The Bernedoodle temperament is what you will find in the Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle mix breed. This cute, wooly Berner in Poodle clothing was created to combine the best qualities of two beloved purebred dogs—the Poodle and the Bernese Mountain Dog.
What is a Bernedoodle?
The Bernedoodle is a “designer dog” resulting from crossing a Poodle and a Bernese Mountain Dog. Designer breeds are hybrids and are not recognized as true purebred dogs. They were created to combine desired qualities from different breeds.
In creating designer dogs many popular breeds (Labradors, Golden Retrievers, etc.) are crossed with Poodles to try to create hypoallergenic “Doodles” i.e. the Labradoodle and the Goldendoodle.
However, as with any cross-bred animal, you can never guarantee which qualities will surface. So there is always a bit of a gamble with a designer dog.
The Bernedoodle also goes by some other names including the Bernese Mountain Poo, the Bernese Poo, the Bernesedoodle, and the Bernepoo.
Before acquiring any new pet, it is important to do your research to make sure that the animal will be a good fit for your lifestyle.
Talk with veterinarians, owners, and breeders to accumulate as much information as you can about Bernedoodle behaviors.
This article will provide you with a starting point in your research about Bernedoodle traits.
Bernedoodle Temperament: Meet the Charming Bernedoodle Personality and other Characteristics
In this section, we will explore the components of the Bernedoodle temperament.
Of course, not all Bernedoodles will be exactly the same.
All dogs are individuals, so your Bernedoodle may not display every quality on this list.
However, this list will still give you a sense of what to expect from the Bernedoodle temperament.
Goofy with Family
The lovable Bernedoodle temperament is silly, sweet and affectionate with its owners.
These dogs are very happy and joyful.
They love to play, are inquisitive and get excited when their family members walk through the door.
The Bernepoo tend to make good playmates with children, especially when they are appropriately socialized and supervised.
Aloof with Strangers
Even though the Bernedoodle temperament makes this breed silly and affectionate with its family, these dogs can be standoffish with strangers.
A Bernese Poodle mix can be wary when new people come to the house.
It is important to tell your visitors to go slowly with your dog. Let the dog approach them when he or she is ready.
Ask your visitors to offer tasty treats to help your dog form positive associations with new people.
This shy behavior can be improved by early puppy socialization classes.
People-Oriented
The Bernedoodle temperament is very people-oriented.
Bernese Poodles love to be with their family at all times.
If you are looking for a dog to live in the backyard, this is not the breed for you.
These dogs want to be inside and involved with the family.
Some Bernedoodles can develop separation anxiety. If you think your dog is showing the symptoms of separation anxiety, consult with your vet and a trainer right away.
Energetic
Bernedoodles are energetic, especially when they are young.
Make sure you have enough time to give them vigorous exercise on a daily basis.
Bernedoodle exercise can include walking, hiking, jogging or swimming.
If you work long hours, you might want to consider bringing your Bernedoodle to a doggie daycare during the workday.
If your Bernedoodle is not getting enough exercise, he may start to develop destructive tendencies such as digging or chewing.
Clever, but can be Stubborn
The Bernedoodle temperament is smart, but many owners report that they can be stubborn.
Use positive reinforcement to train start training your Bernedoodle right away.
You should also provide your Bernedoodle with mental enrichment to keep its mind active.
Mental enrichment can include food puzzles, work to eat toys, interactive toys, trick training, and canine activities such as nosework or agility.
Bernedoodle Size and Appearance
The Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle mix can actually come in three different sizes. Therefore, the average Bernedoodle height and the average Bernedoodle weight can vary widely.
Toy Bernedoodle
The Toy Bernedoodle is a Bernese Mountain Dog Toy Poodle mix.
A Toy Bernedoodle generally weighs between 10 and 24 lbs and it's typically between 12 and 17 inches tall.
The Mini Bernedoodle/ Micro Bernedoodle
The Miniature Bernedoodle is a Bernese Mountain Dog Miniature Poodle mix.
The Mini Bernedoodle is usually between 25 and 49 lbs in weight.
The Miniature Bernedoodle usually stands between 18 and 22 inches tall.
