concerning. Alas, no dog breed is exempt from some health issues during their lifetime – there are certain problems that can affect Miniature Goldendoodles which you should be aware of. Many of these are genetic - meaning that they are inherited from the parent breeds. Some of these potential issues include:

Hip dysplasia: This is a common genetic condition that affects many dog breeds, including the Miniature Goldendoodle. It occurs when the hip joint doesn't develop properly, which can lead to arthritis and mobility issues.
Elbow dysplasia: As the name suggests, this issue is similar to hip dysplasia, but affects the elbow joint instead of the hip joint.
Eye problems: Miniature Goldendoodles can be prone to several eye problems, including cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and glaucoma. This is inherited from the Poodle parent breed.
Ear infections: Like many dogs with floppy ears, Miniature Goldendoodles can be prone to ear infections. Regular ear cleaning can help prevent these infections.

In addition to these health issues, Miniature Goldendoodles can also be prone to certain allergies and skin problems. It's important to keep an eye on your dog's skin and coat and to seek veterinary advice if you notice any unusual symptoms. Of course, none of these issues will happen for certain. It is adamant that you take good care of your pet, in every way possible. This includes a good, healthy diet, plenty of exercise and affection, and regular veterinary checkups. With all this ensured, your pet will thrive and be happy.

Life Expectancy

Miniature Goldendoodles typically have a lifespan between 10 and 15 years. This is quite a solid number, considering that the average maximum lifespan for most dog breeds is 15 years. Still, this longevity can vary, depending on genetics and other factors.

Exercise Requirements

Regular exercise is important for every dog. Some are more energetic, while others – not so much. The Miniature Goldendoodle falls somewhere in between but is certainly not a lazy dog. They have plenty of energy and a fun-loving character! As fairly active dogs, Miniature Goldendoodles will require moderate exercise to stay healthy and happy. They should be taken on daily walks or runs, and also need plenty of playtime and mental stimulation. A fenced yard is ideal for the Miniature Goldendoodle to run and play in, but they can also adapt to apartment living as long as they receive enough physical and mental stimulation. Without enough space and a chance to exercise, your pet can develop a string of behavioral issues that can greatly affect their health and well-being.

AKC

Being a designer dog breed, the Miniature Goldendoodle is not recognized by the AKC. They are not considered a purebred type of dog, and as such cannot become a part of that strict registry. There are, however, some registries that are oriented toward designer dogs, crossbreeds, and hybrids, and the Miniature Goldendoodle is found in several of these. Currently, the breed is recognized by the Dog Registry of America, Inc, Goldendoodle Association of North America, and Goldendoodle Registry.

Coat

Proper coat hygiene is a big part of caring for your pet. The coat of the Miniature Goldendoodle isn’t exactly short or smooth, and as such it requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Taking after the Poodle, these dogs generally have fluffy and bushy coats. Brushing at least twice a week is recommended, and they will also need to be professionally groomed every 6 to 8 weeks, or as needed. Luckily, Miniature Goldendoodles don't shed much, which makes them a great choice for people with allergies. Still, there could be a few extra loose hairs during the shedding season, but not as nearly as much as with some other breeds.

Puppies

All puppies are super cute when they first arrive in this world and the Miniature Goldendoodle is no exception. But they are also super fragile and delicate in their early puppyhood. You should avoid large crowds and eager hands during those first few days, but as soon as the fragile period is over, you should begin with an important part of your life – socialization.

With socialization, you will ensure that your dog grows up to be sociable, fun, peaceful, and obedient without any negative behavioral issues. In the long run, this will prove to be very important and you will be glad you put in the effort to ensure early exposure to other animals and strangers. Of course, don’t forget about basic training, either. Potty training, obedience training, leash training, and so on – it’s best to start early to make sure your pet adopts this new knowledge with ease and on time.

Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

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Why is My Dog Vomiting White Foam?

Sometimes, our dogs can exhibit behavior that can cause great panic in any owner. After all, they can’t talk to us and tell when something is hurting them, or when they feel ill, scared, or angry. So they let their bodies do the talking. One of these scary behaviors is vomiting white foam. It can happen all of a sudden, and frighten you to no end. But is it really a reason to panic? And what causes a dog to vomit white foam in the first place? Let’s find out more.Why Do Dogs Vomit White Foam?The reasons for white foam vomiting can be many, and the cause might not be clear to you immediately. What’s even more frustrating, there are several possible causes for this occurrence. In some cases, the reason for the vomiting can be complex, but often enough it is super simple. It could end up being a sensitive tummy irritated by a new brand of food on the menu, or just a passing belly ache that’s nothing to stress over. However, you should always consult with a vet to eliminate any underlying health issues, as there are many conditions whose symptom is vomiting. One of the conditions that manifests as vomiting foam is bilious vomiting, which is caused when a dog's stomach is empty for an extended period. This leads to the production of gastric acid, so the stomach contents may include a foamy, white substance. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day may help prevent this.  Gastritis, or the inflammation of the stomach lining can also cause vomiting. This condition may be triggered by various factors, such as dietary indiscretion, changes in diet, ingesting foreign objects, or infections. The vomit can likewise be white and foamy. The same can happen in the case of gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, which is often caused by infections, dietary changes, or the ingestion of inappropriate or spoiled food. Be careful of the expiration dates and the quality of food you give to your dog, as an innocent mistake can cause a lot of digestive issues for your four-legged bestie. Another possible reason for white foam vomit can be the  ingestion of foreign bodies. Dogs may ingest non-food items that can cause irritation or blockages in the digestive tract, leading to vomiting. If you notice them dry heaving, this could be the reason why. The same goes for the ingestion of  toxic materials. Ingesting toxic substances can lead to white foamy vomiting. Common toxins include certain plants, human foods (like chocolate, xylitol, or onions), and household chemicals.

