Published Thursday, October 14, 2021 by PremierPups
In the past few years, doodle dogs have become increasingly popular, especially the small ones like Mini and Micro doodles. As of 2020 and still going strong in 2021, doodles, or poodle mixes, have become more sought-after than any other dog breed – purebred or crossbreed. The world has come to favor these dogs thanks to their keen intelligence, high trainability, and delightful personalities. Two of the world’s favorite doodle dogs are the Mini Goldendoodle and the Mini Sheepadoodle. These small pooches are gorgeous, playful, friendly, and a complete joy to have around.
If you too have come to love these dogs and are considering getting one for your family, we have prepared a detailed comparison of the two breeds to help you with your decision. Read on to find which doodle dog fits your lifestyle best.
A puppy’s love is a pure thing and, here at Premier Pups, we aim to give our loving puppies the forever homes they deserve. Our specialized team of Puppy Agents is here to help you with the choosing process to make sure your new pup fits right in with your family.
Table of Contents
Mini Goldendoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Overview
Mini Goldendoodle Overview
Meet the Mini Goldendoodle – a gorgeous hybrid of a Golden Retriever and a Miniature Poodle. Just as charming as the Standard Goldendoodle in a smaller package and with a little bit more spunk, the Mini Goldendoodle puppies first appeared in 1969 in the United States. They were designed to enchant dog lovers with their playful personalities, loyal nature, and generous affection.
The Mini Goldendoodle is a hypoallergenic dog breed that fits well with owners who suffer from pet-related allergies, and most importantly with active folk – as these pups are energetic and ready for adventures. Mini Goldendoodle dogs are also referred to as Mini Groodles, Mini Goldenpoos, and Mini Goldiepoos, and are considered one of America’s top dog breeds.
Mini Sheepadoodle Overview
Meet the Mini Sheepadoodle – a rare and stunning crossbreed of an Old English Sheepdog and a Miniature Poodle. A dog that adapts well to an adventure-filled lifestyle as well as one of relaxation, the Mini Sheepadoodle is a most wonderful companion pet for any type of family.
These small teddy bear dogs are a bit younger than their Mini Goldendoodle cousins, as they have only been around for a little over 30 years – also having originated in the United States. Mini Sheepadoodles are fun, adventure-driven dogs that love to go on hikes, camping trips, and anywhere the road takes them. They are also hypoallergenic dogs that can be owned by allergy sufferers.
With a puppy dog appearance and a joyful and loving personality, the Mini Sheepadoodle is one of the most sought-after small dog breeds in the United States. The breed is also known as Mini Sheepapoo and Mini Sheepdoodle.
Mini Goldendoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Overview Comparison
The Mini Goldendoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle are two well-loved dog breeds that have captured the hearts of dog lovers worldwide with their stunning looks, big brains, and happy-go-lucky personalities. Both of these dogs are known for their hypoallergenic qualities and high trainability, as well as for their affectionate nature.
When comparing the two, the first difference that stands out is their breed lineage. Although they share a Miniature Poodle parent breed, their secondary parent breeds – the Golden Retriever and the Old English Sheepdog are anything but similar, one being a retrieving dog and one a sheep herding dog. The Mini Goldendoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle have distinct sets of skills as well as dissimilar looks that they inherit from their parent breeds. Despite the fact that they are quite different, both the Mini Goldendoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle are known for their three generations:
- F1 Mini Goldendoodle – a first-generation Mini Goldendoodle that is 50% Golden Retriever and 50% Miniature Poodle
- F1B Mini Goldendoodle – a second-generation Mini Goldendoodle that is 25% Golden Retriever and 75% Mini Poodle
- F2 Mini Goldendoodle – a third-generation Mini Goldendoodle is a puppy with two Mini Goldendoodle parents
And
- F1 Mini Sheepadoodle – a first-generation Mini Sheepadoodle is a puppy with an Old English Sheepdog parent and a Miniature Poodle parent
- F1B Mini Sheepadoodle – a second-generation Mini Sheepadoodle is when a Mini Sheepadoodle is back-crossed with a Miniature Poodle
- F2 Mini Sheepadoodle – a third-generation Mini Shepadoodle is a puppy with two Mini Sheepadoodle parents
As far as popularity goes, both the Mini Goldendoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle enjoy a remarkably high popularity status. They are among the top doodle dogs in Australia, Europe, and the United States, and although they are equally loved, the Mini Goldendoodle is more common as there are more Mini Goldendoodle breeders. The Mini Sheepadoodle puppies are harder to find and subsequently more sought-after.
