The Bernedoodle is a crossbreed that combines a Bernese Mountain Dog with a Poodle, creating a dog that’s known for being friendly, intelligent, and often suitable for people with allergies. If you’re considering adding one of these dogs to your family, you’ll find they come in different sizes and have coats that range from wavy to curly. This hybrid breed was first intentionally created in 2003, and while they’re popular for their affectionate nature and lower-shedding coats, every Bernedoodle has unique traits that can vary quite a bit.
You might be drawn to Bernedoodles because of their loyal and playful personality, but it’s important to understand what you’re getting into before bringing one home. These dogs need regular exercise, consistent training, and grooming that can be quite involved depending on their coat type. Whether you choose a standard, miniature, or tiny Bernedoodle, you’ll be committing to a companion who thrives on attention and activity.
The characteristics of a Bernedoodle can be unpredictable because they inherit traits from both parent breeds in different combinations. Some Bernedoodles are calm and easy to train, while others might be stubborn or more energetic. Understanding these variations will help you prepare for life with your new dog and ensure you’re ready to meet their needs.
Key Takeaways
- Bernedoodles are a mix of Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle that vary in size, temperament, and coat type
- These dogs require regular exercise, grooming every few weeks, and consistent positive training from an early age
- Health testing from responsible breeders is essential as Bernedoodles can inherit genetic conditions from both parent breeds
What Is a Bernedoodle?
A Bernedoodle is a hybrid breed that combines a Bernese Mountain Dog with a Poodle, creating a friendly companion known for its intelligence and often low-shedding coat. These designer dogs come in multiple sizes and have quickly gained popularity since their intentional creation in the early 2000s.
Origins and History
The Bernedoodle was first intentionally bred in 2003 by Sherry Rupke of SwissRidge Kennels in Canada. She wanted to combine the Poodle’s clever personality with the Bernese Mountain Dog’s loyal and gentle nature. While accidental crossings may have happened before, Rupke pioneered the deliberate breeding of this poodle mix.
The Bernedoodle emerged during the “doodle craze” that followed the Goldendoodle’s success in the 1990s. This trend led to various designer dogs being created to combine desirable traits from two purebred parents.
Unlike purebred dogs with official breed standards, the Bernedoodle isn’t recognised by the American Kennel Club or United Kennel Club. However, you’ll find them registered with organisations like the Canine Hybrid Club and Designer Dogs Kennel Club. The relatively young Bernedoodle history means there’s still considerable variation in how individual dogs look and behave.
Types and Sizes
Your Bernedoodle’s size depends on which type of Poodle was used in breeding. Standard Bernedoodles weigh 50 to 90 pounds and stand 23 to 29 inches tall, created by crossing a Bernese Mountain Dog with a Standard Poodle.
Miniature Bernedoodles result from using a Miniature Poodle and typically weigh 25 to 49 pounds with heights of 18 to 22 inches. The tiny Bernedoodle (sometimes called a toy Bernedoodle) comes from breeding with toy or miniature poodles, weighing just 10 to 24 pounds and standing 12 to 17 inches tall.
You might also hear about F1 Bernedoodles, which are first-generation crosses between a purebred Bernese Mountain Dog and purebred Poodle. F2 Bernedoodles result from breeding two F1 Bernedoodles together. Some breeders use backcrossing (marked as F1B or F2B) to introduce more Poodle genetics, often creating dogs that are 75% Poodle and 25% Bernese Mountain Dog for more predictable coat types.
Recognised Names and Variants
You’ll find this doodle breed listed under several names, though Bernedoodle remains the most common spelling. Some people use the alternative spelling “Bernadoodle,” whilst others call them a Bernese Mountain Poo.
The breed falls under the broader category of designer dogs or hybrid breeds. As a poodle mix, your Bernedoodle shares similarities with other popular designer breeds like the Goldendoodle and Labradoodle. All these crosses aim to combine the Poodle’s hypoallergenic coat with another breed’s desirable temperament.
Different kennel clubs and organisations may list your dog under slightly different classifications, but they all refer to the same Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle cross.
