The Best Bernedoodle Care Tips You Need to Know

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Discovering the Bernedoodle: Intelligent, Loyal, and Hypoallergenic Companions

Bernedoodles are a crossbreed of the Bernese Mountain Dogs and Miniature Poodles , known for being intelligent, loyal, and hypoallergenic. Are you wondering if a Bernedoodle puppy is right for you? This guide will answer all your questions about Bernedoodle care, characteristics, and more.

Discover Key Highlights About Bernedoodles

  • Bernedoodles are a crossbreed of Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles, combining their best traits in terms of temperament and health
  • These dogs come in various sizes and coat types, making them adaptable to different living environments and family situations
  • Regular grooming, training, and socialization are crucial for Bernedoodles to thrive, and they are known for being excellent companions and therapy dogs

What is a Bernedoodle?

Bernedoodles are a crossbreed known for their intelligence and loyalty. They are a mix of the Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles. This combination brings together the best traits of both parent dog breeds, resulting in a dog that is not only beautiful but also has a wonderful temperament and fewer health issues compared to their purebred parents. Bernedoodles tend to inherit the tricolor coat and sturdy build of the Bernese Mountain Dog, along with the hypoallergenic qualities and sharp intellect of the Miniature Poodle parent, making for amazing dogs and a potential new family member.


Breeders aim to create dogs that resemble Bernese Mountain Purebred Dogs while having a better temperament and fewer health issues. The goal is to produce docile Bernedoodles that are versatile and adaptable, making them perfect companions for various family situations.


Whether you’re looking for a playful and affectionate pet or a loyal and intelligent service dog (or guard dogs!), Bernedoodles offer the best of both worlds.

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Unique Characteristics of Bernedoodles

One of the most striking features of Bernedoodles is their distinctive tricolor coat with black, white, and brown markings. This unique appearance is inherited from their Bernese Mountain Dog parent and can come in various color combinations such as pure black, black-and-white, black-and-brown, and the classic tri-color. This variety in coat colors and patterns makes each Bernedoodle unique and adds to their charm.


Beyond their physical appearance, Bernedoodles are known for their friendly nature and adaptability, making them excellent therapy dogs and great companions. Their versatility allows them to fit in as family pets among various situations and environments, whether it’s a bustling household with children or a quieter home with older adults.


F1 Bernedoodle owners often find that these dogs quickly become beloved members of the family, thanks to their affectionate and playful demeanor.

Bernedoodle Sizes and Types

Bernedoodles come in various sizes, enabling them to adapt to different living environments. The sizes include Standard, Mini, Tiny, and Medium Bernedoodles, each with its unique characteristics and suitability for different types of homes. Standard Bernedoodles weigh between 70 to 90 pounds and stand from 22 to 29 inches tall, making them ideal for those with larger living spaces and access to outdoor areas.


Mini Bernedoodles, on the other hand, weigh between 26 to 35 pounds and are 14 to 17 inches tall, making them particularly suitable for city or condo living due to their smaller space requirements. For those looking for an even smaller dog, Petite Bernedoodles are under 14 inches tall and weigh between 10 and 24 pounds, while Medium Bernedoodles weigh from 36 to 50 pounds and are 18 to 21 inches tall. This range of sizes ensures that there is a Bernedoodle for every type of living situation, from spacious homes with large gardens to cozy apartments.


Larger Bernedoodles generally require a good-sized living space, ideally with a large garden and access to the outdoors. Conversely, Mini Bernedoodles and Tiny Bernedoodles are more adaptable to smaller living environments, provided they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation.


This versatility in size makes Bernedoodles a sought-after breed, as prospective owners can choose the perfect dog that fits their lifestyle and living conditions.

Understanding Bernedoodle Temperament

Bernedoodles exhibit affectionate behavior and form strong bonds with their owners, making them a delightful and versatile breed. They are known for their friendly and playful demeanor, which makes them great companions for families and individuals alike. Their social nature means they thrive on interaction with people and other pets, often adapting well to family environments.


