Want a dog that is gentle and friendly? What about being loyal and affectionate? How about a dog that is highly intelligent? What about a hypoallergenic dog? All of these traits seem awesome! How can you choose? You don’t have to! Choose a Bernedoodle. They have all these great traits and more.
A Bernedoodle is a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle. Keep reading for EVERYTHING you need to know about this popular mixed-breed dog!
Complete Guide to the Bernedoodle Dog Breed
Sometimes it can be so hard to choose the right breed of dog for you and your family. That is why a hybrid breed is such a wonderful choice. This is your complete guide to Bernedoodles.
Bernedoodle Fast Facts
| Average Weight | Standard: 50 to 90 pounds (or more)
Miniature: 25 to 49 pounds. Tiny or Toy : 10 to 24 pounds. |
| Average Height | Standard: 23 to 29 inches
Miniature: 12 to 17 inches Tiny or Toy: 10 to 15 inches |
| Hypoallergenic? | Not necessarily!
If there is a higher percentage of poodle in the mix, then the chance is better. |
| Coat | Straight to wavy to curly coat. |
| Shedding | Shedding is dependent on the mix as well.
If there is a higher percentage of Bernese Mountain dog in the mix, then the chance of shedding is higher. |
| Grooming | Straighter coats need daily (or every other day) brushing. Coats that are wavy or curly need less brushing, perhaps a few times a week. |
| Barking | Average |
| Good with kids? | Average. Bernedoodles love their families. |
| Good with cats? | Average |
| Good with other dogs? | Average |
| Tolerates being alone | Average
They are okay being at home alone a couple of hours at a time. |
| Tolerates apartment life | Average |
| Training | Bernedoodles are intelligent but may be stubborn or hard to train. |
| People pleaser? | Yes, with family however skittish with strangers. |
| Exercise Needs | Bernedoodles need about 30-60 minutes of exercise 1-3 times per day. |
| Health Concerns | Hip and elbow dysplasia, eye issues, and certain genetic conditions. |
| Life Span | 12-15 years |
| Average cost | $500 to $5000 |
History and Origin of the Bernedoodle
We know a Bernedoodle is a hybrid dog breed that is a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle. However, the specific origin of the Bernedoodle is not definitively known.
It likely began as breeders sought to combine the Bernese Mountain Dog’s gentle and friendly temperament with the Poodle’s hypoallergenic and low-shedding coat. The goal was to create a family-friendly dog with reduced shedding for individuals and families with allergies.
Hybrid dogs have been the rage for decades. There is a journal article titled, “All Mixed Up: How Do Hybrids Fit Into The Picture?”. According to the journal, when people set out on the quest for their perfect companion, they frequently encounter the dilemma of selecting either a mixed-breed dog or a purebred.
As the popularity of Bernedoodles grew, they gained attention for their charming appearance, friendly disposition, and hypoallergenic coat. While not officially recognized as a breed by major kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club (AKC) due to their hybrid status, Bernedoodles have gained a strong following and have become sought-after companion animals.
Hybrid dogs like the Bernedoodle help make choosing the perfect dog easier. You get the best of both worlds. You get the best of a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle.
Bernedoodle Physical Characteristics and Appearance
Bernedoodles are a mix of a Poodle and a Bernese Mountain Dog. So let’s explore a little about both of these special breeds. It can help understand these dogs by learning their origin story.
Poodles
Poodles come in three main sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy (just like the Bernedoodle). Thjey have a curly, dense, and hypoallergenic coat that comes in a wide range of colors, and are often associated with elaborate grooming styles.
These hypoallergenic dogs have a well-muscled and athletic build. They are known for their graceful and elegant gait.
Poodles are also HIGHLY intelligent, active, and highly trainable dogs. In fact, they are often ranked among the most intelligent dog breeds.
Poodles are known for their friendly and social nature, making them great companions. Poodles have a relatively long lifespan, often ranging from 10 to 18 years, depending on their size and overall health care.
Bernese Mountain Dogs
Bernese Mountain Dogs, aren’t just large-breed dogs…they are huge! Adult males usually weigh between 85 to 110 pounds and females weigh around 80 to 105 pounds.
These loveable pups have a thick, double coat that is weather-resistant and well-suited for cold climates. Coat-wise, they have a distinctive tricolor pattern consisting of a black base with tan markings on the cheeks, legs, and over the eyes. They also have white markings on the chest, paws, and sometimes a white blaze on the face.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They are often referred to as “gentle giants” due to their calm and patient demeanor. They are just large lugs of love. They’re good-natured, loyal, and generally get along well with people, children, and other pets. In fact, Bernese Mountain Dogs are one of the friendliest dog breeds.
