Welcoming a dog into the family is undoubtedly exciting. But if you have small children or other pets at home, then there are some things you should consider first. A perfect choice for a family dog can be the mini Bernedoodle as they are very gentle with kids and are hypoallergenic as well. These dogs get along very well with other cats and dogs, so if you already have other pets at home, the mini Bernedoodle will be a great choice to fit in.
Are you thinking about welcoming a Mini Bernedoodle into your home but not sure if they’re the right fit for your family? I’ve spent countless hours researching these adorable pups, and I’m here to share everything you need to know about these increasingly popular designer dogs.
Mini Bernedoodles have captured the hearts of dog lovers everywhere with their teddy bear looks and winning personalities. But cute faces aside, are they actually good family dogs? The short answer is: YES! But there’s much more to the story.
What Exactly is a Mini Bernedoodle?
Before diving into whether Mini Bernedoodles make good family pets let’s understand what they actually are
A Mini Bernedoodle is a crossbreed between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Miniature Poodle. These adorable pups typically stand between 12-22 inches tall and weigh around 25-49 pounds (though some sources suggest they can be as small as 10-30 pounds).
What makes them special is how they combine the best traits from both parent breeds:
- The affectionate, loyal nature of the Bernese Mountain Dog
- The intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Miniature Poodle
Why Mini Bernedoodles Make Excellent Family Dogs
1. Wonderful Temperament for Families
Mini Bernedoodles are known for their exceptional temperament, which makes them perfect companions for families. They’re:
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Affectionate and Social: These dogs form strong bonds with family members and enjoy being part of daily activities. They’ll happily follow you from room to room just to be near you!
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Great with Kids: Their gentle and patient nature makes them excellent playmates for children of all ages. They’re typically very tolerant and gentle, even with toddlers.
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Friendly with Other Pets: If you have cats or other dogs, Mini Bernedoodles usually get along well with them. Early socialization helps, but they’re naturally inclined to be friendly.
One owner commented, “Our Mini Bernedoodle is so gentle with our 3-year-old. They’ve become best friends, and I never worry about them playing together.”
2. Intelligence Makes Training Easier
Thanks to their Poodle heritage, Mini Bernedoodles are highly intelligent dogs:
- They learn commands quickly and can master basic training relatively fast
- They respond well to positive reinforcement methods
- Their eagerness to please makes training sessions productive
However, it’s worth noting they can inherit a stubborn streak from their Bernese Mountain Dog parent. Patience is key during training, but their intelligence typically wins out.
3. Perfect Size for Family Living
One of the biggest advantages of Mini Bernedoodles is their manageable size:
- Not too small that they’re fragile around kids
- Not too large that they overwhelm smaller homes
- Just right for cuddling on the couch or going for family adventures
Their moderate size makes them adaptable to various living situations – from apartments (with adequate exercise) to homes with yards.
4. Adaptable to Your Lifestyle
Mini Bernedoodles are remarkably adaptable dogs:
- They have moderate energy levels – playful when it’s time for fun, but can settle down when needed
- They enjoy both outdoor activities and indoor cuddle sessions
- They can adjust to family routines and schedules
This adaptability makes them suitable for families with varying lifestyles, whether you’re highly active or prefer quieter days at home.
Potential Challenges of Mini Bernedoodles
While Mini Bernedoodles have many wonderful qualities, they’re not without challenges. It’s important to consider these aspects before bringing one home:
1. Grooming Requirements Can Be Intensive
The beautiful coat that makes Mini Bernedoodles so adorable also requires significant maintenance:
- Their wavy or curly coat needs regular brushing (several times per week) to prevent matting
- Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks is recommended
- Without proper care, their coat can develop painful mats that lead to skin issues
One owner shared, “I didn’t realize how much grooming our Mini Bernedoodle would need. We now have a standing appointment with our groomer every 6 weeks, and I brush him every other day.”
2. Health Considerations to Be Aware Of
Like all breeds, Mini Bernedoodles can be prone to certain health issues:
- Hip dysplasia (from both parent breeds)
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Von Willebrand’s disease
- Elbow dysplasia
- Skin allergies and infections
Regular vet check-ups and buying from reputable breeders who conduct health testing can help minimize these risks.
3. Exercise Needs Must Be Met
While not high-energy dogs, Mini Bernedoodles still need regular exercise:
- About 60 minutes of daily activity is recommended
- They benefit from both physical exercise and mental stimulation
- Without adequate exercise, they may develop behavioral issues
Cost Considerations for Mini Bernedoodle Ownership
If you’re serious about getting a Mini Bernedoodle, be prepared for the financial commitment:
| Expense Category | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Initial purchase | $2,000-$5,000 |
| Annual vet care | $500-$1,000 |
| Grooming (professional) | $60-$90 every 4-6 weeks |
| Food | $40-$60 monthly |
| Training | $100-$300 for basic classes |
The initial cost of a Mini Bernedoodle puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite high compared to other breeds, reflecting their popularity and the care that goes into breeding them properly.
