Little Golden Retrievers: Size, Price & Facts (2026)

A little golden retriever is a compact cross between a Golden Retriever and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, weighing just 25–35 lbs at full size. They keep all the warmth and trainability of a full-size golden in a genuinely apartment-friendly package. If you've been searching for a smaller golden with a big heart, this is the breed.

What exactly is a little golden retriever?

A little golden retriever is a Golden Retriever crossed with a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel — sometimes called a Golden Cavalier or mini golden retriever. About 95% of litters come from this pairing; a small number (roughly 5%) are a Golden Retriever x Cocker Spaniel cross, sometimes called a Golden Cocker.

The goal of the cross is straightforward: shrink the size of the Golden Retriever while keeping its legendary temperament intact. The result is a dog that reaches full size at just 10–12 months and stays between 14 and 18 inches tall.

Coat colors include gold, light gold, dark gold, red, buff, cream, and even black — giving families a wider palette than the standard golden. Because the breed is intentional rather than accidental, reputable breeders like Crockett Pups perform genetic health testing on every parent.

How big do little golden retrievers get?

Little golden retrievers typically weigh 25–35 lbs and stand 14–18 inches at the shoulder when fully grown. The full size range runs 20–50 lbs depending on the specific parents. You can dig into the details on our mini golden retriever size page.

They reach their adult size at 10–12 months — faster than a full-size golden, which can take 18–24 months. That earlier maturity means you're not managing an awkward adolescent giant for very long.

At 25–35 lbs, these dogs are genuinely manageable in smaller homes, condos, and apartments, while still being sturdy enough to keep up with active families on hikes or in the backyard.

What is the temperament of a little golden retriever?

Little golden retrievers are affectionate, intelligent, loyal, and famously good with children — they score high on every trait families care about most. Both parent breeds (Golden Retriever and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel) are ranked among the friendliest dogs in existence, so the cross doubles down on those qualities. Learn more on our mini golden retriever temperament page.

They are easy to train, which makes them a great fit for first-time dog owners. Their eagerness to please means basic obedience often clicks within the first few weeks of consistent practice.

Because they are adaptable and calm indoors, little goldens do well in apartments as long as they get daily walks and play sessions. They thrive on human connection and do not do well when left alone for long stretches.

How much does a little golden retriever cost?

A little golden retriever from a health-tested, reputable breeder typically costs $3,900–$4,300. At Crockett Pups, puppies listed for adoption are priced $3,900–$4,000 with a $300 refundable deposit to hold your spot. See a full breakdown on 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 sales tax (6%) applies only if you pick up in person in SC.

Every Crockett Pups puppy comes microchipped and family-raised. A health guarantee of up to 12 years is available, subject to the owner meeting specific care requirements — details are outlined on the health guarantee page.

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