Mini Bernedoodle vs Mini Aussiedoodle: Which Pup Is Right for You?

When you’re choosing your next furry family member, it’s hard to resist the charm of a fluffy doodle. And two breeds often at the top of every list are the Mini Bernedoodle and the Mini Aussiedoodle. They’re both adorable, intelligent, and brimming with personality—but they’re not identical twins!

At Fox Creek Farm, we specialize in Mini Bernedoodles, and we’ve seen just how well they fit into families of all shapes and sizes. That said, we think it’s important to give you the full picture—including what makes a Mini Aussiedoodle a lovable little companion, too.

Let’s compare the two, side by side (in words!), so you can find the perfect pup for your lifestyle.

Meet the Mini Bernedoodle

A Mini Bernedoodle is a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Miniature Poodle. What you get is a smart, loyal, and incredibly loving dog that’s both social and soulful. These pups tend to be calm, cuddly, and surprisingly intuitive. They’re great with kids, gentle with seniors, and fit into households that want a steady, snuggly companion who’s still playful and fun-loving.

At Fox Creek Farm, we’ve bred Mini Bernedoodles for years and have refined our lines to create puppies with predictable coats, steady temperaments, and excellent health.

Meet the Mini Aussiedoodle

The Mini Aussiedoodle is a mix between a Miniature Australian Shepherd and a Miniature Poodle. These pups are best known for their brains, bounce, and beautiful merle coats. They’re quick learners, natural athletes, and they thrive with active families who enjoy teaching tricks, playing games, and heading out for long walks or adventures.

Mini Aussiedoodles tend to be a little more independent than Bernedoodles and benefit from structure, consistency, and plenty of enrichment to keep their sharp minds occupied.

Personality: Calm or Zippy?

Mini Bernedoodles are affectionate and easygoing. They love their families deeply and prefer to be by your side—on the couch, in the kitchen, or sleeping at your feet. They’re playful when the moment calls for it but don’t need constant excitement to be happy. If you want a steady, cuddly best friend who adores snuggling as much as fetching, you’ll love a Mini Bernedoodle.

Mini Aussiedoodles, on the other hand, are go-getters. They’re not hyper, but they’re naturally energetic and very aware of their surroundings. They often want a job to do—whether it’s learning a trick, chasing a ball, or herding your other pets (yes, really). They’re devoted and loving but may be more “on the move” than “in your lap.”

Energy Levels and Exercise Needs

Your daily routine can help you decide which pup is the better fit.

Mini Bernedoodles are content with a couple of walks, some indoor playtime, and maybe a romp in the backyard. They’re active enough to enjoy hikes and outings but laid-back enough to be happy with a slower pace at home.

Mini Aussiedoodles, meanwhile, will likely need more. Think longer walks, mentally stimulating games, training sessions, and variety. They’re not the kind of dog who’ll thrive with a sedentary lifestyle—they want to go, learn, and do.

Trainability: Both Are Brilliant!

Thanks to their Poodle parent, both Mini Bernedoodles and Mini Aussiedoodles are highly intelligent. But the way they express that intelligence can differ.

Mini Bernedoodles are eager to please and often more emotionally sensitive. They respond well to gentle, positive training and are very in tune with their people. They enjoy learning, especially when training feels like bonding.

Mini Aussiedoodles are problem solvers. They’re quick learners and often a few steps ahead of you. While this makes them impressive training partners, they sometimes try to “outsmart” you. They excel in agility, obedience, and trick work but can also get bored if not challenged.

Coat Type and Grooming

Both breeds have gorgeous coats, and both require consistent grooming. Their coats can range from wavy to curly, depending on their genetics, and they’re typically low-shedding to non-shedding—great news for allergy-prone households.

Mini Bernedoodles usually have a plush, teddy-bear-like coat that’s soft and thick. We recommend brushing several times a week to keep mats at bay and scheduling professional grooming every 6–8 weeks.

Mini Aussiedoodles can have a silkier or more woolly coat, sometimes with more variation in texture. They also benefit from regular trims and ear cleaning to avoid buildup.

Looks and Size

While both breeds are adorable, their appearance can help sway your decision.

