Updated 01-08-2023

Bernedoodle Characteristics, Facts & Traits

Incredibly intelligent, witty, and friendly. They claim that the Poodle and Bernese mountain dog parents in this hybrid breed give it all.

They are also known as the Bernese Mountain Poo, and they are not bred for dog shows, but rather for families with busy lifestyles and children.

It's vital to note that dogs of any breed might experience health problems at any time. Having an excellent pet insurance plan can help you be prepared for any age of your dog's care.

Bernedoodles are a cross between a poodle and a Bernese Mountain Dog.

Highlights

  • Bernedoodles have less health issues than either Poodles or Bernese Mountain Dogs because they are a crossbreed of the two.
  • There were no plans to produce a dog that could win in dog shows or just look pretty when the first Bernedoodles were bred in 2003.
  • In pups, they can be a little difficult to train, but as they get older, their intellect makes them a lot easier to handle.
  • As a breed, Bernedoodles tend to be low-shedding and hypoallergenic.
  • However, even though they are normally nice with children and other dogs, early socialisation is always beneficial in making sure that they remain calm and comfortable in unfamiliar situations.
  • Bernedoodles can vary widely in appearance depending on whatever qualities they acquire from each parent.
  • Playing outside and snuggling up with their favourite people are two of their favourite things in the world.
  • Bernedoodles are people-oriented dogs and should not be left alone for extended periods of time.

Characteristics

Social Appearance 

Adaptability

It's a common misconception that a little dog is better suited to living in a limited space. Many tiny dogs have too much energy and are too yappy to live in an apartment building. An apartment dog's best attributes include being quiet, low energy, somewhat peaceful indoors, and respectful to the other inhabitants. Your dog's personal space in your apartment can be improved by purchasing one of these fantastic dog cages.

Sensitivity Level

Depending on the dog, a strong rebuke can be taken in stride by some, while others regard even the tiniest hint of disapproval as a personal attack. If you have a loud or pushy owner, a chaotic home, or a routine that is unpredictable or variable, your low-sensitivity dog, often known as "easygoing," "tolerant," "resilient," or even "thick-skinned," will be able to handle it better. Do you have young children, host a lot of parties, or have a hectic lifestyle? Choose a dog that isn't overly sensitive.

Intensity

You can't tell from looking at them whether or not they're hyperactive, but when they do anything, they do it vigorously. They tug at their leashes (unless you teach them not to), they push their way through barriers, and they down their meals in huge, gobbling gulps. A home with young children or an elderly or feeble person may not be the best place for these dynamos to learn proper etiquette. On the other hand, a dog with poor vitality adopts a more reserved demeanor.

Potential for Playfulness

Some dogs never grow out of their puppyhood and are always looking for a game to play, while other dogs are more reserved and serious. Consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and if you have children or other canines who can stand in as playmates for the dog.

Personality Appearance

Intelligence

In the same way that dogs who were raised to run all day need to work out their bodies, so too do dogs who were bred for professions that involve decision making and intelligence, like herding sheep. Digging and chewing are two examples of activities that a bored pet will engage in if they don't obtain the mental stimulation they need. Obedience training and interactive dog toys, as well as dog sports and occupations like agility and search and rescue, are wonderful ways to keep a dog's brain engaged.

Energy Level

Dogs with a lot of energy are continuously on the lookout for something to do. A canine job, such as retrieving game for hunters or herding animals requires a lot of stamina; these dogs were originally designed for that purpose. As a result, they're more inclined to engage in activities such as jumping, playing, and exploring new sights and smells.

The canine version of a couch potato, a low-energy dog is satisfied to lounge around all day. Consider your own level of activity and lifestyle when choosing a breed, and whether or not you'll find a rambunctious, excitable dog energising or irritating.

Easy To Train

It is easier for dogs that are easy to train to build associations between a cue (like "sit"), an action (like sitting), and a reward (like a treat) than it is for dogs that are difficult to train. Other dogs require a greater investment of time, patience, and repetition.

You'll need to utilise incentives and games to get your dog excited about training because many breeds are intelligent but have a "What's in it for me?" training mentality.

Family Affection Level

Affectionate With Family

Even if they've been nurtured by the same person since puppyhood, some breeds remain aloof and independent; others bond strongly with one person and are indifferent to others; and yet others shower the entire family with love. Not only does the dog's breed influence its level of attachment, but so does the dog's upbringing, as canines raised in homes with people tend to be more open to human interaction and form stronger bonds.

Kid-Friendly

Kids-friendly dogs are calm, strong enough to bear the hefty hugs and pets kids can dish out, and have an unfazed attitude about rushing, scream-inducing children. There are several names you may not expect to see on the list: Fierce-looking Both Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are regarded as family dogs (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas, which are small, sensitive, and potentially sharp, are not always family-friendly.

