Bernedoodle Bonanza: Discover The Bliss Of This Beautiful Breed
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By
Calvin Whitaker
- Last updated:
People worldwide have a stronger affinity for dogs than cats. According to Forbes, approximately 66% of U.S. households own a pet and It’s easy to understand why. Pets (especially dogs) are amazing companions, they’re stress-relievers, offering cuddles whenever needed, and often remain loyal companions for over a decade.
For those searching for a distinctive dog breed, the Bernedoodle is worth considering. Introduced to the pet scene in 2003, this unique breed has quickly garnered attention and affection from dog enthusiasts.
Bernedoodles are amusing, energetic, and playful. Their sharp intellect makes training them a breeze, and their hypoallergenic fur is an added advantage.
In the following sections, we’ll delve deeper into the world of Bernedoodles, helping you determine if this delightful breed is the ideal fit for your home.
Table of Contents
Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle - Breed Comparison Table
Bernese Mountain Dog
Poodle
Bernedoodle (Mixed breed)
Size
Large
Varies (Toy, Mini, Standard)
Mini, medium, standard (depends on Poodle)
Coat
Long, silky, sheds
Curly/wavy, low-shedding
Wavy to Curly; low-shedding
Color
Tri-colored
Variety
Black, white, brown; often tri-colored
Nature
Calm, loyal, protective
Intelligent, alert, active
Playful, affectionate, intelligent
Intellect
Moderate
High
High
Social
Generally friendly
Friendly, sociable
Variable, often friendly
Activity level
Moderate
Moderate to high
Moderate
Care
Regular grooming, sheds seasonally
Frequent grooming
Regular grooming; prone to matting
Health
Hip/elbow dysplasia, cancer, heart disease
Hip dysplasia, eye disorders
Hip dysplasia, skin issues, eye conditions
Family
Excellent family dog
Excellent companions
Devoted family companion
Training
Responds well to positive reinforcement
Responds well to positive reinforcement
Requires consistent training
What is a Bernedoodle?
Bernedoodles, also known as Bernepoos or Bernese Mountain Poos, are a delightful crossbreed of Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles.
Originating from the Swiss Alps, the Bernese Mountain Dog boasts a dense coat, designed to shield it from chilly climates. These dogs typically weigh between 70-115 lb and can grow up to 28 inches tall.
On the other hand, Poodles, hailing from France, come in three distinct sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. A full-grown standard Poodle can reach heights of up to 24 inches and weigh anywhere from 40-70 lb.
The Bernedoodle beautifully merges traits from both its parent breeds. This results in a diverse range of appearances, from their multicolored fur to varying coat textures
Bernedoodle Looks
Ready to welcome a loving Bernedoodle to the fam? Lets dive into what this amazing dog can typically look like;
Color
Bernese Mountain Dogs stick to classic black, tan, and white when it comes to fur. But Poodles? They’ve got a whole crayon box of colors. Besides the prominent black and white, you’ll also find Poodles in apricot, silver, cream, grey, and sable.
So, when you mix the two to get Bernedoodles, it’s like hitting the genetic lottery. Bernedoodles come out tricolored, rocking black, white, and tan fur. They also come in bi-colored coats like black and white, chocolate and white, liver and white. The brindle, sable, and merle combinations are also pretty cool. You can even get a rare jet-black coat!
Coat
Like their parents, Bernedoodles also come in different hair types. They can have straight, wavy, or curly hair. Regardless of the hair type they flaunt, their thick fur ensures they stay warm even during the coldest months.
The straight coat is similar to a Bernese Mountain Dog; it’s soft and tends to shed the most. Only a few Bernepoos sport this sleek fur.
Most Bernedoodles rock the wavy hair type, which is little to no shed coat. But it requires more grooming and brushing than other types.
Then there’s the Poodle-powered curly hair. It’s like a soft, curly fleece with minimal shedding and high maintenance needs. This coat is the most hypoallergenic.
Tip: When it comes to shedding, the straighter the fur, the more it sheds. So, if you’re allergic, opt for a Bernedoodle with curly fur.
Facial Features
Bernepoos can also have different facial features, depending on their genetic makeup.
A Poodle-dominant Bernedoodle will have:
- Dark oval eyes
- Floppy, furry ears hanging close to the head
- Moderately round skull
- Flat cheekbones
- Straight muzzle with a scissor bite
- Small, rounded paws with arched toes and comfy thick pads
- A high-held tail
A Bernese Mountain Dog-powered Bernepoo will have:
- Dark brown, slightly oval eyes
- Triangular ears, lying close to the head but set high
- Flat skull
- Straight muzzle with black nose
- Tiny but strong legs
- A bushy tail with a cute swirl
Adult Bernedoodle Size
Bernedoodles are available in three distinct sizes: standard, miniature, and toy, making them suitable for various living situations. Whether you reside in a cozy city flat or a vast countryside estate, there’s a Bernedoodle ready to be your cheerful companion.
Though adaptable, Bernedoodles have a soft spot for open spaces and gardens. These energetic canines thrive with ample outdoor activities.
Wondering about the potential size of a Bernedoodle?
The answer largely hinges on the Poodle lineage and the specific generation of the Bernedoodle.
First-generation Bernedoodles are usually the largest, boasting a balanced 50-50 genetic split. Meanwhile, the F2 (second generation) and subsequent multigenerational doodles tend to be smaller due to a greater influence of Poodle genetics.
Here’s a handy size breakdown for Bernedoodles:
Standard Bernedoodles, when fully grown, typically weigh between 65-90 lb. and stand 23-29 inches tall.
Miniature Bernedoodles can grow to a height of 18-22 inches and weigh between 20-50 lb. once matured.
Toy Bernedoodles rarely exceed 12 inches in height and typically weigh 24 lb. or less.
It’s worth noting that smaller Bernedoodles often exhibit greater energy and can be more headstrong, so be sure to put the time into training!
Bernedoodle Personality Traits
Why were Bernedoodles bred?
They were solely bred for Best Friend Forever (BFF) duty, and they’re nailing it. They’ll cuddle with you on the couch, hike a trail to keep you company, ace a game of fetch, and be your trusted confidant.
Another reason to breed these goofy doggies was to extract the best from both parent breeds. They get their Bernedoodle hypoallergenic fur, humor, and big brains from their mommy Poodle and their loyalty, affection, and calmer temperament from their dad Bernese Mountain Dog.
Want to learn more about Bernedoodle traits? Scroll down, woof-lovers!
Intelligence
Bernedoodles are seriously brainy. Thanks to their Poodle ancestors, Bernedoodles rock incredible smarts. They are easy to train and fit in anywhere. From nailing tricks to following orders, they’re quick learners who love a mental workout.
Gentleness
Bernedoodles have a sweet, loving vibe, which they get from their Bernese Mountain Dog parent. These furballs are mellow, patient, and oh-so-affectionate. Bernedoodles are amazing with kids, and they do great with other pets.
Playfulness
These designer pups are incredibly playful. They love a good game of tag in the garden or a romp at the park. As their loyal companion, you’re signing up for plenty of fun! But remember to keep them company and help them socialize. They don’t do so well without enough human interaction.
Loyalty
Bernepoos have loyalty in their DNA. They get it from their Bernese Mountain Dog roots. Their loyalty and protective instincts make them top-tier watchdogs. They’re always on the ball, ready to alert their owners about any possible troubles. You’ll always have a Bernedoodle to comfort you when you have those days you’re feeling a little blue.
Benefits and Challenges of owning a Bernedoodle
Pros of Owning a Bernedoodle:
Hypoallergenic Coat: Thanks to the Poodle lineage, many Bernedoodles have a hypoallergenic coat, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers.
Intelligent & Trainable: Bernedoodles are smart dogs, a trait inherited from both parent breeds, which makes them relatively easy to train.
Friendly & Affectionate: They are known to be sociable and can bond deeply with their families, making for great companions.
Adaptable: Bernedoodles can adjust to various living conditions, whether it’s a city apartment or a house with a yard.
Low to Non-shedding: Most Bernedoodles have minimal shedding, reducing the need for frequent cleanups.
Varied Sizes: Available in standard, miniature, and toy sizes, there’s a Bernedoodle suitable for different family needs and living situations.
Cons of Owning a Bernedoodle:
Exercise Needs: Being active dogs, they require regular physical activity and mental stimulation to keep them happy.
Potential Health Issues: Like all breeds, they may be prone to certain health problems, such as hip dysplasia or skin conditions.
Maintenance: Their curly or wavy coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
Cost: Being a designer breed, Bernedoodles can be more expensive to purchase than many other breeds.
Variability: As a crossbreed, traits (like size, coat type, and temperament) can be less predictable than in purebreds.
Stubborn Streak: While they’re generally trainable, some Bernedoodles can exhibit a stubborn side, making consistent training essential.
Bernedoodle Lifespan
The concept of lifespan often hangs over us like a looming shadow, especially when it comes to our beloved furry companions. We yearn for them to remain by our side for as long as they can.
Fortunately, Bernedoodles offer a glimmer of hope in this regard.
These dogs generally enjoy longer lifespans than many other breeds. With a proper diet and regular exercise, they’re poised to share many more moments of joy, cuddles, and affection with us.
The longevity of Bernedoodles is central to their appeal. Here’s why:
Many are enamored with Bernese Mountain Dogs, but these vibrant, large canines often have lifespans limited to 6-10 years. In contrast, Poodles typically live between 12-15 years, with the smaller variants even reaching up to 17 years.
When the genes of Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles combine, the result is the Bernedoodle, blessed with a lifespan ranging from 12 to 18 years.
Bernedoodle Health Concerns
Bernedoodles are healthy and active doggies. Their diverse gene pool makes them hearty and robust. But you can’t fully dodge your parent gene. So Bernedoodles can get some of the health issues from their parent breeds.
Luckily, most of these health concerns are preventable or can be handled with early intervention.
Let’s check out which of their parent ailments Bernedoodles can get:
Poodle Health Issues
- Thyroid Issues
- Luxating Patella
- Von Willebrand’s Disease
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Sebaceous Adenitis
- Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (Bloat)
Bernese Mountain Dog Health Issues
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Cancer
- Heart Disease
- Hip Dysplasia
- Gastric Torsion
So, watch out for these conditions and make sure to get your Bernedoodle checked up regularly. This way, you’ll enjoy many years of active adventures with your beloved pup!
Of course, regular vet visits and treatments can put a damper on your budget. We recommend you get pet insurance for long-term protection and peace of mind. It can help cover the cost of your Bernedoodle’s medical bills when needed!
Bernedoodle Diet
A nutritious, diverse, and tasty diet is the key to a long, healthy, and happy Bernedoodle life. Since these furry buddies are active tornadoes, they need high-quality dog food to fuel up.
But be wary of what you feed your doggo. Dogs haven’t fully evolved from their canine anatomy in the wild. They still prefer raw goodies with high protein content and healthy fats.
Here’s a table of nutrients your pet dog needs and their benefits.
Nutrient
In the form of...
Benefits
Protein
Chicken, duck, lamb, turkey, beef, offal, eggs
- Source of energy
- Helps immune system
- Helps build and repair muscles
- Helps grow hair and nails
- Source of multivitamins
Fats
Beef, lamb, goat, fish oil, hempseed oil, phytoplankton
- Aid in absorbing vitamins A,K,E and D
- Keep the coat, skin, hair and eyes healthy
- Improves learning
- Reduces inflammation
Carbs
Oatmeal, peas, sweet potato, millet, chia, berries
- Source of fiber, prebiotics and antioxidants
How much food you offer your four-legged fur bud depends on a few factors, including:
- Her or his age
- Their activity level
- Their metabolism
- Whether you want your dog to gain, lose or maintain weight
Remember, you don’t want to overfeed your Bernedoodle. Obesity is problematic and can shorten your pup’s lifespan.
So, check out the nutrition label for portion size instructions and use a food scale if needed. That way, you’ll get it just right! In addition, here is a great resource on how much to feed your Bernedoodle from a reputable breeder located in the United States: Premier Doodles – South Carolina
Bernedoodle Activity Requirements
There’s no this and that when it comes to Bernedoodle activity requirements. Their Poodle parent is an active dog breed that loves training and keeping their brains busy. But their Bernese Mountain dog parent is more laid-back and enjoys watching from afar. So, unless you have your pup, you can’t be sure if you’ll end up with a lazy couch potato or an active tornado.
But no matter what, all Bernepoos need regular physical and mental activity to stay fit and healthy. 30-45 minutes of playtime is a good idea.
Here are a few activities you can do with your playful pup:
- Hike a trail
- Go for a run
- Play fetch
- Go snowshoeing
- Have a playdate
- Go swimming
- Teach them new tricks and commands
- Play with puzzle toys to stimulate their minds
For Bernedoodle puppies, you can opt for shorter walks or activities like puppy agility training and scent work. As your pup grows up, increase the exercise intensity according to their age.
Tip: Choose cooler places to go with your pup. Bernepoos don’t do well in hot weather.
Bernedoodle Price
Bernedoodles are only bred by skilled breeders, adding to their price tag.
So, if you’re wondering whether Bernedoodles are a bit of a splurge, you bet! The average price range of healthy Bernedoodles is between $2,000 and $5,000.
Bernedoodle Puppy Price
If you’re getting a baby Bernepoo, it’ll cost you anywhere between $750 and $5,000. Note that pet-quality Bernedoodle puppies are a bit more affordable than show-quality ones.
Tip: Always buy from reputable breeders and if possible, be sure to visit the breeder and check the living conditions and quality of life their parents have. If a breeder displays a lack of communication or refuses requests for visits, then its probably wise to walk away!
Adult Bernedoodle Price
Grown-up Bernedoodles aren’t as pricey as puppies. An old-age Bernedoodle can cost you between $1,000 and $2,500.
Factors Affecting the Bernedoodle Price Tag
A few factors affect the price range of these designer pups. Here’s a breakdown:
Size
As discussed, Bernedoodles come in three sizes. All these sizes are related to their Poodle parent.
The tiniest Bernepoos are the trickiest to make; it takes many generations to shrink them to the desired size. It is why the mini or micro mini Bernedoodles are the priciest. Expect to pay $1,000 to $2,000 more on these than the regular-sized Bernedoodles.
Color
The Bernedoodles with that classic tri-color coat (black, white, and tan) are both tough to breed and super popular. Their high demand bumps up the price further. So, if you’re eyeing those tri-color cuties, be ready to pay around $1,000 to $2,000 extra.
Merle coats are also on the pricier end. A Merle tri-color Bernedoodle could be around $500 to $1,000 pricier than the regular tri-color coat.
Coat
Wavy hair is the most sought-after coat type in Bernepoos. It is hypoallergenic, soft as silk, and doesn’t shed much. If you’re getting your Bernedoodle from a quality breeder who promises a certain look, you’ll have to widen your wallet a bit.
Trained Bernepoos
Although the intelligence of Bernepoos makes it easy to train them, it’s not a rookie’s job. You need time and dedication to train your dog. If you don’t have the energy and time, hire a trainer. They’ll charge $1,000 or above depending on the duration of the training.
Breeder
Trusted, experienced, and skilled breeders charge a premium for their puppies. They guarantee specific traits, health checks, temperaments, and more. So, you’ll have to spend a bit extra if you want an excellent Bernedoodle pup from a reputed breeder – $3,000-$5,000
If you’re getting a Bernedoodle from a top-notch breeder, brace yourself for a higher price tag – $4,000-$6,000.
Grooming your Bernedoodle
Fur care is an important part of pet ownership. Luckily, Bernepoos are easier to groom than their parent breeds. If your Bernedoodle has a wavy coat, brush it often to prevent tangling. These cuties don’t shed much, so you’ll only need occasional baths. For brushing, use a soft-bristle brush or a steel comb.
And if you have a Bernedoodle with a curly coat, wash it every 6-8 weeks and use conditioner to keep its curls soft and bouncy. The curly-haired pups are more prone to mats, so check their coats regularly and detangle any knots as needed.
Tip: If you’re not adept at grooming, take your pup to a professional groomer.
Here are a few haircuts that look fab on Bernedoodles:
- Poodle Cut – Short body hair with flowy legs, head, and neck
- Teddy Bear Cut – Round, neat face with a fluffy body
- Lamb Cut – Longer body hair with neatly trimmed face, legs, and tail
Besides taking care of their fabulously soft coat, you also need to trim their nails and clean their ears.
