If you understand the difference between an F1 and an F1b Bernedoodle, you can stop reading.
However, if you’re interested in learning more about the breed (and the breeders) so that you can make the best choice for your family, read on.
Choosing a dog is an important decision that goes far beyond the cute faces of the first puppy you see.
They’re all cute and it’s natural to want to bring one home. For the sake of the sake and your family, take a minute to think about the breed’s needs and requirements.
Make sure the dog will be happy in your home so that he/she can thrive.
Bernedoodles are a cross between a miniature Poodle and a Bernese Mountain Dog. You can also get a larger “standard” Bernedoodle that is a cross between a standard Poodle and Bernese Mountain Dog.
These particular dogs are considered healthier because of their hybrid nature and hpoallergenic (especially the F1b variety).
Miniature Bernedoodles Are Pure Love With a Smile
Once a Bernedoodle falls for you, that dog is going to trust you for life. Bringing a Bernedoodle puppy home is a commitment that could expand 12 to 15 years. Toy Benedoodle dogs can live as long as 18 years in some cases.
These little bundles of fun check all the boxes in terms of intelligence, loyalty, life-span, and companionship.
Fast Facts About Doodles
A few years ago the big craze was owning a Goldendoodle – a cross between a Golden Retriever and Poodle. Now there are dozens of designer breed dogs available including:
- Labradoodles,
- Australian Labradoodles
- Cockapoo
- Cockalier
- Schnoodle
- Whoodle
- Bordoodle
- Shepadoodle
- Dorkie
- Pomapoo
- Newfypoo
- Porkie
- Pomchi
- Peritas
- Goberian
- and the list goes ON
Do not feel guilty over buying a designer dog. People have many reasons for needing to buy a breed that perfectly fits their family and lifestyle. It’s wonderful if you can adopt or rescue a dog, but it’s not necessarily the right choice for every family.
The Bernedoodle bonds closely with his owners and may develop some separation anxiety. An outlet for anxious dogs is to tear up paper, rip into shoes, purses, or even chew on furniture. This dog is best for people who are going to be around most of the time.
Of course, everyone can’t be with their dogs 24/7. Train your new puppy early but leaving him for short periods of time.
Some great things about Bernedoodles include the following:
Not Easily Scared By Household Noise
Bernedoodles are pretty easy-going and are not likely to cower in the corner when the house is full of people. Instead, this dog will probably want to jump in and join the fun.
All Bernedoodles (miniature, toy, or standard) absolutely love people. They’re fantastic with kids and other pets. These puppies are excited to be around others and may want to run with the other pack. Keep them on a good leash and train them to come when called for their safety and your peace of mind.
Small Stature; Might Heart
The Mini Bernedoodle stands anywhere from 12 to 17 inches tall and weighs between 10 and 24 pounds. Naturally, children need to be taught to be gentle with these small dogs, especially when they first come home. There’s little chance of the dog biting a child. The worry is more about hurting the dog.
Exercise Needs
All dogs should have daily exercise. The needs of the Bernedoodle depend on the size of the breed. A miniature Bernedoodle should have an hour of moderate exercise every day. That exercise should be broken up into small sessions throughout the day.
READ: 11 Early Signs of Hip Dysplasia in Dogs
There’s nothing wrong with buying from a reputable breeder as long as you do your research and know what you’re looking for.
What is the Lifespan of a Miniature Bernedoodle?
Small dogs tend to have longer lifespans (15 years or more) whereas larger breeds tend to have shorter lifespans (15 years or less). Determining lifespan is more of an average than an exact science. The type of care the dog receives as well as any health issues will ultimately determine the overall lifespan.
Are Miniature Bernedoodles Good Family Dogs?
Miniature Bernedoodles can make be amazing family dogs. They’re smart, lovable, and a ton of fun. The same holds true for the Standard Bernedoodle as well. How do you decide?
If you have children, an active lifestyle that will involve your new pup, and the desire to roughhouse with the dog, consider the larger Standard Bernedoodle.
If you need a dog that travels well (i.e. fits in a crate), children, live in a condo or apartment building, or simply want a dog you can easily pick up, you might consider the Mini Bernedoodle.
Do Mini Bernedoodles Bark More?
Neither dog is much of a barker. These dogs are actually fairly quiet unless they become over-excited or bored. Any size Bernedoodle is going to want your attention 24/7. Be prepared to give him/her adequate exercise and to regularly engage with your dog.
A balanced, happy Bernedoodle isn’t considered a heavy barker.
Are Bernedoodles High Maintenance?
All dogs come with a lot of responsibility; however some dogs take a lot more energy to care for. Bernedoodles are easy-going, friendly, and easy to train, making them easy to manage.
There are some grooming requirements (more later) and both dogs (miniature and standard) are going to want to be by your side most of the time. The price you pay will depend on the lineage of the breed and the breeder.
7 Breed Savvy Tips
Shopping for a miniature Bernedoodle shouldn’t be a one-stop shop event. It’s really important to compare breeders, especially if you are new to dog ownership. Before visiting breeders, arm yourself with the following information:
#1. F1 Mini Berenedoodle Puppies
An F1 mini Bernedoodle puppy is considered a 50% cross between a miniature Poodle and a Bernese Mountain Dog. This would be considered the first generation of puppies and is probably sold at a higher cost than others.
The F1 generation have the best genetic advantage and have what’s known as hybrid vigor. These will be healthier dogs over the long term.
#2. F1b Mini Bernedoodle Puppy
The F1b miniature Bernedoodle is considered 75% Poodle and 25% Bernese Mountain dog. They are a cross between an F1 Bernedoodle and one of the original purebred lines (either a pure Standard Poodle or a pure Bernese Mountain Dog).
Because this is a mix they are known as a “backcross”.
This is the breed you want if you are looking specifically for a hypoallergic breed. You will still get a healthy dog even though it’s not considered the first generation.
#3. F2 Bernedoodle
The F2 Miniature Bernedoodle is 50% Poodle and 50% Bernese Mountain Dog and is the second generation of the Bernedoodle. This generation tends to shed and may not be as hypoallergenic as you need. Again, these are healthy dogs overall, but perhaps not as much as the F1 generation.
#4. F2B Bernedoodles
This generation is considered 62.5% Poodle and 37.5% Bernese Mountain Dog. They are a cross between an F1 Bernedoodle and an F1B Bernedoodle.
This particular breed has much of the Poodle genetics and appearance, including the curly or wavy coat.
#5. F2BB Bernedoodle Traits
This generation is considered 81.25% Poodle and 18.75% Bernese Mountain Dog. They are a cross between the F2B and a purebred Poodle.
The F2BB is one of the most hypoallergenic and non-shedding dog of all the second generation choices. Technically, they are considered 4th generation and may be called “multi-generation” Bernedoodles.
These dogs have curly coats and do not shed. They will, however, require lots of clipping to keep their fur short. They are considered healthy dogs but perhaps not as much as the original generation.
Summary
When looking for a reputable breeder, do your research. Try to find other people who have purchased dogs from them, look at their history and how long they’ve been in the business. Make sure that the breeder is comfortable with you visiting and seeing the parent breeds.
You can find excellent tips on responsible breeding at the American Kennel Club organization.
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