The Bernedoodle is a cross between the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle. “Invented” in 2003, Bernedoodles and their smaller hybrid relatives, the Mini Bernedoodle, have exploded in popularity ever since, with some becoming social media stars. This versatile dog comes in three size variations—Mini, Medium, and Standard—making them suitable for various living situations. A full-grown Bernedoodle typically grows to be a medium-to-large breed, reaching 90 pounds and standing 29 inches at the shoulder. Known for their hypoallergenic qualities, Bernedoodles often have wavy or curly coats that require regular grooming to maintain their signature look.
For those seeking a smaller companion, the full-grown Mini Bernedoodle offers the same traits in a more compact package. Minis generally weigh 10 to 45 pounds and stand 10 to 24 inches tall, making them an excellent choice for families or individuals in apartments or smaller homes. Mini Bernedoodles maintain the same playful and loyal temperament as their larger counterparts despite their size. Whether full-sized or miniature, Bernedoodles thrive on companionship and are well-suited for families, couples, or individuals looking for a loving, adaptable, and highly trainable pet.
Bernedoodle characteristics
- Height: 10 to 29 inches at the shoulder
- Weight: 10 to 90 pounds
- Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
Coat and color variations
The Bernedoodle’s coat texture can range from straight to wavy to curly, with each type influencing their hypoallergenic qualities and grooming needs. Curly coats, inherited from the Poodle, are the most hypoallergenic but require more frequent grooming to prevent matting. Wavy coats, a common mix of both parent breeds, are low-shedding and easier to maintain. Straight coats, though less common, resemble the Bernese Mountain Dog’s fur and may shed more.
Color variations in Bernedoodles are equally diverse and often reflect the tri-color pattern of the Bernese Mountain Dog. Common coat colors include black, white, and rust, with some Bernedoodles featuring tri-color, bi-color, or even solid patterns. Other possible shades include merle, sable, and apricot.
Physical features and attributes
General Size
- Mini Bernedoodles: 10–24 inches tall, 10–45 lbs.
- Medium Bernedoodles: 15–22 inches tall, 25–50 lbs.
- Standard Bernedoodles: 22–29 inches tall, 50–90 lbs.
Facial features
- Facial Features: Expressive round or almond-shaped eyes and a soft, well-proportioned muzzle.
- Ears: Medium-sized, floppy, and set slightly below the top of the head.
- Muzzle: Moderately long, tapering slightly toward a black or brown nose.
- Nose: Typically black or brown, proportional to the face.
Other physical characteristics
- Tail: Typically long and bushy, carried low or curled slightly upward.
- Chest: Broad and deep, providing a robust yet balanced stance.
- Back: Straight and strong, supporting the dog’s overall frame.
Are Bernedoodles hypoallergenic?
Bernedoodles are often marketed as hypoallergenic, but their actual hypoallergenic qualities depend on their coat type and genetic makeup. The breed inherits its coat characteristics from the Poodle and Bernese Mountain Dog, with the Poodle’s curly, low-shedding coat contributing to hypoallergenic traits. Bernedoodles with curly or wavy coats are generally more hypoallergenic and suitable for individuals with mild allergies. However, it’s important to note that no dog is completely hypoallergenic, as allergens are found in a dog’s saliva, dander, and skin oils.
The generation of a Bernedoodle also plays a role in determining coat type and shedding tendencies. F1 Bernedoodles, which are first-generation crosses (50% Bernese Mountain Dog and 50% Poodle), tend to have a mix of coat types, ranging from straight to wavy or curly. They may shed more than later generations and are less consistently hypoallergenic. Subsequent generations, such as F1b (75% Poodle, 25% Bernese) or F2 Bernedoodles, are often bred to enhance hypoallergenic traits by increasing the Poodle’s genetic influence. For allergy-sensitive individuals, selecting a Bernedoodle with a curly coat and understanding their generational lineage is key to finding the best match.
Bernedoodle temperament
Bernedoodles are known for their friendly, affectionate, and playful temperament, making them excellent companions for families, couples, and individuals alike. They combine the loyal, gentle nature of the Bernese Mountain Dog with the intelligence and energy of the Poodle, resulting in a highly adaptable and trainable breed. Bernedoodles are social dogs that thrive on interaction with their families and are often good with children and other pets. They are eager to please and enjoy participating in activities, whether it’s playing fetch, going for a hike, or simply lounging at home. Their moderate energy levels make them versatile, and capable of being both active playmates and calm cuddle buddies.
Personality and behavior traits
- Affectionate: Loves being around people and forming strong bonds.
- Intelligent: Quick learners, often excelling in obedience and tricks.
- Loyal: Devoted to their families and protective without being aggressive.
- Playful: Enjoys games and interactive activities.
- Social: Gets along well with children, strangers, and other pets.
- Gentle: Especially good with young kids and the elderly.
- Adaptable: Comfortable in various living situations, from apartments to large homes.
- Eager to Please: Responds well to positive reinforcement training.
Training and socialization
Early socialization and positive reinforcement training are crucial due to their intelligence and potential stubbornness. Of course, their intelligence allows them to pick up commands quickly, so early training is key to establishing good behavior from the start. Use praise, treats, and affection to reward desired behavior. Aussiedoodles respond well to positive reinforcement, and this approach will keep them motivated and engaged.
Training tips:
- Be Consistent: Consistency is crucial in training. Use the same commands and routines to avoid confusion. This helps your Aussiedoodle understand what is expected of them.
- Keep Training Sessions Short and Fun: Aussiedoodles are intelligent but can lose interest if training sessions are too long or repetitive. Keep sessions short (10-15 minutes) and engage with varied activities.
- Mental Stimulation: Incorporate puzzle toys, obedience training, and interactive games into their routine to challenge their mind. A bored Aussiedoodle can become restless or destructive. Once basic obedience is established, teach more advanced commands or tricks. Their intelligence makes them excellent candidates for agility training, fetch, or scent games.
Bernedoodle care
As with all dogs, it’s important to keep up your Bernedoodle’s regular veterinary checkups to detect any health concerns early. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy.
Bernedoodle grooming requirements
Bernedoodles require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and tangle-free, as their fur can range from wavy to curly depending on their genetic mix. Curly-coated Bernedoodles, like those with more Poodle influence, are the most hypoallergenic but need frequent brushing to prevent matting. Wavy coats are lower maintenance but still require consistent care. Grooming typically includes brushing 2–3 times a week, professional grooming every 6–8 weeks, and regular cleaning of ears, teeth, and nails to maintain overall hygiene. Proper grooming is essential not only for their appearance but also for their comfort and health.
How to groom a Bernedoodle
- Brushing: Use a slicker brush or comb to remove tangles and prevent mats; focus on areas like behind the ears and under the legs.
- Bathing: Bathe every 4–6 weeks or as needed, using a dog-specific shampoo to avoid skin irritation.
- Haircuts: Schedule professional grooming every 6–8 weeks for trims and coat maintenance; common styles include the “teddy bear” cut.
- Ear Care: Clean ears weekly with a vet-approved solution to prevent infections.
- Teeth Cleaning: Brush teeth several times a week or provide dental chews to maintain oral health.
- Nail Trimming: Trim nails every 3–4 weeks or as needed to avoid overgrowth.
Check for skin issues
- Inspect Regularly: As you groom, check their skin for any signs of irritation, redness, or bumps. If you notice anything unusual, consult a vet.
Flea, tick, and parasite control
Keep up with flea and tick prevention treatments, especially if your Bernedoodle spends much time outdoors. Regular grooming allows you to spot parasites early.
Early acclimation is key
Getting your Bernedoodle accustomed to grooming procedures from a young age makes the process easier and more enjoyable for both of you. Handle their paws frequently, examine their mouth and ears, and reward them for good behavior during grooming sessions. This positive foundation sets the stage for stress-free veterinary exams and handling throughout their lives.
