How Big Will My Bernedoodle Get? The Ultimate Size Guide
As a veterinarian and lifelong dog lover, I know that one of the first questions prospective owners ask about bernedoodles is: how big will they get? And it‘s an important question! A dog‘s size impacts everything from the amount of space they need to the cost of food and care.
When it comes to bernedoodles, predicting adult size can seem especially tricky. As a relatively new designer breed, these Bernese mountain dog and poodle mixes can have a wide range of sizes. But not to worry – I‘m here to break down everything you need to know about bernedoodle size and growth. By the end of this guide, you‘ll have a clear idea of what to expect as your bernedoodle puppy grows up.
Bernedoodle Basics
First, let‘s cover some bernedoodle basics. As a hybrid of the Bernese mountain dog and poodle, bernedoodles aim to combine the best traits of both parent breeds. The goal is to create an intelligent, low-shedding dog with the gentle temperament of the Bernese.
But with mixed breeds, traits and appearance can vary quite a bit from dog to dog. Some bernedoodles may favor their Bernese heritage with a larger, stockier build. Others may take after their poodle side with a leaner, more athletic frame. And of course, size is a spectrum – which is why bernedoodles are grouped into three main size categories.
The Three Bernedoodle Size Categories
Bernedoodles come in three general sizes: standard, mini, and tiny. Here‘s what you can expect for each variety in terms of height and weight:
Standard Bernedoodle Size
- Height: 23-29 inches
- Weight: 70-90 pounds
The standard bernedoodle is the largest size. These impressive dogs inherit their stature from their Bernese mountain dog parent, with the standard poodle influence refining their frame a bit. If you‘re looking for a big, huggable companion with energy to spare, a standard bernedoodle may be your perfect match.
Mini Bernedoodle Size
- Height: 18-22 inches
- Weight: 25-49 pounds
Mini bernedoodles offer the same sweet bernedoodle personality in a more compact, portable package. These dogs usually have a miniature poodle parent, bringing their size down to a versatile medium. Minis are small enough to adapt to apartment life but large enough for outdoor adventures. They tend to be the most popular bernedoodle size.
Tiny Bernedoodle Size
- Height: 12-17 inches
- Weight: 10-24 pounds
Tiny bernedoodles pack a whole lot of cute into a little body! Also known as toy or micro mini bernedoodles, these dogs are bred from a mini bernedoodle and a toy poodle. What they lack in size they make up for in personality. Tiny bernedoodles are popular picks for city dwellers, families with small children, and seniors looking for a portable, low-maintenance companion.
Bernedoodle Size and Growth Chart
Now that you have a general idea of the size range for each bernedoodle variety, let‘s get into the specifics of how big you can expect your pup to be at each stage of growth.
Keep in mind that these growth charts are averages and estimates. Your individual bernedoodle may end up larger or smaller depending on their genetic makeup. Use these numbers as a helpful baseline rather than a strict formula.
Standard Bernedoodle Growth Chart
| Age | Weight Range | Height Range |
|---|---|---|
| 2 months | 18-35 lbs | 13-19 in |
| 4 months | 35-55 lbs | 19-25 in |
| 6 months | 55-80 lbs | 22-28 in |
| 1 year | 70-95 lbs | 23-29 in |
| 2 years | 70-100 lbs | 23-29 in |
Mini Bernedoodle Growth Chart
| Age | Weight Range | Height Range |
|---|---|---|
| 2 months | 7-13 lbs | 8-12 in |
| 4 months | 14-26 lbs | 12-17 in |
| 6 months | 22-38 lbs | 16-21 in |
| 1 year | 25-50 lbs | 18-22 in |
| 2 years | 25-55 lbs | 18-22 in |
Tiny Bernedoodle Growth Chart
| Age | Weight Range | Height Range |
|---|---|---|
| 2 months | 2-5 lbs | 5-8 in |
| 4 months | 4-12 lbs | 7-11 in |
| 6 months | 8-18 lbs | 10-14 in |
| 1 year | 10-25 lbs | 12-17 in |
| 2 years | 10-30 lbs | 12-17 in |
You‘ll notice that for each size, bernedoodles do the majority of their growing in the first year. By 12-18 months old, most have reached their adult height. However, they will continue filling out and gaining muscle until around 2 years old.
"I‘ve found this extended growth period is especially true for larger standard bernedoodles," says Sarah Hodgson, dog trainer and author. "They need that extra time for their joints and bones to fully develop and catch up to their size."
Factors That Influence Bernedoodle Size
So what determines whether a bernedoodle ends up on the larger or smaller side of their size range? It‘s a combination of several genetic and environmental factors:
Poodle Size
The size of the poodle parent plays the biggest role in how big a bernedoodle puppy will grow. Breeding a Bernese mountain dog with a standard poodle will result in a larger dog than breeding with a mini or toy poodle.
Many breeders aim for a specific size by choosing poodle parents on the larger or smaller end of their variety. For example, a breeder wanting to produce small standard bernedoodles may choose a 40-50 pound standard poodle dam rather than a 60-70 pound one.
