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Brains and beauty? The Mini Bernedoodle has it all. This charming mix of Poodle intelligence and Bernese Mountain Dog gentleness isn't just a pretty face; they've got a quick wit and loving personalities.
While there’s some disagreement on the spelling—Mini Bernedoodles, Mini Bernadoodles, or even Mini Bernidoodles—there’s no doubt about it: this crossbreed is enchanting! A mix between a Bernese Mountain Dog and Miniature Poodle, the Mini Bernedoodle is a fairly new type of dog that is known for being affectionate and playful.
Although this recently developed “designer dog” doesn’t have the extensive history other breeds have, the Mini Bernedoodle is every bit as lovable and loyal as its more established counterparts. Let’s take a look at the characteristics that make the Mini Bernedoodle so popular with dog afficionados.
Quick Mini Bernedoodle Facts
Name: Miniature Bernedoodle, Mini Bernadoodle, Mini Bernidoodle
Origin: Canada
Size: 16-18 inches at the shoulder, weigh around 25-50 pounds
Lifespan: up to 16 years
Appearance: typically features a wavy, tricolored coat (rust, black, and white)
Temperament: smart, stubborn, cautious, shy, mellow, playful
Compatibility: can make suitable companions for kids and other pets
Intelligence: have average intelligence and a desire to please their owners
Exercise & Energy: generally have moderate exercise needs
Grooming Needs: can be grooming intensive and may shed heavily
Training: need consistent training to curb unwanted behaviors including chewing
Health: can inherit hormone disorders and joint issues
Highlights: loyal, calm, independent, gentle, amiable, affectionate
What Makes Mini Bernedoodles Special
Gorgeous coats: It’s love at first sight for many Mini Bernedoodle owners thanks to the breed’s exquisite coats and charming teddy bear-like appearance.
Smaller stature: This breed is great for pet parents who love Bernese Mountain Dogs but don’t have the space necessary to own one.
Average energy: Mini Bernedoodles aren’t known for being especially rambunctious, so most owners find their activity levels easy to manage.
Cautious personalities: These dogs aren’t social butterflies, so you won’t have to worry too much about your pup invading another pet’s space.
Good around kids: Families with young ones often find their Mini Bernedoodle considers themselves just another one of the kids, loving to play and goof around!
How Can You Identify a Mini Bernedoodle?
Many times, you can instantly spot a Mini Bernese Mountain Dog-Poodle mix in a crowd thanks to their teddy bear-like size and fluffy coats. They often inherit the distinctive Berner tricolor coat featuring white chests and black saddle patterns with splashes of rust-colored fur. A Mini Bernedoodle’s snout is typically medium-length and has a nose that is almost always solid black.
What Size Will a Mini Bernedoodle Get?
Since Mini Bernedoodles are a crossbreed, predicting a pet’s exact size is impossible. On average, most Mini Bernedoodles will weigh between 25 and 50 pounds. Of course, there’s always the chance your dog could be smaller or larger than average, especially if they have Toy or Standard Poodle heritage somewhere along their line.
What is a Mini Bernedoodle’s Coat Like?
Bernese Mountain Dogs have thick, straight, double coats that shed profusely. On the other hand, Poodle coats are famous for being somewhat hypoallergenic (although no dog is truly such) with low-shedding hair. Depending on which traits your Mini Bernedoodle inherits, their own coats may feature both Poodle hair and Bernese Mountain Dog fur. Many members of this crossbreed have wavy fur, a combination of both parents’ breeds.
Do Mini Bernedoodles Have Gentle Temperaments?
In general, Mini Bernedoodles err on the side of caution when it comes to meeting new people and animals. They’re not likely to be aggressive and can even be somewhat shy. That said, keep in mind that no two animals (even from the same litter) will share a personality in all manners.
Are Mini Bernedoodles Friendly Dogs?
You can expect your Mini Bernedoodle to want to be by your side much of the time. While they can be independent in many regards, these pups are descended from working dogs that were around humans for much of the day. Separation anxiety is a real threat for them and any other dog, so be sure to keep your dog mentally stimulated with puzzle toys and treats when you’re away from the house.
Will a Mini Bernedoodle Get Along with Kids?
