If you are looking for a small, lovable, hypoallergenic dog, you have probably come across two popular crossbreeds: the mini Bernedoodle and the Cockapoo. These hybrids are perfect for families and for single owners who need a loyal companion.
The Cockapoo and mini Bernedoodle are both fantastic, If you’re only able to choose one, there are many factors you should consider when deciding which is best for you. In this article, we’ll discuss these criteria so that you can make an informed decision.
Overview
Mini Bernedoodle
Most people know that Bernedoodles are the offspring of the Bernese Mountain Dog and poodle. If you have researched this crossbreed, however, you’ve noticed that some Bernedoodles are smaller than others. This petite variety is known as the mini Bernedoodle.
Mini Bernedoodles are produced by selecting a smaller poodle for the breeding process. This could be a miniature, moyen or toy poodle. To ensure a safe and healthy birth, the small poodle is the sire (male) and the Bernese Mountain Dog is the dam (female).
Cockapoo
The Cockapoo is another hybrid dog breed that descends from a purebred poodle. In this case, however, the other parent is a Cocker Spaniel, a hunting dog that comes in both American and English flavors.
The Cockapoo is a fairly old crossbreed and has remained popular since the 1960s. There is even an organization called the American Cockapoo Club that shares knowledge about this mixed breed and helps to define standards for Cockapoo breeders.
Temperament
If you’ve ever come across a mini Bernedoodle in public, there’s a good chance that it was accompanied by a family. Bernedoodles are well-known for being gentle, playful and affectionate. Due to their small size, Mini Bernedoodles are especially well-suited for families with young children.
Cockapoos also make great family pets. They will happily chase kids around the backyard and then curl up on the couch with the parents. Like the mini Bernedoodle, cockapoos are highly intelligent, outgoing and confident. And despite their sweet nature, they can also be assertive when necessary. If your Cockapoo needs food or attention, they will let you know!
Health
Many purebred dogs are prone to long-term medical issues while crossbreeds tend to be healthier. The Cockapoo and mini Bernedoodle are no exception to this “hybrid vigor” principle. However, there are some health risks worth mentioning.
On average, mini Bernedoodles enjoy a lifespan of 13 to 18 years. They are at moderate risk for elbow and hip dysplasia, so it’s important to select the best dog food for Bernedoodle puppies to help prevent this condition. They may also suffer from heart disease and cancer, but to a lesser extent than their Bernese Mountain Dog parent.
Cockapoos usually live between 12 and 15 years. Like the mini Bernedoodle, the Cockapoo is a relatively healthy crossbreed. Still, you should keep an eye out for certain health problems, including cataracts (particularly in older dogs) and liver disease. Cockapoos may also develop skin allergies, which can be alleviated by choosing an appropriate food. And Cockapoos are especially susceptible to ear infections, so their extra-floppy ears will need regular cleaning.
Cost
For some dog owners, money is no object. But for the rest of us, the cost of caring for a pup is an important factor when choosing between breeds.
Bernedoodle breeders are notorious for charging premium prices. Mini Bernedoodles are even more expensive since they are more difficult to breed. The average adoption cost ranges from $3000 to $5000. To ensure that this significant investment is spent wisely, you should make a list of questions to ask Bernedoodle breeders before making a decision.
Cockapoos are significantly less expensive to adopt. We have found that is costs between $900 and $2500 to bring a new Cockapoo puppy into your home. However, this may also depend on the variety: teacup, toy, miniature or standard.
Many reputable breeders will ensure that your new puppy has received all vaccinations before you take them home. If not, be prepared to cover this cost. And of course, be ready to pay for visits to the veterinarian so that your puppy can be given additional vaccinations and any necessary medicine as they age.
Grooming
Since the Cockapoo and mini Bernedoodle both descend from poodles, both crossbreeds tend to have wavy or curly hair. This means they are unlikely to shed much, but you should regularly brush and clean their fur so that it does not become matted or tangled.
Cockapoos inherit the Cocker Spaniel’s long, floppy ears, which means there is significant potential for the buildup of dirt and moisture. You will need to regularly clean and dry your Cockapoo’s ears to prevent infection.
In most cases, mini Bernedoodles and Cockapoos will both need to have their coats regularly trimmed. This requires time and money, but for many owners with allergies, having a low-shedding dog is certainly worth it!
FAQ
How big does a mini Bernedoodle get?
Mini Bernedoodles weight between 18 and 65 pounds. They stand 18 to 22 inches at the shoulder. This is a fairly large range, and it can be difficult to predict the size of a mini Bernedoodle puppy, but an experienced breeder can make a fairly accurate guess based on the parents’ size and previous litters.
Why should you not get a mini Bernedoodle?
If you love big dogs, a mini Bernedoodle might just be too small for you! You may be happier with a standard Bernedoodle or even another breed altogether. However, if you are a fan of small, low-maintenance dogs, the mini Bernedoodle might not fit your preferences as they require regular grooming.
Are Cockapoos more hypoallergenic than mini Bernedoodles?
Both crossbreeds generally tend to be hypoallergenic since they are descended from poodles, but it really depends on the individual dog. Both Cockapoos and mini Bernedoodles can inherit the straighter hair of their non-poodle parent, which means they will shed more. Many breeders offer multiple generations, some of which are more hypoallergenic than others. For example, a Cockapoo that is 75% poodle is likely to be more hypoallergenic than one that is 50% poodle.
Conclusion
Both Cockapoos and mini Bernedoodles are sweet, wonderful dogs. They are usually healthy, playful, and affectionate, which makes them great for families with small children. We hope this article has helped you decide which type of dog is best for you.