Bernedoodle Generation
The generation of bernedoodle can also impact size. Generation refers to how the bernedoodle is bred:
- F1: 50% Bernese Mountain Dog / 50% Poodle
- F1b: 75% Poodle / 25% Bernese Mountain Dog
- F2: F1 Bernedoodle / F1 Bernedoodle
- F2b: F1 Bernedoodle / F1b Bernedoodle
- F3: F1b Bernedoodle / F1b Bernedoodle
Later generations like F2b and F3 bernedoodles tend to have more consistent sizing, as breeders select for specific traits. First generation crosses like F1 and F1b bernedoodles can be more variable in size.
Sex
As with many dog breeds, male bernedoodles are often slightly larger than females. However, the difference is usually only a few pounds and inches. Other genetic factors tend to be more predictive of size than sex alone.
Birth Order
Interestingly, puppies born earlier in a litter tend to be a bit bigger than those born later. This is likely due to getting more nutrients in utero. However, birth order doesn‘t necessarily predict adult size, as smaller puppies often catch up during growth.
Diet and Exercise
A bernedoodle‘s diet and exercise throughout puppyhood can impact their growth rate and final size. Overfeeding can cause a puppy to grow too quickly, putting strain on their developing joints. Underfeeding can stunt growth and cause nutrient deficiencies.
Puppies should be kept lean and fed a balanced, age-appropriate diet. They also need daily exercise and play to build strong muscles and bones. However, forced exercise or excessive jumping can damage their joints. Moderation is key for healthy development.
Predicting Your Bernedoodle Puppy‘s Adult Size
Many new bernedoodle owners are eager to guess the size of their pup‘s paws! While it‘s impossible to predict exact adult proportions, there are a few ways to get a ballpark estimate.
Consult the breeder: The most accurate size prediction will come from your breeder. Experienced, reputable bernedoodle breeders will have extensive pedigree knowledge and be able to give you a narrow size estimate based on past litters. If possible, meet your puppy‘s parents in person to gauge their size as well.
Use a puppy growth calculator: Puppy growth calculators estimate adult weight based on current age, weight, and breed. While not an exact science, they can provide a helpful size range, especially for mixed breeds like bernedoodles. Calculators may be most accurate for puppies 4-5 months and older.
Follow the paw size rule: You may have heard that you can guess a dog‘s size by their paw size as a puppy. While not foolproof, this simple formula can give you a rough idea. Just take your pup‘s weight in pounds at 4 months old, double it, and add 5-10 pounds. So a 12 pound bernedoodle puppy may end up around 30 pounds as an adult.
Measure your pup: To assess whether your bernedoodle is growing on track, you can take some basic measurements at home. Measure from the floor to the top of the shoulder blades for height. You can also weigh smaller puppies by holding them and subtracting your own weight. Compare your numbers to the growth chart averages for your bernedoodle‘s age and variety.
"Bernedoodle size is a spectrum," emphasizes Dr. Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinary Officer for the American Kennel Club. "Two puppies with the same parents can end up quite different sizes as adults. Predictions will always be a range rather than an exact number, as so many variables are at play."
Keeping Your Bernedoodle at a Healthy Size
No matter your bernedoodle‘s adult size, maintaining a healthy weight is key to a long, happy life. Obesity is a growing epidemic for pets, with over 50% of dogs classified as overweight or obese. Carrying extra pounds puts strain on the joints and increases the risk of issues like arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease.
On the flip side, a bernedoodle who is underweight may not be getting proper nutrition. This can weaken the immune system and cause problems with organ function and energy levels. It‘s important to strike a balance and keep your dog at an ideal weight throughout their life.
Vets use a body condition score to assess a healthy weight. You should be able to easily feel your dog‘s ribs with light pressure but not see them protruding. Your bernedoodle should also have a visible waist when viewed from above and a tucked abdomen from the side.
To maintain a healthy body condition, feed your bernedoodle according to the serving size on their food packaging or at your vet‘s recommendation. Use a measuring cup to avoid overfeeding and limit treats to 10% of daily calories. Make sure your dog gets at least 30-60 minutes of exercise a day through walks, play, and mentally stimulating activities.
If you‘re concerned your bernedoodle is over or underweight, consult your veterinarian. They can help you create a diet and exercise plan to get your dog to an ideal size. Regular weigh-ins can help you track progress and catch any issues early.
"Obesity creeps up on dogs slowly," says Dr. Ernie Ward, founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. "An extra treat here and there adds up over time. The sooner you can get your bernedoodle to a healthy size, the better their long-term health and quality of life."
The Bottom Line
Bernedoodles can vary quite a bit in size, from tiny 10 pound fluffballs to majestic 100 pound giants. Where your dog falls on that spectrum depends on several genetic and environmental factors, with poodle size playing the largest role.
While size predictions and growth charts are helpful guides, remember that every dog is an individual. A smaller than average bernedoodle may have a mighty personality, while a larger one might be a gentle spirit. The most important thing is that your dog is at a healthy weight for their frame and living their best life by your side.
If you‘re looking for a particular size bernedoodle, do your research and choose a reputable breeder who performs genetic health testing and provides a warranty. Be prepared for your puppy to be a bit larger or smaller than predicted, and love them unconditionally.
With their charming looks, goofy demeanors, and endlessly loving hearts, bernedoodles are a wonderful companion at any size. Whether you prefer a portable pup or a stately sidekick, there‘s a bernedoodle out there waiting to steal your heart.
Resources:
- American Kennel Club Bernedoodle Page
- Hodgson, Sarah. "Bernedoodles: A Head to Tail Guide." Dogwise Publishing, 2020.
- Association for Pet Obesity Prevention
