Today, we’re looking at a Miniature Labradoodle vs Miniature Goldendoodle comparison. We’ve done the same before, for the regular-sized Labradoodle vs Goldendoodle, and now it’s time we check out the smaller versions of these mixed breeds. The comparison will focus on things that the two breeds have in common, those that are different, but also on the type of appearance, lifespan or temperament you can expect from such a dog.
To start with, let’s take a look at the Miniature Labradoodle and the Miniature Goldendoodle, so we can see how they’re obtained. Remember, these are popular mixed breed dogs, so they are not purebreds.
Miniature Goldendoodle Miniature Labradoodle
Miniature Labradoodle vs Miniature Goldendoodle
The comparison, between a mini Labradoodle and a mini Goldendoodle, will largely depend on the parents and on the side that contributes most to the puppy. Genetics can borrow from the father or the mother more for some areas, so the results may vary. Overall though, I think you will find that the two mixed breeds are quite similar, same as with their larger versions.
Things they have in common
We’re looking at the miniature versions for the two breeds, so naturally these are smaller dogs.
In the case of the Miniature Labradoodle, the weight tends to vary somewhere between 15 and 25 pounds, while the Goldendoodle is going to be from 20 to 30 pounds, so quite similar.
For their height, it’s typically between 14 and 16 inches for the mini Labradoodle, and 16 to 19 inches for mini Goldendoodles.
If we look at the kind of life expectancy that they have, it should be somewhere between 10 and 14 years, on average.
Both breeds are highly intelligent, easy to train and fairly low maintenance, at least as far as their coat is concerned. The Labradoodle does better if you want low maintenance, since the Goldendoodle might have longer coat hair. Both should be low shedding, thanks to the Poodle’s contribution in the mix.
One can’t call the two mixed breeds low maintenance when exercise is involved though. They’re energetic and they love to play and run, so do plan on giving them at least one hour of exercise daily.
Intelligent dogs, they can be easily trained, and they are small to medium sized, so they make for good pets even in smaller houses. They actually make for great family members, since they love people and they’re loyal. They also do well with other pets.
Labradoodles tend to be a bit on the shy side at times, while Goldendoodles are friendly with everyone.
Appearance, Coat and Maintenance
As you will see, the two breeds are quite similar, but you will find out that the Miniature Goldendoodle tends to have a longer coat than that of the Miniature Labradoodle. If you prefer a dog with a shorter coat, then you might go with the latter.
In both cases, you’re getting a dog that’s not difficult to maintain, though the Goldendoodle’s longer coat might require just a bit more effort. Otherwise, the dogs from both breeds don’t shed a lot, and there are hypoallergenic qualities to them, thanks to the Poodle’s contribution to this mix.
Mini Labradoodles can come in a lot more colors, with hair that is shorter and wiry. Among its colors, the Labradoodle will have Brown, Chocolate, Red, Silver, Cream, Apricot, White, Black, Silver, or even a mix between several of these.
Mini Goldendoodles get longer and curlier hair, with fewer color options. In their case, the color is typically either Golden, Red, Brown, Apricot or Cream.
Temperament – Mini Labradoodle versus Mini Goldendoodle
You’re looking for a dog that will be with your family for the next 10 to 15 years, so naturally you want it to be a good fit.
In both cases, we’re getting a mixed breed dog, so the resulting dog is not a guarantee in terms of temperament. You might be getting more from the Golden Retriever than from the Poodle, or it could be the other way around. The same goes in a Labradoodle, where the Labrador Retriever is mixed with the miniature Poodle.
Miniature Poodles: one of the parents in both mixes, these are active dogs, they enjoy their exercise and swimming. They need to be socialized, since some of them can be snappy with others.
Golden Retrievers: very friendly with others, intelligent and active, they need plenty of attention. Mixed with a Poodle, you get a Goldendoodle.
Labrador Retriever: the other half from the Labradoodle, it’s another dog that’s intelligent, active and great with families. Not as outgoing as the Golden Retriever, typically a bit more shy.
If you want a dog that’s friendly with everyone, I’d go with the mini Goldendoodle. The mini Labradoodle will be more protective, and will bark if needed. Neither dog is good at guarding, they can be watch dogs though, and they will bark when someone is approaching.
Whatever mix you choose, in the battle of the mini labradoodle vs mini goldendoodle, you’re going to get a dog that loves attention and exercise. Be prepared to dedicate a lot of time to it.
Health & Lifespan
The mini versions of the Labradoodle and Goldendoodle are both expected to live 10 to 14 years. With better genetics that are typical for mixed breeds, usually the lifespan tends to be better for them.
As for the types of health issues that are typical for the two, you have more info on each one below. These are just more common in these breeds, but they might not happen for your own dog.
Miniature Goldendoodle: cataracts, epilepsy, allergies and hip dysplasia. Learn more here.
Miniature Labradoodle: allergies, hip dysplasia and skin conditions. More info here.
Buying or Adopting, Both Options Are Available
As for the way that you can get a mini Labradoodle or a mini Goldendoodle, one solid option is always that of adoption. The cost is much lower, and you end up with an adopted Labradoodle or Goldendoodle that will be thankful for the fact that you’re making it a member of your family.
If you want to be sure of what you’re getting, there is also the variant of going for a dog from a breeder, though the cost can be anywhere between $1,000 and $3,000 in that case.