What is a Mini Goldendoodle?: Breed Profile and Dog Adoption

A Description of the Mini Goldendoodle, and Guide to Adopting This Wonderful Dog

Wanting to adopt your next dog? A Goldendoodle, or Mini Goldendoodle may be your perfect canine companion. And, although this is a relatively new breed--there are already hundreds of them available for adoption. So, what exactly is a Goldendoodle? Quite simply, a Goldendoodle is a cross between a Poodle and a Golden Retriever. Because Poodles can be found in three sizes, Goldendoodles can also be found in Standard size and Miniature. In cases where a Toy Poodle, rather than a Miniature--sired the litter--extra small Miniatures can also be found.

History of the Breed

Just as the Labradoodle originated in Australia, many claim that so too did the Goldendoodle. The truth may be impossible to discern, as in all probability--they have been bred simultaneously on both continents.

Also known as Goldie Poos, Golden Poos, and Groodles--they are the result of the "poo," or "doodle" trend. Begun in the mid 1990's, this trend--to breed a variety of purebred dogs to a Poodle--still continues today. The original intent was to seek a more hypoallergenic version of some of our favorite breeds, as well as adding a dash of the Poodle's much-admired intelligence.

Physical Description

Goldendoodles vary in appearance. Despite the name, they are far from being an exclusively "golden" dog. They come in a variety of colors, including black, silver, white and parti--just to name a few.

Coat type can also vary, ranging from straight, wavy to curly. In most cases, hair will grow to be between four and seven inches long. Hair will be shorter on the face.

Because it is a hybrid, the level of shedding is also difficult to predict (particularly in first-generation hybrids). There does appear to be less shedding with dogs classified as a F1B (A Goldendoodle crossed with a Poodle), and F2 dogs (a Goldendoodle crossed with a Goldendoodle). Dogs categorized as F1B can even be recommended to families with moderate to severe allergies.

A Standard Goldendoodle will stand between 20" and 29" inches, and weigh between 45 and 90 pounds--with males being on the larger side.