Characteristics and Temperament
Bernedoodles blend the best qualities of their parent breeds into dogs that vary widely in size, coat type, and personality. You’ll find these dogs range from affectionate and playful to sometimes stubborn, depending on which traits they inherit from their Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle parents.
Appearance and Coat Types
Your Bernedoodle’s appearance depends largely on which size category they fall into. Standard Bernedoodles weigh between 50 to 90 pounds and stand 23 to 29 inches tall. Miniature Bernedoodles are smaller at 25 to 49 pounds and 18 to 22 inches, whilst tiny Bernedoodles are the smallest at 10 to 24 pounds and 12 to 17 inches.
Most Bernedoodles have wavy to curly coats, though some develop straighter coats. The most common colours include black, black and white, black and brown, or tri-colour patterns. Your dog’s coat type will vary based on their generation—F1 Bernedoodles (50% Bernese Mountain Dog and 50% Standard Poodle) show the most variation, whilst dogs with more Poodle genetics typically have curlier, lower-shedding coats.
The texture and maintenance needs of your Bernedoodle’s coat can differ significantly even within the same litter. Some dogs shed moderately whilst others shed very little or not at all.
Personality Traits
The Bernedoodle temperament combines intelligence from both parent breeds with varying levels of trainability. You might find your dog inherits the agreeable nature of the Poodle or the more stubborn side of the Bernese Mountain Dog.
Common personality traits include:
- High affection levels with family members
- Intelligence and problem-solving abilities
- Playful and sometimes goofy behaviour
- Medium energy levels requiring regular exercise
- Loyalty and eagerness to please
Some Bernedoodles are outgoing with strangers whilst others remain more reserved. You may also notice that certain dogs are hyperactive rather than calm. Training can be straightforward with some Bernedoodles and challenging with others, depending on their individual temperament.
These dogs thrive on attention from their humans and don’t do well when left alone for long periods.
Family Compatibility
Bernedoodles make great family pets because they typically get along well with children and other pets, including other dogs. They’re especially fond of younger children and can provide a wonderful lifelong companion as your kids grow into adults.
You’ll need to provide your Bernedoodle with plenty of daily exercise, including one or two walks plus off-leash playtime in a safely enclosed space. If you have an active lifestyle that includes hiking, swimming, or running, your Bernedoodle will likely enjoy joining you.
These dogs require consistent training from a young age using positive reinforcement methods. You’ll get the best results with clicker training paired with tasty treat rewards. Your Bernedoodle’s social nature means they need regular interaction and shouldn’t be considered if you’re away from home frequently.
If anyone in your household has allergies, spend time with the specific Bernedoodle you’re considering before bringing them home, as not all Bernedoodles are truly hypoallergenic.
Care, Grooming, and Health
Your Bernedoodle needs regular attention across exercise, grooming, nutrition, and health monitoring to thrive. These dogs combine the Bernese Mountain Dog’s gentle nature with the Poodle’s intelligence, requiring 1-2 hours of daily activity and consistent coat care to prevent matting.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Bernedoodles are energetic dogs that need proper exercise and mental enrichment to stay happy and well-behaved. You should plan for at least 1-2 hours of daily activity, including walks, play sessions, and interactive games.
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for these intelligent dogs. Puzzle toys, scent work, and training sessions help prevent boredom and destructive behaviours. Your Bernedoodle will benefit from activities that challenge their problem-solving skills.
If you have a Standard Bernedoodle, be mindful that their size means they can pull strongly on leads. Start leash training early and introduce off-leash play gradually in secure areas. Group training classes provide both socialisation and mental engagement whilst helping you manage their sometimes stubborn adolescent phase.
Grooming Needs and Maintenance
Bernedoodle grooming requirements vary based on coat type, but all need regular maintenance to stay comfortable and healthy. Curly coats require daily brushing, whilst wavy or straighter coats need brushing at least several times weekly to prevent matting.
You should bathe your Bernedoodle every 4-6 weeks, but avoid over-bathing as this can dry out their skin. Professional trimming every 6-8 weeks helps manage coat length and prevents tangles from forming.
