A Bernedoodle is a crossbreed between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle. They are renowned for their affectionate nature and intelligence. These charming dogs inherit a variety of traits from their parent breeds.

They combine the gentle and loyal demeanor of the Bernese with the hypoallergenic coat and cleverness of the Poodle. Bernedoodles are known for their social and friendly disposition, making them excellent companions for families and individuals alike.

Their adaptability to various living situations, coupled with their playful spirit and striking appearance, has contributed to their rising popularity as beloved pets. Let’s learn more about the characteristics of a Bernedoodle.

Bernedoodle Care Guide

History

The Bernedoodle breed originated in Canada when breeder Sherry Rupke introduced it in 2003. This hybrid dog combines the genetic heritage of the Bernese mountain dog and the standard poodle. It results in a unique blend of intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate nature. The Bernese mountain dog contributes its gentle temperament and distinctive tri-color markings. Meanwhile, the standard poodle brings its curly, hypoallergenic coat and high level of intelligence to the mix.

Unlike purebred dogs, bernedoodles don’t adhere to a strict breed standard. This leads to variations in appearance and temperament based on the specific genetic traits inherited from their parents. It also depends on the selective breeding practices of individual breeders.

Today, bernedoodles are available in three sizes: tiny, miniature, and standard. The standard size is the most prevalent.

Many of these dogs exhibit the tri-color pattern reminiscent of Bernese mountain dogs. Thus contributing to their widespread popularity.

Renowned for their gentle and affectionate nature, bernedoodles make excellent family pets. They are particularly suitable for first-time dog owners seeking a playful yet manageable companion. They thrive in homes where they can receive love and attention while engaging in moderate exercise. This makes them an ideal choice for households looking for a friendly and energetic canine. Moreover, they don’t need the demanding care needs of some other breeds.

Appearance

What does a bernedoodle look like? They exhibit a wide range of appearances due to the diverse lineage of their parents. They vary in size, ranging from small to slightly larger than a medium-sized dog, characterized by friendly faces and floppy ears.

The texture and length of their coat depend on whether they inherit more dominant traits from the Bernese mountain dog or the standard poodle. Some bernedoodles feature very curly and short coats, while others have slightly longer and straighter fur.

The color diversity in bernedoodles is striking, with options including black, white, rust or red, blue, tan, sable, and silver. They can also display various patterns such as tri-color, piebald, or merle. While many bernedoodles inherit the tricolor pattern resembling their Bernese mountain dog parent, others may have solid black or black and white coats or even a mix of colors.

Their coat texture can range from curly, akin to their poodle parent, to straighter, like a Bernese mountain dog. Generally, the curlier the coat, the more hypoallergenic it is perceived to be, although no dog breed is entirely allergen-free. The thickness of their mane makes them well-suited for colder climates.

Bernedoodles’ sizes reflect the variety in their poodle parent’s size range.

Size

Bernedoodles come in three distinct sizes: tiny, miniature, and standard. These sizes are determined by the size of the poodle parent, which can range from toy to standard size. Males are generally larger than females across all sizes of bernedoodles. Here are the details for each size:

Tiny bernedoodle:

  • Height: 12 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder
  • Weight: 10 to 24 pounds

Miniature bernedoodle:

  • Height: 18 to 22 inches tall
  • Weight: 25 to 49 pounds

Standard bernedoodle:

  • Height: 23 to 29 inches tall
  • Weight: 70 to 90 pounds

The range in sizes allows breeders and owners to select a bernedoodle that fits their living space and lifestyle preferences. Whether living in an apartment or a spacious home with room to roam, there’s a bernedoodle size to suit various needs.

This flexibility allows breeders to cater to different living arrangements and care needs, from apartment dwellers to those with larger homes and outdoor spaces.

Are Bernedoodles Good Dogs?

They often inherit the best personality traits from both Bernese mountain dogs and poodles. However, the exact characteristics can vary among individual dogs within the breed. Generally, bernedoodles are known for their high intelligence, loyalty, and playful nature. They can be hardworking when needed and have a goofy, endearing side that adds to their charm.

Is a bernedoodle a good dog? These dogs are typically good with children and other pets, provided they are well-socialized from a young age. Some bernedoodles might exhibit the stubborn streak of the Bernese mountain dog, which can make training a bit challenging initially. However, this stubbornness usually diminishes as they grow from puppies into adolescent dogs.

Their intelligence helps them learn commands more easily than many other breeds, making consistent training effective. Socialization is also crucial, as some bernedoodles may inherit the Bernese’s wariness of strangers.

Are bernedoodles high-energy? The breed has high energy levels and needs regular exercise and attention. They thrive in homes where they are not left alone for long periods. Tiny and miniature bernedoodles adapt better to apartment and city living compared to their standard counterparts. Regardless of size, they need at least a long daily walk to burn off their energy. Bernedoodles love being with their human families, whether it’s playing outdoors or cuddling on the couch.

Tri-color Bernedoodle Puppy
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Affectionate and playful, bernedoodles make excellent family pets. They’re especially fond of young children, forming strong bonds that can last as children grow up. Despite their friendly nature with their families, bernedoodles can initially be apprehensive and sensitive around strangers. Proper socialization is key to helping them become comfortable and affectionate with new people. With positive reinforcement training, bernedoodles can be very charming and charismatic.

Dog trainers and behaviorists highly praise the bernedoodle’s temperament. Sarah Hodgson, an author, trainer, and applied behaviorist, appreciates the blend of traits in this breed.

Are bernedoodles smart? She notes that when bred responsibly, they offer the mellow temperament of the Bernese mountain dog combined with the sociability, intelligence, and sense of humor of the poodle. This unique mix contributes to their rising popularity as a delightful and versatile companion.

