The Hype with Mini Bernedoodles
Add the word “mini” in front of any dog breed, and people are sure to notice.
This is especially true with the Bernedoodle! Those interested in designer dogs have probably heard of the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle mix, but Doggie HQ wonders…have you ever come across their miniature counterpart?
With an adorable scruffy face, the Mini Bernedoodle combines the Bernese Mountain Dog with a Miniature Poodle. This results in a downsized version of the hybrid dog we all know and love. However, despite their similarities, this breed has its own special traits and characteristics.
So, without further ado!
Introducing, the Mini Bernedoodle.
What’s the Hype with the Miniature Bernedoodle
It’s impossible not to love a Miniature Bernedoodle.
In fact, according to Spirit Dog this is a highly in-demand designer dog and amongst the most popular of Doodle breeds. They inherited the best traits of both parents. This makes them:
- Faithful
- Affectionate
- Smart
- Excitable
- Playful
- Trainable
- Good with children
- Fluffy
- Cuddly
- Tri-colored
- Hypoallergenic
- Small to medium sized
Breed History
Like most designer dogs, the Miniature Bernedoodle is relatively new to the canine world, roughly twenty or so years. They are not officially recognized by the American Kennel Club as being a distinct breed, yet both sets of parents have centuries-long histories.
Let’s start with Poodles.
Originally from Germany, Poodles were born to be water dogs. During hunts, they would jump into the lakes, ponds, and marshes in pursuit of ducks and other waterfowl. These athletic pups were built for swimming.
In time, three sizes of Poodles were developed. The Poodle Club of America shares that these are standard, miniature, and toy. Nowadays, Poodles still compete in hunting, agility, and dock diving, but they are first and foremost beloved pets. There’s also the Moyen Poodle which is considered to be medium in size but falls in the standard category.
The same can be said about Bernese Mountains Dogs.
As their name implies, these pooches come from the mountains! The Swiss Alps, to be precise. Bernese Mountain Dogs were the faithful companions of people living in the 1800s who used these strong dogs to pull wagons, watch over livestock and children, and also help out around the farm, as explained by HillsPet.
Then, in the early 2000s, Bernedoodles started popping up. Soon, the petite mini version was born!
Facts about Miniature Bernedoodles
How can you differentiate a Bernedoodle from a Mini Bernese Mountain Doodle?
Easy.
With the smaller versions, their size, temperament, and other physical and emotional qualities will be slightly unique. In their guide to this breed, Traveling With A Dog and The Happy Puppy Site say owners can expect to see the following:
Size: 10 – 15 inches
Weight: approximately 10 – 30 lbs
Temperament/Personality: Intelligent, playful, affectionate, faithful, eager to please but can be stubborn
Lifespan: This can vary widely, but generally anywhere from 7 – 15 years.
Unique Qualities: Miniature Bernedoodles make wonderful playmates for young children, delightful companions for seniors, and are excel at obedience training
Do they shed: Poodles have tightly curled, dense coats that are known for not shedding too much. Conversely, Bernese Mountain Dog shed because of their thick wavy coats…A LOT. So, a Miniature Bernedoodle’s coat could genetically be expressed either way.
Hypoallergenic: No dog breed is 100% hypoallergic. All dogs shed a little. Plus, their dander and saliva affect allergies. That being said, Mini Bernadoodles with curly hair are less likely to irritate allergies.
Family Friendly: Yes
Health Issues: Some. Watch out for hip or elbow dysplasia, skin problems, Patella Luxation, and eye issues such as cataracts
What Do They Look Like
Searching for a multicolored dog that has an “old man” beard?
Look no further than a Mini Bernese Mountain Doodle!
First up, their faces. These pooches have black button noses surrounded by long shaggy white hair. On either side of their head are black markings that cover their eyes like a mask. Sometimes, two brown dots will hang just over the lashes, giving the appearance of eyebrows.
It’s an instantly recognizable look.
As for their bodies, Miniature Bernedoodles are soft and fluffy. They stand at knee height. White paws and chest reflect their Bernese half.