Dog Friendly

Friendship with dogs and friendship with people are two distinct concepts. Even though they're good with people, some dogs may attack or try to dominate other dogs; some would prefer play than fight; and yet others will turn tail and flee. It's not just the animal's breed that matters. At six to eight weeks of age, puppies should have spent a lot of time playing with their littermates and their mother, and they are more likely to have good social skills.

Physical Appearance

Amount of Shedding

Having a dog in the house means that you'll have to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothing and in the home. It's worth noting, however, that shedding varies widely among breeds. Some dogs shed all year long, while others ``blow" just during specific times of the year, and still others don't shed at all. If you're a stickler for cleanliness, you'll need to choose a breed that sheds less or lower your expectations. You can use a de-shedding tool to keep your house a little cleaner.

Drooling Potential

While greeting you, some dogs may cover their arms with ropes of drool and create large, wet patches on your clothing. If you don't mind a little drool, go for it; but if you're a stickler for cleanliness, you may want to look for a dog with a low drool rating.

Easy To Groom

Some breeds of dogs can simply be brushed and left alone, while others require frequent washing, trimming, and other grooming in order to maintain their health and appearance. If you don't have the time or money to take care of a dog that requires a lot of grooming, you may want to look into hiring a professional.

Exercise Needs

Evening walks around the neighbourhood are perfectly acceptable for some breeds. Others, particularly those trained for physically demanding vocations like herding or hunting, require regular, rigorous exercise.

They can gain weight and release their pent-up energy in ways you don't like, including barking, chewing, and digging, if not given enough exercise. Those looking to train their dog for an energetic canine activity, such as agility, should consider getting a dog that needs a lot of exercise.

Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed

Weight

From 10 to 90 pounds

Lifespan

12 to 18 years. Tiny Bernedoodles tend to live longer than standard.

Height

From 10 to 29 inches tall at the shoulder, as sizes vary from tiny to standard

History 

Labradoodles swept the world once they were introduced in the late 1990s, and Bernedoodles followed suit in the early 2000s. However, some breeders began deliberately fusing Bernedoodles with Bernese mountain dogs, which may have led to the first ever Bernedoodle puppies.

For years, purebred dogs have been developed in accordance with a strict set of guidelines known as the breed standard, which outlines the ideal characteristics of a dog's physical appearance and disposition. As a result, purebred dogs are extremely standardized in terms of their height and weight, body structure and colour, coat type, as well as temperament.

Due to the fact that the Bernedoodle is a hybrid and not a purebred dog, the American Kennel Club and United Kennel Club do not recognise it. Additionally, the Bernedoodle does not adhere to an official breed standard, therefore there is a lot of variance in how individual Bernedoodles look and behave. Buying a Bernedoodle puppy might be confusing since various breeders may have different notions about what constitutes a Bernedoodle.

F1 Bernedoodles, F2 Bernedoodles, F3 Bernedoodles, and so on are all first-generation crosses of the Bernedoodle breed. Bernedoodles are crossbreeds of purebred Bernese mountain dogs and purebred poodles, and are known as F1 Bernedoodles. Puppies from an F1 litter can be quite different from one litter to the next. One can tell a poodle from a BSD by the colour of its coat. It is possible that some puppies will look like a mix of the two parent breeds, while others will look nothing like either parent. A litter of F1 Bernedoodle puppies can have a wide range of coat types and levels of shedding.

When two F1 Bernedoodles are crossed, the result is an F2 Bernedoodle. Variable coat types are also present in F2 Bernedoodles. Some breeders introduce more poodles into the bloodlines to help achieve more consistency in coat type. This is called backcrossing and is indicated by a B (for instance, F2B) (for instance, F2B). This breed's coat is more likely to be hypoallergenic or even non-shedding if it contains 25% Bernese Mountain Dog and 75% Poodle genes.

Personality and Temperament

Poodle-Bernese Mountain Dog hybrids have a wide range of personalities, but in general, they tend to be loyal, hardworking, and well-educated people dogs. When the mood strikes, they may also engage in some zany antics. Bernedoodles are also known for their lively nature.

There are several advantages to owning a Bernedoodle. Gentle and caring, they may also be a fun playmate for children. They are typically chosen as therapy dogs because of their pleasant nature and the fact that they love having a job.

Although this breed was created to be a companion dog, they fare better when they are with their family. A Bernedoodle may become destructive if left alone for a long period.

Care

As a result, compared to other breeds, the Bernedoodle has a unique set of care requirements. Consider the temperament, dietary requirements, exercise requirements, and health problems of the breed when making care plans for your pet. However, keep in mind that each animal is unique, and you may need to make changes to your strategy as you get a better understanding of your dog's particular needs.

Health 

Bernedoodles have a longer lifespan than many purebred dogs because of their mixed genetics. But there are a few things you should be aware of in order to determine if your dog needs to see the doctor.

