Mini Goldendoodle laying down in brown bowl

Mini Goldendoodle: The Ultimate Dog

The Mini Goldendoodle is one of the most sought-after designer dog breeds, loved for its affectionate nature, intelligence, and hypoallergenic qualities. Combining the best traits of the Golden Retriever and the Poodle, Mini Goldendoodles make the perfect companion for families, singles, and seniors alike. At Fox Creek Farm Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles, we pride ourselves on raising healthy, well-socialized Mini Goldendoodles that fit seamlessly into any home. In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about Mini Goldendoodles and why they truly are the ultimate dog.

What is a Mini Goldendoodle?

Mini Goldendoodle History

The Mini Goldendoodle is a crossbreed between a Golden Retriever and a Miniature Poodle. The breed originated in 2001 when Fox Creek Farm created the first F1 mini Goldendoodle litter.  This achievement was part of a growing trend to create hypoallergenic family pets that combine the best qualities of both parent breeds. Fox Creek Farm Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles focused on creating smaller versions of the popular Goldendoodle to better suit apartment living and smaller households. The Mini Goldendoodle quickly rose in popularity thanks to its friendly demeanor and manageable size.

Fox Creek Farm Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles has been at the forefront of breeding ethically raised Mini Goldendoodles, ensuring that each puppy is healthy, happy, and ready to become a beloved family member.

Mini Goldendoodle Generations

mini Golden Doodle puppy laying down wrapped in a blanket with a crochet boneMini Goldendoodles come in various generations, which refer to the breeding history and the mix of Golden Retriever and Poodle genetics in each dog.

  • F1 Mini Goldendoodle: A first-generation cross between a purebred Golden Retriever and a purebred Miniature Poodle. These dogs have a 50/50 genetic split and often have a wavy coat.
  • F1B Mini Goldendoodle: A backcross between an F1 Mini Goldendoodle and a Miniature Poodle. These dogs are 75% Poodle, making them more likely to have hypoallergenic coats. However 50% of F1B’s will still have mild or  moderate shedding.
  • Multigen Mini Goldendoodle: A third or deeper-generation cross between two Mini Goldendoodles. These dogs may have more genetic variation in coat type and shedding levels. Properly paired Goldendoodles can have entire litters of low to non-shedding coats.

At Fox Creek Farm Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles, we specialize in multigen Mini Goldendoodles to ensure families get the best of both worlds — a friendly, social dog with a low to non-shedding coat.

Mini Goldendoodle Appearance and Size

What Does a Mini Goldendoodle Look Like?

Mini Goldendoodles are known for their adorable, teddy bear-like appearance. Their coat can vary from curly to wavy to straight, depending on the generation and the specific genetic mix. Most Mini Goldendoodles have soft, fluffy coats that make them look like plush toys come to life.

Common coat colors include:

One of the key traits that makes Mini Goldendoodles popular is their hypoallergenic coat, which is less likely to trigger allergies compared to other breeds. However, coat types can vary, so it’s essential to work with a knowledgeable breeder like Fox Creek Farm Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles to find the right fit for your family.

Mini Goldendoodle Size

Mini Goldendoodles are a smaller version of the standard Goldendoodle, making them ideal for families who want all the love and personality of a Goldendoodle in a more compact size. On average, Mini Goldendoodles stand between 14 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 26 to 35 pounds, depending on the specific cross.

Compared to Standard Goldendoodles, Mini Goldendoodles are easier to manage in smaller living spaces, including apartments and townhomes. At Fox Creek Farms Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles, we prioritize breeding Mini Goldendoodles that meet the ideal size and health standards for lifelong companionship.

Mini Goldendoodle Temperament and Personality

Mini Goldendoodle puppy laying down on his back with his belly upWhy Mini Goldendoodles Make the Ultimate Family Dog

Mini Goldendoodles are known for their gentle, loving nature, making them perfect for families of all shapes and sizes. They inherit the friendly, loyal traits of the Golden Retriever and the intelligence of the Poodle, creating a well-rounded dog that’s eager to please.

Key personality traits of Mini Goldendoodles include:

  • Affectionate: They love to cuddle and be close to their humans.
  • Sociable: Mini Goldendoodles are friendly with other pets and strangers.
  • Adaptable: They thrive in both large homes and small apartments.

Their playful yet gentle demeanor makes them excellent companions for children. Additionally, their social nature helps them get along well with other pets in the household.

Intelligence and Trainability

One of the standout traits of Mini Goldendoodles is their intelligence. Thanks to their Poodle lineage, they are quick learners and highly trainable. This makes them an excellent choice for first-time dog owners or families looking for a dog that’s easy to teach.

Training tips for Mini Goldendoodles:

  • Use positive reinforcement methods.
  • Start training early to establish good behavior.
  • Be consistent with commands and rewards.

At Fox Creek Farm Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles, we provide guidance on training your Mini Goldendoodle to ensure a smooth transition into your home.

Health and Lifespan of Mini Goldendoodles

Common Health Issues

Like any dog breed, Mini Goldendoodles may be prone to certain health issues. However, responsible breeding practices can significantly reduce the risk of inherited conditions.