The average lifespan of a Bernese Mountain Dog is only around 7 to 10 years. However, with proper care, some individuals may live longer.
Bernedoodles: The Perfect Mix
Bernedoodles come in a variety of sizes, coat colors, and coat types. Their appearance can vary based on the specific cross and generation. They can have wavy or curly coats that are low-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for people with allergies.
Bernedoodles have common coat colors include black, white, and brown, often with distinctive markings resembling those of a Bernese Mountain Dog. Their distinctive coat colors and markings, often reminiscent of the Bernese Mountain Dog, make them visually striking and appealing.
Bernedoodles come in different sizes (standard, miniature, and toy…see just like Poodles) to suit various living situations and preferences. This variety allows potential owners to choose the size that best fits their home and lifestyle.
Bernedoodle Temperament
Bernedoodles are known for being friendly, intelligent, and affectionate dogs. They tend to inherit the best qualities of both parent breeds. This is everything you want from a hybrid breed.
Overall, these pups are usually social and enjoy being around people and other pets.
They tend to be friendly, social dogs that get along well with people, children, and other pets. Their affectionate nature makes them great companions and family dogs.
Both Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles are intelligent breeds, and Bernedoodles typically inherit this trait. They are quick learners and can excel in obedience training, tricks, and various canine sports.
Bernedoodles are known for their loving and loyal nature, making them excellent companions for individuals and families alike. They thrive on human interaction and enjoy being part of family activities.
For example, if you like hiking, both the Poodle and the Bernese Mountain Dog are great for hikers. So, a Bernedoodle would be one of the best dogs for hiking.
Their gentle and patient nature, combined with their relatively sturdy build, makes Bernedoodles well-suited for households with children. They can be great playmates and companions for kids. They are often eager to please and thrive on positive interactions and attention.
These fun-loviging often have a playful and energetic side, which can bring joy and laughter to your daily routine. Their enthusiasm for play can be infectious and uplifting. They are known for their loyalty and strong bond with their owners.
Depending on their size and energy level, Bernedoodles can adapt well to various living situations, including apartments or homes with yards. They can also adjust to different activity levels, making them suitable for families with varying lifestyles.
Bernedoodle Health Considerations
Hybrid breeds like Bernedoodles may inherit health traits from both parent breeds. While crossing different breeds can sometimes reduce the risk of certain breed-specific health issues.
It’s essential for breeders to conduct health testing on both parent breeds and follow responsible breeding practices to ensure the healthiest puppies possible.
Hybrid dogs like Bernedoodles can benefit from “hybrid vigor,” which can reduce the risk of inheriting certain breed-specific health issues common in purebred dogs. However, responsible breeding practices are essential to ensure the health and well-being of the puppies.
Common Health Issues for Bernedoodles
Common health concerns for Bernedoodles can include hip and elbow dysplasia, eye issues, and certain genetic conditions. However, it is important to know the health issues with Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to cancer, hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases, cardiac disease, hypothyroidism, autoimmune diseases, von Willebrand’s disease (a blood clotting disorder), and gastric dilatation (bloat).
Poodles are prone to hip dysplasia, eye disease, idiopathic epilepsy, sebaceous adenitis, von Willebrand’s disease, immune-mediated disorders, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease (a hip joint disorder), luxating patellas (slipped kneecaps), bloat, and sebaceous adenitis (an inflammatory skin disease)
Caring for a Bernedoodle
The energy levels of Bernedoodles can vary based on their size, generation, and individual characteristics. Generally, they are moderately active dogs that require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Daily walks, playtime, and interactive games are important to keep them happy and healthy.
Bernedoodles require regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being. They enjoy activities like walks, hikes, playtime, and interactive games, which can contribute to a healthier lifestyle for both the dog and the owner.
PetTrack did a study about Tracking Pet Location and Activity Indoors and one of PetTrack’s subjects was a tiny Bernedoodle in a small apartment. First of all, it’s so adorable, but it shows that Bernedoodle definitely can live in an apartment.
Grooming a Bernedoodle
Bernedoodles’ coats require regular maintenance to prevent matting and tangling. The coat type (wavy or curly) can influence grooming needs. Regular brushing, occasional grooming appointments, and proper ear and dental care are important to keep your Bernedoodle looking and feeling their best.
Bernedoodles with straighter coats need daily (or every other day) brushing. Coats that are wavy or curly need less brushing, perhaps a few times a week. This is all dependent on the mix of the individual dog.
Shedding is dependent on the mix as well. If there is a higher percentage of Bernese Mountain Dog in the mix, then the chance of shedding is higher. However, if there is more Poodle there will be less shedding.
