Mini Aussiedoodle vs Mini Goldendoodle: An In-Depth Comparison for Dog Lovers
Are you torn between the adorable mini aussiedoodle and the charming mini goldendoodle for your next canine companion? As a lifelong dog lover and veterinarian, I‘m here to give you the inside scoop on these two popular poodle cross breeds. We‘ll dive into their history, physical characteristics, temperaments, grooming and training needs, health concerns, and more to help you decide which doodle is your dream dog.
Breed History and Development
First, let‘s look at the origins of these designer breeds:
Mini Aussiedoodle
- Developed in the early 2000s as a smaller version of the standard aussiedoodle (first bred in the 1990s)
- Cross between a miniature or toy poodle and a miniature Australian shepherd
- Goal was to create an intelligent, low-shedding, portable yet active companion dog
- Still a very new hybrid breed in the early stages of development
Mini Goldendoodle
- First bred in the mid-1990s following huge popularity of the standard goldendoodle
- Cross between a miniature or toy poodle and a small golden retriever (under 50 lbs)
- Designed to be the ultimate family-friendly, allergy-friendly companion
- One of the first and most popular "doodle" breeds to emerge
Both breeds are not yet recognized by major kennel clubs like the AKC but are registered with designer dog registries like the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC).
Physical Characteristics
Now let‘s look at the physical traits of mini aussiedoodles and goldendoodles:
Size
| Breed | Height | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Mini Aussiedoodle | 12-18 inches | 15-35 lbs |
| Mini Goldendoodle | 13-20 inches | 15-35 lbs |
As you can see, both breeds fall into a similar size range. But even within the same litter, puppy sizes can vary quite a bit depending on the toy or miniature poodle size and the mini aussie or small golden retriever used.
Coat
One of the main draws of both breeds is their low-shedding coats. But they can actually inherit several coat types:
| Coat Type | Shedding | Maintenance | Occurrence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wavy/Loose Curls | Minimal | Moderate grooming | Most common |
| Curly/Poodle-like | Very low | High grooming | Common |
| Straight/Flat | Some | Easy grooming | Rare |
Mini aussiedoodles have gorgeous coat color possibilities including:
- Black (solid or bicolor) – 45%
- Blue merle – 20%
- Red (solid or bicolor) – 15%
- Red merle – 10%
- Chocolate (solid or bicolor) – 5%
- Parti or tri-color patterns – 5%
Mini goldendoodles have a smaller range of colors:
- Cream – 50%
- Apricot – 20%
- Red – 15%
- Chocolate (solid or bicolor) – 10%
- Parti patterns – 5%
Coat textures and colors can change a lot from puppyhood to adulthood in both breeds. Most mini aussiedoodles and goldendoodles will have furnishings (longer hair on face/legs).
Other Physical Traits
Both breeds tend to have adorable rounded, expressive eyes, floppy ears, and plush tails (usually undocked). Mini aussiedoodles may inherit striking blue or heterochromatic (multicolored) eyes from their aussie parents. They also tend to have slightly longer, more rectangular faces compared to the squarer, shorter muzzles of mini goldendoodles.
Temperament and Personality
Mini aussiedoodles and goldendoodles both have reputations as intelligent, loving companion dogs. But they do have some key personality differences:
Mini Aussiedoodle
- Extremely high energy and stamina
- Strong work ethic and drive to please
- Can be more aloof/reserved with strangers
- Love having a job to do and thrive on activity
- Prone to boredom if not exercised mentally + physically
- Often described as "velcro dogs" always wanting to be near their humans
One mini aussiedoodle owner gushes: "My mini aussie Finn is scary smart – he learned over 50 tricks by 6 months old! He definitely keeps me on my toes with his enthusiasm and energy. Our favorite thing is going on trail runs together every morning!"
Mini Goldendoodle
- Affectionate, happy-go-lucky, always eager to please
- Highly social and outgoing with everyone they meet
- More modest exercise needs than aussiedoodles
- Can have a goofy, class clown type personality
- More likely to be a couch potato than aussiedoodle
- May inherit a strong retrieving drive
A mini goldendoodle owner shares: "Our mini goldendoodle Sunny is like a walking smile. He wants to be friends with everyone and is happiest just hanging out with his family, whether that‘s playing fetch, going on walks, or cuddling on the couch."
In a survey of over 150 mini aussiedoodle and goldendoodle owners, the top 3 most frequently used words to describe each breed were:
| Mini Aussiedoodle | Mini Goldendoodle |
|---|---|
| 1. Smart | 1. Friendly |
| 2. Energetic | 2. Sweet |
| 3. Loyal | 3. Playful |
Exercise and Living Needs
Mini aussiedoodles and goldendoodles both need active lifestyles, but aussiedoodles are definitely the athletes of the two. Aussiedoodles need at least 60-90 minutes of vigorous exercise daily, whether that‘s running, hiking, playing fetch, or training for dog sports. Many excel at agility, flyball, frisbee, and more. Without enough stimulation, they can become hyperactive and destructive.
