The AKC does not recognize the Miniature Golden Retriever as a breed. The reason for this is obvious as you research the miniature golden. They are mixed with another toy or miniature breed to get the size they want. It could be as little as 30% golden or 75% golden. The breeders of these breeds are concentrating on looks. They are trying to guarantee a small dog that looks like a golden.
Some take into account the temperament and other qualities of the golden, but not all do. As a responsible pet owner, you probably want a Miniature Golden Retriever that has all of the qualities of a regular golden. Since the practice of breeding a miniature golden is new, that cannot be guaranteed. The breeder should point this out.
Genetics can always present a throwback to the normal size. If your breeder states that "every dog will be small" or that they will grow up to look exactly like a golden, you should move on to another breeder. It takes generations to get that type of consistency. It doesn't happen in one or two tries.
Some breeders have introduced miniature poodles and cocker spaniels into the mix. This can produce a cute golden with a poodle temperament or a cute poodle with a golden temperament, or a golden with a spaniel temperament. You can never be sure of the outcome of these designer bred dogs. The breeding of the Miniature Golden Retriever is still in its infancy stage. Breeders are working on developing them, but until several true generations have been produced, you are taking your chances.
The ideal goal of breeders of Miniature Golden Retrievers, also known as petite goldens, is to create a dog that is less than twenty inches and less than fifty pounds. Ideally they aim to produce a dog that is between 30 and 45 pounds and between 15 and 18 inches. This is far below the breed standard of the golden, but it is the aim of the breeders.
Ideally the dogs will have the temperament of the golden. Some are trying to reduce shedding with the introduction of the poodles. Others are trying to achieve the perfect head as well as stature. A Miniature Golden Retriever is a work in progress. It will take several years and many breedings of a variety of dogs to achieve a consistent body and head of the breed. It will take even longer for the AKC to recognize the breed.
Families that want a Golden Retriever but do not have the room for such a large dog, will appreciate the efforts of the breeders to attempt to create a breed that has the personality of the golden without the size. The introduction of poodles will also have the potential to decrease shedding. Until the Miniature Golden Retriever breed has become standard, pet owners will still be able to have a beautiful dog with the characteristics of either breed. It is a matter of personal preference. Be sure you have your eyes and heart set on a responsible breeder.
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