Essential grooming tasks include:
- Brushing teeth 2-3 times weekly with dog-friendly toothpaste
- Cleaning ears weekly to prevent infections
- Trimming nails regularly when you hear them clicking on floors
- Checking for mats behind ears, under legs, and around the collar area
Don’t neglect dental care, as plaque buildup can lead to gum disease and more serious health issues. Regular grooming sessions also give you the chance to check for skin problems, lumps, or other concerns.
Health Concerns and Lifespan
Bernedoodles can inherit health conditions from both parent breeds, making regular veterinary screening essential for Bernedoodle health. Your dog’s lifespan varies by size, with Tiny Bernedoodles living up to 18 years, Miniatures 14-16 years, and Standards 12-15 years.
Common health concerns to watch for:
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Hip and elbow dysplasia | Joint malformation causing pain and mobility issues |
| Progressive retinal atrophy | Gradual vision loss leading to blindness |
| Von Willebrand disease | Blood clotting disorder |
| Heart conditions | Including mitral valve disease |
| Histiocytosis | Rare cancer affecting immune cells |
| Thyroid disorders | Hormone imbalances affecting metabolism |
Work with your vet to screen for these conditions early. Many can be managed effectively when caught soon enough. Your Bernedoodle may also develop allergies or skin conditions, so monitor for excessive scratching or irritation.
Feeding and Nutrition
Choose high-quality dog food formulated for your Bernedoodle’s size and activity level. Split their daily portions into two meals to reduce bloat risk and maintain steady energy throughout the day.
The amount you feed depends on your dog’s size, age, and activity level. Standard Bernedoodles need food designed for large active breeds, whilst Miniature and Tiny varieties do better with medium breed formulas. Always follow the feeding guidelines on your chosen food and adjust based on your dog’s body condition.
Consider adding supplements to support joint and skin health. Glucosamine helps maintain healthy joints, particularly important for larger Bernedoodles prone to hip dysplasia. Omega-3 fatty acids promote coat health and reduce inflammation.
Monitor your Bernedoodle’s weight carefully, as they can be prone to obesity. These dogs often love food, so you’ll need to resist those pleading eyes and stick to appropriate portions.
Choosing and Raising a Bernedoodle
Finding the right Bernedoodle puppy starts with locating reputable breeders who prioritise health and temperament, followed by proper preparation for bringing your new companion home and establishing early training routines.
Finding Ethical Breeders
Locating ethical breeders requires research and patience. Start by asking for health clearances for both parent dogs, including tests for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy. Reputable Bernedoodle breeders will readily provide documentation of these screenings.
Visit the breeder’s facility in person when possible. You’ll want to observe the living conditions and meet the parent dogs. Clean, spacious environments indicate responsible breeding practises.
Ask about the breeder’s experience with Bernedoodles specifically. Choosing the right Bernedoodle puppy involves understanding their lineage and health history. Ethical breeders limit the number of litters per year and focus on quality over quantity.
Request references from previous buyers. Speaking with families who’ve purchased puppies from the same breeder gives you insight into their long-term support and the health of their dogs.
Be wary of breeders who have multiple litters available simultaneously or won’t allow facility visits. These red flags often indicate puppy mills rather than responsible breeding programmes.
Bringing Home a Bernedoodle Puppy
Prepare your home before your Bernedoodle arrives. Remove hazardous items from puppy height and secure loose wires or toxic plants. Set up a designated sleeping area with a comfortable bed and crate.
Purchase essential supplies including food and water bowls, age-appropriate puppy food, a collar and lead, and chew toys. Stock up on cleaning supplies for inevitable accidents during house training.
Schedule a veterinary appointment within the first few days of bringing your puppy home. Your vet will examine your Bernedoodle’s overall health and discuss vaccination schedules.
Establish a consistent routine immediately. Feed your puppy at the same times each day and take them outside frequently for toilet training. Bernedoodle puppies typically need to go out every two to three hours.
Create a calm environment during the first week. Your puppy is adjusting to a new home, so limit visitors and allow them time to explore at their own pace.
