Are Bernedoodles Good Guard Dogs?

Bernedoodles are known for being the perfect family dog. They are very sociable, loyal and quite intelligent. Their friendly disposition and high intellect make them fantastic pets, but are they good guard dogs?

This article will provide you with an answer! We will explore whether the beloved Bernedoodles could be trained to be guard dogs.

Keep on reading, and let’s find out together!

Key Takeaways

• Bernedoodles, a Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle mix, are generally not ideal guard dogs due to their friendly temperament.
• Some Bernedoodles, with the right temperament and training, can be effective watchdogs. Look for curious and outgoing puppies for this purpose.

Are Bernedoodles Good Guard Dogs?

Bernedoodles, a mix of Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles, are not considered ideal guard dogs. 

Now, we’re not saying they can’t be good watchdogs. In fact, Bernedoodles are part of Bernese Mountain Dogs, a breed known for its excellent natural protectiveness, great adaptability, and problem-solving skills.

As working dogs, Bernese Mountain Dogs have been used on farms and in other jobs to herd livestock or guard the property.

On the other hand, we have the Poodle genetic influence. Poodles are clever and highly trainable. They are very attuned to even slight changes in the environment, a desirable trait in watch and guard dogs.

Combining the two breeds should give us a perfect guard dog, right?

Well, not exactly. Bernedoodles could be fantastic watchdogs, but this breed usually doesn’t exhibit strong confrontational behaviours. This means your doodle will gladly inform you with their barking about the intruder, but it’s rarer for a dog of this breed to bite or attack.

However, an important caveat to make is that this really depends on the individual dog and the type and amount of work owners will put into its training.

Why do some experts don’t view Bernedoodles as good guard dogs?

Bred for Companionship

Unlike Bernese Mountain Dogs with their working background, Bernedoodles were bred primarily for companionship. They tend to be very friendly and eager to please, which isn’t ideal for deterring intruders.

Most reputable doodle breeders select parent dogs specifically for their gentle and good-natured qualities, which results in pups that are very friendly and safe for families with kids – not so much for strong guarding tendencies.

Varying Temperaments

Since Bernedoodles are a mixed breed, their temperament can vary depending on which parent breed’s traits are more dominant. Some Bernedoodles might inherit more protectiveness from the Bernese Mountain Dog side, but it’s not guaranteed.

Bernedoodles as Guard Dogs

Taking this into consideration, some Bernedoodles can be trained to be guard dogs. Generally, this breed exhibits the required alertness, intelligence, as well as size.

With a well-designed training program focused on guarding behaviors, Bernedoodles could potentially be more effective watchdogs.

If you want to train your puppy for this purpose, we recommend getting in touch with a good dog trainer even before you make a decision about getting a dog.

During a consultation with a specialist, you’ll be able to get some answers on whether it is worth investing money and time in such a profiled training program and what type of puppy you should be looking for.

Final Thoughts

Bernedoodles are less naturally inclined to fulfill the role of guard dogs, but with proper training, some individuals can become good guard dogs. However, if you want your Bernedoodle to be successful in such a job, you need to think about this when choosing your puppy.

Hungry for more information? Visit our blog section, where you can find plenty of expert resources to widen your Bernedoodle knowledge!

Also, see what Bernedoodle puppies are currently available for purchase at Central Illinois Doodles. We’re glad to help you complete your family with a loving, healthy puppy!