Miniature Golden Retriever | The Cuddly Dog Breed
The Miniature Golden Retriever is a smaller version of the Golden Retriever and possesses all the characteristics of the Golden Retriever such as intelligence and affectionate nature but in a smaller package. Hybridized with other toy breeds such as Cocker Spaniel, Poodle or Shih Tzu, the Miniature Golden Retriever has gained popularity among people who appreciate the qualities of the Golden Retriever breed but need a smaller dog to live in their apartment. These dogs are friendly and sociable just like the Golden Retriever, and thus are suitable for families, single persons, and even seniors who are in need of a good company from a friendly companion.
In this article, we will discuss about the history of Miniature Golden Retriever, its classification, characteristics, and what one needs to know about the breed and why it is best suited for many.
History of the Miniature Golden Retriever
The Miniature Golden was developed in the early 2000s and is actually a crossbreed of the standard golden retriever in the bid to produce a toy-sized dog that possessed all the desirable traits of a Golden Retriever including friendliness and trainability. This breed of dog resulted from breeding the Golden Retriever with other small breeds such as the Cocker Spaniel or Poodle to produce the Miniature Golden Retriever. These crossbreeds also ensure that this breed is not as big as the full-sized Golden Retriever but is also not too small; they are perfect for those who may not have enough space or interest in a big dog breed.
Miniature Golden Retrievers are not recognized by any of the major kennel clubs such as the AKC or the UKC but they are fast becoming a favorite amongst dog lovers because of the small size, friendly demeanor as well as the appearance of the breed. These dogs stand at between 10 to 20 inches tall and they weigh between 15 to 40 pounds depending the size of the parentage.
Classification of the Miniature Golden Retriever
By Purpose
This is mainly used for being a family pet and a smaller version of the Golden Retriever breed. Their purposes include:
Family Pet: They are friendly and therefore can be used as family pets. They are sociable and playful, which makes them suitable to be around children, other pets or even visitors.
Miniature Golden Retrievers: These are dogs that are bred to be small and they are suitable for people who live in apartments or have small yards but who want a Golden Retriever’s friendly temperament.
Emotional and Therapy: Like any other Miniature Golden Retrievers are intelligent and empathetic dogs that are suitable to be used as therapy or emotional support animals.
By Size
This breed is smaller than the standard Golden Retriever, and as such is ideal for families who want a smaller version of this breed of dogs:
Size: Average size of the dog ranges from 10 to 20 inches at the shoulder.
Weight: It is relatively small in size and can weigh anywhere between 15-40 pounds with most of them averaging between 20-30 pounds.
Coat: As with the standard golden retrievers, Miniature Golden Retrievers have a double layer of moderately tight, water-resistant coat, which is golden colored; however, the coat might be less dense due to crossing with the smaller breeds. Their coat can be wavy or straight and will need to be brushed often so as to maintain its health and appearance.
Most Popular Traits of the Miniature Golden Retriever
This is a beautiful breed of dog that has a friendly personality. Here are some key traits:
Affectionate and Docile: Just like the full grown Golden Retrievers, Miniature Golden Retrievers are affectionate and docile, thus suitable for families.
Intelligent and Trainable: It is an intelligent dog that likes to work, whether it is obedience, agility or therapy work. They are easily manageable and always willing to oblige due to their herding instinct.
Friendly and Devoted: Miniature Golden Retrievers are very sociable, especially with their families and are known to be very affectionate. They are considered to be friendly dogs, which are very loyal to their owners.
Lively and Friendly: Although they are relatively small in size, these dogs are still lively and friendly and always ready to play with other dogs and people. They are social animals and thus are friendly with children, other pets and even strangers.
Factors to Choose a Miniature Golden Retriever
If you are planning to become an owner of a Miniature Golden Retriever, there are certain factors that you should bear in mind:
Grooming Needs: As with any other dog, grooming is very important and Miniature Golden Retrievers may not have as large a coat as the standard Golden Retrievers but it is just as thick and as fluffy.
Bathing: Miniature golden retrievers should be bathed every 6 to 8 weeks or when needed depending on the level of activity.
Nail Care: It is also important to cut them short and it is recommended that you do it often to avoid hurting the pet.
Exercise Requirements: Although Miniature Golden Retrievers are relatively small, they should be exercised in order to keep them fit and cheerful:
Physical Activity: Children should be encouraged to take a 30 to 60 minutes walk daily based on the child’s age and energy levels. These animals like to take strolls or play in the backyard for various hours.
Play: They play and are fond of games such as catching the ball or chasing and playing with other dogs or members of the family.
Mental Stimulation: You should also feed your dog with his brain by providing him with toys that challenge him or else you can teach him commands or tricks.
Health Considerations: Miniature Golden Retrievers are prone to the same diseases as any other Golden Retriever, however, their size may help them avoid some of the diseases associated with this breed.
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: This is a disease that affects large breed dogs but it is not impossible for Miniature Golden Retrievers to be affected. It may be an idea to take joint supplements and go for check-ups as often as possible.
Heart Issues: As in the case of the large-sized Golden Retrievers, the Miniature Golden Retrievers are also prone to certain heart diseases such as subaortic stenosis.
Health: They have a long coat that accumulates dander and hence requires frequent grooming to prevent allergy to the fur.
Cancers: Unfortunately, cancer is also prevalent in Golden Retrievers and should be watched out for as it is a critical condition that requires medical attention.
Compatibility with Children and Other Pets: Another remarkable characteristic of the Miniature Golden Retriever is that it is friendly to its family members. They are friendly with children and are therefore ideal for families that are seeking a company. Besides, they are friendly with other animals, including dogs and cats, because of their sociable nature.
How to care of a Miniature Golden Retriever
When owning a Miniature Golden Retriever, the following should be considered:
Routine Check Ups: Take your dog for regular check-ups to avoid the occurrence of any disease or to detect any if it has already developed.
Exercise your pet by taking him for a walk, feed him if he is hungry and shower him with attention as often as you can; also train him.
Healthy Diet: Provide the dog with good quality food that is suitable for its size and age of the dog.
Socialization: Exposure to other people, other animals and various surfaces will enable the dogs to be well mannered and fearless.
Fun Facts About Miniature Golden Retriever
Ideal for Small Living Condition: Because of its small sizes, the Miniature Golden Retriever is ideal for those who live in apartments or have limited space in their houses.
A Healthier Option: Due to their miniature size compared to the standard Golden Retrievers, they are not likely to be prone to the health complications that come with joint and weight issues.
Affectionate and Guarding Skills: Just like other Golden Retrievers, the Miniature Golden Retriever is affectionate and protective and can effectively guard the family.
Where to Find a Miniature Golden Retriever
There is no much difference between searching for a Miniature Golden Retriever and a normal Golden Retriever since Miniature Golden Retrievers are relatively rare. Because they are hybrids, it is advisable to look for a reputable breeder in Miniature Golden Retrievers. Make sure that the breeder conducts health check on the parent dogs and offers you a health warranty. You can buy this dog from petfinder website. Also, there are chances that some rescue organizations may have Miniature Golden Retrievers up for adoption sometimes.
FAQs about the Miniature Golden Retriever
Conclusion
The Miniature Golden Retriever is simply a smaller version of the Golden Retriever but with all the favorable attributes of the dog breed. Due to their friendly character, high intellect, and obedience, they are suitable for families, persons and those who live in small houses or apartments. The Miniature Golden Retriever is known to be friendly, loyal, playful, and affectionate, making it an ideal family pet and therapy dogs as well.