Standard Bernedoodle
The Standard Bernedoodle is a Bernese Mountain Dog Standard Poodle mix.
A Standard Bernedoodle typically has a weight of 70 and 90 lbs. This variation is usually between 23 and 29 inches in height.
Bernedoodle Colors
Bernedoodle colors are usually a combination of brown, black and white.
Bernedoodles can come in a variety of color patterns including traditional tricolor, phantom tricolor, bicolor, phantom bicolor, sable, merle, parti color.
What is a Phantom Bernedoodle?
The Phantom coloration is the black and tan coloration of the Bernese Mountain Dog with no white.
Bernedoodle History: The origins of the Bernedoodle dog breed
The Bernedoodle is a modern “designer breed.” However, the two parent breeds, the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle, have been around for centuries.
The Bernese Mountain Dog originated in Switzerland and the Poodle originated in Germany.
The Bernese Mountain Dog was originally used to guard herds of cattle and the Poodle was initially used as a hunting dog.
Modern breeders created the Bernedoodle hybrid very recently. A Canadian breeder named Sherry Rupke created the first intentional Bernedoodle in 2003 in Ontario.
The Bernedoodle is not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) because it is a hybrid and not a purebred dog.
However, it is acknowledged by some of the hybrid registries such as the American Hybrid Kennel Club and the Designer Dogs Kennel Club.
Bernedoodle Training
The intelligent Bernedoodle temperament makes this a good breed for training.
However, some owners report that these dogs can be stubborn, so be prepared to invest some time and patience into training your Bernedoodle.
Try to sign up for an obedience class with a positive reinforcement trainer right away.
Avoid trainers that use “old school” methods such as dominance-based training, alpha rolls, pinch collars, choke chains or shock collars.
Instead, find a trainer that uses force-free modern methods. This type of training is more effective, enjoyable and humane.
Once you have completed beginner’s obedience, you can get involved in more advanced activities with your Bernese Poodle mix.
Bernedoodles can excel at agility, nosework, search and rescue, and therapy work.
Helpful Dog Training Resource:
The Online Dog Trainer by Doggy Dan a world-class Dog Trainer from New Zealand is worth taking a look at. This online resource has hundreds of fun informative dog training videos that can help you learn the basics and more.
A Guide to Bernedoodle Grooming
Bernedoodles need regular brushing, combing, and clipping.
Brush your Bernedoodle at least once per week to prevent the coat from tangling.
You will need to bring your Bernedoodle to a professional groomer for a haircut about every 2 or 3 months.
Like all dogs, your Bernedoodle will also need regular nail trims, ear cleanings, and dental care.
Bernedoodle Shedding
The Bernedoodle was created in part to create a version of the Bernese Mountain Dog that sheds less.
Purebred Bernese Mountain Dogs shed a lot!
They have thick double coats that shed all year long and shed profusely during shedding season twice per year.
Many people feel that the amount of dog hair is one of the few downsides of the Bernese Mountain Dog.
The Poodle, on the other hand, is a very low-shedding breed.
Therefore the Bernedoodle was intended to be a low-shedding version of the Bernese Mountain Dog.
However, the amount of shedding varies depending on the individual Bernedoodle. It depends on whether your Bernedoodle inherits the coat of a poodle or the coat of a Bernese Mountain Dog.
F1 Bernedoodle vs. F1b Bernedoodle
For example, the F1 Bernedoodle is a first-generation Bernedoodle. It is a cross between a purebred Poodle and purebred Bernese Mountain Dog.
F1 Bernedoodles usually have either a wavy or straight coat.
On the other hand, F1b Bernedoodles are 75% Poodle. An F1b Bernedoodle usually has a curly, fleecy coat like a Poodle. F1b Bernedoodles have the greatest chance of being hypoallergenic.
Is the Bernedoodle Hypoallergenic?
Some Bernedoodles are hypoallergenic. However, it is hard to guarantee that a particular puppy will be hypoallergenic. If you need a truly hypoallergenic breed, check out this article for a list of other options.
Staying Healthy: Bernedoodle Health Issues
Before you bring home any new pet, consult with a veterinarian about what to expect in terms of medical care for that animal.
