Dwarf Golden Retriever: Size, Facts & Price (2026)

A dwarf golden retriever is a smaller-framed version of the beloved Golden Retriever, most commonly bred by crossing a Golden Retriever with a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel — a pairing known as the Golden Cavalier. These dogs reach 25–35 lbs at full size and are prized for combining the Golden's legendary friendliness with a more manageable body. If you've been searching for a golden-hearted dog that fits a smaller home or lifestyle, this is the breed worth understanding.

What exactly is a dwarf golden retriever?

A dwarf golden retriever is not a genetically dwarfed dog — it's a selectively bred smaller golden, most often a Golden Retriever crossed with a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (roughly 95% of litters). A small percentage (about 5%) are Golden Retriever x Cocker Spaniel mixes, sometimes called Golden Cockers. Either way, the goal is the same: a compact, golden-coated companion with all the warmth of a full-size Golden.

This mini golden retriever goes by several names — Miniature Golden Retriever, Petite Golden Retriever, and Golden Cavalier are all used interchangeably. The naming can be confusing, but the underlying genetics are consistent among reputable breeders.

Unlike true achondroplastic (bone-disorder) dwarfism seen in some breeds, a healthy dwarf golden retriever achieves its smaller stature through thoughtful crossbreeding — not a skeletal defect. That distinction matters enormously for long-term health and mobility.

How big does a dwarf golden retriever get?

Most dwarf golden retrievers reach 25–35 lbs and 14–18 inches tall at the shoulder when fully grown. Some individuals fall outside that range — the breed can run as light as 20 lbs or as heavy as 50 lbs depending on the specific parent dogs. For a detailed breakdown of what drives size variation, see our guide on mini golden retriever size.

These dogs reach their full adult size between 10 and 12 months of age — notably faster than a standard Golden Retriever, which can take 18–24 months to fill out completely.

That compact frame is one of the breed's biggest practical advantages. At 25–35 lbs, a dwarf golden fits comfortably in apartments, travels more easily, and puts less stress on furniture and joints — yours and theirs.

What is the temperament of a dwarf golden retriever?

Dwarf golden retrievers are affectionate, friendly, intelligent, and deeply loyal — they inherit the Golden Retriever's people-first personality in a smaller package. They are excellent with children, highly adaptable, and among the easiest breeds to train. Learn more about what makes them tick on our mini golden retriever temperament page.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel side of the cross adds an extra layer of gentleness and calm, making these dogs especially well-suited to families with toddlers, seniors, or first-time dog owners.

Dwarf goldens thrive on human connection. They do not do well with prolonged isolation, so they're best matched with households where someone is home for a meaningful portion of the day — or where a dog walker or daycare fills the gap.

How much does a dwarf golden retriever cost?

From a reputable breeder, expect to pay $3,900–$4,300 for a dwarf golden retriever puppy. Crockett Pups in Greenville, SC lists full purchase prices in that range, with an adoption path available at $3,900–$4,000 after a $300 refundable deposit. For a full cost breakdown — including delivery fees and what drives price differences — visit our mini golden retriever price page.

Delivery is available at a flat rate by region, with an additional $200 per extra puppy if you're adding a second dog. South Carolina residents picking up in person pay 6% SC sales tax; out-of-state buyers do not.

Puppies from Crockett Pups are genetically tested, microchipped, and family-raised. A health guarantee is available — up to 12 years — though it is conditional on the owner meeting specific care requirements, so review those terms carefully before purchase.

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