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How Acupuncture Can Help Cats and Dogs

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Experts often talk about the importance of reading your dog’s body language to reduce fear, stress, and anxiety. But do you sometimes struggle to identify if your dog is really scared or if you’re just reading into a situation? Many common dog behaviors can be misinterpreted – fear or calm, comfort or stress. If this sounds familiar, don’t worry. We are here to help! This post dives deep into the basics of canine communication and body language. We’ll highlight some of the more subtle body language cues, behavioral changes, and vocalization that you should be looking out for. Plus, we’ll look at the most common situations that trigger fear in dogs, why these situations can be frightening, and how to comfort and support your dog moving forward. What’s the ultimate goal? Ensuring you have the information needed to build your dog’s confidence, improve your communication, and help them enjoy a world free from unnecessary fear and anxiety. Dedicate the time and energy today to set your dog up for long-term success (avoiding potential health complications from too much stress). Common Signs of Fear and Anxiety in Dogs Life as a pet parent would be much easier if our pups could speak up and tell us exactly what they think in each situation. Unfortunately, that’s not the reality we live in. Instead, we must learn to pick up on their non-verbal communication to build a strong and trusting relationship with our furry friends. Here are a few ways they may be trying to tell you that they are feeling “off” or nervous: Body Language One of the most important ways our pets communicate their feelings is through their body language. This includes the way they stand, the way they move, how they hold their ears or their tail, and so much more. Some signs will be obvious, while others will be more subtle. Here are some of the more common signs of fear and stress related to body language: Excessive panting YawningShowing teethLip-licking Puckering of the lips Whale eyes (showing the whites of the eyes)Large, dilated pupils Ears backward or pressed forward Tail up and stiff or down tucked between the legsCowering or standing with the body low to the ground Attempting to hide Displacement behaviors (sneezing, itching)Shaking or trembling Submissive urination Behavior Changes In addition to changes in how your dog stands or positions their body, you may notice some behavioral changes. You may find that your dog tries to back away or avoid their trigger. On the other hand, your dog may become reactive towards a trigger by jumping or lunging at it. Both these reactions signify stress or anxiety, highlighting the importance of getting to know your dog as an individual. For example, we have two male dogs in our house. When presented with a trigger, Lucifer will hold his ground while Indiana tends to back away or hide.You may also notice changes in how your dog reacts to objects or activities in their regular life. Many dogs, even those who are highly food-driven, will be reluctant to eat or take treats when stressed. Vocal Cues Finally, while we are focusing mainly on non-verbal communication, there are some vocalizations that could help you recognize that something is wrong. Dogs who are nervous, anxious, or afraid may bark at their trigger. They may also whine to show that they are uncomfortable.

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Don’t you wish your dog could talk to tell you how he feels? After all, it can be tough to figure out if your pet is experiencing discomfort. But if you learn more about your canine companion’s body language, you’ll be able to pick up on the signs your dog is in pain. Below are some of the things to watch out for.

What Is Scent Enrichment for Cats?

Your cat has a powerful sense of smell that she uses to navigate her surroundings and make decisions, so it’s important to consider your kitty when using scented products around the house and maintaining a litter box that doesn’t have offensive odors.In addition to considering the fragrances that can be off-putting to your kitty, you can also enrich your cat’s environment and make her daily life more fun with scent. Below are some tips on how to use scent enrichment to keep your furbaby happy.

Mind-Reading Pet Psychics Are a Burgeoning Business

Pet parents pay big bucks to communicate better with their best buddies.

Is Melatonin Safe For Dogs?