These dogs are often described as having a playful and friendly disposition, which makes them excellent therapy dogs. They generally behave well with other pets, being social and friendly. Their protective nature also makes them good watchdogs for families, providing a sense of security while being affectionate and loving companions. However, it’s important to note that the temperament of Bernedoodles can vary significantly, and they require mental engagement and exercise to avoid behavioral issues.


Bernedoodles tend to be quite adaptable and can coexist harmoniously with other pets in the household. Their ability to form strong bonds with their owners and their friendly nature make them a popular choice for families seeking a loyal and affectionate companion. Whether you’re looking for a playful friend for your children or a loyal companion to keep you company, Bernedoodles are an excellent choice.

Grooming Needs of Bernedoodles

Bernedoodles display a variety of coat textures, including straight, wavy, and curly, each impacting their grooming needs. Straight coats require more frequent brushing to prevent tangles and mats but are still relatively low maintenance. Wavy coats are easier to manage with less matting compared to curly coats, which need more frequent grooming to avoid matting. Regular and professional grooming is essential for reducing allergens and managing the coat of a Bernedoodle.


Bernedoodles display a variety of coat textures, including:


  • Straight: Requires more frequent brushing to prevent tangles and mats but is still relatively low maintenance.
  • Wavy: Easier to manage with less matting compared to curly coats.
  • Curly: Needs more frequent grooming to avoid matting.


Regular grooming is essential for reducing allergens, including dog dander, and managing the coat of a Bernedoodle to dog dander.


Curly coats are the most demanding in terms of grooming, requiring regular maintenance to avoid matting. Using a slicker brush helps remove tangles and loose hair while being gentle on the dog’s coat. Additionally, detangler sprays are beneficial for managing mats and making the grooming experience smoother. Bathing should be done sparingly to retain natural oils in the Bernedoodle coat, typically before grooming sessions.


Ear cleaning is crucial for Bernedoodles to prevent infections caused by excessive hair in the ears. Grooming tables can ease the grooming process by keeping dogs at a comfortable height. Whether you have a Standard, Mini, or Tiny Bernedoodle, understanding their grooming needs and investing in the right tools and techniques will ensure your dog remains healthy and happy.

Training Tips for Your Bernedoodle

Bernedoodles learn best during the critical puppy stage of 0 to 16 weeks, making early training essential. Socialization training is crucial for Bernedoodles to help them interact confidently with other dogs and people. A responsible breeder will ensure they have a structured socialization program for their puppies. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, are effective in motivating Bernedoodles during training.


They are regarded as easy to train due to their intelligence and eagerness to please. Using the same commands and expectations to maintain consistency in training a Bernedoodle is key. For example, using a consistent command for potty training, like ‘potty time,’ helps establish a routine. However, common training challenges with Bernedoodles include their stubbornness and tendency to bark excessively.


If you encounter difficulties during the training process, professional training assistance can be beneficial. Whether you’re teaching basic obedience or advanced tricks, patience and consistency will go a long way in ensuring your Bernedoodle becomes a well-behaved and happy member of your family.

Health and Longevity

Mini Bernedoodles generally have a lifespan of 15-18 years, while Standard Bernedoodles typically live around 10-15 years.


"Factors like genetics, diet, exercise, and healthcare significantly influence Bernedoodle lifespan."

Dr. Fernandez goes on to say, "Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify and manage potential health risks early." Common health issues that can affect Bernedoodles include von Willebrand’s disease, skin allergies, and hip and elbow dysplasia.


Ensuring your Bernedoodle comes from healthy breeding stock and undergoes proper socialization can help mitigate some of these health concerns. Staying proactive about your dog’s health can help ensure a long, happy life for your Bernedoodle.

Are Bernedoodles Hypoallergenic?

Bernedoodles are often marketed as hypoallergenic, especially those with curly coats inherited from Poodles, but no dog is completely free from allergens. While Bernedoodles are recognized for their hypoallergenic qualities, making them suitable for those with allergies, individual responses can vary. The degree of hypoallergenic qualities in Bernedoodles can vary with their coat type; curlier coats generally lead to lower allergen levels.


