Bernedoodle- Bernese Mountain dog Poodle mix guide

The Bernedoodle is a cross between a Bernese Moutain Dog and a Poodle. Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle mix dogs come in 3 sizes and several coat colors. They also have a lifespan of between 12 and 15 years and are prized for being low-shedding. 

The Bernedoodle is also known as the Bernese Mountain Poo cross is a fluffy, clever, goofy, loyal, and gentle dog.

Bred to be a companion and pet for active families, do not expect Bernedoodles to bring in trophies and medals from dog conformation shows.

This is because they are crosses rather than purebred dogs that are not permitted in dog shows.

However, there is much that this dog has to offer from his entertaining goofiness to his good looks and fluffy coat, there is a lot to love about Bernese Poos.

But is a Bernedoodle the right teddy bear for you? Continue reading to find out.

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About the Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle mix

The Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle mix first appeared around 2003 and 2004 intending to create a striking crossbreed between 2 very popular breeds.

This created a dog that had the build of the Bernese with the coat resembling that of a Poodle.

As we pointed out earlier, this also created 3 size varieties namely;

  • Toy Bernedoodles.
  • Miniature Bernese Poos.
  • Standard Bernedoodles.

The sizes are all determined by the size of the parent poodle. Bernedoodles can differ in appearance. Their coats can be curly and wavy or straight coming in different colors.

These dogs are also explicitly known for their goofiness and mischief, especially in puppyhood which slowly fades away as the crossbreed gets older.

Predicting the traits and qualities that a Poodle and Bernese Dog mix will have can be difficult.

Bernedoodle History  and Origin

This mix is said to have been first bred by a breeder known as Sherry Rupke of the Swissridge Kennels in 2003 in Canada.

He did this by crossing a purebred Poodle with a purebred Bernese Mountain Dog but it is believed that this mix might have existed accidentally before the intentional breeding.

Sherry Rupke has continued breeding Bernedoodle trying to make them better and to establish as breed standards for the crossbreed that is yet to be set.

For this reason, this pooch is not recognized by any of the major kennel clubs.

However, this mixed dog is recognized by crossbreed dog registries that include;

  • American Canine Hybrid Club.
  • Designer Dogs Kennel Club.
  • The Designer Breed Registry.
  • International Designer Canine Registry.

Though this breed is considered to be a designer breed he appears in shelters and rescue groups that focus on the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle breed.

This means that you do not always have to get your Bernese Poodle mixes from a breeder but you can also adopt one which is arguably way better.

Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle mix

Pros and cons

Pros:

✓ Great with children.

✔ Highly intelligent and highly trainable.

✓ Considered hypoallergenic.

✔ Loving and loyal.

Cons:

✗ Is a high maintenance dog.

✘ Requires a lot of daily exercises.

✗ Not all are hypoallergenic.

✘ Can be stubborn which can make training him slightly difficult.

6 Bernedoodle mix fun facts

  1. These dogs are renowned for their goofiness which most dog lovers find entertaining and funny. They often find funny antics and repeat it time and again even if it is mischievous.
  2. Standard Bernedoodles are incredibly strong dogs that can haul loads that are up to 8 times their weight.
  3. They are intelligent but are slower learners than most of the Poodle mixes like the Maltese Poodle mix.
  4. The Bernese Mountain Dog almost went extinct in the 20th century meaning that we would not have the Bernedoodle crossbreed.
  5. These dogs have fluffy coats that do not shed much.
  6. They are super loyal but can be a little stubborn which can make them hard to train.

General characteristics of the Poodle Mountain Dog mix

Bernedoodle Summary Table
Size Standard – 23-29 inches

Mini – 18-22 inches

Tiny – 12-17 inches in height

Weight Standard – 70-90 pounds

Mini – 25-49 pounds

Tiny – 10-24 pounds

Lifespan 12 – 15 years
Breed Type Mixes and more
Purpose Companions and service dogs
Suitable For Families with large homes
Color Variations Black and brown, black, white ad black, tricolor, sable, merle, phantom
Temperament Intelligent, Trainable, Affectionate, Goofy, Playful, Loving, Enthusiastic, and clever
Other Names Bernese Poodle, Poodle Bernese Mountain dog mix

Weight and height

There are three sizes of Bernedoodles as we mentioned before the Standard Bernedoodle, the Tiny Bernedoodle, and the Mini Bernedoodle.