Mini Goldendoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Overview Key Points
Comparison Table
| Breed | Mini Goldendoodle | Mini Sheepadoodle |
| Parent breeds | Golden Retriever, Mini Poodle | Old English Sheepdog, Mini Poodle |
| Place of origin | US | US |
| Date of origin | 1969 | 1990 |
| Purpose | Companionship, hypoallergenic pet | Companionship, hypoallergenic pet |
| Breed type | Poodle mix, doodle breed | Poodle mix, doodle breed |
| Other names | Mini Goldiepoo, Groodle, Goldenpoo | Mini Sheepapoo |
| Lifespan | 10-14 years | 12-15 years |
Mini Goldendoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Temperament
Mini Goldendoodle Temperament
A loyal dog with a loving temperament and a sunny disposition, the Mini Goldendoodle is one fantastic companion pet. Mini Goldendoodles are energetic little dogs that enjoy trips to the dog park, socialization, human interaction, and any type of family activity. They are friendly, non-aggressive dogs that play nicely with other dogs, children, strangers, and even cats. One aspect that every Mini Goldendoodle owner can agree on is that these dogs repay their affection tenfold. Their nature is very loyal, and they make excellent family dogs.
Fluffy, adorable, and at-the-ready for a zoom around the house, Mini Goldendoodle puppies are the gift that keeps on giving. These gorgeous little puppies are playful, very loving towards their humans, and very intelligent. They can be trained quite easily as their people-pleasing personalities and openness towards learning make them the best puppy students a trainer could ask for.
Mini Sheepadoodle Temperament
A merry dog with a calm temperament and a lot of love to give, the Mini Sheepadoodle is a true canine sweetheart. These teddy bear look-alikes are very fond of their pet parents and want to be included in every family activity there is. They enjoy family trips and vacations, long evenings cuddled on the couch, jogs, runs, fetching, and any dog game they can play outdoors.
A fun-loving dog that keeps his/her owners on their feet, the Mini Sheepadoodle is the ideal companion pet for active families. Although these dogs can adapt to either lifestyle, they much prefer to spend their energy by running freely in an open field, playing with their four-legged friends, and going on family adventures.
Mini Sheepadoodle puppies enjoy playing with their chew toys and chasing their tails as much as they enjoy learning new fun tricks. They are exceedingly bright, focused, and eager to please.
Mini Goldendoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Temperament Comparison
When comparing their temperaments and personalities you will find that the Mini Goldendoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle are quite similar. Both of these dog breeds are known to be intelligent, naturally obedient, and fast-learning students that can be easily trained. Both the Mini Goldendoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle lack aggression and are considered very friendly dogs. They are excellent playmates for children and ideal fur-babies for adults.
Even though these dogs are highly affectionate and at times attached to the hip, they are not considered Velcro dogs. The Mini Goldendoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle are known to be independent dogs that can be left alone for a few hours each day without the risk of them developing destructive behavior or separation anxiety. Both of these small dogs thrive on affection, especially as puppies. They enjoy being nurtured, doted on, spoiled, and showered with love.
Both of these breeds are extroverted, adventure-oriented dogs that love to be active. Although Mini Goldendoodles are considered an active dog breed, they are somewhat less active than Mini Sheepadoodles. Mini Goldendoodles need an average of 20 to 30 minutes of exercise each day, whereas Mini Sheepadoodles need close to an hour of walks and active play daily.
Mini Goldendoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Temperament Key Points
Comparison Table
| Breed | Mini Goldendoodle | Mini Sheepadoodle |
| Good with kids | Yes | Yes |
| Training | Easy | Easy |
| Friendly | Yes | Yes |
| Separation anxiety | Independent | Independent |
| Energy levels | Energetic | Energetic |
| Good for | Families with children, active seniors | Active owners, families, active retirees |
| Barking | Occasionally | Occasionally |
Mini Goldendoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Appearance
Mini Goldendoodle Appearance
Small to medium-sized, fluffy, and as cute as can be, Mini Goldendoodles and Mini Goldendoodle puppies are delightful little treats. The Mini Goldendoodle size can differ depending on their generation, but more often than not, they average 12 to 22 inches in height and up to 40 pounds in weight, with the F1b and F2 Mini Goldendoodles being smaller. These stunning dogs have a sturdy-built body, gorgeous round eyes, adorable floppy ears, and a long tail. Their appearance is athletic, friendly, and happy.
The most popular Mini Goldendoodle colors are golden, copper, cream, yellow, apricot, red, black, grey, and white – solid or particolored. As hybrids of two very different-looking dogs, their coats can be straight, wavy, or curly. Generally, Mini Goldendoodles are found in a curly Poodle coat that is low shedding with hypoallergenic qualities.
Mini Sheepadoodle Appearance
Small to medium-sized dogs that resemble little teddy bears, the Mini Sheepadoodles and Mini Sheepadoodle puppies are a dream come true. These precious dogs have an average size of 15 to 20 inches with a weight of 25 to 45 pounds for a full-grown Mini Sheepadoodle. F1b and F2 Mini Sheepadoodles are generally smaller. These teddy bear dogs have a compact, well-proportioned body, cute expressive eyes, adorable floppy ears, and a long tail worn slightly curled. Their appearance is sporty, cuddly, and joyful.