Common health issues to watch for include:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
  • Allergies
  • Ear infections

Fox Creek Farm Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles conducts thorough health testing on all parent dogs to ensure that each puppy has the best start in life. We are committed to breeding healthy dogs with reduced risks of genetic health problems.

Lifespan and Longevity

The average lifespan of a Mini Goldendoodle is between 10 to 15 years. To ensure a long, healthy life, it’s essential to provide proper care, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine vet check-ups.

Tips for extending your Mini Goldendoodle’s lifespan:

At Fox Creek Farm Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles, we prioritize health and longevity in our breeding practices to ensure that your Mini Goldendoodle will be a cherished family member for years to come.

Grooming and Maintenance

Two mini Goldendoodle puppies wrapped in blanketsCoat Care

Proper grooming is essential to keep your Mini Goldendoodle looking and feeling their best. Depending on their coat type, Mini Goldendoodles may require more or less frequent grooming. Curly-coated Goldendoodles need regular brushing to prevent matting, while wavy-coated ones may need slightly less maintenance.

Grooming tips for Mini Goldendoodles:

  • Brush their coat at least 2-3 times a week.
  • Schedule professional grooming every 6-8 weeks.
  • Use high-quality grooming tools to keep their coat in top condition.

At Fox Creek Farm Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles, we provide grooming advice and recommendations to new puppy owners to ensure their Goldendoodle stays healthy and happy. Feel free to check out our blog page for more information. 

Exercise and Activity Requirements

Mini Goldendoodles are an active breed that requires regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation are essential for keeping your dog engaged.

Fun activities for Mini Goldendoodles include:

Meeting their exercise needs helps prevent boredom and destructive behavior, ensuring a well-rounded and happy dog.

Mini Goldendoodle puppy

Finding the Right Mini Goldendoodle Breeder

Why Choosing an Ethical Breeder Matters

Finding a reputable breeder is crucial when adopting a Mini Goldendoodle. Ethical breeders prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs, ensuring that puppies are raised in a loving, clean environment.

Key traits of an ethical breeder:

  • Health testing parent dogs
  • Providing a clean and safe environment
  • Raised utilizing Early Neurological Stimulation and Puppy Culture protocol
  • Offering lifetime support to puppy owners

Fox Creek Farm Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles is committed to ethical breeding practices, ensuring each puppy is healthy, happy, and ready for a loving home.

Questions to Ask a Breeder

When looking for a Mini Goldendoodle breeder, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure you’re getting a healthy, well-socialized puppy.

Fox Creek Farm Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles welcomes questions from prospective puppy owners and is always happy to provide transparency and support. Unfortunately we do not allow visits to our puppies because this would mean exposing them to unfamiliar and unhealthy germs. Breeders with this practice are putting the health of their puppies at risk. FaceTime and Zoom visits can be accommodated to allow families to see where puppies are raised as well as the daily interactions that help socialize puppies.

The Cost of a Mini Goldendoodle

Initial Costs

Purchasing a Mini Goldendoodle is an investment, and it’s important to understand the costs involved. Prices can vary depending on the breeder, location, and the puppy’s lineage.

What’s typically included in the purchase price:

At Fox Creek Farm Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles, we ensure that our puppies come with everything they need to start their new lives in your home.

Ongoing Costs

Owning a Mini Goldendoodle also comes with ongoing costs, including food, grooming, and healthcare.

Estimated annual expenses:

  • High-quality dog food
  • Grooming
  • Routine vet visits

Mini Goldendoodles come with similar ongoing costs to any others dogs. With the special care that Fox Creek Farm Mini Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles provides our Mini Goldendoodles will be a well worthy addition to the family.

Mini Goldendoodle running in the snow

Mini Goldendoodle FAQs

What is the average size of a Mini Goldendoodle?
The average size of a Mini Goldendoodle ranges from 14 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 26 to 35 pounds, depending on the specific cross.

Are Mini Goldendoodles hypoallergenic?
Yes, Mini Goldendoodles are considered hypoallergenic due to their Poodle lineage, which means they shed less and are less likely to trigger allergies. However, if shedding is a concern for you, working with a breeder that creates Mini Goldendoodles that inherit two furnishing genes is critical.

How much exercise does a Mini Goldendoodle need?
Mini Goldendoodles need at least 30 to 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can include walks, playtime, or mental stimulation through puzzle toys and training.

What’s the best way to find a reputable Mini Goldendoodle breeder?
The best way to find a reputable breeder is to look for one who prioritizes health testing, provides a clean and loving environment for their dogs, and offers lifetime support. Fox Creek Farm Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles is a trusted, ethical breeder.

What is the lifespan of a Mini Goldendoodle?
The average lifespan of a Mini Goldendoodle is between 10 to 15 years. Proper care, including a healthy diet and regular vet visits, can help extend their life.

How often should I groom my Mini Goldendoodle?
Mini Goldendoodles should be groomed every 6 to 8 weeks by a professional groomer, with regular brushing at home 2 to 3 times a week to prevent matting.

Why are Mini Goldendoodles great for families?
Mini Goldendoodles are great for families due to their friendly, affectionate nature and adaptability. They are social, easy to train, and get along well with children and other pets.