Most Mini Bernedoodle owners find their dog loves romping around the house with their kids. On the whole, these gentle-natured canines understand children are more delicate than adults and know how to interact accordingly. That said, one should always supervise playtime between pets and kids as accidents can happen.
Do Mini Bernedoodles Get Along with Other Pets?
Your average Mini Bernedoodle will be fine around another cat or dog, but it’s worth noting some may have a stronger prey instinct due to their working background. To improve the chances of your pets living in harmony, introduce new pets slowly and on the animals’ terms.
How Do You Care for a Mini Bernedoodle?
Most members of this breed won’t need any specialized care. Like other dogs, they’ll need to follow a nutritious diet and get enough exercise. Usually, a half-hour to an hour of walking will be enough for them, but energy levels can vary from one dog to another. Dental hygiene is another consideration and is sometimes neglected in dogs. Remember that a pup’s teeth need to be brushed just as human teeth do, they can also develop tartar and plaque.
How Should You Groom a Mini Bernedoodle?
Your pet’s grooming regimen will depend on the type of coat they inherit. Dogs with coats that feature more Poodle characteristics (very curly and low shedding) won’t shed much but they will need to be brushed daily to prevent knots developing in their hair. Conversely, a Mini Bernedoodle with more of a Berner-influenced coat will likely shed prolifically. Brushing their coat regularly can cut down on shedding, as can frequent baths. Fortunately, many members of the breed only shed a little.
Are Mini Bernedoodles Trainable?
Both Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles are known for being intelligent breeds, and their offspring sport the same smarts. Training a Mini Bernedoodle shouldn’t be too difficult, but you may find that your pup has a stubborn streak thanks to their Berner background. If you run into trouble with training, don’t hesitate to bring in a professional. Even a cute, fluffy dog like a Mini Bernedoodle needs to have boundaries. This ensures your pup’s safety as well as that of others!
How Much Space Does a Mini Bernedoodle Need?
A Mini Bernedoodle won’t need as much space as a giant breed. They can do well in an apartment setting as long as they get sufficient exercise (i.e., walks around the block or playtime at the dog park). Since they generally have moderate energy levels, you’ll probably find that your dog doesn’t need much more exercise than this.
What Should You Feed a Mini Bernedoodle?
Mini Bernedoodles don’t need a specialized diet unless recommended by a veterinarian. To keep your dog healthy, feed them high-quality wet or dry food. Be sure the food is labeled “complete and balanced,” as this designation means it meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) requirements. Dog food with this label is nutritious enough to meet most dogs’ needs.
Are Mini Bernedoodles Typically Healthy Dogs?
While Mini Bernedoodles are generally healthy dogs, it's important to be aware of certain conditions that may affect the breed. As with any breed, there are some health conditions that can occur, but with responsible breeding practices and attentive care from their owners, these issues can often be minimized or managed effectively.
What Issues Do Mini Bernedoodles Commonly Experience?
As is the case with other crossbreeds, the Mini Bernedoodle can inherit problems from either or both sides of their family tree. Keep an eye out for any health changes and inform your vet as soon as possible. Addressing problems early on could help your dog avoid pain and health complications.
Aseptic Meningitis
This breed’s Berner side is more likely to develop aseptic meningitis, which is a condition that affects a dog’s spinal cord. Besides neck pain, symptoms include fever and lethargy. Some dogs may be prescribed medication to treat it over their lifetimes, but sadly, others may need to be euthanized. Be aware of the signs and seek veterinary attention promptly if you suspect your dog might be affected. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing the condition and improving the dog's prognosis.
Osteochondrosis Dissecans
Mini Bernedoodles are also more prone to developing this joint condition that affects their shoulders and elbows. If your pup is affected by osteochondrosis dissecans, they might limp or have difficulty standing up. X-rays, CT scans, and/or bone scans might be required to diagnose the problem. Surgery is often recommended and usually resolves any pain.
Addison's Disease
Also called hypoadrenocorticism, Addison’s Disease can be inherited from this breed’s Poodle side. It affects a dog’s adrenal glands, which regulate the body’s metabolism and immune system. Symptoms can include shaking, vomiting, and diarrhea. If the vet suspects your dog may have Addison’s Disease, they will likely run lab tests to check your Mini Bernedoodle’s sodium, potassium, and calcium levels. Other bloodwork will probably be required, as diagnosis can be tricky. Happily, hormone therapy can help get affected dogs back to normal.