Socialisation and Training Tips
Begin socialisation during the first few months of your puppy’s life. Expose your Bernedoodle to different people, environments, sounds, and other animals in controlled settings. This builds confidence and reduces anxiety later in life.
Start training your Bernedoodle puppy early using positive reinforcement methods. Reward desired behaviours with treats and praise rather than punishing mistakes. Their intelligence makes them quick learners when training remains consistent.
Focus on basic commands like sit, stay, and come during short five to ten minute sessions. Keep training engaging by incorporating play and varying your approach to maintain their interest.
Enrol in puppy socialisation classes once your Bernedoodle has received initial vaccinations. These classes provide structured environments for learning alongside other dogs whilst building essential social skills.
Address unwanted behaviours immediately but gently. Redirect jumping or nipping towards appropriate toys rather than scolding. Consistency amongst all family members ensures your Bernedoodle understands expectations clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Caring for a Bernedoodle involves regular coat maintenance, professional grooming every few months, daily exercise, balanced nutrition, early socialisation, and routine health monitoring to prevent common issues like hip dysplasia and allergies.
What’s the ideal way to care for your furry friend’s coat?
Your Bernedoodle’s coat needs brushing 2-3 times per week to prevent matting and tangles. Their low-shedding fur can vary from wavy to curly depending on which parent breed they favour more.
Use a slicker brush or metal comb to work through their coat gently. Pay extra attention to areas behind the ears, under the legs, and around the collar where mats form most easily.
If you notice any tangles forming, address them straight away before they become larger problems. Regular brushing also helps distribute natural oils throughout their coat, keeping it healthy and shiny.
How often should we consider professional grooming for our cuddly companion?
Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks keeps your Bernedoodle’s coat in optimal condition. A groomer can trim their fur, clean their ears, and clip their nails properly.
Between professional appointments, you’ll need to maintain their coat at home with regular brushing. Some owners prefer to keep their Bernedoodle’s coat shorter during warmer months for easier maintenance.
The cost of grooming adds up over time, so factor this into your budget when considering a Bernedoodle. Their grooming needs make them moderately high maintenance compared to some other breeds.
Can you tell me about the exercise needs of these adorable pups?
Your Bernedoodle needs 30-60 minutes of daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. This can include walks, playtime in the garden, or interactive games that challenge their mind and body.
Bernedoodles often enjoy water activities like swimming, inheriting the Poodle’s natural affinity for water. Try introducing your pup to pools or lakes early on to encourage this behaviour.
Without adequate exercise, your Bernedoodle might develop destructive behaviours from boredom. Mental stimulation through puzzle toys and training sessions is just as important as physical activity.
What kind of diet will keep your pal healthy and happy?
Feed your Bernedoodle high-quality dog food appropriate for their size and life stage. Standard Bernedoodles require more food than miniature or toy varieties, so adjust portions based on your dog’s weight.
Choose food with real meat as the first ingredient and avoid fillers like corn or wheat. Your vet can recommend specific brands or formulations if your Bernedoodle has food sensitivities or allergies.
Divide their daily food into two meals to prevent bloating and maintain steady energy levels. Fresh water should always be available throughout the day.
Start socialising your Bernedoodle puppy as soon as they’ve had their initial vaccinations. Expose them to different people, animals, sounds, and environments whilst they’re young and adaptable.
Early socialisation is essential for well-rounded behaviour and helps prevent anxiety or fear-based reactions later in life. Take your puppy to puppy classes where they can interact with other dogs in a controlled setting.
Introduce new experiences gradually and positively. Use treats and praise to create positive associations with meeting new people, visiting the vet, or encountering different situations.
What health checks should you keep on top of to ensure your four-legged friend stays in tip-top shape?
Schedule annual vet check-ups to monitor your Bernedoodle’s overall health. Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye conditions are potential inherited health issues that require regular screening.
Watch for signs of allergies such as excessive scratching, ear infections, or digestive problems. Your vet can perform allergy testing if you notice persistent symptoms.
Keep up with vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and dental care. Regular teeth brushing at home helps prevent dental disease, which can affect your dog’s overall health as they age.
