When you imagine a tiny Bernedoodle, you probably picture an irresistibly cute, fluffy bundle of energy with soulful eyes and a wagging tail. But some prospective owners wonder: Can such a small dog really be trained well?
The answer is a resounding YES!
Tiny Bernedoodles (typically under 24 lbs) are just as intelligent, eager to please, and capable of learning as their larger counterparts. In fact, their compact size can even be an advantage—training sessions are easier to manage, and their affectionate nature makes them highly responsive to positive reinforcement.
At Love Berners, we specialize in breeding happy, healthy, and well-socialized Bernedoodles of all sizes. And we’re here to tell you: With the right approach, your tiny Bernedoodle can master obedience, manners, and even impressive tricks!
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover:
✔ Why Tiny Bernedoodles Excel in Training
✔ Essential Training Tips for Tiny Bernedoodles
✔ The Importance of Early Socialization
✔ Common Training Challenges & Solutions
✔ Advanced Training: What Tiny Bernedoodles Can Learn
✔ FAQs About Tiny Bernedoodle Training
Let’s dive in!
Why Tiny Bernedoodles Are Fantastic Learners
1. They’re Highly Intelligent
Bernedoodles inherit their smarts from both the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle—two breeds known for their intelligence. Tiny Bernedoodles may be small, but they’re quick learners who thrive on mental stimulation.
2. They Aim to Please
These dogs form deep bonds with their families and love making their humans happy. This makes them highly responsive to reward-based training.
3. Their Size is an Advantage
- Easier to handle during training sessions
- Quick to pick up on leash manners (no giant puppy pulling!)
- Great for apartment living—indoors, they can practice commands without needing a huge space
4. They’re Naturally Social
With proper socialization (which we prioritize at Love Berners), tiny Bernedoodles grow into confident, friendly dogs who adapt well to new experiences.
Essential Training Tips for Tiny Bernedoodles
1. Start Early & Be Consistent
Puppyhood is the best time to shape good habits. Begin training as soon as your pup comes home (usually around 8-10 weeks old).
🔹 First Commands to Teach:
“Sit” – The foundation for impulse control
“Come” – Vital for safety
“Leave it” – Prevents chewing or eating unsafe items
“Potty” or “Go pee” – Helps with housebreaking
2. Use Positive Reinforcement
Tiny Bernedoodles respond best to:
✅ High-value treats (small, soft bites they love)
✅ Praise & affection (“Good boy/girl!” in a happy tone)
✅ Play rewards (A quick game of tug or fetch as a reward)
🚫 Avoid punishment-based training—it can make them anxious and less willing to learn.
3. Keep Sessions Short & Fun
- 5-10 minutes per session (tiny dogs have short attention spans)
- End on a positive note (Always finish with a success!)
- Train before meals (They’ll be more motivated by treats)
4. Socialize Early & Often
At Love Berners, we begin socialization from birth and early training by exposing puppies to:
✔ Different people (men, women, children)
✔ Other friendly dogs & pets
✔ Various sounds (doorbells, vacuums, traffic)
✔ New environments (car rides, parks, pet-friendly stores)
Why is this so important?
- Prevents fearfulness in adulthood
- Builds confidence in new situations
- Helps them become well-mannered around strangers and other pets
5. Tackle Potty Training with Patience
Tiny dogs have tiny bladders, so accidents happen! Here’s how to succeed:
- Take them out frequently (every 1-2 hours at first)
- Use a consistent phrase (“Go potty!”)
- Reward immediately when they go outside
- Limit space indoors (Use a playpen or crate when unsupervised)
Common Training Challenges & Solutions
Challenge #1: “My Tiny Bernedoodle Gets Distracted Easily!”
🔹 Solution: Train in a quiet space first, then gradually add distractions.
Challenge #2: “They’re Sometimes Stubborn!”
🔹 Solution: Use higher-value treats (like small pieces of chicken or cheese) and keep training upbeat.
Challenge #3: “They Bark at Everything!”
🔹 Solution: Teach the “Quiet” command by rewarding silence after barking. Socialization also helps reduce unnecessary barking.
Advanced Training: What Else Can Tiny Bernedoodles Learn?
Once your pup masters the basics, try:
- Trick training (Spin, shake, roll over)
- Agility courses (Great for mental & physical exercise)
- Therapy dog training (Their loving nature makes them great comfort dogs!)
FAQ: Your Tiny Bernedoodle Training Questions Answered
Are tiny Bernedoodles harder to train than larger ones?
Not at all! Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them just as trainable.
When should I start training my tiny Bernedoodle?
As early as 8 weeks old! The sooner you start, the better.
Do tiny Bernedoodles bark a lot?
They can be vocal, but early training and socialization help manage excessive barking.
How long does potty training take?
Typically 4-6 months with consistency. Tiny bladders mean more frequent trips outside at first.
Can they do well in apartments?
Absolutely! Their small size and adaptability make them great for apartment living.
Final Thoughts: Your Tiny Bernedoodle is Capable of Amazing Things!
At Love Berners, we’ve seen firsthand how tiny Bernedoodles blossom into well-behaved, joyful companions with the right training and socialization.
Remember:
✔ Start early
✔ Use positive reinforcement
✔ Socialize, socialize, socialize
✔ Be patient & consistent
With love and guidance, your tiny Bernedoodle will exceed your expectations—proving that great things really do come in small packages!
Have questions about raising your tiny Bernedoodle? Reach out to us—we’re always happy to help!