Who Should Consider a Mini Bernedoodle?
Mini Bernedoodles are excellent for:
- Families with children who want a gentle, playful companion
- Allergy sufferers who need a low-shedding dog (though no dog is 100% hypoallergenic)
- First-time dog owners willing to commit to training and grooming
- Active individuals or families who can provide regular exercise
- Multi-pet households looking to add a friendly dog to the mix
Who Should Consider Other Breeds?
Mini Bernedoodles might not be ideal for:
- People with very limited time for grooming and maintenance
- Those seeking a guard dog (they’re typically too friendly!)
- Individuals on a tight budget (initial cost and ongoing grooming expenses are significant)
- People who hate grooming or can’t commit to regular brushing
Tips for Raising a Happy, Healthy Mini Bernedoodle
If you decide a Mini Bernedoodle is right for your family, here are some tips to ensure they thrive:
- Start training early – Begin basic commands and socialization as soon as you bring them home
- Establish a grooming routine – Get them used to brushing from a young age
- Provide mental stimulation – Puzzle toys and training games will keep their smart minds busy
- Schedule regular vet visits – Preventative care is essential for their health
- Make exercise fun – Vary their activities to keep them engaged
Final Thoughts: Are Mini Bernedoodles Good Family Dogs?
After reviewing all the evidence, I can confidently say that Mini Bernedoodles make excellent family dogs for the right homes. Their loving temperament, intelligence, and adaptability make them wonderful companions for families of all types.
However, they do require commitment – to training, grooming, exercise, and health care. If you’re willing to put in the time and effort, a Mini Bernedoodle can bring immense joy to your family for 12-15 years (their typical lifespan).
As with any dog, the key is matching your lifestyle and expectations with the breed’s needs and characteristics. If the Mini Bernedoodle’s friendly nature and moderate energy level align with what you’re looking for, you may have found your perfect family companion!
FAQs About Mini Bernedoodles as Family Dogs
Q: Do Mini Bernedoodles bark a lot?
A: No, Mini Bernedoodles are generally quiet dogs. With proper training, they typically only bark to alert you of something unusual.
Q: Are Mini Bernedoodles good for first-time dog owners?
A: Yes, their intelligence and eagerness to please make them suitable for first-time owners who are committed to training and care.
Q: How much exercise do Mini Bernedoodles need daily?
A: About 60 minutes of exercise daily is recommended, which can include walks, playtime, and mental stimulation.
Q: Are Mini Bernedoodles actually hypoallergenic?
A: While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, Mini Bernedoodles are typically low-shedding, which may cause fewer allergic reactions in some people.
Q: How do Mini Bernedoodles do with cats?
A: With proper socialization, Mini Bernedoodles usually get along well with cats and other pets due to their friendly, non-aggressive nature.
They Are Very Patient and Gentle
If you already have other pets at home and are worried about how the new dog will fit into the mix, then choosing a mini Bernedoodle might be the way to go. These dogs are very gentle and get along fabulously with other pets such as cats and birds. So as a first-time owner, if you think you will want to get more pets in the future, getting a mini Bernedoodle can help provide a hassle-free experience.
The mini Bernedoodle is very gentle with older people, as well as toddlers and children. These dogs will adjust very easily to living in an apartment, although you need to take them out on regular walks and make sure they get adequate exercise.
With the mini Bernedoodle, you dont need to worry about your dog dying young, as they have a life expectancy of 14 to 16 years, while most dogs have a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. This means bonding with your pet will be all the more wonderful as your mini Bernedoodle will be around as your kids grow up. You also won’t need to worry about losing them too soon, as you will have ample time to shower them with all your love as a first-time pet owner.
Should You Get a Mini Bernedoodle If You Are a First-time Owner?
When considering which furry pal you should get for your family, a mini Bernedoodle will be a great choice, especially if you are looking to surprise your kids. People from all age groups find mini Bernedoodles to be a very popular choice as they are very fun-loving and affectionate. You must buy them from legitimate sources so that you don’t have to worry about the health of your dog or the documentation.
You need to research mini Bernedoodles to know all there is about this breed so that you can be sure that their temperament goes with the situation at your home. Sites like- https://centralillinoisdoodles.com/dogs/breeds/bernedoodles/ have all the information you need to equip you to bring a mini Bernadoodle home. Here are a few reasons why they make a great choice for even first-time owners: