Bernese Poodle Mix
They’re big, fluffy, and have a happy-go-lucky attitude. Bernedoodles are a cross (hybrid dog breed) between a poodle and Bernese Mountain Dog. They are great for families, but they do get big in size.
As the top family pet and ideal four-legged friend, this designer dog has become increasingly popular in recent years. Doodle lovers around the globe have fallen head over heels (or should we say paws?) for this sweet and good-natured breed. With the temperament of a Bernese Mountain Dog and the physical traits of a Poodle, no wonder OodleLife places the Bernedoodle amongst the top most popular doodle dogs.
Here is everything you need to know.
Why People Love the Bernese Poodle
Bernese Poodles embody everything that a “family dog” should be.
They are:
- Friendly
- Goofy
- Loving
- Cuddly
- Intelligent
- Beautiful
- Gentle
- Kid-friendly
- Available in both mini and standard sizes
- Water loving
And if you have allergies, guess what? Bernedoodles are low dander and shedding. Their half Poodle side gives them tight, curly fur, meaning less sneezing and red, puffy eyes for people who are allergic to dogs…nice!
Breed History
Like all modern hybrid dogs, the Bernedoodle is the result of selectively crossbreeding two distinct breeds. In this case, the Poodle and the Bernese Mountain Dog. As a result, their history is a colorful patchwork of both. Bernedoodles really started turning heads in the early 2000s.
To start, Poodles have a long history. The American Kennel Club (AKC) explains that the though the Poodle is the national dog of France, if we look at their roots, Poodle actually hail from Germany. They were once used to retrieve ducks and other water birds. They love water! Plus, their high prey drive and intelligence made them the perfect hunting companions. Later on in France, Poodle became prized circus dogs. Their smart brains and obedient natures delighted children and families alike as they performed tricks on stage.
Of course, nowadays Poodles are viewed more often as companion pets and “show dogs.” We can find them everywhere. In fact, Paws Puppy says that from 1060 to 1982, Poodles were the #1 most popular breed in America! Still, they always make the top 10 list.
On the other hand, Bernese Mountain Dogs have a more industrious history. This is a working breed. Formerly from Switzerland, so-called “Berners” come from a city called Berne (quite fittingly). In the early 1800’s it was a Berners job to guard livestock, work on the farm, and pull wagons. They soon made their way to the U.S. and were officially recognized by the AKC in 1937.
That makes the Bernedoodle a new hybrid breed, but one with a long and interesting European and Alp ancestry.
Facts about Bernedoodles
With a purebred puppy, it’s easy to know what to expect. Things such as height, weight, temperament, etc. will reflect the breed standard that has been developed over hundreds – if not thousands – of years.
However, Bernedoodles are a little different.
Generally speaking, Daily Paws suggests owners can expect the following:
Size: 23 – 29 inches
Weight: 70 – 90 lbs
Temperament/Personality: playful, affectionate, outdoorsy, silly, eager to please
Lifespan: approximately 10 – 15 years
Unique Qualities: Bernedoodles make wonderful therapy dogs, due to their sweet disposition. They enjoy being pet and will happily seek out physical touch from children and seniors alike, resulting in them being excellent visitors to hospitals, schools, retirement homes, etc.
Do they shed: Yes, but it’s manageable. Thanks to their wavy coats, a through brushing every other day will greatly reduce the amount of shed hair.
Hypoallergenic: Sort of. Many Bernedoodle owners report no/greatly minimized allergy symptoms around these dogs. It just depends upon their coat type. Straight fur will shed more than wavy, fleecy, or curly coats. Doodles made the list of the best large hypoallergenic dogs!
Family Friendly: 100% yes! These dogs love to be around people.
Health Issues: Yes, some.
Are Bernedoodles Big Barkers? No.
Which is great news for those living in apartment buildings or with close neighbors!
According to OodleLife, Bernedoodles scores 2 out of 5 stars in the barking department…making them low – moderate barkers. They will likely let out one loud “woof” at the sight of a stranger walking towards their house, however they are not yappy like Jack Russell Terriers or howlers like Huskies.
What Do They Look Like
Bernedoodles can take on the physical traits of both their mother and father. Each litter will be slightly different, however generally speaking you can expect these dogs to have the classic tricolor white, brown, and black facial, chest, and leg markings of a Bernese Mountain Dog. You may also recognize some of the same traits in the mini bernedoodle.
They may also have:
- Brown eyes
- Floppy ears
- Wavy or loosely curled coat
- Shaggy beard / eyebrows
- Boxy snout
- Long tail
- White paws
Appearance can also depend on generation. For instance, an F1 Bernedoodle (first generation) is 50% Poodle and 50% Bernese. These tend to take on the markings of the Bernese.
Conversely, an F1b Bernedoodle (first generation X Poodle) will have stronger Poodle genetics and thus be more hypoallergenic.
Common Health Issues for Bernedoodles
Those considering a Bernedoodle should do their homework first. Any dog can develop health issues, but these are some specific concerns to be aware of when it comes to these big and sweet fur babies.
They are prone to:
- Bloat
- Hip/elbow dysplasia
- Eye problems
- Cancer
- Skin issues / allergies
- Heart disease
- Epilepsy
What is the Difference Between a Goldendoodle and a Bernedoodle?
A Goldendoodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle.
A Bernedoodle is a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle.
Both make lovely pets, however a Bernedoodle will be darker in color, larger in size, with a rounder head and more square body shape. They also enjoy colder climates and snow.
Where to Find Bernese Mountain Poodles?
When looking to buy a Bernese Mountain Poodle, you will want to do your research. It’s important to only support legitimate breeders or rescues. Without a doubt, one of the finest places to find Bernedoodle is at SwissRidge Kennels. Since she was 15, Sherry Rupke has been involved in responsible dog breeding.
She even wrote a book! It’s called Bernedoodles: A Head to Tail Guide.
Dog Time points out that the American Canine Hybrid Club, the Designer Dogs Kennel Club, the International Designer Canine Registry, and the Designer Breed Registry all recognize the Bernese Mountain Poodle, and so these are fantastic places to check for availability and trustworthy breeders.
Other Questions You May Have About The Bernese Poodle Mix
Yes! They are obedient, food driven, and eager to please. Enroll in puppy classes early on to prevent any stubbornness from arising.
All dogs can bite. But when socialized properly, Bernedoodle are friendly to strangers and family members alike. Never leave your dog alone with somebody you don’t know or unsupervised with children.
Bernedoodles don’t do well left alone for long periods of time. They can become bored and develop separation anxiety.
Because they love you! Bernedoodles are known as a “mouthing” breed, meaning they enjoy the feeling of holding something in their mouths. This could be a stuffed toy, ball, etc. Often, a Bernedoodle will lick themselves to groom, or lick YOU as a way of showing affection/giving kisses.
Yes. Bernedoodles require weekly brushing and monthly grooming. Be prepared to budget for trips to the salon!
Final Thoughts
Are you ready for a Bernedoodle?
As you can see, these people-loving fluffballs are highly sought-after dogs. They thrive on human interaction, get along well with children, and have the energy to keep up with adventurous folks who like hiking and swimming.
For those who want a large cuddly dog (minus the shedding) a Bernedoodle is a good match.
