The mini golden retriever is a smaller version of the beloved Golden Retriever. They are usually a mix between a Golden Retriever and smaller breeds like the Cocker Spaniel or Miniature Poodle.
Mini Golden Retrievers are becoming a favorite among dog lovers who want the Golden personality without the large size. Or those who live in smaller homes or apartments.
Major kennel organizations do not recognize a miniature version of the Golden Retriever breed.
What Makes A Golden Retriever “Mini”?
Dwarfism
Some breeders also attempt to create smaller dogs by selectively breeding for dwarfism. It is a genetic condition in which stunted limb growth takes place. This is not recommended and is unethical. Dogs with dwarfism can suffer from joint pain, spinal issues and shortened lifespans.
Runts Of The Litter
There is another less ethical method to repeatedly breed the smallest dogs (runts) from Golden Retriever litters to create a line of smaller Goldens.
This might result in a smaller dog but it’s unpredictable and can increase the risk of genetic defects.
The most responsible breeder is the one who uses the crossbreeding method to maintain the health, structure and temperament of the dog while reducing its size too.
History Of Mini Golden Retriever
One of the most well known breeders associated with the development of the Mini Golden Retriever in the early 2000s is Kathy Burgess. Her program has focused on creating smaller Goldens by combining Golden Retrievers with Poodles and Cocker Spaniels.
Height And Weight
The size of a Mini Golden Retriever depends on the mix of its parent breeds. But on average:
- Height: 14 to 20 inches.
- Weight: 20 to 45 pounds.
Coat Colors Of Mini Golden Retriever
Mini Golden Retrievers have coats that resemble their full sized counterparts. Like shades of gold, pale cream, deep golden and reddish gold. Mini Goldens have a straighter and curly coat.
If we talk about their appearance, they have soft expressive eyes, friendly rounded face, feathery tails that wave and an iconic “smile”.
Temperament Of A Mini Golden Retriever
Mini Golden Retrievers are the same warm hearted and loyal nature that made the standard Golden Retriever one of the most beloved dog breeds in the world. They are friendly with their families. Many enjoy cuddling and staying close to their people.
They can stay well with other animals too like dogs and cats. And they love games like fetch, tug of war and outdoor play.
But they do not respond well to harsh training and loud environments. And the Mini Goldens with more Poodle DNA may be a bit more alert and sensitive. While those with Cocker Spaniel influence may be a little stubborn.
Trainability
Mini Golden Retrievers are highly intelligent and inherit the trainability of both Golden Retrievers and Poodles (if in the mix). They enjoy training sessions of learning commands.
Also they can do scent work and therapy dog roles due to their focus and sensitivity. They will also like puzzle toys, as it can keep their minds sharp and prevent boredom based behaviors like excessive barking and chewing.
Common Health Concerns In Mini Golden Retrievers
Hip Dysplasia
It is a common joint issue in Golden Retrievers and Poodles. Which can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis later in life.
Elbow Dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia is similar to hip dysplasia, this affects the front limbs and can limit mobility.
Heart Disease
Subvalvular aortic stenosis (SAS) is a heart disease seen in Golden Retrievers. So they may suffer from it.
Ear Infections
They can have chronic ear infections due to floppy ears, if they were not kept clean and dry. Signs of these are odor, redness and frequent head shaking.
Skin Allergies
Mini Goldens may develop sensitivities to food, pollen and grooming products.
Hypothyroidism
Last one is hypothyroidism, it is a hormonal disorder that can affect energy levels and metabolism.
Lifespan
Mini Golden Retrievers have slightly longer lifespans than their standard counterparts. Which is 12 to 16 years due to their smaller size and mixed genetics.
Grooming Of Mini Golden Retrievers
Mini Golden Retrievers have medium to long coats. Mini Goldens with more Golden Retriever genes will shed moderately to heavily during spring and fall. As compared to those with Poodle heritage.
Curlier coats need more consistent grooming. Areas behind the ears, under the legs and around the collar are susceptible to knots. So you have to brush their coats 3 to 4 times a week with a slicker brush. Whether their coat is curly or straight. And if we talk about bathing, once a month is enough with a gentle dog shampoo.
- Teeth Cleaning
2 to 3 times a week to prevent plaque buildup, gum disease and bad breath.
- Nail Trimming
Nails should be trimmed after every 3 to 4 weeks.
- Ear Care
Clean their ears weekly with an ear cleaner approved by the vet. Also keep their ears dry after baths and swimming.
Feeding And Nutrition For Mini Golden Retrievers
Proper nutrition in your Mini Golden Retriever will maintain its energy levels and longevity. It’s important to feed them like a small to medium breed because of their small size, 2 to 3 meals per day.
Food Type Recommendations
- Protein: Like chicken, turkey and salmon.
- Healthy fats: Take Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids from fish oil.
- Complex carbs: Brown rice, oats and sweet potatoes provide slow energy.
- Avoid: Corn.
- Fresh Food: Brands like The Farmer’s Dog and Ollie offer balanced fresh meals delivered to your door.
- Raw Diets: Can work well if carefully balanced but always consult with a vet or canine nutritionist.
Tips
- Stick to a feeding schedule to support digestion and behavior training.
- Use a measuring cup to avoid overfeeding.
- Monitor weight monthly. So you can adjust portions if needed.
- Always provide fresh water.
Price
The price of a mini golden retriever is around $1,500 to $3,500+. Some notable breeders are as follows:
- GoldenQuest Miniature Goldens
- Morning Springs Kennels
