Are you considering getting a Bernedoodle puppy? Have you just brought yours home? This article will share the basics of this amazing breed of dog and what you should know before bringing one home!
Thinking about adding a new canine companion and wondering what breed to choose? Are you looking for a dog that is energetic, playful and affectionate? If you answered yes, then a Bernedoodle might just be the choice
This article explains the breed characteristics, vital stats, history, size, personality, and general health of a Bernedoodle. A Bernedoodle can be the ideal dog for families, retirees, and everyone in between, and hopefully, this guide will help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
Let’s get started!
Need some ideas for names? Check out this list of the best Bernedoodle names!
Bernedoodle Breed Characteristics
The Bernedoodle is a cross between the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle. This is an incredibly sweet and friendly dog with a sound and reliable temperament. A good breeder works to bring in the best characteristics from both of these breeds to make a fantastic companion.
Below you will find typical Bernedoodle breed characteristics. These are general characteristics and will definitely vary from dog to dog.
- Bernedoodles areintelligentandeasy to traindogs.
- They areaffectionatedogs who love the company of their human companion.
- They arekid-friendlydogs and are excellent for families with children.
- They areplayfuldogs. This means you’ll be able to have a great time play fetch, throwing a frisbee, and just really enjoying their company.
- Bernedoodles can bestubborn. This tends to come from their Bernese Mountain Dog line, but it can be difficult, especially as puppies. Make sure you get involved with training from the get go – Bella and Baxter is our favorite for online training (get 25% off with code CLARKS25)
- They have amoderate prey drive.
- Bernedoodles have alow tolerance for being alone. These dogs are more likely to panic or experience separation anxiety. Bernedoodles are not dogs that you should plan on leaving by themselves for long periods of time.
- Bernedoodles havemoderate barking potential.They really aren’t the best guard dogs, but they may bark at an intruder. However, they do love people, so they might bark and then love on your home intruder!
- They areenergeticdogs and need a significant amount of exercise and mental stimulation.
Learn more about Bernedoodle Characteristics.
Let’s have a look at some vital stats of Bernedoodles:
Category More Details
Dog Breed Group Mixed breed dog
Purpose Companion
Ancestry Bernese Mountain Dog, Poodle
Average Height 12-29 inches
Weight Range 10 – 90 pounds (can very significantly!)
Amount of shedding Low
Exercise requirements Moderate
Other names Bernese Mountain Poo, Bernesepoo, Bernesedoodle, Bernepoo
Life Expectancy 12-18 years
History of the Bernedoodle
The Bernedoodle is a relatively new breed. The first intentional breeding of Bernedoodles came up in about 2003 in Canada. The hybrid was developed by the cross of Poodles and Bernese Mountain Dogs bySherry Rupke of Swissridge Kennels.
Bernedoodle is recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club, the Designer Dogs Kennel Club, the International Designer Canine Registry, and the Designer Breed Registry.
Temperament and Personality
The Bernedoodle is a family dog who loves to be around his human family members. This energetic playmate craves mental and physical challenges. They enjoy time with their owners whether it’s a play session, a long walk, or just cuddling up on the couch.
- Loyal: The Bernedoodle is extremely loyal to their owners. This dog will remain by your side through thick and thin. Pleasing their people is of upmost importance.
- Affectionate: Bernedoodles can be very affectionate. Many owners say that they often think they are lapdogs (even when they are rather large!) They make for fantastic family dogs, loved by all members.
- Playful: Bernedoodles must be taught to play nicely from puppyhood but love to play!
- Intelligent: The breed is considered intelligent and highly trainable. Bernedoodles have a good memory and can fairly understand human gestures and commands.
Size of Bernedoodle
There are three sizes of Bernedoodles: toy, miniature, and standard. You can have this amazing dog in whatever size that fits your lifestyle.
