Miniature Golden Retriever

Miniature Golden Retrievers have become popular with families who want the Golden personality without the full Golden size. Here's what actually sets them apart:

• That classic Golden temperament. They're friendly, gentle, and devoted, they're patient with children and tend to get along well with other pets.
• Easier size to manage. At a smaller size than a standard Golden, they fit more comfortably into apartments and smaller homes, and they're easier to handle on the lead and to travel with.
• Bright and eager to please. Golden Retrievers are among the most trainable dogs there are, and Miniature Goldens carry that on, which makes them a good choice for owners who want to put some training in.
• Active but adaptable. They enjoy their walks and playtime, but they're also happy to settle at home once they've had a run around, which suits most family routines.
  

What to Ask a Miniature Golden Retriever Breeder Before You Buy

There are plenty of breeders around, but picking the right one can be tricky. Some breeders interbreed their dogs to the point where the puppies are no longer healthy. Here are some questions to ask a Miniature Golden Retriever breeder before you buy a puppy:

• What breeds are in the cross? Because Miniature Golden Retrievers are a mix rather than a purebred, it's worth asking which breeds are behind them, as this affects size, coat, and shedding. We're happy to tell you exactly what's in our line.
• Do they health-test the parents? A mix can inherit conditions from any of the breeds behind it, such as hip and elbow issues or eye problems, so a responsible breeder screens the parent dogs before breeding them.
• Do they vaccinate the puppies? Many breeders will vaccinate their puppies before they sell them to you. We will give the puppy's vaccination card to you.
• How long have they been breeding? When you buy a puppy, you want one from an experienced breeder. Ask how long they've been in business, as this gives you an idea of how well they know dogs.
• Do they socialise the puppies? Your puppy's temperament depends a lot on how well they're socialised from a young age. We raise our puppies according to the Victorian Code of Practice, and they run regular audits on our facilities and welfare.