Mini Labradoodle vs. Mini Goldendoodle

Written by Volia Schubiger
Updated: September 28, 2023
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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

Mini LabradoodleMini Goldendoodle
SizeAverages between 14 to 17 inchesAverages between 12 to 22 inches
WeightBetween 15 to 25 poundsBetween 15 and 35 pounds
Energy LevelsHigh-energy breedMedium-high energy breed
Exercise Required30-60 minutes of exercise, once per day30-60 minutes of exercise, 1-2 times per day required
TemperamentLoyal, gentle, and friendly breedFriendly, playful, and intelligent
PriceAround $2,000Around $2,500

History of the Mini Labradoodle and Mini Goldendoodle

white mini labradoodle

A labradoodle is a mix between a

Labrador retriever

and a miniature poodle.

©Lynxs Photography/Shutterstock.com

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

Goldendoodle, Puppy, Nature, Sitting, Small

The Goldendoodle is a mix between a golden retriever and a miniature poodle.

©iStock.com/Marcello Sgarlato

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

Tan mini labradoodle puppy

Mini labradoodles and mini goldendoodles are both friendly and outgoing breeds with lots of energy.

©Unknown/Shutterstock.com

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

Doodles can have straight, curly, or wavy coats

Doodles can have straight, curly, or wavy coats. 

©Anasty/Shutterstock.com

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

mini labradoodle puppy

Both mini doodle breeds are predisposed to having joint problems.

©gatien.a/Shutterstock.com

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.

What Haircuts Work For Doodles?

A Petite goldendoodle looking to the camera

There are multiple haircuts that are quite flattering for mini doodles.

©SoySendra/Shutterstock.com

One distinctive characteristic of doodles is that they are cousins of poodles, who historically have sported very interesting haircuts! The “poodle” in your doodle means your dog will likely have naturally wavy or curly hair. We’ve created a list of some haircut options that may work for your doodle, piggybacking off of those time-tested cuts that poodles have proven are attractive and workable.

  • Dutch Cut (Mohawk) While this cut is a popular choice for poodles who compete in shows, results may vary with your doodle. This classic cut features long hair on the top of the head, while the facial hair is shaved, giving the dog a mohawk look. The sides are left medium–length, while the paws are also shaved. The tail can also sport a pom pom or longer hair (if your doodle’s hair won’t create a pom pom).
  • Lion Cut As the name implies, your doodle will look similar to a lion with this cut, as the neck and wither hair are left long to resemble a lion’s mane, while the legs, back, muzzle, and forehead are cut short. The tail is shaved to the near end, which is left long to give it a pom pom effect.
  • Poodle Cut (Teddy Bear Cut) If your doodle enjoys masquerading as a wild animal, another option besides the lion cut is the teddy bear cut, which is basically a poodle cut. This mid-length haircut showcases the doodle’s natural curls, while its face is cut to look rounded, and its paw hair is left longer to mimic bear paws. A pom pom tail is an option with this popular cut.
  • Lamb Cut This cut conjures domestic tranquility, as your doodle will look like a sweet lamb. While the body hair is cut short, the legs are cut to a medium length. The head, feet, and tail can be tailored to the owner’s preference.
  • Short Cut Not only is this cut one of the most popular for most doodle owners, but it is also low maintenance. Doodles with naturally short hair do well with this cut, where all the body hair is cut short, hair on the ears is left longer, and the face and paws are shaved.
  • Puppy Cut This hairstyle is popular for multiple dog breeds. The dog’s body hair is cut short, but the facial hair is left longer. This cut is fairly low-maintenance, but you’ll need to give your doodle regular brushing.
  • Summer Cut When the summer heat turns up, this haircut can help your doodle stay cool. All the hair is cut very short except for pom poms on the legs and a tufted or pom pom tail. 

The photo featured at the top of this post is ©

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About the Author

Volia Schubiger is a freelance copywriter and content editor with a passion and expertise in content creation, branding, and marketing. She has a background in Broadcast Journalism & Political Science from CUNY Brooklyn College. When she's not writing she loves traveling, perusing used book stores, and hanging out with her other half.

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