Bernedoodle sitting on green grass wearing an orange bandana

Bernedoodle Traits

  • Affectionate, gentle, and goofy personality

  • Calm, docile energy

  • Excellent emotional support dogs

  • Good with children

  • Low-to-non shedding

  • For allergy-friendly needs, F1b puppies are optimal

  • Standard-sized need space to stretch

  • Mini or tiny sizes available for smaller spaces

How to Take Care of a Bernedoodle

Caring for a bernedoodle involves specific grooming and exercise routines tailored to their unique coat and energy levels. Most bernedoodles have a wavy or curly coat, making them a good choice for those with allergies.

However, some may have a straighter coat, like the Bernese mountain dog, resulting in more shedding and potentially more issues for allergy sufferers. Breeders can usually determine the type of coat each puppy will have within a few weeks, helping match the right dog to the right owner.

Regular grooming is essential for bernedoodles, especially those with curly coats. These dogs don’t shed much, so frequent brushing is necessary to prevent matting, which can be painful.

Additionally, a very curly, “hypoallergenic” bernedoodle will need haircuts every few months. While they are low-shedding, they are not low-maintenance and require consistent grooming to keep their coats healthy.

Standard bernedoodles benefit from having a fenced-in yard where they can run and play. They need daily walks to expend their energy and maintain their well-being. Meeting their physical needs helps prevent undesirable behaviors, such as digging. Social stimulation is equally important; regular exposure to new people and pets helps reinforce positive behaviors and ensures they are well-behaved in new situations.

Training a bernedoodle is generally straightforward due to its intelligence. They can quickly learn both good and bad behaviors, so ongoing training is crucial, even beyond their puppy stage.

Positive reinforcement is the most effective training method, though patience is sometimes required. Keeping up with training ensures that your bernedoodle remains well-mannered and responsive throughout its life.

Health Concerns

Bernedoodles are generally healthy dogs, but they can still be susceptible to specific health problems. One notable issue is hip dysplasia, a hereditary condition where the hip joint fails to develop correctly, leading to arthritis and discomfort. Elbow dysplasia, which similarly affects the elbow joints, can also cause arthritis and mobility issues as the dog ages.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is another concern for bernedoodles. This genetic disorder causes the retina to deteriorate, potentially resulting in blindness gradually.

bernedoodle health concerns

Routine eye examinations can help catch early signs of PRA. Von Willebrand’s Disease, a genetic bleeding disorder due to a deficiency in clotting factors, can lead to excessive bleeding from minor injuries or surgical procedures. Early detection is vital for managing this condition.

Bernedoodles are also prone to skin conditions, such as allergies and hot spots, often linked to their thick, curly coats. Regular grooming is essential to prevent these skin issues. Epilepsy, a neurological disorder that triggers seizures, can develop at any stage of life. While it can be controlled with medication, it requires continuous veterinary care.

Hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland under produces hormones, can cause symptoms like weight gain and lethargy. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor and manage this condition. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (bloat) is a severe condition where the stomach twists and fills with gas. Hence, it necessitates immediate veterinary intervention.

The breed may also experience patellar luxation. This condition is where the kneecap dislocates, causing pain and movement difficulties. Severe cases might require surgical intervention. Addison’s Disease is an endocrine disorder where the adrenal glands produce insufficient hormones. It leads to symptoms such as weakness and vomiting.

This condition requires lifelong medication management. Conversely, Cushing’s Disease, which involves excessive cortisol production, causes increased thirst, urination, and weight gain. Treatment may include medication or surgery.

These dogs are prone to heart conditions, such as dilation. The heart enlarges and weakens, which is also a potential issue for bernedoodles. Regular heart check-ups are crucial for early detection and treatment. By maintaining vigilance and scheduling regular veterinary visits, owners can help keep their bernedoodles healthy and address any health concerns promptly.

Feeding

Feeding a bernedoodle requires attention to their size, age, and activity level. Their diet should consist of high-quality dry or wet dog food, supplemented occasionally with healthy treats. The amount of food they need daily can vary greatly, ranging from 1 to 7 cups, divided into two or three meals. Puppies and fully-grown dogs have different nutritional needs, so it’s important to adjust their portions accordingly.

The right amount of food for a bernedoodle is highly individualized. Factors such as their size and activity level play a significant role in determining their dietary requirements. Standard bernedoodles, in particular, may have hearty appetites and can easily overeat if not monitored. It’s crucial to keep an eye on their food intake and weight, ensuring they get enough physical exercise to maintain a healthy balance.

Consulting with a veterinarian is essential for personalized feeding recommendations. Your vet can provide guidance tailored to your specific bernedoodle, helping you determine the best diet and portion sizes. This ensures your dog stays healthy and receives the proper nutrition throughout their life.

How to Know If It’s the Right Breed for You?

Deciding whether a bernedoodle is the right dog for you involves weighing the pros and cons of the breed. Here are some key factors to consider:

Pros

  • Friendly and loves being a family companion.
  • Easily trainable and intelligent.
  • Gets along well with children and other pets.
  • Energetic but doesn’t require extreme exercise.

Cons

  • Prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
  • Requires regular grooming and maintenance.
  • Needs space to play and exercise and may not be suitable for apartments.

Conclusion

The bernedoodle combines the affectionate nature and intelligence of both the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle breeds. This hybrid breed originated in Canada in 2003 and has gained popularity for its adaptability to various living environments.

Bernedoodles are known for their striking appearance, often marked by tri-color patterns reminiscent of their Bernese heritage. They thrive in homes where they receive ample love, attention, and moderate exercise. This makes them ideal companions for families and individuals seeking a loyal and playful canine friend.

Mini Bernedoodle

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