Enjoy this Guide and Overview with lots of tips for new and existing owners of Bernedoodles.

Bernedoodles are a mix of a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle that are standard, miniature, or Toy in size.  They are very intelligent and thrive in any environment.

History of Bernedoodle Doodle Dogs

Bernese Mountain Dogs originated in Switzerland.  They were known as the Berner Sennenhund, one of four breeds from the Swiss Alps.  They have a long history—nearly 2000 years.

They were initially bred as general-purpose farm dogs, with a variety of jobs including herding cattle, pulling carts, and being watchdogs. Their intelligence, strength, and versatility made them well-suited for those roles.

When the Romans invaded the Alps in the first century B.C., mastiff dogs were most likely brought with them as ancestors.  They were then crossbred with local Swiss dogs, creating the ancestors of the modern Bernese mountain dog.

During the industrial revolution in the 19th Century, jobs on farms became less necessary.  By the late 1800s, Bernese Mountain Dogs were in danger of disappearing.  In the early 20th century, a Swiss professor started a movement to preserve them.  The Swiss Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 1907.

The American Kennel Club recognized Bernese Mountain Dogs in 1937.  They have become popular worldwide because of their gentle and friendly disposition.

The specific year that Bernese Mountain Dogs started to be bred with Poodles is unknown.  The trend of crossbreeding purebred dogs gained popularity in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.  The success of the Labradoodle sparked interest in creating other poodle mixes.  The Bernedoodle might have originated in the late 1990s or early 2000s, following this trend.

Sherry Rupke of SwissRidge Kennels claims to be the first breeder to intentionally breed a Bernese Mountain Dog with a poodle, which created the Bernedoodle.  The goal of breeding was to create a dog with the friendly, calm nature of the Bernese Mountain Dog and the hypoallergenic qualities of the Poodle.

Selecting a Bernedoodle Doodle Dog

The Bernedoodle is a perfect blend: it’s a large, cuddly dog that does not shed.  The hybrid can take on a wide range of physical and behavioral traits from its parents, leading to a broad range of potential characteristics. 

It’s crucial for breeders to carefully select the parent Poodles and Bernese Mountain Dogs when planning a Doodle Dog.  Understanding the traits of the parents can help predict what their Bernedoodle offspring might be like.

Adopting a Bernedoodle can be rewarding.  Some benefits can include the fact that the Bernedoodle has lived in a home before.  There is a good chance they know basic commands, are housetrained, and are socialized with other animals and people.

Remember that the mix of Bernese Mountain Dog and Standard Poodle results in a very large dog who will be reactive to unfamiliar people, new environments, or other dogs.  The large varieties need a lot of exercise and are highly energetic.

If the Bernese Mountain Dog is mixed with a Toy or Miniature Poodle, the result will be a very social, outgoing Doodle Dog who loves attention.

Bernedoodles are great with adults and children of all ages.  They are perfect for seniors.  If you have toddlers or infants, be aware that when a Bernedoodle is happy, they are very excited and can easily knock down a small child.

Size and Lifespan of Bernedoodle Doodle Dogs

A Bernedoodle, born from a large Bernese Mountain Dog mother and a Standard Poodle father, typically stands between 23 and 29 inches tall at the shoulder, with a weight ranging from 70 to 90 pounds. 

When a Bernese Mountain Dog mother is bred with a Miniature Poodle father, the offspring typically measure between 18 and 22 inches in height and weigh between 25 and 50 pounds.

Furthermore, when a Bernese Mountain Dog is bred with a Toy Poodle father—usually via artificial insemination—the resulting offspring usually stand between 12 and 17 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 10 and 25 pounds.

Their lifespan can be 12 to 15 years.

Benefits of Pet Insurance for Doodle Dogs

Personality and Behavioral Traits of Bernedoodles

With any Doodle Dog breed, the offspring can expect to have the characteristics of the parents.  Bernedoodles have a prolonged puppy stage, just like a Bernese Mountain Dog.  Their bodies grow quickly, and their brains take a longer time to catch up!  This can affect how quickly they can be trained in the early stages. 

