Mini Goldendoodle vs Goldendoodle: Differences Explained (With Pictures)

By Nicole Cosgrove

Last updated: Aug 20 2023

Introduction

The Goldendoodle and Mini Goldendoodle are two beloved mixed-breed dogs that are a combination of a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. While both breeds are popular and outstanding in their own right, there are some key differences between them that may influence which one is the right fit for you and your family. This article aims to explain these differences and help you make an informed decision.

Visual Differences

Mini Goldendoodle:

• Average height (adult): 16–19 inches
• Average weight (adult): 20-30 pounds
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Exercise: 30+ minutes per day
• Grooming needs: Moderate
• Family-friendly: Yes
• Other pet-friendly: Often
• Trainability: Intelligent, loyal, eager to please

Goldendoodle:

• Average height (adult): 19–26 inches
• Average weight (adult): 40–85 pounds
• Lifespan: 10-13 years
• Exercise: 1+ hours a day
• Grooming needs: Moderate
• Family-friendly: Yes
• Other pet-friendly: Often
• Trainability: Intelligent, eager to please, loyal

Mini Goldendoodle Overview

Personality / Temperament

Mini Goldendoodles are delightful, cheerful, quirky, and lovable dogs. They make excellent lapdogs and are great for families looking for a playful and affectionate pet. They are gentle, making them suitable for households with children, although supervision is recommended due to their small and fragile size. Mini Goldendoodles are intelligent and loyal, displaying unconditional love towards their owners. They are also well-suited for apartment living and make excellent travel companions.

Training

Mini Goldendoodles are intelligent and eager-to-please, which makes training relatively easy. However, their intelligence can also lead to stubbornness or boredom. Early training and establishing a consistent routine are important to ensure successful training for these dogs.

Exercise

While Mini Goldendoodles require less exercise compared to their larger counterparts, they still need daily exercise and mental stimulation. A walk or a visit to the park is recommended, especially for those living in apartments. Indoor exercise such as playing with toys or fetching a ball can also keep these dogs happy and healthy. It's important not to overdo it as Mini Goldendoodles can tire quickly due to their small size.

Health & Care

The Mini Goldendoodle has a lifespan of 12-15 years, and like all dogs, they are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia and Von Willebrand's Disease. Providing a high-quality, vet-recommended diet is crucial for their health. Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and preventative medications are essential. Grooming-wise, regular brushing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing are necessary to maintain their overall well-being.

Suitable For

Mini Goldendoodles are perfect for families living in smaller spaces like apartments or condos. They are suitable for all types of owners, including families with children, first-time dog owners, singles, and seniors. They are excellent lapdogs and can even be trained to be therapy dogs.

Goldendoodle Overview

Personality / Temperament

Goldendoodles are friendly, sociable, playful, affectionate, and highly intelligent. They make great companions for families and individuals alike. Due to their obedience, devotion, and trainability, they are often chosen as service dogs or for competition purposes. Furthermore, their loud bark and robust physique make them excellent guard dogs.

Training

Like Mini Goldendoodles, Goldendoodles are intelligent and quick learners. They are eager to learn and respond well to positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise. Early socialization and training are important for their overall development.

Exercise

Goldendoodles have good endurance and agility, making them ideal for owners who enjoy outdoor activities. They require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy, and they need more physical activity compared to Mini Goldendoodles. Activities such as running, hiking, long walks, interactive play, and swimming are recommended.

Health & Care

Goldendoodles have a lifespan of 10-13 years, slightly shorter than Mini Goldendoodles, which is common among larger breeds. While they are generally healthy, they are prone to certain health issues such as patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, and Von Willebrand's disease. Similar to Mini Goldendoodles, they require a high-quality diet, regular vet check-ups, grooming, and preventative medications.

Suitable For

Goldendoodles are more suitable for active owners with larger living spaces and yards. However, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they receive daily exercise and play sessions. Goldendoodles are great companions for families and singles. They are suitable for all types of owners and can excel as therapy and service dogs.

Which Breed Is Right for You?

Both Mini Goldendoodles and Goldendoodles are wonderful companions. The choice between the two depends on your preferences and living arrangements. Mini Goldendoodles generally have a longer lifespan and are better suited as lapdogs and emotional companions. They are great for apartment living and require less food compared to Goldendoodles. On the other hand, Goldendoodles are more suitable for active owners who enjoy outdoor activities and have larger living spaces. They require more exercise, food, and accessories due to their size.

Conclusion

Whether you choose a Mini Goldendoodle or a Goldendoodle, both breeds will bring joy and companionship to your life. Consider factors such as size, exercise needs, lifespan, and living arrangements when making your decision. Remember that each dog is unique, and it's important to provide love, care, and attention to ensure a happy and fulfilled life for your chosen furry friend.

Sources:

• https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/goldendoodle
• https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/dog-breeds/goldendoodle

Featured Image Credit:

• (T) Reddog3, Shutterstock
• (B) Rena Schild, Shutterstock

Written by Nicole Cosgrove

Lead Pet Expert & Pet-ditor in Chief Nicole is the proud mom of 3 rescue fur babies, Baby, a Burmese cat; Rosa, a New Zealand Huntaway; and Mac, a Lab/Mastiff. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes (and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship) and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts' knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.

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