The most popular Mini Sheepadoodle colors are black and white with various markings. Other colors and color combinations they can come in are black, chocolate and white, silver, red and white, and brown. As a mixed breed, the Mini Sheepadoodles can have curly, wavy, or straight textures to their coat, with the most common being wavy. These dogs shed very little if at all and are considered a hypoallergenic dog breed.
Mini Goldendoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Appearance Comparison
When comparing their appearance, you will find that the Mini Goldendoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle are quite dissimilar. Although they share a Miniature Poodle parent breed, these dogs have very little in common apart from a similar height and weight. The Mini Goldendoodles are found in a myriad of coat colors and a curly Poodle coat, whereas Mini Sheepadoodles have a smaller coat color pallet – generally being black and white with a wavy coat.
Mini Goldendoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Appearance Key Points
Comparison Table
| Breed | Mini Goldendoodle | Mini Sheepadoodle |
| Adult weight | 20-40 pounds | 25-45 pounds |
| Adult height | 12-22 inches | 15-20 inches |
| Coat type | Straight, wavy, curly | Wavy, slightly curly |
| Colors | Golden, copper, apricot, cream, yellow, white, black, grey | Black, brown, silver, chocolate, red, black & white, red & white, chocolate & white |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes | Yes |
| Shedding | Minimal | Minimal |
Mini Goldendoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Comparison Conclusion
The Mini Goldendoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle are fun-loving and happy-go-lucky dogs that make a joyful addition to any lucky home. They are smart, easy to train, fond of affection and dog games in equal measure, and perfectly cuddly. They are also energetic and adventure-oriented dogs that love to be active and fit best with an owner that can match their energy levels.
With that in mind, we recommend the Mini Goldendoodle to families with children and couples that are looking for an active puppy dog to join them in fun family activities, and the Mini Sheepadoodle to active singles and families that are looking for a puppy to join them on their hiking adventures. Both of these superb dogs are a wonderful choice for first-time pet owners and for those suffering from pet-related allergies.
Elena R.
About The Author
Elena is a leading expert in the field of dog behavior, care, and training, with over a decade of experience in writing about dogs. As a published writer and lifelong dog enthusiast, Elena currently shares her home with three beloved canine companions. She is dedicated to staying up to date on the latest advancements in dog care and training, ensuring that her articles provide readers with accurate and valuable insights. With her extensive knowledge and passion for all things canine, Elena's contributions to the Premier Pups community offer both expertise and authority on a wide range of dog-related topics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more energetic, Mini Goldendoodle or Mini Sheepadoodle? Both the Mini Goldendoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle are energetic breeds, inheriting their vigor from the Poodle parent. The Mini Sheepadoodle might have a slight edge in energy due to the herding instincts of the Old English Sheepdog.
Mini Goldendoodle or Mini Sheepadoodle, which barks more? Both breeds can be somewhat vocal, especially if they sense something unfamiliar or want attention. However, Mini Sheepadoodles might be more vocal due to their Old English Sheepdog lineage, which were used as watch dogs.
Do Mini Goldendoodles experience more separation anxiety than Mini Sheepadoodles? Both breeds can exhibit signs of separation anxiety if left alone for prolonged periods. They bond closely with their families. However, consistent training and early socialization can help manage these behaviors in both breeds.
Should I get a Mini Goldendoodle or a Mini Sheepadoodle? Your choice between the two should depend on your living conditions, activity levels, and personal preferences in temperament. Both breeds are sociable and suitable for families.
Which is better, a Mini Goldendoodle or a Mini Sheepadoodle? "Better" is subjective and based on individual preferences. Each breed has its unique characteristics, and your choice should be influenced by how those traits align with your lifestyle.
What is the lifespan of a Mini Goldendoodle vs. Mini Sheepadoodle? Both breeds typically have lifespans ranging between 10-15 years, though this can vary based on health factors, genetics, and overall care.
Are Mini Goldendoodles easier to train than Mini Sheepadoodles? Both breeds are highly intelligent due to their Poodle genetics, making them generally receptive to training. The Mini Sheepadoodle might have a slight stubborn streak from the Old English Sheepdog lineage but is equally trainable with consistent methods.
Do Mini Goldendoodles shed more than Mini Sheepadoodles? Both breeds typically have a low to moderate shedding coat, thanks to the Poodle's influence. Regular grooming can help manage any loose hair and maintain their coat health.
Which is calmer, a Mini Goldendoodle or a Mini Sheepadoodle? Both breeds can be calm, especially after they've been exercised. The Mini Goldendoodle might have a slightly more laid-back demeanor, reflecting the temperament of the Golden Retriever.