Munchkin Bernedoodle — Breed Information, History, and Purpose
The Munchkin Bernedoodle is a purposefully developed companion dog created to offer a smaller, more portable alternative to the traditional Bernedoodle while preserving the temperament, appearance, and emotional qualities that define the breed. The term Munchkin Bernedoodle was coined by Kishan Kikkeri of Namaste Bernedoodles to describe this specific type and breeding philosophy.
This article provides an informational overview of what the Munchkin Bernedoodle is, why it was created, and who it is best suited for.
Origin of the Munchkin Bernedoodle
The Munchkin Bernedoodle concept was developed through close collaboration with Emily Scott, a long time collaborator and innovator in companion dog breeding. Through years of discussion, research, and shared experience, the goal was to address a growing need among families who loved Bernedoodles but required a smaller and more travel friendly size.
Many families live in urban environments such as New York City, Los Angeles, and Miami, where space and portability are essential. Others travel frequently and want a dog that can comfortably fly and integrate into an active lifestyle. The Munchkin Bernedoodle was created specifically with these needs in mind.
Purpose & Breeding Philosophy
Reducing size by repeatedly breeding down with toy poodles often results in dogs that lose the hallmark Bernedoodle traits and become overly poodle dominant in both appearance and temperament. The goal of the Munchkin Bernedoodle was not simply to create a smaller dog, but to preserve the defining qualities of the Bernedoodle while achieving a more consistent compact size.
This was accomplished through the careful integration of Bernedoodle and Cavapoo lines, allowing for size reduction while maintaining soft expressions, affectionate temperament, balanced structure, and the signature Bernedoodle personality.
Breed Composition
Munchkin Bernedoodles are primarily a blend of Bernedoodle, Cavapoo, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and Poodle. In some cases, small additions of other compatible breeds may be introduced as part of ongoing program development. This open ended approach allows for long term refinement of health, temperament, and consistency.
All contributing lines are selectively sourced and developed with intention. The Cavapoo lines used in this program were specifically created for this purpose and are held to the same standards as the Bernedoodle lines.
Temperament & Personality
The temperament of the Munchkin Bernedoodle closely mirrors that of a traditional Bernedoodle with added softness from the Cavalier influence. These dogs are known for being exceptionally affectionate, emotionally intuitive, and deeply bonded to their people.
Typical traits include high affection, strong people orientation, gentle and social behavior, excellent compatibility with other dogs, and a strong desire for closeness and companionship.
Size & Weight
Munchkin Bernedoodles are intentionally bred to fall into smaller size categories on a consistent basis. Most adults mature between 10 and 25 pounds, with some individuals remaining closer to the lower end of that range. Ongoing selective breeding continues to refine predictability while maintaining sound structure and health.
Coat Type & Shedding
Munchkin Bernedoodles are low to non shedding and multigenerational. Their coat type and hair turnover are comparable to multigenerational Bernedoodles. Coats are selected for softness, manageability, and long term ease of grooming. They are well suited for allergy conscious households, though no dog is completely hypoallergenic.
Colors & Appearance
Munchkin Bernedoodles are available in many classic Bernedoodle color patterns including traditional tricolor, chocolate tricolor, merle tricolor, red and white, red tuxedo, phantom, chocolate phantom, and merle phantom. Their appearance is often described as teddy bear like, with soft expressions and balanced proportions.
Lifestyle Compatibility
The Munchkin Bernedoodle is well suited for apartment living, urban environments, frequent travelers, individuals seeking a smaller Bernedoodle type dog, and families wanting a highly affectionate and portable companion.
Summary
The Munchkin Bernedoodle represents a thoughtfully planned evolution of the Bernedoodle designed for modern lifestyles. Developed by Kishan Kikkeri of Namaste Bernedoodles, it is not a trend but a long term program built on intention, collaboration, and respect for the dogs themselves.
FAQs
They are low-shedding, making them a good choice for mild allergy sufferers.
They tend to be moderate, situational barkers.
Yes, this size is ideal for indoor living, as long as they receive attention and enrichment.
Interested in getting a Munchkin Bernedoodle?
If you’re searching for an affectionate, compact Bernedoodle with a calm nature and a charming teddy-bear look, the Munchkin Bernedoodle may be the perfect addition to your home.
Explore upcoming litters, join our waitlist, or contact us to learn more about our responsible breeding program.