Overall, they are truly adorable pups!
Common Health Issues in Mini Bernese Mountain Doodles
You may have heard that Bernese Mountain Dogs live tragically short lives…and you would be correct. According to the American Kennel Club, many don’t make it past their seventh birthday.
The good news is, that Mini Bernedoodles are much, much healthier than their full-sized cousins! They fall victim to far fewer health issues, largely thanks to their smaller size. Still, your veterinarian will want you to be mindful of the following:
- Abnormal Bone Development
- Hip / Elbow Dysplasia
- Patella Luxation AKA slipped knees
- Blindness
- Cataracts
- Skin Rashes
What is an f1b Mini Bernedoodle?
The terms F1 refers to the first generation.
Basically, this letter and number means that a puppy has two purebred parents. As We Love Doodles explains, “The F stands for Filial Hybrid.” So, one parent is a 100% Bernese Mountain Dog and the other is 100% Poodle.
An F1B Bernedoodle on the other hand is what’s called a backcross. Or 75% Poodle & 25% Bernese Mountain Dog.
Where to Find Miniature Bernedoodles (including puppies)
Are you obsessed with the idea of getting a Bernoodle puppy?
We don’t blame you! They sure are adorable.
Luckily, because these hybrids are popular, it isn’t too difficult to locate a breeder. In fact, there is a list titled The Best Bernedoodle Breeders Around The World that is available for buyers in the US, UK, and Canada. To adopt a Mini Bernese from a rescue, you may be waiting a long time. That’s because these dogs don’t tend to be surrendered very often. However, it does occasionally happen.
If your heart is set on rescuing, reach out to a Bernese Mountain Dog rescue group and ask that your name be added to a list of potential adoptees for any future incoming pups.
How much do they cost?
Spirit Dog says prospective buyers should be ready to pay $1,700 for a puppy (at the bare minimum). This price then shoots up even higher.
Why?
Well, some features will be in high demand. For example, female puppies and those with lots of pretty white and black markings will cost more.
Are they registered?
Yes and no.
Utah Bernedoodles explains that this breed cannot be registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC). Though, they can be registered in the United Bernedoodle Registry database.
What to ask the breeder
Before bringing home a Mini Bernedoodle, it’s important to ask the right questions. This will ensure you are buying from a responsible breeder who care about the longevity and health of their dogs (and not a backyard breeder who is only interested in profit).
Be sure to ask:
- Why do you breed Bernedoodles? How long have you been doing so?
- Are there any references I can speak to?
- How do you decide which families can purchase a puppy?
- What sort of health tests has been performed on the parents?
- Do puppies come with a health guarantee? Vaccinations?
- Can I meet the mother and father in person?
- What age can I take my puppy home?
Other Questions You May Have About Mini Bernedoodles
Lastly, there might be some final questions at the back of your mind.
Being half Poodle, this breed is smart. Therefore, in order to be calm, well-adjusted, easygoing dogs, they need to be mentally stimulated. Signing up for obedience classes and training and offering enough exercise is key to stopping a Mini Bernedoodle from being too hyper.
Boy or girl?
When it comes to dogs, the choice is entirely personal. While personality and temperament will differ (no matter which sex you ultimately decide on) many people use health concerns to decide between a male or female. For instance, un-spayed female Mini Bernedoodles will go into heat and run the risk of pregnancy. Males that are unneutered tend to mark their territory more.
Beyond biological differences, however, both boy and girl dogs can make wonderful pets.
No, not overly so.
Bernedoodle Breed shares that these loyal dogs will bark at strangers. After all, their Bernese Mountain Dog side has an inner urge to protect. But they are not yappy dogs. A few deep “woofs” are all owners should expect.
Final Thoughts
In summary, Miniature Bernedoodles are a highly sought-after designer dog, and for good reason! Since the early 2000s, they have exploded in popularity to become affectionate and faithful pets. If you are considering a Mini Bernese, why not reach out to a local breeder and ask if you can please pay them a visit?
That way, you can learn about these fluffy cuties in person!
