You may or may not have heard about a fairly newer breed, called the Bernedoodle. What’s the buzz around this incredibly adorable addition to the Doodle family? If you are exploring your options for a new puppy, or just want to learn more about this breed, we’ve got you covered. Today, we’ll answer all your burning questions on what is a Bernedoodle?
All About What Is a Bernedoodle
Let’s get one thing straight about what a Bernedoodle is: super cute and cuddly! But if we’re serious, what are they?
The Bernedoodle was originally bred to be a hybrid between the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle. Some of these original breedings still occur today.
There are different ‘types’ of Bernedoodles, similar to other Doodles, based on their generation.
Bernedoodle Generations Can Be Described as F1, F1b, or F2:
- F1 Bernedoodles will have one Bernese Mountain Dog parent and one Poodle parent. Their DNA will typically be close to (but not always perfectly split) 50/50.
- F1b Bernedoodles have one Bernedoodle parent and one Poodle parent. This parentage gives them a higher Poodle percentage, increasing the chances of a more hypoallergenic coat.
- F2, aka multigenerational or multigene Bernedoodles, have two Bernedoodle parents. F2 can be considered the most popular type because the coat types and personalities will likely be more consistent or more easily predicted.
Why Does Coat Type Matter?
This question is going to be more important if you are concerned about allergies. So really, when you’re asking about coat type, you’re really asking: do Bernedoodles shed?
Depending on the generation of Bernedoodle you have, you will see a variety of coat types, such as loose and wavy, or more curly and wavy. No matter what, Bernedoodles are considered low to non-shed—the more curly the fur, the more hypoallergenic.
The Perfect Teddy Bear
- Bernedoodles have been described as the perfect teddy bear dog. Yet, they are unique in their look, providing variety so that you can have an ideal match.
- Bernedoodles come in lots of different colors and patterns to choose from. Some of the most common coat colors are:
- Tricolor (Black, White, and Rust/Tan) -this is the “classic” look!
- Phantom (Black and Rust/Tan)
- Bicolor (Black and White)
- Merle – Sable – Black
- And that’s just to name a few! You’ll see Bernedoodles in Grey, Fawn, Apricot and more!
What is a Bernedoodle’s Temperament Like?
Bernedoodles are blessed with the best of their original lineage: the gentle, good nature, and brawn of the Bernese Mountain Dog, and the intelligence and athleticism of the Poodle.
These qualities are bred from generation to generation of Bernedoodles. To create as consistent of a personality in the breed. Today, Bernedoodles excel as amazing family dogs, companions, therapy, and service dogs.
Some Qualities of a Bernedoodle:
Loving and loyal
Bernedoodles have excellent temperaments, especially with children. They can be somewhat aloof with strangers, but this trait is less observed in multigene lines. You will find that they like to stick with their family but should be friendly towards anyone if properly socialized as a puppy. The Bernedoodle will protect its family if necessary, but they are not bred to be an aggressive breed.
Eager to Please and easy to train
You will find that the Bernedoodle responds well to positive reinforcement. Harsh punishments or heavy-handed training methods will break their spirit. Bernedoodles are far more likely to blossom with consistency and clear guidelines.
That being said, Bernedoodles want to please their people and will try their best to get it right, as long as their owner makes it clear what the rules are. Enrolling in a puppy class can help with their socialization and early success.
Goofy and entertaining
Get ready to laugh lots when you add a Bernedoodle to your home. These pooches are gentle but have a goofy side to them as well. Whether your Bernedoodle is being curious towards something new or playing with your kids, do not be surprised if they act like a clown—just make sure your video camera is recording to capture the fun!
Exercise buddy – If your Bernedoodle starts bouncing off the walls too much, it may be a sign that they need a little more exercise. If needed, playdates with other friendly dogs, games of fetch, and jogs or hikes will leave you with a satisfied and sleepy pup by the end of the day.
You may be asking yourself – do Bernedoodles like to swim? What about other water activities? The answer is: you will find that the Bernedoodle can do it all, and then some!
How Big Do Bernedoodles Get?
