Although Mini Bernedoodles cannot be guaranteed to be completely hypoallergenic, Poodle-like coats may be a better option for some allergy sufferers. Hypoallergenic describes something that is less likely to trigger an allergic reaction but it does not mean a dog is 100% free of allergens. Read more about hypoallergenic bernedoodles on The Doodle Tribe.
The allergens are proteins found in dander (tiny flakes of skin), saliva, and urine of dogs. So even curly-coated pups that shed little can leave these allergens around the home.
Mini Bernedoodle Coat Type And Furnishings
A Mini Bernedoodle’s coat type provides clues about their coat texture but furnishing genes tell about their shedding patterns. Furnishings are the longer hair that grows around a dog’s eyebrows and muzzle and are often linked to less shedding. In contrast, unfurnished dogs have shorter facial hair, a smoother-looking muzzle and may shed more noticeably
Curly Coat
A curly coat in a Bernedoodle is commonly linked to the coat genetics passed down by its Poodle parent. These curls can hold loose hairs within the coat so less hair falls onto floors and furniture. These Bernedoodles with furnishings are considered good for allergy sufferers as they don’t spread many allergens.
Wavy Coat
Wavy coats combine characteristics of curly and straight hair. These Mini Bernedoodles with furnishings shed less and are more allergy-friendly than unfurnished ones. However, their shedding patterns depend on their inherited coat traits.
Straight Coat
Straight coats resemble the Bernese Mountain Dog coat and may shed more visibly. But a straight coat with furnishings can shed less and be allergy-friendly when properly maintained. However, straight coats without furnishings are often associated with more noticeable shedding.
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology’s guidance on pet allergies, no dog breed is completely allergen-free, even those commonly described as hypoallergenic.
Which Mini Bernedoodle Generations Shed Less?
Some Mini doodle generations are more likely to have coats that shed less but none is guaranteed to be hypoallergenic. F1B and F1BB Mini Bernedoodles may be better choices for people with allergies because they have a higher proportion of Poodle ancestry.
In addition, F2B, F2BB, and multigenerational doodles may also have low-shedding coats, depending on their parentage and breeder’s selection. But F1 and F2 Mini Bernedoodles are less predictable and their coats may range from curly to straight, with different shedding levels.
If you have allergies, interact with the specific dog before adoption to properly assess how you respond to its presence.
How to Reduce Allergens In Your Home?
Regular grooming and a clean living space can help to limit the spread of allergens around your home. Make sure to brush your Mini Bernedoodle several times a week depending on their coat type to remove loose hair and prevent tangles.
Give your doodle a bath approximately every four to six weeks to maintain coat hygiene while helping prevent skin irritation. Vacuum carpets and furniture regularly, wash your dog’s bedding and consider using a HEPA air purifier to capture airborne particles. Keeping your dog out of your bedroom if your allergies are severe can also reduce exposure while you sleep. The CDC’s guidance on controlling asthma also recommends limiting pet exposure in bedrooms and using air cleaners when furry pets trigger symptoms.