This is a result of the sizes of the Poodle parent coming in three sizes too.

This Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle mixes include;

1. The Standard Bernedoodle

The Standard Bernedoodle is a result of mixing the Standard Poodle with the Bernese Moutain dog. This is the largest of all these fluffy dogs.

Standard Bernedoodles should weigh between 70 and 90 pounds and stand between 23 and 29 inches tall.

They can be:

  • F1 Standard Bernedoodle- They are 50% Poodle and 50% Bernese Mountain Dog
  • F1B Standard Bernedoodle – They are 75% Poodle and 25% Bernese Mountain Dog
  • F2 Standard Bernedoodle- They are a mix between two F1 Bernedoodles

Keeping a Standard Bernedodle in an apartment is a bit difficult as he needs more space to accommodate his bigger size.

A standard Bernedoodle

2. The Mini Bernedoodle

The Mini Bernedoodle is a result of mixing a miniature Poodle with a Bernese Moutain dog. He has a slightly more energetic vibe as compared to the Standard Bernedoodle.

These mini Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle mixes weigh between 25 and 49 pounds and stand between 18 and 22 inches tall.

As opposed to the Standard Bernedoodle, the Mini Bernedoodle is suitable for smaller houses and apartment living. They cost less, eat less, have fewer vet visits, and need smaller beds.

3. The Tiny(Toy) Bernedoodle

They are generally F1B crosses with the breeding of a toy Poodle and a miniature Bernedoodle.

Toy Bernedoodles weigh between 10 and 24 pounds with a height of between 12 and 17 inches.

They may be more energetic and high strung just like the Toy Poodle and are considered to be non-shedding or shed minimally.

toy bernedoodle

Mountain Dog Poodle mix physical appearance

Breeding these dogs was intended to capture the positive physical traits from both the Poodle and the Bernese Mountain Dog.

However, the appearance can vary slightly from one cross to another depending on the dominant parent.

If the mix leans more towards the Poodle he will be more like a Poodle and the vice versa is true. But some of the common features seen in this dog include;

  • Dark brown oval and expressive eyes that are set widely apart.
  • Moderately rounded skull with a slightly definite stop.
  • A muscular build covered by a fluffy coat.
  • An intelligent facial expression.
  • Medium-sized muzzle with a black nose.
  • Droopy triangular-shaped ears with a bushy tail.

Coat appearance

Typically Bernedoodles tend to have thick medium length coats that are shaggy and wavy. However, some can also have curly coats that are also shaggy.

Depending on the coat that this crossbreed inherits from his parent breeds, he can have varying levels of shedding.

Colors:

Chocolate Black Black and white
Black and brown Grey Tricolor
Fawn Blue Apricot

You may also be interested in Labradoodle colors and coat types.

Are Bernedoodles hypoallergenic?

Curly Poodle Mountain Dog mixes shed the least and are the most hypoallergenic. On the other hand, those with wavy coats tend to shed slightly more and are less hypoallergenic.

But it is important to know what you are allergic to before getting a dog that is considered hypoallergenic like the Bernedoodle. Most people with dog-related allergies will have dander as the allergy trigger.

Dander is found on the dog’s skin and when it is released from the coat to the allergic sufferer therein triggers an allergic reaction.

Curly Bernedoodles trap the dander within the coat until they are groomed and this is why they are considered hypoallergenic.

However, the protein responsible for causing these allergic reactions can also be found in the dog’s saliva, urine, and other bodily fluids.

It is, therefore, safe to say that the Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle mix cannot be remotely close to being 100% hypoallergenic.

If you are an allergic sufferer you are better off getting a dog like the Mexican Hairless also known as the Xolo dog.

