When looking into bernedoodles, you may realize there are quite a few labels and sizes to choose from. What do these sizes mean, and which is the right bernedoodle size for your family? Here’s a breakdown of the different size options to help you choose the right one for your family!
What Determines the Size of Your Bernedoodle?
When it comes to bernedoodle size, you can look at the parents to get an estimation of how big your pup will be.
The size of the parent dogs is going to have the biggest impact when determining the overall size of your bernedoodle. Your bernedoodle’s weight and height will likely be between the parent dogs, so you can ask your breeder for a size estimation based on that. We say a size estimation because that’s truly what it is – an educated guess! Nobody will truly know how big your puppy will be because some puppies can turn out smaller or larger in a litter. If a breeder is giving you a size guarantee, be wary because that’s not something that can be guaranteed.
Some think that the generation your puppy is has an impact on size as well. But in most cases, it is negligible. This is because, as a crossbreed, there is so much variation in size, having a smaller or higher percentage of poodle in a bernedoodle doesn’t affect it much.
The Bernedoodle Sizes
There are four bernedoodle sizes your puppy can be: medium/small standard, miniature, petite, and micro mini. Let’s go into these size differences:
Medium/ Small Standard
A standard-size bernedoodle is the largest of the bernedoodle size options. They usually weigh 45-75 lbs. and are 18-24 inches. This size is a result of breeding a Bernese mountain dog with a poodle. It’s important to note that the larger the bernedoodle size, the more exercise and space your dog will need. And while bernedoodles are easygoing and the perfect couch companion, you will still need to exercise your furry friend regularly so they can stay in good health.
Miniature
The miniature-size bernedoodle is considered a smaller dog but could really fall into the medium-weight category in terms of other designer dogs. A mini bernedoodle could weigh between 35-55 lbs. and be 16-18 inches. This size results from crossing a Bernese mountain dog with a miniature poodle, or an F1 miniature to a miniature or micro mini bernedoodle.
Petite
Smaller still, but the petite bernedoodle is still a good size dog. They can weigh between 18-30 lbs. and be 14-17 inches. This size results from breeding a small standard bernedoodle to a miniature poodle.
Micro-Mini
The smallest of the bernedoodle sizes is a tiny bernedoodle, also called the micro-mini bernedoodle. Some breeders may also call this the “teddy bear” size. Just be aware that all these names fit into this one category. The micro-mini bernedoodle typically weighs between 15-28 lbs. and is between 12-16 inches. Again, you may notice that will this is considered micro-mini for this breed, they are still larger than other tiny or mini doodle dogs. This size is the result of breeding a miniature bernedoodle to a miniature toy poodle.
Some breeders will take the runt of the litter to breed them with a toy poodle to purposely get a micro mini-litter that’s as small as possible. Be careful, as they can introduce more genetic health issues. Only get micro-mini bernedoodle puppies (or any bernedoodle puppy, for that matter) from reputable breeders that have the integrity to not take part in this practice and will share the parent’s genetic testing with you.
Which Size is Right for You?
If you’re considering adding a bernedoodle to your family, you might be wondering which size is right for you. No matter what size you choose, a bernedoodle puppy has a wonderful temperament. The traits of the poodle make them intelligent and easy to train, while the traits of the Bernese mountain dog make them loyal and goofy best friends. They make the best companion for children and adults alike. Size is an important consideration, however, as it affects how well a bernedoodle will fit into your home and lifestyle.
If you live in an apartment or small home, a petite or micro-mini bernedoodle might be a good option, as smaller versions don’t need quite as much space. You may also want to consider a petite or micro-mini bernedoodle if you have arthritis or other medical conditions that make it challenging to control a large dog on a leash. And, of course, these smaller sizes also make perfect companions for young children.
Bigger bernedoodle sizes are great if you have a large home with plenty of room to exercise. If you don’t have a fenced-in yard, a public park or a dog park are perfect options to take your dog to run around and burn off energy. Again, these goofy doods might love to chill with you on the couch, but regular exercise is still essential. Regular exercise isn’t only good for their physical health, but it also helps to stimulate your dog’s mind, resulting in better behavior at home.
Ready for Bernedoodle Love?
We hope this size guide helps you decide which type of bernedoodle is right for you and your family. If you’re ready to add a bernedoodle puppy to your family, Alpine Bernedoodles is ready to help. We are located in the beautiful town of Montrose, Colorado, and it is our passion to produce exceptional quality bernedoodles. Our bernedoodles are bred with responsibility and integrity to be cherished family companions. Every puppy is raised with attention to physical and mental health and nurtured with love and care. Thank you for your interest in our puppies!