Mini Bernedoodles often have a stockier, fluffier frame with a distinctly “teddy bear” look. Many people fall in love with their classic tri-color coats, which blend black, white, and rust in eye-catching patterns. Merle is also a common color for Bernedoodles. They typically weigh between 26–35 pounds and stand about 14–17 inches tall.

Mini Aussiedoodles often look more athletic, with striking blue eyes and unique merle coloring (a marbled mix of grays, blacks, and browns). They tend to be slightly lighter in build, usually ranging between 15–30 pounds and 12–18 inches tall.

Family Fit

If you’re a laid-back family, a first-time dog owner, or someone looking for a loving companion who’s calm, affectionate, and easy to manage, a Mini Bernedoodle might be your perfect match. They’re excellent with children, gentle with older adults, and wonderfully adaptable.

If you’re an active person or family who loves to be on the go—especially if you’re experienced with dogs or enjoy training and enrichment—the Mini Aussiedoodle could be a dream come true. Just make sure you have the time and energy to match their enthusiasm.

Health and Lifespan

Both breeds are relatively healthy when ethically bred. At Fox Creek Farm, we perform comprehensive health testing on all our parent dogs to ensure our puppies have the best possible start.

Mini Bernedoodles typically live 12 to 17 years and benefit from their Poodle heritage, which brings added longevity. They can be prone to some mild joint sensitivity or skin issues, which is why we recommend PawTree nutrition and wellness products to support their development.

Mini Aussiedoodles also have a similar lifespan of 12 to 16 years. Early health screening and proper nutrition can help set them up for success.

Why We Love Mini Bernedoodles

At Fox Creek Farm, we’ve been raising Mini Bernedoodles with purpose and passion for years—and it shows. These dogs are steady, loving, and incredibly loyal. Their calm temperament and emotional awareness make them amazing therapy dogs, companions for children, and heart-stealers from the moment they open their eyes.

We love how they balance playfulness with snuggles, how easy they are to train, and how they seem to just know when you need a little extra love. They’re the total package—and we’re proud to stand behind every pup we place.

Final Thoughts: Two Wonderful Doodles, One Perfect Fit

There’s no “wrong” choice between a Mini Bernedoodle and a Mini Aussiedoodle—just the right fit for you.

If you’re looking for a calmer, cuddly, steady companion with a soft heart and soulful eyes, the Mini Bernedoodle might be your new best friend. If you want a sharp-minded, high-energy sidekick for life’s adventures, the Mini Aussiedoodle will happily come along for the ride.

Still not sure? Reach out to us—we love helping families find the dog that feels like home.

Ready to Meet Your Mini Bernedoodle?

Contact Fox Creek Farm today to learn more about upcoming litters, health-tested parents, and what it’s like to bring home a puppy that’s raised with purpose, love, and integrity.

Because your perfect pup isn’t just a dog—it’s family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Mini Bernedoodles or Mini Aussiedoodles better for first-time dog owners?
Mini Bernedoodles are often the easier choice for first-time owners. They’re calm, affectionate, and a bit more forgiving when it comes to training. Aussiedoodles can be great too—but they usually need more structure, activity, and mental stimulation.

Which breed is better with kids?
Both can be great with children, but Mini Bernedoodles tend to be more gentle and patient, especially with younger kids. Aussiedoodles may be more playful and energetic, which older children often enjoy.

Do either of these breeds bark a lot?
Mini Aussiedoodles may bark more due to their alert, herding background—they like to “talk” when something catches their attention. Mini Bernedoodles are usually quieter but will still alert you when someone’s at the door.

What’s the grooming commitment like?
Both breeds need regular grooming. Expect brushing several times a week and a professional grooming appointment every 6–8 weeks. Their coats can mat if not cared for consistently, especially behind the ears and around the legs.

Are either of these breeds hypoallergenic?
While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, both breeds are considered low-shedding and may be a good match for allergy-sensitive households. Always spend time around the breed before committing if allergies are a concern.

Which breed lives longer?
They have similar lifespans—around 12 to 17 years with good care and ethical breeding. A healthy diet, routine vet visits, and early training go a long way in supporting their well-being.

Can I get on a waitlist for a Mini Bernedoodle from Fox Creek Farm?
Absolutely! We welcome you to reach out and learn more about our current and upcoming litters, our breeding philosophy, and how we match families with the perfect pup.