House training may require more effort.  Once this stage is outgrown, they are fine.  It is important to be patient, positive, and not react harshly to their sensitive nature at this stage.

Bernedoodles have fantastic temperaments.  The Bernese Mountain Dog parent is willing to do anything for you and is gentle and loving.  That personality will be within your Bernedoodle.

Their sociability, attention span, and level of activity will all depend on the Poodle parent.

Bernedoodles enjoy learning new things and are very intelligent.  Born from a history of working dogs, they enjoy having a job to do, like performing tricks or playing fetch.

12 Tips for Socializing Doodle Dogs

Free online workshop to train your Bernedoodle to behave like a well-trained service dog

Health and Maintenance of Bernedoodles

Bernedoodles are very hearty, healthy dogs.  Some genetic issues that come with heritage are hip or elbow dysplasia, digestive disorders, skin sensitivities, and issues with their immune systems. 

The smaller the Bernedoodle, the closer their genetic disposition is to the smaller poodle sizes, making them prone to typical Poodle issues.  This includes Addison’s disease (the adrenal glands are not producing adequate levels of corticosteroid hormones) and Von Willebrand disease (a lack of clotting protein in the blood).

Regular health checkups with your veterinarian, maintaining a healthy weight, providing mental and physical stimulation, and regular grooming will all contribute to long-term health and well-being.

Vaccines Required for Doodle Dogs

Nutrition and Diet for Bernedoodles

It is essential to choose high-quality dog food appropriate for your Bernedoodle’s age, size, and activity level.  It’s also important to consider any specific health concerns or dietary needs. 

Here are general guidelines for nutrition and feeding:

Nutrition:  

• Avoid dog food with artificial additives, fillers, or by-products.
• Look for foods with healthy fats, quality protein sources, and balanced carbohydrates.
• Choose quality food that meets the standards of the Association of American Feed Control Officials Guidelines.

Feeding:

• Feed your Bernedoodle based on their age, size, and activity level.  Puppy, adult, and senior dogs have different nutritional needs.  
• Until they are 6 months old, puppies should be fed 3 to 4 times a day.  After that, switch to twice a day.
• For adult Bernedoodles, you can feed them twice a day or follow your veterinarian’s recommendations.
• Adjust the food quantity depending on your dog’s specific needs, such as weight management or health concerns.
• Consult the feeding guidelines on the dog food package or consult with your veterinarian for the appropriate amount to feed your Bernedoodle.
• Be mindful of treats and overfeeding.  Treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
• Always provide fresh water for your Bernedoodle.

Individual Bernedoodles may have unique dietary needs, and it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian to create a tailored nutrition plan for your specific dog.  Regular checkups and monitoring your dog’s weight and overall health will help ensure they receive the proper nutrition for their needs.

Free Homemade Food Recipes for Doodle Dogs

Average Cost to Purchase a Bernedoodle and Annual Costs

The cost of purchasing a Bernedoodle can vary widely depending on factors such as the breeder and the dog’s lineage. Additionally, the cost of raising a Bernedoodle includes expenses such as food, grooming, veterinary care, training, and supplies.

Costs

• The average cost of purchasing a Bernedoodle ranges from $2500 to $5000
• Annual costs are estimated to be between $1200 and $1700.

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Grooming a Bernedoodle Doodle Dog

Bernedoodles can exhibit a range of color patterns and coat types. They can have wavy to curly coats that require brushing 2 to 3 times a week and professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks. 

The Poodle parent’s genetic influence on the coat can reduce shedding, making Bernedoodles a suitable option for those with allergies.

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We love hearing stories about how Bernedoodles have brought joy and happiness to people’s lives. From providing companionship and emotional support to serving as therapy dogs, they truly make a positive difference. Please share your stories and tips for all types of Doodle Dogs!