Mini Doodle: Breed Information and Health Concerns

The Mini Doodle is like the tiny cousin of the popular Goldendoodle dog breed. Like Goldendoodles, the Mini Doodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. In the case of the Mini Doodle, however, the Poodle parent is either a miniature or Toy Poodle. 

This breed of Doodle is quite new but has already become incredibly popular. This is due to their low-shedding coat, social intelligence, fun and outgoing personality and the fact they are 100% adorable. 

Mini Doodle Appearance

One of the things that makes these cross-bred pups so cool is how varied their appearance can be! Not only can Mini Doodles look different between litters but even puppies within the same litter can look as if they aren’t related.

The coloring of Mini Doodles typically includes rich colors of browns, creams and auburns. Some have small white markings on their chest. Their fur is either wavy or curly and if not groomed regularly, their hair will get very long and can become tangled. Mini Doodles have long, floppy ears which is what helps to make them look like stuffed Teddy Bears. 

Just how tiny are Mini Doodles? They range in size from 13 to 20 inches tall and can weigh anywhere from 15 to 40 pounds. That is quite the range and how big or small your Doodle will be is entirely dependent on the size of his or her parents. 

Mini Doodle Temperment

Mini Doodles are charmers! They can make pretty much anyone fall in love with them with their outgoing and social personalities. If you want a dog that people stop and ask you about when you’re out walking or running errands… if you want a pup that people fawn over and say how adorable he is… the Mini Doodle is for you! (Chick magnet? Check!)

Don’t let their adorable Teddy bear looks fool you, though. These dogs are energetic and active. They are also highly intelligent and curious. This means your adorable little pup will need plenty of mental and physical stimulation, or they will become bored (and possibly destructive). 

Mini Doodles do very well if they get proper training in puppyhood. All of that intelligence, energy and curiosity has to be focused. They can be a bit stubborn and will challenge your intelligence and authority, so you must be patient and consistent in your training.  Don’t give up!

Mini Doodle Health Issues

For the most part, Mini Doodles are happy and healthy dogs. Having said this, it’s important to understand that this breed is prone to certain health conditions. These conditions are inherited from their Golden Retriever and Miniature Poodle parents. Luckily, most of these health concerns can be properly managed if caught and treated in time.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism comes from the Golden Retriever parent, one of the breeds most likely to develop this health condition. With hypothyroidism, the pup’s body does not produce enough of the thyroid hormone. This can cause your Mini Doodle to gain weight, lose fur, and have decreased energy levels.

While hypothyroidism cannot be cured, it can easily be managed through daily medication. Mini Doodles diagnosed with this disease can live a very long and happy life with proper treatment.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip Dysplasia is commonly found in larger breeds but can also be diagnosed in smaller breeds as well. This condition affects the hip joints, causing them to develop in an unnatural way. The result is joints that easily and chronically dislocated. Hip Dysplasia is usually seen in the Mini Doodle at around 1-2 years of age, though it can present earlier. Common signs of hip dysplasia are limping and a wavering interest in playing and going for walks.  

When it comes to treating hip dysplasia, there are a few options including corrective surgery, physical therapy and joint supplements. If your fur baby is ever diagnosed with hip dysplasia your vet can guide you on the best treatment for your particular situation.

Von Willebrand’s Disease

Von Willebrand’s disease is a bleeding disorder characterized by the lack of von Willebrand factor protein. This protein helps stop bleeding, so pups that produce a limited supply tend to bleed excessively. The disease is inherited by the Golden Retriever and means a Mini Doodle can have prolonged periods as a puppy or excessive nose bleeds. It also means any wound could bleed more than it should. Treatment for the disease requires a blood transfusion. 

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Progressive retinal atrophy is thought to be inherited from the Poodle side. This disease is not curable and the pup does lose their vision over time. There are treatment methods that can postpone vision loss. The good news is dogs are astoundingly good at living an awesome life, even blind. Their other senses are so keen that losing one doesn’t seem to hamper their ability to get around.

Pet Insurance Can Help You Pay for Care

God forbid your adorable Mini Doodle ever develops any of the health issues on this list. But what if they did? Are you able to comfortably afford to pay for a surgery or blood transfusion? What if they suddenly become injured or ingest something toxic? How will you pay a vet bill that could potentially be in the thousands of dollars?

Pet insurance gives pup parents peace of mind. It is there when we need it, should disaster strike. It means we can get our beloved family members the care they need without going into debt to do it.

Get a free quote. It only takes minutes.

References:

1. https://wagwalking.com/breed/miniature-goldendoodle#:~:text=The%20Miniature%20Goldendoodle%20is%20a,a%20small%20fluffy%20teddy%20bear. “Miniature Goldendoodles.”
2. https://worldanimalfoundation.org/dogs/mini-goldendoodle/ “Mini Goldendoodle – Is It the Perfect Pup for You?”

The information contained on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet's health care or treatment plan.

The authors of this blog are not veterinarians and do not claim to be experts in pet health. The information provided here is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from reputable sources. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

We encourage you to do your own research and consult with your veterinarian before making any decisions about your pet's health.