This adorable breed is a mix of mostly Golden Retriever, and smaller parts, Poodle, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, or Cocker Spaniel, resulting in a pup that’s as friendly as it is charming. Mini Goldens are known for their playful personalities, low-shedding coats, fewer health problems, longer lifespans and smaller size, making them perfect for any family.

The Golden Retriever

Mini

about the breed

breed traits

Mini Golden Retriever

At Little Retriever Ranch, I’m super excited to be part of the Miniature Golden Retriever movement and help introduce this adorable breed to the world! While some folks claim to have invented the breed ages ago, the Mini Golden Retriever we know today has evolved greatly although the makeup remains the same - mostly Golden Retriever, with smaller parts Poodle, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, or Cocker Spaniel. These days, most breeders achieve the Mini Golden Retriever by breeding two minis together rather than two full breeds, which has allowed us to maintain high percentages of Golden Retriever and produce more consistent litters.

Thanks to a dedicated group of breeders like me who are passionate about improving the breed, we’ve successfully produced smaller pups with fewer health issues than the standard breed, low-shedding coats, and that same lovable Golden personality, even without official breed standards in place. My personal mini goldens blend mostly Golden Retriever with a splash of Cavalier and Poodle, which helps produce litters that most closely resemble the standard Golden, in my opinion. Without the close collaboration and mentorship among mini golden breeders, the breed wouldn’t be as refined as it is today, and its future wouldn’t be as promising. A heartfelt shoutout to those that have supported and guided us along the way!

the history of the Miniature Golden Retriever

coLors: Cream ( Light Gold ) Gold ( Dark Gold ) Red

average lifespan: 12 - 15 years

size: between 14 to 18" tall and 28 to 40 lbs

Miniature Golden Retrievers are known for their stunning coats, which come in a beautiful range of shades! They can be found in cream, light gold, gold, dark gold, and even red, giving each pup its own unique look.

Color / Coat Types

Mini Goldens have fairly easy exercise requirements, making them great companions for both active families and more laid-back lifestyles. They thrive on daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation, but they don’t need intense workouts to stay happy and healthy.

Exercise Requirements

Mini Retrievers are the ultimate companions, known for their friendly and gentle temperament! They’re incredibly social, loving everyone they meet—whether it’s kids, other pets, or new friends at the park. With their eager-to-please attitude and intelligence, they're also loyal buddies who bring joy to any home!

Temperament / Personality

Breed Traits

Mini Golden Retrievers are generally less prone to the common health issues seen in their larger counterparts. Thanks to careful breeding, these pint-sized pups often enjoy a longer, healthier life with fewer concerns like hip dysplasia and heart conditions. Their smaller size adds to their charm and contributes to their overall well-being, making them a better choice for your family.

04: breed health concerns

Grooming a Mini Golden Retriever is easy breezy, especially with their low-shedding genes! These adorable pups have manageable coats that just need regular brushing to stay tangle-free. With minimal shedding, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying cuddles and playtime. Their easygoing nature makes grooming feel like quality bonding time rather than a chore.

03: grooming requirements

Mini Retrievers are known for their trainability, making them a top choice for families and service roles. Their eager-to-please attitude and intelligence allow them to quickly learn basic obedience and even advanced skills. With positive reinforcement, they excel in training and form strong bonds with their people, making them one of the most loyal companions.

02: trainability

Mini Goldens thrive in active, loving homes where they can be part of the family! They love outdoor adventures, so access to a yard or parks is ideal. These social pups enjoy companionship, whether playing fetch or snuggling on the couch. Their friendly nature makes them great with kids and other pets, making them the perfect addition to a happy, busy household!

01: ideal home + lifestyle

The Mini Golden as a Companion

Bark toy harness kibble howl sit and stay woof leash fetch tennis ball collar brush go for a walk fur temperament bark toy harness kibble howl sit and stay woof leash fetch tennis ball collar brush.

03: their name comes from their home region.

Howl sit and stay woof leash fetch tennis ball collar brush go for a walk fur temperament bark toy harness kibble howl sit and stay woof leash fetch tennis ball collar brush go for a walk fur temperament bark toy harness kibble howl sit and stay woof leash fetch tennis ball collar.

02: james dean had a border collie named tuck.

Leash fetch tennis ball collar brush go for a walk fur temperament bark toy harness kibble howl sit and stay woof leash fetch tennis ball collar brush go for a walk fur temperament bark you harness kibble howl sit and stay woof leash fetch.