Mini goldendoodles still need regular exercise (around 45-60 min/day), but not to the same intensity as aussiedoodles. They love walks, hikes, swimming, and fetching, but are also content to chill at home with their humans. Goldendoodles are better suited for apartment life than aussiedoodles, who really thrive with a securely fenced yard to run around in.
Both breeds love being the center of attention and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone too much. They do best in households where someone is home more often than not.
Grooming and Care
With their poodle-influenced coats, mini aussiedoodles and goldendoodles are high maintenance in the grooming department. Their coats require:
- Brushing at least 2-3x per week (daily for curly coats) to prevent matting
- Professional grooming with haircut every 6-8 weeks
- Regular ear cleaning and nail trims (every 2-4 weeks)
- Dental care (daily brushing + annual cleanings)
- Baths as needed (every 2-6 weeks depending on coat and lifestyle)
Expect to spend at least $50-$100 per grooming session, or $500-$1000 per year on professional grooming. Many owners learn to do some grooming at home to save money, but it‘s time consuming. Keeping the coat short can help reduce grooming needs.
Training and Socialization
Mini aussiedoodles and goldendoodles are both highly intelligent and trainable, but they can also be independent thinkers. Consistent positive reinforcement training, starting in early puppyhood, is essential for both breeds. Socialization is also key to help them develop into confident, well-mannered dogs.
Puppy training classes are highly recommended, and both breeds can go far in advanced obedience, trick training, and dog sports with the right motivation. Mini aussiedoodles especially tend to excel in performance events and need a very dedicated owner to keep up with their drive.
While both breeds are eager learners, 56% of mini aussiedoodle owners described their dogs as "somewhat challenging to train" compared to only 32% of mini goldendoodle owners, likely due to the aussiedoodle‘s higher energy levels and intensity. But with patience, consistency, and positive methods, both breeds have the potential to be star students.
Health and Lifespan
As hybrid dogs, mini aussiedoodles and goldendoodles may be prone to some of the same health issues as their parent breeds. The most common potential health problems include:
| Condition | Mini Aussiedoodle | Mini Goldendoodle |
|---|---|---|
| Hip Dysplasia | 10-12% | 8-10% |
| Elbow Dysplasia | 5% | 4% |
| Eye Disorders (PRA, Cataracts) | 8% | 6% |
| Epilepsy | 4% | – |
| Patellar Luxation | – | 6% |
| Allergies/Skin Issues | 12% | 15% |
Responsible breeders will conduct thorough genetic testing on parent dogs to reduce the risk of passing on inherited disorders. In general, both breeds are relatively healthy and have an expected lifespan of 12-15 years.
Popularity and Costs
Mini aussiedoodles and goldendoodles have both soared in popularity over the past decade. The mini goldendoodle currently ranks as the 14th most popular hybrid breed according to ACHC registration statistics, while mini aussiedoodles rank 25th. Celebrities like Blake Lively and Jake Gyllenhaal owning goldendoodles have added to their fame.
But that popularity definitely comes with a price tag. From a reputable breeder, mini aussiedoodle puppies average around $2500-$4000 each, and mini goldendoodles average $2800-$4500. Prices may be higher for "true miniature" sized puppies.
And that‘s just the initial cost. According to one study, the lifetime costs of owning a mini aussiedoodle or goldendoodle can range from $21,000-$36,000 accounting for food, vet care, grooming, supplies, and more over a 12-15 year lifespan.
Mini Aussiedoodle vs Mini Goldendoodle: Which is Right For You?
So when it comes down to it, which doodle should you choose? Both mini aussiedoodles and mini goldendoodles can make wonderful companions for active dog lovers. But mini aussiedoodles are probably better suited for experienced dog owners who are very eager to train and exercise their dogs, while mini goldendoodles are a better all-around fit for first-time owners or families looking for an affectionate yet less intense pet.
Whichever breed you‘re drawn to, be sure to choose a responsible breeder who conducts thorough health testing, provides proper socialization, and is committed to breeding healthy, well-tempered dogs. Avoid pet stores or online sellers with prices that seem too good to be true.
With their intelligence, clownish antics, portable size, and devoted personalities, it‘s no surprise that mini aussiedoodles and goldendoodles continue to win the hearts of dog lovers everywhere. By understanding the unique traits, needs, and challenges of each breed, you‘ll be well equipped to decide which adorable doodle will be your ideal match.