Bernedoodles that possess straighter hair are more prone to more than minimal shedding (now low shedding as many families come to learn), which may increase allergen levels. One common misconception is that Bernedoodles are completely hypoallergenic; however, while they may produce fewer allergens, no dog is entirely allergy-free. Understanding this can help prospective owners make informed decisions about whether a Bernedoodle is the right pet for their household.

Bernedoodles and Children

Bernedoodles are known for their friendly and social nature, making them excellent family dogs. Their gentle temperament allows Bernedoodles to thrive in family environments, especially with younger children. These dogs show a natural curiosity and a cautious approach before interacting, which helps them bond easily with kids.


Bernedoodles are sensitive to their owners’ emotions, providing comfort to children when needed. It’s essential that children are taught to respect the dog’s space and interact gently to ensure safe and positive interactions.


Overall, Bernedoodles are gentle and affectionate companions, making them ideal for families with children.

Choosing a Reputable Bernedoodle Breeder

When choosing a reputable Bernedoodle breeder, it’s essential to research potential breeders thoroughly. This involves checking their reputation, reading reviews, and asking for references from past clients. Reputable breeders should provide documentation of health tests performed on breeding dogs to minimize genetic health issues. Certification from health testing organizations is crucial to verify the health of breeding dogs.


Ethical breeders will offer a health guarantee for their puppies, typically lasting at least two years. A reputable breeder prioritizes genetic diversity alongside physical appearance in their breeding practices. Be wary of breeders who have multiple litters available and are unwilling to answer questions, as this may indicate a puppy mill.


Transparency regarding health clearances is crucial; a lack of willingness to show these is a red flag. Identifying a responsible and ethical breeder is essential to ensure the health and temperament of your Bernedoodle.

Common Myths About Bernedoodles

One common myth about Bernedoodles is that they are easy to train. While Bernedoodles are intelligent and eager to please, they still require consistent, positive reinforcement training like any other breed.


Another misconception is that Bernedoodles can adapt to any living situation. While they are adaptable, their regular exercise needs and energy levels may make them less suitable for small apartments without adequate outdoor space.


Although some believe Bernedoodles are hypoallergenic, it’s important to note that allergens vary per individual dog, and they may still trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. Understanding these myths can help prospective owners make informed decisions and set realistic expectations when bringing a Bernedoodle into their home.

Key Takeaways

In summary, Bernedoodles are a delightful and versatile breed that offers the best of both worlds with their intelligence, loyalty, and friendly nature. From understanding their unique characteristics and grooming needs to training tips and health considerations, this comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know to care for your Bernedoodle. Whether you’re a current Bernedoodle owner or considering bringing one into your home, the insights and tips shared here will help ensure a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life for your furry friend.

Bernedoodle Outdoor Portrait
Bernedoodle Portrait Wearing a Tie
Bernedoodle Mountain View
Bernedoodle Portrait of a Puppy
Bernedoodle Tri-Color Puppy
Bernedoodle Portrait of an Adult

Frequently Asked Questions


What is the downside of a Bernedoodle?

Bernedoodles, while lovable, can be pricey due to their designer breed status. Their grooming needs are high, especially with curly coats, requiring frequent brushing to prevent matting. Additionally, they may inherit health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia from their parent breeds.

Why is a Bernedoodle so expensive?

Bernedoodles are costly due to their designer breed status, combining traits from Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles. The breeding process requires expertise to ensure health and temperament, and their hypoallergenic coats demand regular grooming, adding to their overall expense.

Are Bernedoodles high maintenance dogs?

Bernedoodles are relatively high maintenance due to their grooming needs, particularly those with curly coats requiring regular brushing to prevent matting. They also need consistent exercise and mental stimulation to thrive, making proper care essential for their well-being.

How big will a Bernedoodle get?

Bernedoodles vary in size based on their type. Standard Bernedoodles can weigh 70-90 pounds and stand 22-29 inches tall. Mini Bernedoodles are smaller, weighing 26-35 pounds and reaching 14-17 inches in height. Tiny Bernedoodles are even smaller, under 14 inches and weighing 10-24 pounds.

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