Bernedoodle Temperament and personality traits

These dogs always are seen to inherit the best qualities from both the Poodle and the Bernese Mountain Dog but the traits will differ from one dog to another.

They are known to be intelligent, loyal, hardworking when needed but slightly goofy.

These dogs are good with children and other dogs but should get well socialized from an early age.

Some may also inherit the stubborn nature of the Bernese Mountain dog making them difficult to train. This stubborn nature tends to fade as the dog gets older.

They may also inherit the Bernese Moutain apprehension to strangers and maybe wary around them that is also why socialization at an early age is crucial.

Bernedoodles are also great watchdogs that will gladly protect you if the need arises.

Notably, they have high energy levels and do great in homes where they are not left alone for long periods. The Toy and the Mini Bernedoodles do better in the city or apartment living when compared to the Standard Bernedoodles.

They crave human attention and are very adaptable. In general, all that this dog wants from you is your affection, for you to be there for him, to be with you on the couch, and to cuddle.

They prefer cold weather and are extremely playful and active.

Their active nature makes them good for you if you prefer being outdoors, love hiking, and have a generally active lifestyle. They are good swimmers just like the Poodle enjoys playing fetch, running, and any other stimulating games.

Note: These dogs may suffer from separation anxiety if you leave him for long periods of time.

Living with Children and other pets

A Poodle and a Bernese Mountain dog side by side
A Poodle and a Bernese Mountain dog side by side

Bernedoodles will be great for you if you have kids but most importantly ensure that your kids know how to deal with these dogs.

This is more with the Toy Bernedoodles that may get injured easily.

This dog is playful and affectionate and loves spending time with family which includes other pets that they have been brought up together with.

They do well with other dogs but they must be socialized at an early age to make sure that they are comfortable around new animals.

Meet the crossbreed’s parent breeds

1. The Bernese Moutain Dog

Over the years of his existence, the Bernese Mountain Dog has been highly appreciated for his outgoing, loyal, and hardworking nature.

Their loyalty is so extreme that moving these dogs to a new home and breaking their original bonds is very difficult.

They also have extremely beautiful and distinct coats.

Bernese Moutain Dogs in the Swiss Alps in Switzerland are mainly used as farm dogs to protect farmyards and to drive cattle, the Bernese thrives in the cold weather.

Despite being all these things, if you own a Bernese you will know that they are goofy, placid, and have a sweet nature. This is the true definition of a gentle giant or a teddy bear dog.

2. Poodles

The Poodle is one of the most intelligent dog breeds out there. Despite being associated with France this breed initially originated from Germany where he would retrieve small games for hunters.

Poodles are very trainable and excel in obedience training and have low-shedding coats making them an excellent choice for you if you are an allergy sufferer.

They are goofy and fun to have around and this clownish trait is what has made them excel in circuses for centuries.

Poodles come in three sizes and a variety of colors. Smaller Poodles are more energetic with varying lifespans. Larger Poodles also tend to have a shorter lifespan as compared to smaller Poodles.

However, they all thrive in active households where they can get a lot of attention and stimulation. When they get bored Poodles can become very destructive.

They have also earned a barking reputation as they are quick to sound an alert.

Bernedoodle puppies

This Mountain Dog Poodle mix puppy is often compared to a Goldendoodle.

You can learn more about the Goldendoodle here.

The litter size can differ depending on the mother Bernese Mountain dog(Bernese Moutain Dogs are used as the mother breed due to their size difference).

Bernese Mountain dogs are not the best dog mothers and therefore puppies in the same litter may not thrive at the same rate. Breeding these Poodle and Mountain dog mix puppies is not an easy feat.

Cost:

With all this in mind, it is not a surprise that they come with a hefty price tag. Bernedoodles puppies can cost anywhere from 1500 to 5000 dollars depending on the coat and the size of the puppy.

A Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle mix

Mountain Dog mix puppies are known to be headstrong a trait that usually fades away as they get older.