Nutrition and feeding
Proper nutrition is essential for Bernedoodles of all sizes to maintain their energy levels, health, and growth. Feeding amounts vary based on the dog’s size, age, activity level, and metabolism. Always choose high-quality dog food suited to their life stage (puppy, adult, or senior).
Mini Bernedoodle
- Weight: 10–45 lbs
- Daily Food Intake: 1 to 2.5 cups of high-quality kibble, divided into two meals.
- Special Considerations: Monitor weight closely, as smaller dogs are prone to obesity if overfed.
Medium Bernedoodle
- Weight: 25–50 lbs
- Daily Food Intake: 1.5 to 3 cups of kibble, divided into two meals.
- Special Considerations: Active medium-sized Bernedoodles may require slightly more food.
Standard Bernedoodle
- Weight: 50–90 lbs
- Daily Food Intake: 3 to 4.5 cups of kibble, divided into two meals.
- Special Considerations: Ensure adequate protein content for muscle maintenance and overall health.
Large Bernedoodle
- Weight: 90+ lbs
- Daily Food Intake: 4 to 5 cups of kibble, divided into two meals.
- Special Considerations: Consider food tailored for large breeds to support joint health and prevent weight-related issues.
General Feeding Tips
- Puppies: Feed 3–4 smaller meals daily until about six months old, then transition to twice daily.
- Portion Control: Adjust food portions based on activity level and weight; reduce portions if weight gain occurs.
- Treats: Keep treats to less than 10% of their daily caloric intake to avoid overfeeding.
As with all dogs, the Bernedoodle’s dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and will continue to change into their senior years. You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Bernedoodle diet, as there is far too much variation among individual dogs–including weight, energy, and health–to make a specific recommendation.
Bernedoodle health issues
While generally healthy, Bernedoodles may be prone to some health issues including:
- Hip Dysplasia: An inherited condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to arthritis and pain.
- Elbow Dysplasia: A similar condition affecting the elbow joints.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A group of genetic diseases that cause the retina to deteriorate over time, leading to blindness.
- Von Willebrand’s Disease: A genetic bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency in clotting factor.
- Skin Issues: Including allergies and hot spots, which can be due to their dense and curly coat.
- Epilepsy: A neurological condition that can cause seizures.
- Hypothyroidism: A condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, leading to weight gain, lethargy, and other symptoms.
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat): A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists and fills with gas.
- Patellar Luxation: A condition where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position.
- Addison’s Disease: An endocrine disorder where the adrenal glands don’t produce enough hormones.
- Cushing’s Disease: A condition where the body produces too much cortisol.
- Heart Issues: Such as dilated cardiomyopathy, a condition where the heart becomes enlarged and weak.
Rescue groups and advocacy
Finding a breed-specific rescue for Bernedoodle’s may be hard because they are a designer breed. However, you may want to try Bernese Mountain Dog or Poodle breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes. There are also rescues dedicated to various types of Doodle dogs, including Bernedoodles.
If you choose to purchase a Bernedoodle puppy, always research reputable breeders. Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support.
On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues
How much do Bernedoodle puppies cost?
The cost of Bernedoodle puppies can vary widely depending on factors such as the breeder, size, coat type, color, and geographic location. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere between $2,000 and $5,000 for a Bernedoodle puppy from a reputable breeder. Puppies with rare or highly desirable traits, such as tri-color coats or merle patterns, often command higher prices, sometimes exceeding $6,000. Mini Bernedoodles also tend to be more expensive than Standard Bernedoodles due to their high demand and the complexity of breeding smaller sizes.
Other factors influencing the price include:
- Generation: F1b and multigenerational Bernedoodles may cost more due to enhanced hypoallergenic qualities.
- Health Guarantees: Reputable breeders include health testing and guarantees, which can increase the price.
- Location: Puppies in areas with higher demand or cost of living tend to be pricier.
While these initial costs can be high, it’s important to budget for ongoing expenses such as food, grooming, veterinary care, and training. Always ensure that you’re purchasing from a responsible breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. Alternatively, adoption or rescue may offer a lower-cost option, often between $200 and $500.
