Bernedoodle sizes are traditionally broken down into just two categories: mini and standard. While this simplified approach is common, we feel it often leads to confusion for families trying to choose the right fit for their home and lifestyle. To provide clearer expectations, we classify Bernedoodle sizes into three more specific groups based on adult weight. Our mini Bernedoodles typically range from 20–45 pounds, offering a compact yet sturdy companion. Medium Bernedoodles fall between 45–60 pounds, blending manageability with a fuller build. Standard Bernedoodles range from 60–100 pounds, delivering the classic large, gentle Bernedoodle presence many families love.
Mini Bernedoodles are a favorite for families who want the loving temperament of a Bernedoodle in a more compact, easy-to-manage size. In our size system, minis typically mature between 20–45 pounds, but it’s important to understand that even within this category, there is real parity—meaning you’ll see a noticeable difference between a smaller mini and a larger mini. Some minis finish closer to the 20–30 lb range, making them a great match for smaller homes, lighter travel, and owners who prefer a more petite companion. Others grow into the 35–45 lb range, offering a sturdier build while still staying in the mini class.
The beauty of mini Bernedoodles is that they still carry that classic Bernedoodle personality—affectionate, social, intelligent, and eager to be part of the family—without needing as much space as larger sizes. Minis can fit nicely into many lifestyles, from suburban households to apartment living, as long as they receive consistent walks, playtime, and mental stimulation.
Because minis can vary within the range, we help families choose based on more than a label. We look at parent size, past litters, and the specific puppy’s structure and growth patterns. Whether you’re drawn to a smaller mini or a larger mini, you’ll still get a dog that is playful, family-friendly, and highly adaptable. Minis truly offer the best of both worlds: the look and temperament people love, with flexibility in size so you can match the pup to your lifestyle.
Medium Bernedoodles are often the “sweet spot” for families who want a dog that feels substantial without being overwhelming. In our system, mediums typically range from 45–60 pounds, which creates a perfect balance of presence, athleticism, and manageability. But just like every size category, there is clear parity within the medium range. A dog finishing closer to 45–50 pounds may feel more nimble and compact, while a medium closer to 55–60 pounds will have a more robust, standard-like build—yet still remain a medium.
Medium Bernedoodles tend to fit beautifully into active family homes. They’re big enough to keep up with outdoor adventures, hikes, and playful kids, but still manageable for daily handling, travel, and routine care. Their coat type and grooming needs will vary depending on genetics, but temperament-wise, mediums typically embody the classic Bernedoodle personality: loyal, affectionate, highly people-oriented, and eager to please.
Many families choose mediums because they offer the look of a “bigger dog” without stepping into the full standard range. This size can be ideal for those who want a dog with a confident, sturdy feel—one that can be both a cuddly companion and an active partner.
Because medium Bernedoodles can lean either toward the smaller or larger side, we focus on expected adult size as well as build, parent pairing, and growth trends from previous litters. Whether you prefer a smaller medium or a larger medium, you’ll get the same loving, intelligent Bernedoodle nature—just with a size that fits your lifestyle more precisely.
Standard Bernedoodles are known for their impressive presence, gentle nature, and classic look on a larger scale. In our program, standards typically mature between 60–100 pounds, but it’s important to remember there is strong parity within this category. Just like minis can be smaller or larger, standards can vary too. A standard that finishes around 60–70 pounds is what many families think of as a “smaller standard”—still clearly a big dog, but often easier to handle than a full 90–100 pound standard. Meanwhile, a standard closer to 80–100 pounds offers that truly large, majestic Bernedoodle build many people love.
This size is a wonderful fit for families who want a dog with a big heart and an even bigger cuddle. Standards are often calm, devoted, and deeply bonded to their people. They tend to do well in homes with space to stretch out, and they thrive when given consistent exercise, enrichment, and social time. Because of their size, training is especially important early on—standards are incredibly intelligent and learn quickly, and good manners make a huge difference as they grow.
One of the best things about standards is that you can still find the right “feel” within the size range. Some families want a sturdier, heavier companion, while others prefer the lighter build of a smaller standard. We help match each family to the right puppy by looking at parent sizes, growth patterns, and the puppy’s development. No matter where they land in the range, standard Bernedoodles deliver that iconic combination: affectionate personality, beautiful coats, and the gentle, loyal temperament that makes them unforgettable.
One of the most common areas of confusion we see with Bernedoodles is the belief that a puppy’s generation automatically determines its adult size. While generation (F1, F1b, F2, etc.) can sometimes give small hints about coat type or general traits, it does not reliably predict size on its own. In some cases, people assume a higher generation means smaller—or that an “F1b mini” will always be small—but that simply isn’t guaranteed.
Generation describes how the puppy is bred (the mix of Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle in the lineage), not the actual growth potential of the puppy. Size is influenced far more by the parents’ size, build, and genetics, along with patterns seen in past litters. For example, two dogs labeled “mini” can still produce pups that fall on the smaller end of the mini range—or on the larger end—depending on family lines and pairing.
That’s why we always encourage families to focus on what truly matters:
✅ Parent size and weight
✅ Parent structure (build and height)
✅ Litter history from previous pairings
✅ Growth patterns within that family line
If you’re looking for a Bernedoodle, don’t just ask “What generation is the puppy?” Instead, always ask: “How big are the parents, and what sizes have past puppies from this pairing reached?” That information gives you the clearest, most realistic expectation of your pup’s adult size and helps you choose confidently without relying on labels that can sometimes be misleading.