All dog breeds are prone to certain medical issues and genetic conditions.
For example, if you acquire a Bernedoodle, you will need to be on the watch for the following health issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Eye Issues/ Cataracts
- Bloat
- Cancer
You will need to bring your Bernedoodle to a vet at least once per year for an annual exam and vaccinations.
Helpful Dog Health Resource:
Your Bernedoodle will also need monthly prevention for fleas, ticks, and heartworms. Talk to your vet about the best brands for your Bernedoodle.
Spaying and neutering is encouraged. Most good breeders will ask you to sign a contract agreeing to get your pet spayed or neutered at the right age.
Talk with your vet about the best high-quality dog food to feed your Bernedoodle.
Bernedoodle Life Expectancy
With good nutrition and good care, the Bernedoodle lifespan is usually between 8 and 14 years (depending on the size—smaller Bernedoodles live longer).
Bernedoodle Rescue and Adoption
Once you have made the decision that the Bernedoodle temperament is right for you, the next step is to find an available Bernedoodle.
Whenever possible, try to adopt your new pet—especially when you are looking at designer breeds.
Why Adopt?
There are many great reasons to adopt your next pet.
There are already so many homeless pets in America that need good homes. It is rewarding to adopt a dog in need and give it a happy home.
Adopted pets are usually a little older and calmer than puppies. This can be perfect for people who work long hours and do not have the energy or time to train a puppy.
The Bernedoodle cost is also significantly lower when you adopt. The adoption fees for most rescue organizations are between $75 and $300 depending on the rescue group. This is a fraction of what you would pay to a Bernedoodle breeder.
Whenever you are looking at popular breeds such as “doodle” breeds, there is an added incentive to adopt or rescue. You can avoid trying to navigate the world of dog breeders, some of whom are corrupt.
Whenever a breed becomes wildly popular, there is an opportunity for unscrupulous breeders and puppy mills to make a large profit.
Without fail, irresponsible breeders start mass-producing the new, trendy breed. As a buyer, you must be extra vigilant to avoid an unethical breeding operation.
Where to Find a Bernedoodle for Adoption?
You can always start your adoption search at your local animal shelter.
Even if they do not have your desired breed at that time, they can hold your information for the future. They can also direct you towards rescue groups that specialize in certain breeds or mixes.
You can also search for adoptable dogs online by using search websites such as Petfinder.com, Adoptapet.com, and Getyourpet.com.
Facebook has also become a popular tool for animal rescue.
Finding a Bernedoodle for Sale from a Reputable Breeder
As we mentioned earlier, it can be difficult to find Bernedoodle puppies for sale from a reputable breeder.
No matter what, never order Bernedoodle puppies online or purchase a Bernedoodle puppy from a pet store. You could end up with a puppy from a puppy mill, or you could get scammed and end up with no puppy at all.
Always make arrangements to visit a potential breeder in person. This is the only way to make sure that the breeder is legitimate.
Make sure the property is clean and the dogs are well cared for. Ask to see medical records and the proof of genetic testing.
A good breeder will only breed their dogs once or maybe twice per year, so you will probably have to be placed on a waiting list.
Bernedoodle Price
Since Bernedoodles are so popular, they are very expensive.
Most Bernedoodle puppies start at $2500-$3000 per pup.
If you want a toy, mini, or an unusual coat coloration, you will almost certainly pay over $3500.
If you want the first pick in the litter, be prepared to hand over $6000.
Conclusion: Why the Bernedoodle?
The Bernedoodle temperament makes this breed a lovely family pet.
They are a popular choice for people who love the Berner temperament but not the Berner shedding!
However, they are difficult to acquire from a reputable breeder and they are extremely expensive.
If you are hesitant about the ethics of the breeding industry, check out your local shelter for lovable mixed-breed dogs, or contact your local Poodle Rescue for a low-shedding buddy.
Calvin is the co-founder and one of the main contributors to dogtemperament.com. He has been an avid dog lover all his life. He enjoys researching and sharing great ideas on how you can avoid common pitfalls of dog ownership and build the most loving and enjoyable relationship with your dog.