Melatonin is an important hormone, which is naturally produced in the pineal gland of the brain. It has numerous beneficial aspects, such as it can help regulate mood, sleep cycles, and reproduction. However, its production is directly stimulated by darkness, while it is inhibited by light. What does this mean? It means that both dogs and humans will produce melatonin only when it is dark outside. As soon as the dawn arrives with the light of day, melatonin production ceases. This means that many people will supplement melatonin, or use it throughout the day for various reasons. Which brings up the question - is melatonin safe for dogs? Let’s find out. Is Melatonin Safe For Dogs? Melatonin is generally considered extremely safe for dogs, and it is almost always safe to give it to them - when it is used appropriately and under the guidance of a veterinarian. While melatonin is used in humans for the above-mentioned reasons, for dogs it is usually used for treating various skin conditions, anxiety, or sleep disorders. But even with all the positive aspects, it is necessary to first heed the advice of your veterinarian, before giving melatonin to your pet. This is because the proper dosage is important. The dose of melatonin administered depends on your pet’s size, weight, and overall health condition. Generally, veterinarians recommend starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it if necessary. Dosages typically range from 0.5 to 3 milligrams per dog, but this can vary. Mistake the dosage, and you risk a lot of side effects, like digestive upset, lethargy, and changes in mood or behavior.What is more, melatonin might not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions or those taking other medications. Because of this, it is always crucial to seek professional advice before administering any supplements or medications to your pet. Ignoring this can cause a lot of harm.

Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?

Final Thoughts - Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?Excessive barking can be frustrating and, if left unaddressed, can put you, as the owner, in a difficult situation. In some places, this can lead to fines or even eviction due to noise complaints. Unfortunately, the process of training a dog to stop barking isn’t one that is usually solved overnight – but it can be done! While you might have seen it recommended to use an “anti-bark” muzzle to stop your dog’s barking, it is not recommended for anything more than a 10 to 15-minute quick fix. Not only does it not teach your dog not to bark in the future, but the muzzle's design could create a dangerous situation. Instead, start by identifying the cause. Is your dog overly excited? Is there a trigger that makes them feel fearful and stressed? Are they trying to protect you when someone walks onto your property? Knowing the trigger will help you not only stop it but also manage your dog’s barking in the short term. If you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to contact a professional trainer or certified behaviorist to offer guidance and direction. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Half of Americans Believe Pets Steal the Spotlight During Holidays

A survey revealed that nearly half of Americans (43%) think their loved ones are more excited to see their pets on the holidays than they are to see them. This survey involved 2,000 cat and dog owners and was conducted by One Poll on behalf of Nulo. According to results, 32% of surveyed owners admit they are more delighted to see a friend’s or family member’s pet than they are to see them. Surprisingly, 20% of dog owners think their pets love the holiday season more than they do.What’s not so surprising, is that almost half of respondents (48%) do something special for their pet during the happiest time of year. This includes buying custom ornaments or decorations (64%), dressing their pets in holiday clothing or pajamas (60%), getting their pet their own Christmas tree (49%), and stocking (47%).Half of pet owners like to give their four-legged companions extra treats during the holiday season, and 45% admit they dole out more treats to their pets at Christmas than during any other time of the year. In addition to extra treats, more than two-thirds of pets are likely to be treated with a special holiday meal. This survey also found that the majority of pet parents believe that their pets enjoy the hustle and bustle of holidays and are looking forward to the influx of visitors during the holiday season. Begging for attention, welcoming guests, and playing with a new holiday toy are some of the ways owners know that their pets are in the festive mood.Nearly half of responders give their pets gifts for Christmas. Those owners, on average, spend more than $100 on three gifts for their pets.Most owners decide to gift their pet toys (61%), clothes (59%), and treats (56%).Interestingly, this survey also looked at which family members are the most likely to spoil the pet. The results showed that the owner’s brother is the most likely to buy a present for the pet, followed by the owner’s parents. Surprisingly, 36% of grandfathers buy gifts for their four-legged grandchildren, compared to 34% of grandmothers. “Healthy treats and special occasion meals are a great way to involve your dog or cat in fun holiday moments - and can add a nutritional boost as a bonus,” said Heather Mendoza, Nulo’s Director of Research & Development, according to New York Post. It’s great to see that pet owners are offering their pets special meals that mimic their own holiday feasts. The holiday season provides the opportunity for quality time and special experiences with our families, including finding more ways to show love and affection to our furballs, she added.In addition to gifts, more cuddles, and treats, pets are also spoiled more during the holiday season by having their special person at home with them. Nearly half of respondents admit to going on more walks and adventures with their pets during the holidays. Interestingly, 40% of owners report that their pets also get to sleep more.Considering that almost all American pet owners consider their pets a part of the family, it’s no surprise that pets partake in holiday traditions. The majority of owners bring their pets to celebrations at other people’s homes. Pets are also involved in “opening the presents” and even go to meet the Santa. “Results showed that 40% of respondents believe Christmas is their pet’s favorite holiday - far ahead of the second favorite (New Year’s Day) at 19%,” said Mendoza. And if you still haven’t found a perfect gift for your pet, don’t despair! Check out our detailed holiday gift guide for cats and dogs to find the best holiday present for your four-legged companion. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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