Also with positive training, they easily grow out of this but you will need a good training handle to take on one of these dogs.

Make sure that you set the right path for your puppy while he is still young as this will make both your life and the puppy’s life way easier in the long run.

Feeding a Bernese Moutain Poodle mix

For a healthy Bernedoodle, you will need to make sure that he gets a healthy and balanced diet.

A balanced diet needs to contain proteins for healthy muscles, carbohydrates to give your pooch energy, and minerals for everything from muscle contractions to hair growth.

The diet differs for Mountain dogs mix of different ages, sizes, types, and activity levels.

Bernedoodles are known to eat everything that you may put in front of them something that you should be very careful of.

The point is that you should monitor what they eat and how much they eat. Also, try to compare their gains and increase or decrease the amount that you are feeding them with the recommendations of your veterinarian.

Some vets are to the opinion that feeding too much protein to your dog can affect their coat, so, you should feed your dog on a low-protein diet. If you are buying food for your dog you need to avoid foods that have labeled proteins as by-products.

Your vet can also assist you with the diet of Bernese Moutain Dog Poodle mix depending on the age and the size of your dog.

You should also know that these dogs are picky eaters and thus you need to alternate their food for a change of taste.

Standard Bernedoodle diet

A Standard Bernedoodle is a big dog that needs 1400-1800 calories.

This dog needs about 4-5 cups of dry food in a day.

Standard Bernedoodle mix Daily Food Consumption
Guide 1400 to 1800 calories
Cups of Kibble 4 to 5

To grow healthy, active, and strong they will need a very proper meal. Being a large dog that is almost the size of a Bernese Mountain dog he might need the same diet.

For proteins, some sources can be yogurt, rice, pumpkin, and boiled potatoes are also healthy foods for your dog to eat. Other sources can be tofu, cooked liver, boiled chicken, and even turkey.

Mini and Toy Bernedoodles

You can feed the same food you give a Standard Bernedoodle but the amount will differ due to the difference in size.

The Mini Bernedoodle will need from 750 to 1400 calories

For the Toy Bernedoodle, you will need to feed him from 400 to 960 calories.

Mini and Toy Bernedoodle Daily Food Consumption
Guide 400 to 1400 calories
Cups of Kibble 2 to 3

Grooming a Bernese Mountain dog Poodle mix

Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle mix has hair and not fur. Bernedoodles come in different coats types with most of them having long, wavy coats that shed minimally.

Some also have curly coats which also shed very little making them great dogs for allergic. Bernese Mountain dogs Poodle mixes with straight coats are not very common and they tend to shed more than the other coats mentioned earlier.

Bernedoodle’s coats come in different colors from a combination of white, black, and brown to merle. Other coats are all black, tri-color, or sable black, white and brown.

Here are some tips on how you can reduce the shedding levels in most dogs. 

Bernedoodle-Puppies

Grooming tips

Although they do not shed they require grooming and brushing once or twice every week to prevent the coat from matting.

The curlier the coat is the more difficult it becomes to groom. By brushing the dogs’ coat you are also able to strengthen the bond between you and your Bernese Mountain Dog mix.

You should also trim the Bernedoodle’s coat every few months depending on the dog’s activities and your preferences. So, if your Bernese Mountain Poo is very active outside you will find that a shorter coat will be much easier to maintain.

You can get a professional groomer to do this.

But make sure that you give your groomer specifications on how you want your dog to be groomed. Many groomers may not have encountered a Bernedoodle that why specific instructions are important.

You can take a photo of how you want your dog to look. Take your puppy to the groomer only after its full set of vaccines which is usually 14-16 weeks. Get the Pup bathed, cut the nails and ears cleaned.

Also, avoid bathing your dog too many times as this strips essential oils from the coat.

Training a Bernedoodle

Knowing that Bernedoodles are intelligent would make you think that they are easy to train.

This is not always the case. As a puppy, the Bernese Mountain Poo is known to be headstrong and overly energetic. So, it is important that you start training and socializing this dog at this young age.

