Since its first known breeding in 2003, the Mini Bernedoodle continues to rise in popularity. These dogs are intelligent, goofy, loving, and playful which makes them wonderful companions and additions to the family.
Breed History
Mini Bernedoodles are the best of both worlds, bred from the interesting combination of the Bernese Mountain Dog and Miniature Poodle. This breed always has a Bernese Mountain Dog mother and a Miniature Poodle father because of the size of the puppies. The Bernese Mountain Dog, also called a “Berner”, is originally from the Swiss Alps and was bred to be a working farm dog. The other parent breed, the Poodle, is an extremely intelligent dog that originated from Germany and was used for duck hunting.
The Mini Bernedoodle was first bred in 2003 by Sherry Rupke, a dog breeder and the owner of SwissRidge Kennels. Rupke came to this match from a client’s suggestion, her mother suffering from pet allergies, and the short lifespan of Bernese Mountain Dogs causing grief for their owners.
Mini Bernedoodle Characteristics
Appearance and Coat
Mini Bernedoodles come in many different sizes and usually have a height of 18-22 inches and a weight range of 15-45 pounds. Mini Bernedoodles are known to resemble the look of their Berner parent, a tri-color coat of black fur with white and brown markings. This breed can also be all black, all brown, black with white markings, and black with brown markings.
Mini Bernedoodles typically don’t shed a lot and are a great match for owners looking for a low-shedding dog. They also have different coat types and can be wavy, curly, straight, or mixed. For those with allergies, a Mini Bernedoodle with a curly coat is the way to go, as they shed a lot less than those with straight coats. That being said, it usually takes about 5 or 6 months to be able to fully recognize this breed’s coat type.
Temperament
There aren’t many personality and temperament surprises with Mini Bernedoodles as both their parent breeds have temperaments that are alike. This breed loves being around people and following their owners wherever they go. They’re sweet, loyal, and very social with those they love.
Despite being social dogs who are very affectionate with their owners, Mini Bernedoodles are prone to being shy around strangers. Desensitizing a Mini Bernedoodle puppy through positive social interactions can lead to a more confident and comfortable adult Mini Bernedoodle. These dogs are known to be great with children and perfect family dogs.
This breed has higher energy levels while simultaneously having a calm temperament and the ability to be low-key after daily exercise.
Health
Mini Bernedoodles generally have good health and tend to live around 12 to 16 years. Because they’re part Miniature Poodle, the size of this breed means they are not as likely to have issues with elbow or hip dysplasia. Some Mini Bernedoodles inherit food sensitivities from their Berner side, however, this isn’t the case with all dogs of this breed.
Both Bernese Mountain Dogs and Miniature Poodles were bred to have a coat that keeps them warm. As a result, Mini Bernedoodles can get hot easily and should be watched in hot weather to ensure that they don’t overheat. Even though this breed is at a lower risk of having health issues, it’s always important to check with the breeders about the health of the parent dogs.
Caring for a Mini Bernedoodle
This Breed's Ideal Home
These dogs are social creatures and don’t enjoy extended time being alone so their ideal home would be one with a lifelong owner who can spend a lot of time with them. Mini Bernedoodles also require daily exercise, need mental stimulation, and don’t enjoy being bored. Their ideal owner is active, able to spend time with them, and is dedicated to their mental enrichment.
Training Best Practices
Mini Bernedoodles get their brains from their poodle genes and are very intelligent dogs. Because of their intelligence, these dogs are easy to train but can also be stubborn. One of the best ways to train a Mini Bernedoodle is with treats and food since these dogs are very reward-oriented. Staying consistent in training is essential with a Mini Bernedoodle as without it they can regress.
While puppies are known for their spunk and lots of energy, Mini Bernedoodles are quicker than most breeds at leveling out their energy. This maturing usually takes place around 6 to 8 months for this breed.
Exercise Needs
This breed’s energy level depends on whether they take after their Berner or Poodle parent, but Mini Bernedoodles generally have higher amounts of energy. When compared with their larger Bernedoodle counterparts, Mini Bernedoodles are much more energetic. They get this energetic trait from their Miniature Poodle parent. Their energy means they need daily exercise and are usually good with 2 hours of activity every day.
These dogs enjoy various exercise forms and intensities, making them a great workout partner and outdoor companions. Just keep in mind that Mini Bernedoodles get hot very easily and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Grooming and Hygiene
Frequent grooming is an important part of owning a Mini Bernedoodle. Consistent grooming will keep this breed’s coat healthy and clean so you’ll want to brush these dogs daily. Curly coated Mini Bernedoodles require more grooming attention to prevent matting.
Outside of brushing daily, you’ll only want to bathe these dogs occasionally. Overbathing a Mini Bernedoodle can lead to dry skin.
Looking to take home a Mini Bernedoodle? Find your new, loyal friend on LancasterPuppies!