15 facts you need to know about smart, cuddly mini Goldendoodles (2024)

Smart, cuddly Mini-Goldendoodles are a designer breed that mixes Golden Retrievers and Miniature Poodles. They have become a popular choice for active families.

Whether you own a small Goldendoodle or are considering getting one, it’s only natural to want to learn more about this small dog that makes a great companion.

In this article, we’ll go over the top 15 Mini-Goldendoodle facts.

Mini-Goldendoodle facts

• Poodles rank second on the list of 138 most intelligent dog breeds. Since the poodle parent breed is brilliant, this Doodle breed is also smart.
• The Mini-Goldendoodle has several nicknames. Its name combines the Golden Retriever parent name with some form of the word poodle. The dog’s nicknames are Groodle, Golden Poos, or Goldie Poos.
• There’s an even smaller version of the Mini-Goldendoodle. The “Micro Goldendoodle” can grow up to 12 inches in height and weigh between 5 and 10 pounds. It’s a combination of a golden retriever and a toy poodle. The typical mini stands up to 24 inches tall and weighs 15 to 40 pounds.
• The dogs are perfect for people dealing with allergies! You’re probably wondering, “How does a dog reduce allergic reactions?” These dogs have curly coats and don’t shed as much as other breeds with wavy or straight hair, making smaller dogs ideal for allergy sufferers. Another term to describe the Mini-Goldendoodle is hypoallergenic.
• A survey of 370 Goldendoodle owners shows that 85% reported that their dog is non-shedding, while 10% said it’s easy to groom. Due to their curly hair, these dogs require minimal grooming. They need occasional brushing to reduce mats and tangles. Some of the most popular non-shedding generations are F1B mini-Goldendoodles.

Happy, social dogs

• Mini-Goldendoodles are social dogs. If you’re thinking about getting a puppy but worry about whether it will be a good fit with your children or other family pets, stop worrying. These dogs love attention and get along with just about anyone.
• Dogs are considered non-shedding but still shed to some degree. No dog breed is 100% non-shedding. Although doodles are considered non-shedding, they won’t shed as much as other dogs.
• Due to their combined affection and intelligence, mini Goldendoodles often serve as therapy dogs. These dogs comfort and help people during disasters and in hospitals. However, they’re too small to be considered guide dogs.
• Like Goldendoodle puppies, mini Goldendoodle puppies are highly energetic but calm down once they’re between 12 and 18 months old. While they’re transitioning into an adult, expect occasional irrational behaviors during this time.
• This breed suffers from separation anxiety when left alone. Mini Goldendoodles are social and have a high energy level, which means they love affection and attention. If owners leave their Mini Goldendoodle puppy alone, their dog will likely experience separation anxiety.

Popular Poodle mixes

• The Mini-Goldendoodle is one of many Poodle mixes. When a Poodle is mixed with another dog breed, people describe these as “Doodles.” Popular doodle dog breeds include Labradoodles (Labrador Retriever-Poodle mix), Bernedoodle(Bernese Mountain Dog-Poodle mix), Cavapoo(Cavalier King Charles Spaniel-Poodle mix), co*ckapoos (co*cker Spaniels mixed with poodles, Shih-Poos (a Shih Tzu-poodle mix), and Maltipoos (Maltese-Poodle mix).
• This dog breed didn’t exist until the 1990s when it first appeared in Australia and North America.
• The breed has several other sizes. There are Tiny Goldendoodles and Standard Goldendoodles. You can guess how they get their names—Tiny Poodle, Mini-Poodle, and Standard Poodle.
• The dogs come in several colors, usually shades of brown—popular coat colors: brown, apricot, red, cream, black, or parti. If you want a Doodle with a multi-color coat, weigh the differences between Goldendoodles vs. Bernedoodles.
• Mini-Goldendoodles are great for smaller living spaces. You don’t need a house with a giant backyard to care for these dogs adequately. If you live in a condo or an apartment, get a mini and walk them frequently!

Mini-Goldendoodle history and health issues

Mini Goldendoodles are a crossbreed between a Golden Retriever and a Miniature Poodle.

They were first bred in the United States in the 1990s to create a low-shedding, hypoallergenic family pet.

Although the exact history and origin of the breed are not well-documented, the dogs have gained popularity due to their friendly nature and adorable appearance.

Many owners are happy about raising this breed because of its affection and intelligence.

Bringing home this mixed breed might seem like getting home more responsibilities, but you’re also bringing home joy and happiness.

If you have children and other family pets at home, your Mini-Goldendoodle will get along well with them because they love attention and socializing. They are great family dogs, eager to please, and easy to train.

Mini-Goldendoodles are generally robust and healthy. However, they can be prone to specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, and progressive retinal atrophy.

To ensure the well-being of your Mini-Goldendoodle, consult with a reputable breeder and schedule regular veterinary check-ups.

Grooming needs

Mini-Goldendoodles have specific grooming needs. Due to their wavy or curly coat, regular brushing is crucial to prevent mats and tangles.

A slicker brush or a metal comb is vital when grooming to remove loose hair and prevent matting effectively.

Bathing should be done as needed, typically every 4-6 weeks, using a mild dog shampoo to keep their coat clean and healthy.

Trimming their nails, cleaning their ears, and brushing their teeth regularly is essential for maintaining overall hygiene.

Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks is recommended to keep their coats in good condition and ensure they receive proper care and attention.

Mini-Goldendoodles also require regular grooming around the eyes, ears, and sanitary areas to prevent irritation and infection.

In addition to grooming, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and plenty of affection are essential to keeping your Mini-Goldendoodle happy and healthy.

Exercise requirements

Mini-Goldendoodles are energetic and active dogs, requiring regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being.

A daily brisk walk, playtime in a securely fenced yard, or engaging in interactive games such as fetch or agility training can help meet their exercise needs.

Incorporating physical and mental stimulation is essential to prevent boredom and ensure a well-balanced and happy Mini-Goldendoodle.

Training challenges

Training a Mini-Goldendoodle can present challenges. Due to their high energy levels, Mini-Goldendoodles may have difficulty focusing during training sessions.

Additionally, they can exhibit some stubbornness, which may require patience and consistency from the trainer.

Socialization and potty training can also present challenges, but proper techniques and positive reinforcement can overcome these training challenges.

Do research first

Before adopting any popular dog breed, do research first. Getting a dog is a lifelong commitment, so choose one that suits your needs, energy, and resources.

Congratulations on a new chapter of your life. For current owners, we hope this list of facts taught you new things about your companion.

Looking for a Mini-Goldendoodle? Check your local shelter or find a reputable breeder.

Garrett Yamasaki is an avid animal lover who takes care of two family pets: an adopted cat and a Goldendoodle dog. In his free time, he volunteers for the Humane Society of Silicon Valley, fostering pets and helping train them before adoption. Garrett enjoys writing about pets, so he started two blogs: We Love Doodles and Miauland.

Puppy training 101: 10 tips to prepare your dog for success