Miniature Goldendoodle

The Miniature Goldendoodle will require a bit of grooming. You’ll need to brush them at least two to three times a week. You may also want to visit a professional groomer every two to three months to tidy up their coat. Although this breed does shed an average amount, the reason you need to brush them so regularly is because their coast can easily become matted.  

Mini Goldendoodles aren’t 100% hypoallergenic — no breed of dog ever is — but its Poodle heritage means its coat can be more allergy-friendly than many other types. 

This dog can have sensitive skin and so you should only give them a bath when it’s necessary, using a mild dog shampoo. You’ll need to check and clean their ears on a regular basis to remove any dirt and their teeth will need brushing. They may also need their nails clipped if they are getting too long.   

Your Mini Goldendoodle will require a daily walk, during which they will love socializing with other dogs and people. They love to play in water and so will appreciate any opportunity to go swimming. 

They can live in apartments, but bear in mind that daily exercise will be even more important if the dog doesn’t have easy access to outdoor space.

Mini Goldendoodle health risks 

Mini Goldendoodles are typically a healthy breed. But, of course, there are a few health conditions you need to be aware of that can be inherited from either the Poodle or the Golden Retriever. These include:

• Patellar Luxation 
• Von Willebrand's Disease 
• Hypothyroidism 
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) 
• Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat

There is also a chance of bone/joint problems and allergies — although these are only minor concerns.  

It’s always better to be prepared for potential health issues. Does your pet insurance cover these conditions? Browse and compare top pet insurance providers to ensure you have the best cover for your Mini Goldendoodle. 

Patellar Luxation 

Patellar Luxation is common in both the Golden Retriever and Poodle, which is why there’s a chance Mini Goldendoodles can get this too. The condition occurs when the kneecap is dislocated from the knee joint. It can be present at birth but isn’t likely to be noticed until a dog is around six weeks old. It can also develop later in life. Surgery is likely to be required. 

Von Willebrand's Disease 

Von Willebrand's Disease is likely to come from the Golden Retriever side of the breed. It’s an inherited bleeding disorder. Signs of this include prolonged bleeding after surgery, a spontaneous hemorrhage and excessive bleeding from small wounds. Unfortunately, there is no cure but it can be managed.

Hypothyroidism 

Hypothyroidism is due to an underactive thyroid. It affects all parts of the body so there are quite a few symptoms to look out for, including behavior issues. This is why it can often be mistaken for other conditions. It can be treated but there is no cure. 

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) 

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a hereditary condition that affects both eyes and will eventually result in total blindness. The dog will lose their night vision first followed by their day vision. The deterioration will be gradual so you may not notice at first.  

Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat

Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV),or Bloat, can be life threatening — your dog would need to be seen by a vet right away as it can progress very quickly. It means the stomach has dilated and potentially even rotated. This is more common in older dogs. Symptoms to look out for include a bloated abdomen, retching, a fast heart rate and breathing rapidly.

Feeding a Mini Goldendoodle — what’s the best diet?

Mini Goldendoodles may be small in size but they’re very active dogs, which is why they require their food to include a high-quality protein source. 

Your puppy should be fed three to four times a day, while an adult Mini Goldendoodle can just be fed once or twice a day. 

Treats are ideal to use when training your pup, but remember to take this into account when serving up their food. You don’t want to overfeed them. 

You want your Mini Goldendoodle to have the best possible diet, don’t you? It’s important that they enjoy the taste of it but it also has to be beneficial to their health. Check out our friends over at Dog Food Advisor for advice including the best dog food for Goldendoodles.