The classic Bernese mountain dog is loved and appreciated by dog lovers for its big and fluffy appearance and exceptional loyalty. However, we ought to admit that their size can be a challenge for many families, especially for apartment dwellers. The Mini Bernese dog is the answer that is smaller, apartment-friendly, and still carries the charm, loyalty, and exceptional appearance of the original Bernese mountain dog. As a dog enthusiast, if you are wondering what exactly “Mini” means and how small a mini is, or if all the mini Bernese grow to the same size? We have got you covered with all the answers. This guide will introduce you to the Mini Bernese’s height, weight, growth stages, genetics, and factors that affect their size.
Know the Mini Bernese mountain dog
Before delving deeper, it is essential to understand the breed itself. The standard Bernese mountain dog, as we all know, is large, often referred to as the “Gentle giant,” and it can reach 70-115 pounds. Thus, to create its smaller version, breeders typically mix the Bernese with a Miniature Poodle. There may be other smaller breeds too in the reckoning, but the Poodle is the most common. As a result of the mix, the size gets reduced, making its longevity greater, and it keeps shedding more manageable. Indeed, they are the perfect pet for a majority of the families.
Since they are a hybrid, they do not have a fixed size standard like purebreds. Still, there are certain trends that most breeders follow to try to come up with a consistent range.
Average size and weight of a Mini Bernese mountain dog
If we start looking at the numbers, then you can expect the following for Mini Bernese mountain dogs:
When fully grown, their height typically stands at 16 to 20 inches tall (measured at the shoulder). Some of them can be slightly smaller at 14-15 inches, while a few can be on the higher side, reaching up to 21 inches if the Bernese genes are dominant.
The weight of a fully grown Mini Bernese would be generally 22 to 45 pounds. As you can see, this is a huge size reduction compared to the standard Bernese. For this reason, Mini Bernese mountain dogs have become so popular with families who love the look and personality of the Bernese but prefer a manageable size.
Reasons that lead to such size variations in Mini Bernese
As a dog enthusiast, you might be curious to know the reason that makes the Mini Bernese vary in size so vividly. It is because, unlike purebreds, hybrids inherit their size from both parents, and as a result, unpredictability appears. Here is a breakdown of the factors:
- The size of the parents: A Mini Bernese having a small Poodle parent will hardly reach 20-25 lbs. If the parent is a medium-sized Poodle, it can get closer to 40-45 lbs.
- Generation type: When looking for hybrids, you must have come across terms like F1, F1B, and so on. This is another factor that determines the Mini Bernese’s size and weight. If we break it down further, F1 stands for a 50/50 mix, F1B stands for 75% Poodle and 25% Bernese, and F2 stands for two Mini Bernese bred together.
- Genetics: The hybrid pup would naturally inherit from their parent breeds. Now, some pups inherit more Bernese genes, which leads to a bigger build, heavier bones, and broader chests. While the ones that inherit more from the Poodle parent would be leaner, lighter, and smaller.
Exercise levels
The active Mini Bernese mountain dogs may appear lean and muscular. The ones that are less active might appear bigger, since they carry more body fat.
Mini Bernese mountain dog growth chart, month-wise
Before we break down the monthly growth chart, you should understand that every dog is different, and this is a general indication only.
- From birth till 2 months: Its weight would be 5-10lbs and height 6-10 inches. During this stage, they appear as fuzzy teddy bears with little paws, but their growth begins fast.
- 3-4 months: By now, the weight reaches 10-20lbs and height increases to 10-13 inches. The ears start to flop more, the coat becomes wavier, and their bodies start to become bigger.
- 5-6 months: The weight should now become 18-28lbs and height 13-15 inches. By now, they transform into a bundle of energy and are full of mischief.
- 7-9 months: The growth slows down at this point, their weight increases to 22-35lbs, and height to 15-17 inches. At this stage, their muscles start developing.
- 10-12 months: This is the beginning of their adulthood, their weight reaches 25-40lbs, and height 16-19 inches. By now, they should have reached their adult height.
- 12-18 months: By this stage, the Mini Bernese start gaining their adult weight, and their chest, shoulders, and hind legs become muscular. They now weigh 30-45lbs.
Do the Mini Bernese always stay “Mini”?
Of course, the mini would stay mini, after all, that is why they were created in the first place. However, dog lovers should not confuse the “mini size” with other smaller breeds. Despite being mini, they are medium-sized and not very small. You cannot refer to them as toy-sized or as small dogs.
Does gender affect their size?
Yes, to some extent, but it is not drastic. The male Mini Bernese would sport a broader chest, heavier, and slightly taller. The average size of the male variant would be 26-45lbs, and they stand at 17-20 inches tall. While the female variants would appear lighter and slightly shorter. The female size would be 22-38lbs, and they can grow up to a height of 16-18 inches.
Some cues on the Mini Bernese mountain dog would grow on to be larger
If you notice the following during its puppyhood, then it might grow a tad bigger:
- Larger paws.
- Broader shoulders.
- Faster growth between 2-4 months.
- Heavier bones.
- Stronger appetite.
All the above-mentioned signs indicate the pup has inherited more of the Bernese traits. On the contrary, smaller paws, leaner bodies, and a lighter build indicate the Mini Bernese has inherited more from its Poodle parent.
Can diet influence the size?
Let us cut to the chase, diet helps the Mini Bernese to get adequate nutrition, and it has little to do with its size. Some dog owners believe feeding the Mini Bernese more would result in a bigger, stronger, and healthier dog. However, this is a wrong perception. By following the above practice regularly, the dog stands the risk of developing joint problems, becoming obese, and uneven bone development.
Ideally, to ensure proper and natural growth, the owner should:
- Feed small-breed or medium-breed puppy food.
- Avoid excess calcium.
- Do not haste in introducing them to adult food.
- Make them exercise in a controlled manner.
Is a Mini Bernese mountain dog the right size for your family?
If you are considering the following points, then the Mini Bernese would be the best option for your family:
- A robust, medium-sized dog.
- Family-friendly and compatible with living in apartments.
- Gentle with kids,
- Playful but does not get hyper.
- Easy to train.
A Mini Bernese mountain dog would do exceedingly well when they get moderate exercising, and grooming, space to move around, consistent training, and, of course, lots of love and companionship. Moreover, no one can resist the temptation of not loving this stunningly beautiful breed. Since they live longer than the standard Bernese, they can prove to be a worthy companion.