Bernedoodles often inherit the hypoallergenic coat characteristics from their Poodle parent. This means they shed less dander and are generally better tolerated by individuals with allergies. However, this isn’t always guaranteed.
Training a Bernedoodle
Training a Bernedoodle, which is a crossbreed between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle, requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. This is the foundation for any dog really.
Are Bernedoodles Easy to Train?
Bernedoodles are known for their intelligence and friendly nature, which can make training a rewarding experience. However, that intelligence can sometimes translate to being hard to train. Bernedoodles can be stubborn so the best thing is positive reinforcement for training.
How to Train a Bernedoodle
Early training and socialization are crucial for Bernedoodles to develop into well-mannered and well-adjusted dogs. Positive reinforcement training methods work well with this breed, as they respond well to praise and rewards.
Teach fundamental commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “down.” These commands create a foundation for more advanced training and help establish your role as the leader. Be consistent in your commands, expectations, and rewards.
Expose your Bernedoodle to various people, places, animals, and situations to help them become well-adjusted and confident. This can prevent behavior issues and fears later in life.
Teach your Bernedoodle to walk calmly on a leash using positive reinforcement. Avoid pulling on the leash and reward them for walking beside you.Training takes time, so be patient with your Bernedoodle.
Introduce your Bernedoodle to a crate as a safe and comfortable space. Crate training can aid in housebreaking and provide a secure environment for your dog. Make their crate a place they want to be in.
Establish a routine for bathroom breaks and praise your Bernedoodle when they eliminate outside. Consistency is key to successful housebreaking. You have to be consistent when it comes to potty training for everyone involved.
Engage your Bernedoodle in interactive play sessions to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Puzzle toys and games can also help prevent boredom. This is a smart dog that needs to be challenged.
Once your Bernedoodle has mastered basic commands, you can move on to more advanced training, such as tricks, agility, and off-leash recall. Every dog learns at their own pace, so celebrate small successes along the way.
If you’re struggling with specific behaviors or want to engage in more specialized training, consider enrolling your Bernedoodle in a positive reinforcement-based training class or working with a professional dog trainer.
Remember that each Bernedoodle is unique, so tailor your training approach to your dog’s personality and learning style. Building a strong bond through training will help you and your Bernedoodle enjoy a happy relationship.
Adopting a Bernedoodle Puppy
The popularity of Bernedoodles has led to ongoing efforts by breeders to refine and improve the breed. As a result, there is a wide range of variation within the Bernedoodle population in terms of appearance, size, coat type, and temperament. These are things to research and consider before getting a Bernedoodle.
If you’re considering adopting a Bernedoodle, make sure to research reputable breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs. Alternatively, consider adopting from shelters or rescue organizations.
Where to Find Bernedoodles Puppies
It’s important to note that Bernedoodles have gained popularity and offer many appealing traits. There can be some variability in their characteristics due to the influence of their parent breeds.
When considering a Bernedoodle, potential owners should thoroughly research reputable breeders. Be sure to understand the characteristics and needs of both Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles.
Like any dog breed, responsible breeding practices are crucial to ensure the health and well-being of Bernedoodles. Reputable breeders prioritize the health of the parent dogs, conduct health tests, and focus on producing well-adjusted and healthy puppies.
Here are some ways to find reputable breeders or rescue organizations that have these pups.
How Much does a Bernedoodle Cost?
The cost of a Bernedoodle puppy can vary widely depending on factors such as the breeder’s reputation, location, the dog’s lineage, size, color, coat type, and demand for the breed. Additionally, prices can differ between different types of Bernedoodles.
- Standard Bernedoodles are usually larger in size and are typically bred from a Standard Poodle and a Bernese Mountain Dog. Price Range: $1,500 to $4,000 or more.
- Mini Bernedoodles are smaller in size and are typically bred from a Miniature Poodle and a Bernese Mountain Dog. Price Range: $2,000 to $4,500 or more.
- Tiny or Toy Bernedoodle: These are the smallest variations, often bred from a Toy Poodle and a Bernese Mountain Dog. Price Range: $2,500 to $5,000 or more.
If you are able to find a Bernedoodle through a rescue organization then the cost could be less. The cost of getting one is just one aspect of sharing your life with your new friend. It’s important to consider your lifestyle, commitment, and ability to care for the specific needs of these pups before bringing one into your family.
As you can see, the pups are a wonderful mix of the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle. You don’t have to choose between two amazing dogs! If you are looking for a dog that is smart, adorable, and that comes in several sizes then consider a Bernedoodle.
