Determine if a Bernedoodle is your dream dog

Bernedoodles are famous for their loyal, clever, gentle, and goofy nature. This mixed breed is the best of both worlds obtained by crossing the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle. They are not bred to compete in dog shows, but they make ideal family dogs, especially for families with dog allergies. 

Bernedoodles, also known as a Bernese Mountain Poo, make great companions for active owners. This article will provide you all the basic information you need to know about this hybrid breed before buying or adopting a Bernedoodle.

Bernedoodle history

In 2003, Sherry Rupke of SwissRidge Kennels was the first breeder known for breeding Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle mixes. Maybe this hybrid breed accidentally existed before. Unfortunately, the American Kennel Club doesn’t recognize the crossbreed. The Canine Hybrid Club, the Designer Dogs Kennel Club, the International Designer Canine Registry, and the Designer Breed Registry recognize the Bernedoodle.

The dogs are considered a designer breed, but you can find them in the care of shelters and rescue groups. So, there is no reason that you only rely on Bernedoodle breeders. Before buying from a breeder, you can check with shelters or rescue groups to adopt one.

Size

Bernedoodles are known for their three main sizes, which depend on the poodle sizes and include the standard, miniature, and toy. A toy Bernedoodle can stand 12 to 17 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh 10 to 24 pounds. A miniature can stand 18 to 22 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh 25 to 49 pounds. The standard size stands 23 to 29 inches at the shoulder and weighs 70 to 90 pounds.

Personality

Bernedoodles get their personality traits from the parent breeds although which traits each dog inherits varies. Although the individual personalities of Bernedoodles vary, some common features include loyalty, intelligence, and hardworking. Normally, the dogs are good with the kids and strangers. But be sure to focus on early socialization and training to control a possible stubborn nature.

When you start training your Bernedoodle, their intelligence helps them understand things quickly. They require moderate exercise daily to burn energy. Don’t leave them alone for long periods as they can develop separation anxiety. The dogs love to spend most of their time with their humans.

Health

Bernedoodles are healthier dogs than their parent breeds. Many purebred dogs suffer from genetically inherited diseases and conditions. Cross-breeding minimizes the chances of many inherited diseases. Information about the hybrid breed’s health is limited as they are relatively new dogs. One positive trend is the hybrid breed appears to experience cancer less often than Bernese Mountain Dogs.

Other common health conditions: 

• Hip dysplasia
• Eye problems
• Elbow dysplasia
• Skin issues

While all dog breeds have some health issues, the Bernedoodle appears to be a relatively healthier breed.

Care

You can keep the Bernedoodle in a variety of places and environments, depending on their size. Miniature and toy Bernedoodles are best suited for apartment life, while standard Bernedoodles need at least a small yard to run around.

Wherever you keep your Bernedoodle, make sure to meet their needs for physical and mental stimulation. And minimize the amount of time you leave your Bernedoodle alone.

Although the dogs learn quickly, it’s important to keep up with their training. Early exposure to other dogs and humans is always a good idea to keep your dog well-behaved.

Feeding

The amount of food your Bernedoodle needs depends on its size, age, and activity level. Standard Bernedoodles are known to be voracious eaters. Monitor their food intake and provide them plenty of physical activity to keep them from becoming overweight. For the best results, ask your veterinarian for dietary recommendations that perfectly suit your dog.

Coat color and grooming needs

Bernedoodle coat appears much like a Poodles with the markings of the Bernese Mountain Dog. Their coats can be straight, wavy, or curly. The wavy and curly coat sheds less than the straight coat. The curly coat is perfect for people who experience dander allergies.

Thick coats help Bernedoodles thrive in colder temperatures. The common coat colors include black, black and white, and black and brown. The breed also comes in tri-color and bi-color combinations with black, white, and brown patches.

Bernedoodle grooming needs depend on the dog’s coat type. Curlier coat dogs need more frequent brushing than straight coat dogs to prevent matting. Make sure to trim your dog every few months, depending on their hair growth.

Beredoodle rescue groups

Although Bernedoodles are rare in shelters, most rescue groups watch for Poodle mixes. So, if you’re interested in this breed, check with your local shelter. You also can visit the Poo-Mix Rescue to find the dog you seek.

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