Tip: You’ll have an easier time grooming your Bernedoodle if you get them used to it from when they’re still a pup. So, start with a few minutes of brushing and nail-trimming sessions. Associate the grooming with treats during or after and soon these sessions will become an enjoyable habit for your pup!
Training Your Bernedoodle
Bernedoodles are pretty intelligent. They also like pleasing their owners and are eager to learn. So, training them isn’t a daunting task – it’s actually quite fun! The best way to train these gentle giants is by using positive reinforcement methods like treats, praise, and rewards.
Start with simple commands like sit, stay, and come here. Make the sessions short but frequent.
Here are a few tips for training your Bernedoodle:
- Train your dog early, or they’ll get too comfortable in their routines. Some might even pick up bad habits like chewing, barking, or digging.
- Train them to your lifestyle so they can accompany you without causing trouble. If you’re outdoorsy, take them for a walk. If you spend most of your time doing house chores, train your pup to help. For instance, you can teach them to fetch the newspaper or mail.
- Work on mental stimulation by giving them mental games like puzzles, foraging activities, and dog sports. You’ll be surprised how much it’ll help you in training your dog.
- Keep training sessions fun and consistent so your pup learns faster. Reward them with treats or praise them when they do something correctly.
Follow these tips, and your Bernedoodle will be a well-mannered little pal in no time!
Final Thoughts
Bernedoodles, the gentle and loving doodle-dog breed, are a great addition to any family. They’re not only gorgeous but also intelligent and incredibly loyal.
Although the price tags of these pooches are higher than average, they are worth it. They’ll live with you for years, be your no-complaint cuddle buddies, and always have your back!
So, if you’re ready to open up your heart (and wallet) for a Bernedoodle, go ahead! Just remember to shower them with all your love and attention; they crave it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is a Bernedoodle high maintenance?
Yes, Bernedoodles are high-maintenance. You must groom (brush and trim) your doggo’s coat to keep it from tangling. Grooming a Bernedoodle is pricey. You’ll also have to take them for walks, keep their mental stimulation high, and give them lots of love and attention. If you’re willing to put in the time and effort to take care of a Bernedoodle, you won’t regret it!
Why is a Bernedoodle so Expensive?
There are a few reasons why a Bernedoodle can burn a hole in your wallet.
- Bernedoodles are trending, which puts them in high demand.
- There aren’t enough breeders to carefully produce healthy Bernedoodles.
- These doodles have a hypoallergenic coat, which is a rare find.
- You can get a Bernedoodle in various sizes, bumping their price up.
Do Bernedoodles have health issues?
Bernedoodles are generally healthy dogs, but they can still fall ill. Some diseases that these adorable doodles are prone to include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cancer, and eye problems.
What are the signs of a Sick Bernedoodle?
The following are the signs you should be on the lookout for if you think your Bernedoodle isn’t feeling their absolute best:
- Loss of appetite
- Unusual discharge from the eyes, nose, or mouth
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Weight changes (either weight loss or gain)
- Unexplained fatigue and/or sleepiness
- Excessive thirst or urination
If you notice any of these signs in your Bernedoodle, speak to a vet and they’ll be able to provide the best advice on the condition of your pup.
Calvin Whitaker
Calvin is an avid dog lover and trainer with many years of experience in writing well researched articles on canine care. When he isn't writing for our website, he's making a tangible difference in the lives of dogs. You can often find him at local animal shelters, where he generously volunteers his time to provide comfort, companionship, and training. Through his direct involvement, Calvin channels his passion into action, advocating for the well-being of dogs and working tirelessly to ensure their happiness and security.
Calvin's journey as an author began as a personal exploration of his deep affection for dogs. Over time, this journey has blossomed into a shared experience that resonates with readers worldwide. Through his writing and volunteering, Calvin envisions a world where every dog is valued, every tail wags with joy, and every bark finds a loving home.
Welcome to our Bernese Mountain Dog haven! We’re passionate about sharing breed knowledge, training tips, and fostering a community of fellow enthusiasts. Join us on this journey of celebrating the love and uniqueness of these wonderful dogs and their furry friends.
