Choosing between a Bernedoodle vs Bernese Mountain Dog can be challenging, especially if you’re looking for the perfect furry companion for your family.
Both breeds share the Bernese Mountain Dog heritage but offer unique qualities that suit different lifestyles. This guide will explore key differences to help you decide which breed best fits your needs.
🐾 Key Differences Between the Bernedoodle and Bernese Mountain Dog

If you’re wondering, “What is the difference between a Bernese Mountain Dog vs Bernedoodle?” it comes down to size, coat type, temperament, and lifespan. The Bernese Mountain Dog is a purebred working dog with a solid build and a calm demeanor. Adults typically weigh between 70-115 pounds, making them a large breed that thrives in spacious homes. Their beautiful, double-layered coats require regular brushing, and they shed heavily, especially during seasonal changes.
On the other hand, the Bernedoodle is a hybrid breed, combining the intelligence of the Poodle with the loyalty of the Bernese Mountain Dog. Bernedoodles come in four sizes—Medium, Miniature, Petite, and Micro-mini—offering flexibility for families living in apartments or smaller homes. Their coats are curly or wavy and are often hypoallergenic, making them ideal for allergy-prone households.
When it comes to lifespan, Bernedoodles typically live between 12-15 years, whereas Bernese Mountain Dogs have a shorter lifespan of 7-10 years due to genetic health concerns.
🏡 Which Breed Suits Your Lifestyle?
The Bernedoodle and Bernese Mountain Dogs are fantastic family pets, but their needs differ in important ways. If you enjoy an active lifestyle and have time for regular grooming, the Bernedoodle is a great fit. Bernedoodles are energetic and playful and thrive on mental stimulation, making them perfect companions for kids and active adults.
The Bernese Mountain Dog, on the other hand, is more laid back. This breed is content with leisurely walks and relaxing with the family. However, due to their large size, they require ample space and are better suited for homes with yards. The Bernese Mountain Dog is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a calm, loyal dog that bonds deeply with its family.
💰 Cost of Ownership: Bernedoodle vs Bernese Mountain Dog
When considering the Bernese Mountain Dog vs Bernedoodle, it’s important to factor in the cost of ownership. Bernedoodles often have a higher initial price because they are a designer breed. Their grooming needs also add to the overall expenses, as regular professional grooming is essential to maintain their coats.
Bernese Mountain Dogs, while inexpensive initially, come with other costs, such as food and veterinary bills. Their large size means higher feeding costs, and they are prone to health issues like hip dysplasia and bloat, which may result in expensive medical treatments.
❤️🩹 Health and Lifespan
If health and lifespan are priorities for you, this is where the Bernedoodle truly shines. Their hybrid vigor makes Bernedoodles generally healthier than Bernese Mountain Dogs. They are less prone to genetic conditions and often enjoy longer lives, averaging 12-15 years.
In contrast, the Bernese Mountain Dog has a shorter lifespan, typically 6-8 years. Unfortunately, they are prone to several health conditions, including joint problems, cancer, and heart disease. While they are loving and loyal companions, their shorter lifespan can be a deciding factor for many families.

✂️ Grooming and Care Needs
Caring for a Bernedoodle or Bernese Mountain Dog requires time and dedication, but the grooming needs differ significantly between the two breeds.
Bernedoodles have curly or wavy coats, similar to the Poodle, and require brushing every 2-3 days to prevent matting. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks is also necessary to keep their fur in shape. Their coats shed minimally, making them a popular choice for allergy sufferers.
Bernese Mountain Dogs, conversely, have thick double coats that shed heavily. They need regular brushing to manage shedding, especially during spring and fall. While their grooming routine is less intensive than the Bernedoodle, you should be prepared for a lot of furs around the house.
✅ Final Verdict: Choosing Between Bernedoodle and Bernese Mountain Dog
So, what’s the final word on the Bernese Mountain Dog vs Bernedoodle? It depends on your lifestyle and preferences. If you want a hypoallergenic, playful, and versatile family dog, the Bernedoodle is an excellent choice. If you prefer a calm, loyal giant and have the space for them, the Bernese Mountain Dog will not disappoint.
Ultimately, both breeds bring love, loyalty, and joy. However, for those looking for a longer-lived, allergy-friendly companion, the Bernedoodle offers unmatched versatility.
🐶 Where to Find Your Perfect Bernedoodle: Central Illinois Doodles
So, you’ve decided a Bernedoodle is the perfect addition to your family? Look no further than Central Illinois Doodles. We’re more than just breeders; we’re passionate about raising healthy, well-socialized Bernedoodles that become cherished family members.
We prioritize health through rigorous genetic testing and nurture each puppy in a loving family environment, ensuring they’re well-adjusted and ready to thrive in your home. But our commitment doesn’t end there.
We build lasting relationships with our clients, offering ongoing support as your Bernedoodle grows. Are you ready to welcome a bundle of joy into your life? Contact us today – your new best friend is waiting!
📚 Bibliography
- Croft, A. (2022). Bernese Mountain Dog vs Bernedoodle: What’s the Difference? In A-Z Animals (pp. 1–7). https://a-z-animals.com/blog/bernese-mountain-dog-vs-bernedoodle/
- Bernedoodle Vs Bernese Mountain Dog. (n.d.). https://vetexplainspets.com/bernedoodle-vs-bernese-mountain-dog/
- Rehman, S. U. (2018, December 22). Bernese mountain dog Vs Bernedoodle. The Dogs Magazine. https://thedogsmag.com/bernese-mountain-dog-vs-bernedoodle/