You will find several different sizes of Bernedoodles, including standard, mini, and tiny/toy or micro-mini. The size is usually based on the initial breed of Poodle that was bred to make the Bernedoodle, or the Bernedoodles parents if it is multigene.
You will need to discuss with your family which size Bernedoodle would fit in best with your home and lifestyle, and discuss with the breeder which sizes they have available.
When Do Bernedoodles Stop Growing?
- The time when a Bernedoodle becomes fully mature will depend on one of three size categories:
- Standard Standard Bernedoodles are the largest of the Bernedoodle. They usually grow to be 58-74 cm (23-29 inches) tall and tip the scales between 32-41 kg (70-90 pounds).
- Mini Bernedoodles provide an excellent middle ground. Minis will typically reach heights of 46-56 cm (18-22 inches) tall and weigh between 11-22 kg (25-49 pounds) at adulthood.
- Toy aka Tiny, aka Micro Mini – You will see the most pint-sized of the Bernedoodles called toy, tiny, or micro-mini, but the terms mean the same thing.
- Toy Bernedoodles, when fully grown, stand 30-43 cm (12-17 inches) tall and hardly break the scale, weighing in around 4.5-11 kg (10-24 pounds).
How Much Do Bernedoodles Cost?
It’s no surprise that the Bernedoodle is going to be in high demand. Their cost usually ranges from $2,500-$4,200 USD in total, with deposits needing to be paid upfront. Initial deposits (usually required and non-refundable) typically are required to reserve a puppy and range from $500-$1,000 USD. The price of a Bernedoodle will vary quite a bit. Do your research, so you know what you are paying for.
Some Factors That Go Into The Price Tag
The breeder or kennel
Some breeders are in much higher demand than others and might be more expensive because of their long waiting lists. If they breed fewer litters, there could be more interest than puppies available, which could increase the price. Some kennels have a proven track record of producing quality pups, and due to their history and status, they can now charge more.
Training and care provided
Some breeders offer initial puppy training using a certified professional in the home for an additional fee. If your puppy has had multiple rounds of deworming, started on its first vaccines, or other care, the fee may also increase.
The type of Bernedoodle you want
The cost is going to vary depending on whether you want an F1 or multigene Bernedoodle, a particular color and/or size, etc. Certain colors (such as Tricolor or Merle) typically cost more, and in general, the smaller sizes will cost more.
Bernedoodle health and wellness
Before you bring a Bernedoodle home, let’s talk about some health issues you will want to plan for. After all, we want our furry friends to be with us for as long as possible. What is Bernedoodle lifespan?
Well, that depends on a lot of different factors, including whether or not the breeder has taken the proper precautions only to keep healthy dogs in their breeding program. Some health conditions are not genetic and may not be preventable.
Other health conditions have screening tests that can be used to identify which dogs should be bred and which ones shouldn’t, to keep a condition from passing on to the puppies. Ask your breeder what genetic tests your Bernedoodle puppy’s parents have had, and if there are any conditions you will need to watch out for.
Bernedoodles Health
- Hip and elbow dysplasia – These are common joints issues that can prevent proper development and movement; they should be identified using x-rays and screening tests.
- Bloat – This is more of an issue in the Standard sized Bernedoodle, but is something to keep an eye on. Not allowing your dog to eat too fast or overeat can help prevent this condition where their stomach expands and twists or flips on itself. Your Bernedoodle should also not exercise immediately after eating to reduce the chances of bloat.
- Skin infections – Proper brushing, grooming, bathing, and a quality diet with proper protein and Omega 3- and 6- essential fatty acids can help keep your Bernedoodle’s skin in top condition.
- Eye disorders – Some of these disorders, such as retinal atrophy, can be identified as a risk early on using genetic screening tests.
The beloved Bernedoodle
Whether you’re new to the Bernedoodle train or not, we’re glad you could join us for an in-depth look as this adorable and beloved breed. We gave all the details on what a Bernedoodle is, their temperament, health, cost, and more!
We could talk all day about the fantastic Bernedoodle, but we’ll let them speak for themselves! All you need to do is stare into those big warm eyes on that teddy bear face, and you’ll fall in love, just like we have.
Below is a Pinterest friendly photo…. so you can pin it to your Doodle Board!!
