Mini Labradoodle vs. Mini Goldendoodle

Are you looking to expand your family with the addition of a new pet? Perhaps you’re in love with the idea of both a mini labradoodle and a mini goldendoodle and can’t decide between the two. These two designer-breed dogs have become quite popular choices among dog owners. At first glance, you might not even be able to tell the difference between these two breeds. However, we’re here to help you figure out all of the main differences when you compare the mini labradoodle vs. the mini goldendoodle. 

There’s a lot of care that goes into owning a dog. That’s why it’s crucial to know about their temperaments, maintenance needs, and more. We’ll discuss all of that below so you can make the best decision when it comes down to choosing between these two breeds. In fact, you might even decide that you want them both!

Comparing a Mini Labradoodle and a Mini Goldendoodle

History of the Mini Labradoodle and Mini Goldendoodle

As we mentioned, these two breeds of dog have continued to grow in popularity among dog owners. However, how much do you really know about the history of these two dog breeds? Let’s start by going through the history of the mini labradoodle. This adorable breed of dog is actually a mix between a Labrador retriever and a miniature poodle. This dog breed was first developed back in 1988. It was created by Wally Cochran, who was a breeder of dogs and also a member of the group ‘The Royal Guide Dogs.’ Cochran actually had a client who was in need of a guide dog but also needed the dog to be hypoallergenic. Thus, the mini labradoodle came out on the scene! 

The mini goldendoodle, in comparison, is a mix between a golden retriever and a mini poodle. This breed of dog was first developed in the 1990s. They became incredibly popular as a dog breed as they have the loyalty and friendliness of a golden retriever mixed with the hypoallergenic coat and intelligence of a poodle. However, since both of these dogs are considered hybrid designer breeds, they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club. This has not stopped these breeds from being an increasingly popular choice for many people looking to bring a sweet and loving dog into their homes. 

Next, let’s look at the differences in appearance between these two dog breeds.

Mini Labradoodle vs Mini Goldendoodle: Appearance

At first glance, it can be easy to mistake these two dog breeds for one another! They are both incredibly cute and are also quite similar in size. Many dog owners often describe these two breeds as having a teddy bear look about them. However, there are many distinct differences between these two hybrid dog breeds that make them stand out from each other.

Let’s start with the mini labradoodle. Since this breed is a mix of a Labrador retriever and a mini poodle, they have shorter and more coarse, wiry coats. Goldendoodles, on the other hand, are a mix between golden retrievers and mini poodles. As a result, their coats are longer. They both can have curly or wavy coats thanks to the genes from their poodle parents. 

Besides their coats, since these two dog breeds have poodles in their genetic makeup, they can both be found in a variety of colors. The most common coat colors for mini goldendoodles are cream, champagne, black, gray, apricot, beige, tan, silver, and white. They can also sport different color combinations in one coat. Mini labradoodles will usually inherit one solid color such as chocolate, black, reddish, gray, or silver. They sometimes inherit coat patterns such as a tuxedo, brindle, or even abstract. Finally, mini goldendoodles will usually have a longer and slimmer snout than mini labradoodles.

Mini Labradoodle vs. Mini Goldendoodle: Temperament

What are the main differences between a mini labradoodle and a mini goldendoodle when it comes to their temperaments? Is either breed friendlier than the other? Well, when it comes to these two dog breeds, they are actually quite similar in their personalities. They are both often described as being quite outgoing, friendly, and super energetic breeds. The two breeds are also incredibly sweet and love to be around their owners. In fact, these two breeds are known for having lots of separation anxiety because of how well they bond with their owners and families. 

With this in mind, it’s important to note that neither of these breeds does well being home alone for many hours. So if you have a schedule that keeps you out of the house for extended periods of time, then you may not want to go with a doodle breed. Still, even though these two doodle breeds are quite similar in temperament, it has been noted that mini labradoodles can be more reserved with new people. Mini goldendoodles will often be friendly with just about anyone, but mini labradoodles can take some time to warm up to a stranger.

Mini Labradoodle vs. Mini Goldendoodle: Maintenance

These two dog breeds are often recommended for people who suffer from allergies to dog dander. This is because they do not shed as much as they share genetics with their poodle parents. Still, that doesn’t mean that these breeds aren’t high-maintenance when it comes to taking care of them. There are three different types of coats that these breeds can have: straight, curly, and wavy. 

Curly hair dogs shed the least and are quite thick coats compared to others. This is actually the most difficult coat texture to maintain. Since curly coats can become easily matted, you will need to brush them on a daily basis. Wavy coats are the easiest to manage as they are a mix between straight and curly. They don’t mat that easily, however, you will still need to brush them to prevent knots and tangles. Straight coats typically come from Labrador retrievers, and these coats are the least hypoallergenic. These are the easiest coats to maintain but will still require regular brushing.

Mini Labradoodle vs. Mini Goldendoodle: Common Health Concerns

When it comes down to comparing the difference in health and wellness between these two breeds, you may not be surprised to find out that they are also quite similar in this regard as well. Since both of these dogs are hybrid breeds, they are genetically more well-off than their purebred parents. This is because their gene pool is more diverse. Still, there are certain health problems that both these breeds may face. Both of these breeds are predisposed to having joint problems. As a result, they may suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia. Other common health concerns include various eye diseases and thyroid problems. 

Mini goldendoodles, however, are more prone to a heart disorder known as subvalvular aortic stenosis. This is a disorder that is common in golden retrievers. Mini labradoodles are also more at risk from exercise-induced collapse. This is also a problem that is more prevalent in Labrador retrievers. Overall, the key to keeping your mini doodles healthy is to do your best to feed them well, provide them with exercise, and take them for regular vet checkups.