You need to be prepared for mischief and few up and downs before they are considered fully trained and therefore patience is required. They are also sensitive dogs that can easily get offended.

In other cases, Bernedoodle puppies are known to be more stubborn than the average dog. This trait comes from the Bernese Mountain dog and so a Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle mix with less of this breed may not have these traits.

Your best shot at training is usually by using positive reinforcement and treats.

Treats come in handy when you want your dog to obey you. Remember that punishing a Bernedoodle never works.

the definitive guide to a Bernedoodle

Bernedoodle exercise needs

Because both of the parent breeds were workers Bernedoodle is a high energy dog which is believed to come mostly from the Poodle as the Bernese Mountain dog is mostly calm and placid.

What we are sure of is that they love being active and that is why there are suited for busy households.

Bernese Mountain Poo loves exercising and can hike for hours.

He also does great as a walking buddy. For Standard Bernedoodle, you should be expecting about 60 minutes of exercise.

Calculate the exercise requirements using the dog’s body weight in pounds.  This will be two-third of the body weight. Weight *2/3, what you get will be daily exercise requirements in minutes.

Standard Bernedoodles are large dogs that should not be over-exercised as puppies as they can be at the risk of developing hip and elbow dysplasia.

Also with this in mind, you should put into consideration that exercise can contribute to the development of the Toy and the Mini Bernedoodles.

Common health concerns with the Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle mix

This Mountain dog is a generally healthy breed that is not prone to many health issues.

These dogs are healthier than the parent breeds. However, they do suffer from some health issues none of which are life-threatening such as hip and elbow dysplasia(abnormal joint development) and certain eye problems. Some skin such as allergies and hotspots are also seen in Bernedoodles.

Genetic testing is essential to reduce the risk of many diseases.

Your breeder should be reputable enough to carry out the test and provide the results. Note that this could cost more upfront as it costs the breeder more to get a healthy parent breed.

But, this will surely reduce the number of times that you visit the vet in the future.

Here is the list of the tests that should be carried out by your breeder.

For Standard Bernedoodle:

  1. Degenerative Myelopathy
  2. Sebaceous Adenitis
  3. Hips – OFA, PennHip, or OVC
  4. Elbows – OFA
  5. Von Willebrand Disease
  6. Eyes – CERF (Required yearly)
  7. Heart

For Mini and Toy Bernedoodles:

  1. Degenerative Myelopathy
  2. Elbows
  3. Heart
  4. Hips for Hip Dysplasia and Legg-Perves Disease OFA, PennHip, or OVC 2.
  5. Eyes CERF – Required Yearly
  6. Stifles for Luxating Patellas
  7.  Von Willebrand Disease

Australian Bernedoodle

The Australian Bernedoodle is a cross between the Australian Labradoodle and the Bernese Mountain dog.

Australian Labradoodles are hybrids as they were bred by mixing  Cocker Spaniel, Irish Water Spaniel, Labrador Retriever, and Poodle.

This dog generally has a non-shedding fleece coat that is similar to that of a Poodle and come in all sizes.

Australian Labradoodles have a similar temperament to that of Goldendoodles intelligent, easygoing, sweet, family-oriented, and goofy.

An Australian Bernedoodle

Goldendoodles vs Bernedoodles

Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles are quite similar in that they both have good character and charisma. They are both social, intelligent fun, friendly, playful, and goofy crossbreeds.

The most notable difference is the fact that Bernedoodles can tend to be headstrong a trait that mainly manifests itself when the dog is a puppy. However, this trait slowly fades away as the dog gets trained and gets older.

Most Goldendoodles enjoy being in the water as both the parent breeds do. The same cannot be said for the Bernedoodle. Even though many might enjoy going for a swim, some might gravitate away from it.

Bernedoodles are not fans of heat as they prefer the cold climate more than the Goldendoodles. But this being said they can still adapt and do well in warmer climates.

Apart from these Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles tend to be very similar. In both the breeds the curlier the coat the lesser it sheds which makes them great for people with allergies.

There we go WOOF!!!!

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