Do You Need Pet Insurance for a Mini Bernedoodle?
Investing in dog insurance for your Mini Bernedoodle is a good idea. Why? Because even healthy canines get sick once in a while, just as humans do. Mini Bernedoodles are also at risk for developing certain medical conditions, so protecting them with a pet insurance policy can help reduce veterinarian bills over your pup’s lifetime.
For example, if your pup gets aseptic meningitis, the costs can mount quickly. Diagnosing this condition often requires a range of tests, including a complete blood count, biochemistry profile, cerebrospinal fluid analysis (which involves a spinal tap), and potentially MRI or CT scans. These diagnostic procedures alone can easily cost between $1,500 and $4,000 or more, depending on the location and the specific tests performed. If aseptic meningitis is confirmed, treatment typically involves immunosuppressive medications, such as corticosteroids, which can be expensive and require ongoing monitoring.
Beyond unexpected illnesses and accidents, routine care is also essential for a healthy Mini Bernedoodle. To help manage the costs of preventative care, consider an optional wellness plan that can be added to your insurance policy. These wellness plans are designed to cover routine expenses such as annual check-ups, vaccinations (including puppy shots), parasite prevention, dental cleanings, and even services like neutering/spaying, training classes, and grooming. With these two key components in place, you can focus on enjoying every moment with your Mini Bernedoodle, knowing their health is well-protected.
Where Did Mini Bernedoodles Come From?
While Poodles were initially bred in Germany as water retrievers, Bernese Mountain Dogs have a history rooted in farm work and cart-pulling. While each of these breeds has been around for hundreds of years, it was only in the 21st century that people began intentionally crossbreeding them.
Sherry Rupke, a Canadian breeder, first created the Mini Bernedoodle in 2003 in an attempt to breed a dog that was as healthy as it was beautiful. Over twenty years later, Mini Bernedoodles are more popular than ever and have developed a loyal following of dog lovers.
Where Can You Find a Mini Bernedoodle for Sale?
Mini Bernedoodles are most commonly bought through breeders. As with any other dog, make sure you go through a reputable breeder that is well-respected in the canine world. Otherwise, you may inadvertently buy a dog from a so-called puppy mill. Dogs from these negligent breeders are often sickly and mistreated.
You can also check the animal shelters and dog rescues in your area for a Mini Bernedoodle. Sometimes, you can be put on a waitlist and contacted once a specified breed is surrendered.
Mini Bernedoodle Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have to groom a Mini Bernedoodle?
Yes, you should brush your Mini Bernedoodle’s coat frequently to keep it shiny and tangle-free. How often you need to brush your pet depends on whether it inherits more of the high-shedding Berner coat or the curly hair of the Poodle. Most Mini Bernedoodles have a combination of the two, sporting wavy fur that sheds minimally.
How long does a Mini Bernedoodle live?
The Mini Bernedoodle lifespan can stretch to 16 years or more. While Bernese Mountain Dogs tend to have shorter lives than other dogs, their Poodle lineage makes Mini Bernedoodles more likely to reach double digits.
How much is a Mini Bernedoodle puppy?
Mini Bernedoodles can cost several thousand dollars and are very much in demand. Expect to pay anywhere from a couple of thousand dollars to $5000 or more. Be advised that there might be a waiting period before a puppy becomes available.
When will my Mini Bernedoodle be full-grown?
At around the two-year mark, your pup will be considered a full-grown Mini Bernedoodle. Dogs are typically referred to as adults when they’re just one year old, but they could keep growing for up to a year after that.
What is a Mini Bernedoodle’s size?
It can be difficult to predict a Mini Bernedoodle’s size since they are a crossbreed that has only recently come into existence. You can expect your dog to be about 16-18 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 25 and 50 pounds as an adult.
Do Mini Bernedoodles have separation anxiety?
Like any other breed, Mini Bernedoodles can certainly develop separation anxiety. The good news is that owners can work with their pup to make them more comfortable when left alone. Strategies include ensuring the dog gets plenty of exercise and leaving puzzle toys for them.