Bloat

Bloat is a possible problem for Standard Bernedoodles. Bloat is a condition in which food or gas causes the stomach to expand. If you feel your dog is suffering from bloat, you should seek emergency medical assistance. The risk of bloat can be reduced by slowing down your dog's eating pace, feeding them smaller meals, and restricting their movement after a meal.

Hip dysplasia

A hip dysplasia problem could arise in this breed. Discomfort and pain are common symptoms of hip dysplasia, a disorder in which the hip bone doesn't develop properly. Hip dysplasia in dogs can necessitate surgery.

Von Willebrand’s disease

There is an inherited bleeding disorder called Von Willebrand's disease. The platelets that clot ruptured blood arteries in dogs with this condition lack protein. You can have a screening test done by your veterinarian, and he or she can also make treatment recommendations.

Recommended Health Test

  1. Eye
  2. Hip
  3. Elbow
  4. Blood
  5. Skin Scraping

Nutrition

Your Bernedoodle's joints, as well as other weight-related health issues like diabetes, will benefit from your efforts to keep your dog slim and healthy. Feed twice a day rather than relying on a free feeding schedule (leaving food out all the time). Bernedoodle puppies that may mature into giants should eat a large-breed puppy diet to help them grow slowly and steadily. A healthy diet for your adult Bernedoodle can be determined by consulting with your breeder or veterinarian, who can also propose an optimal weight for your canine companion.

Grooming

A Bernedoodle's coat requires a different level of care depending on the type of coat they have. To protect their coats from becoming matted, dogs with curlier coats will require more frequent brushing, whereas Bernedoodles with waiver coats would require less brushing. For allergy sufferers, however, the more curly a dog's coat, the less likely they are to shed.

The ears, teeth, and nails of a Bernedoodle will also need attention. Trim your dog's nails to prevent them from becoming too long, and brush their teeth and clean their ears on a weekly basis to prevent plaque and tartar build-up.

Exercise

Bernedoodles require daily activity, but it is not as strenuous as that required by certain other breeds. Bernedoodles need daily exercise. Take your dog for a walk every day and make time to play with them both indoors and out. Also, bear in mind that Tiny and Mini Bernedoodles are more energetic than Standard Bernedoodles, and need a little more exercise.

Training

As a rule, training a Bernedoodle is straightforward. The Bernese Mountain Dog parent, like the Mini and Tiny Bernedoodles, tend to be a little more rambunctious. For greatest outcomes, training should begin at a young age. Training a Bernedoodle can be made easier by their intelligence and eagerness to please, making it easier for owners. The importance of early socialisation cannot be overstated, as it will help your dog learn how to behave in a variety of scenarios.

Children and Other Pets

Families with children love Bernedoodles, but it's crucial to teach them how to treat animals properly, especially when it comes to Tiny and Miniature Bernedoodles, who are more prone to injury. Adorable and playful, these dogs love spending time with their families and are always looking for new adventures.

Bernedoodles often get along with other dogs, but early and consistent socialisation is critical if you want your dog to feel at ease among new animals as an adult.

Puppies

Some breeds of dogs are more stubborn than others, such as puppies. Many Bernese Mountain Dogs have a tenacity that comes from their parent's intransigence. To get the best results, you should begin training and socialising your dog as soon as you bring them home. A puppy's mischievousness will diminish as they become older. Having patience with your puppy may be a little more difficult than with other breeds.

There will be times when you and your dog will want to relax and play. You should remove anything that could be dangerous or that you don't want your pet to ruin before bringing your new puppy home. You should also get your dog food, a crate, a dog bed, a leash and collar, and other necessities so that they are prepared for their new environment when you bring them home.

Dog breeds Similar to Bernedoodle

Bernedoodles are closely related to Sheepadoodles, Maltipoos, and Havapoos, all of which are small dog breeds.

Sheepadoodle

Sheepadoodles and Bernedoodles share a Poodle ancestor as a first degree relative. They both have a high IQ and can be really patient and kind around youngsters because of this. Dogs with a high level of energy, like Sheepadoodles and Bernedoodles, require more exercise. Because of their English sheepdog parent's herding DNA, Sheepadoodles may also be more likely to nip.

Maltipoo

In the same way that Bernedoodles are half Poodles, so are Maltipoos. Compared to a Bernedoodle, a Maltipoo is a little dog that weighs no more than 20 pounds. There is little to no shedding for both kinds of dog. Both of them are also intelligent, affectionate, and friendly.

Havapoo

Poodles, like Bernedoodles, are the parents of Havapoos. In contrast to Bernedoodles, Havapoos can be tan or grey, and they can be black, white, or brown. Neither breed is prone to allergies, nor are both great pets for families with children. Havapoos can reach a maximum weight of 23 pounds, while Bernedoodles can reach a maximum weight of 80 pounds or more.