Tiny/ Toy Bernedoodle
- Average weight: 10-25 pounds
- Average height: 12-16 inches tall at the shoulder
Miniature Bernedoodle
- Average weight: 20-50 pounds
- Average height: 16-20 inches tall at the shoulder
Standard Bernedoodle
- Average weight: 50-90 pounds
- Average height: 20-30 inches tall at the shoulder
Working with your breeder can help you get a rough idea of what size a Bernedoodle puppy will be. With that said, you
Major Health Concerns of Bernedoodle
Bernedoodle is generally a healthy breed with fewer health issues. However, certain conditions that may affect this breed are:
- Hip dysplasia:This is an inherited disease that causes hindlimb lameness. Bernedoodles with hip dysplasia shows pain and lameness on one or both rear legs.
- Elbow dysplasia: This is a degenerative disease that causes a developmental deformity of the elbows. It can cause swelling, pain, and often leads to arthritis.
- Eye problems: Many eye problems can hit Bernedoodle dogs. These eye problems include Cherry Eye, Cataracts, Entropion, or Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). If not treated early, these can lead to blindness.
- Skin problems:Bernedoodles are prone to a variety of allergies and hot spots. They may be allergic to dust, pollens, molds, certain foods, and flea saliva.
It is important to get your Bernedoodle to the vet as soon as possible if you see these symptoms.
How to Take Care of Bernedoodle
Taking care of your Bernedoodle is something that takes time. It will involve feeding, regular grooming, exercise and training. Here are some the requirements you should be aware of:
Feeding your Bernedoodle:
Good diet and nutrition are important for your Bernedoodle’s health. Make sure you are feeding your Bernedoodle that is appropriate for their age, gender, and activity. You can always talk to your veterinarian for their recommendations. Many Bernedoodles have issues with chicken, so that’s something important to keep in mind.
Training your Bernedoodle:
This breed is known for its intelligence, thus being highly trainable. Early socialization and puppy training are important in directing your Bernedoodle’s energy in a positive way. Start training your dog with basic commands like sit, stay, etc.
Here are some tips for Bernedoodle training:
- Use positive reinforcement protocol: Bernedoodles respond well to positive reinforcement training. You must praise and reward them during training sessions.
- Spend time with your dog:Try to spend extra time with your Bernedoodle beyond the training sessions.
- Stay consistent:Be consistent with the rules you are setting for your Bernedoodle.
Again, we are big fans of Bella and Baxter online training – you can get 25% off with the code CLARKS25. They offer tons of comprehensive information, live virtual classes, and one on one support sessions. However, in person training be extremely valuable, especially for a more stubborn puppy or dog.
Grooming needs of Bernedoodle:
The Bernedoodle requires moderate maintenance. Bernedoodles usually have wavy, curly coats and are low shedders.
- Brush your Bernedoodle regularly to prevent their coat from tangles and getting matted.
- Bath your Bernedoodle when necessary with a high-quality dog shampoo. Frequent baths are not necessary unless your dog gets dirty.
- The coat of Bernedoodle must be trimmed every few months.
- Brush your dog’s teeth once or twice a week to prevent tartar buildup.
- Trim your dog’s nails every couple of weeks or as required.
- Inspect your Bernedoodle’s mouth, eyes, and ears for any signs of infection.
Grooming is a great way to bond with your dog. Make grooming a positive experience filled with praises and rewards.
Exercise requirements of Bernedoodle:
Bernedoodle is an energy and moderately active hybrid breed. These dogs need regular exercise, whether structured or unstructured. This will contribute to their happiness and overall health.
You can meet your Bernedoodle’s exercise requirements by:
- Daily walk
- Physical activities like playing fetch, frisbee toss, stair exercise, jogging
- Mental stimulation like puzzle toys, chew toys, scenting and nose game
The exercise needs of Bernedoodle puppies are quite different. With their still developing bones and joints, the best exercise for Bernedoodle puppies is free play with age-appropriate toys.
Final Thoughts
Bernedoodles can make good pets if they match your lifestyle. It is important to understand that as a dog owner you are responsible for the care and wellbeing of your pet.
Do you want to have a companion to spend time with? What are you waiting for?
The Bernedoodle is a fantastic breed that will bring so much. joy to your home!
