bernedoodle 
Characteristics 

The size of a Bernedoodle depends on its parentage. As a hybrid, it's hard to predict exactly what size a Bernedoodle will grow to as an adult. The original breeds of a Bernedoodle are a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Standard Poodle.


Standard Size (our puppies):
A standard Bernedoodle is the result of crossbreeding with a full-size standard Poodle. Most litters will fall with the ranges listed below.
   Height: Males 21"-29", Females 20"-25"
   Weight: Males 60-80 lbs, Females 55-70 lbs
 

Miniature Size:
This is generally accomplished through artificial insemination to achieve a smaller-sized puppy. There can be a large difference in size of the pups. We do not breed mini Bernedoodles.

 
► Our F1 Bernedoodle male is 70 lbs, and our Poodle female is 37 lbs.
► We expect this litter of puppies to be 55-70 lbs when full grown.

APPEARANCE

Coat:
While the hybrid puppy's coat could be very similar to either parent breed, it will likely be a bit of both - wavy, but not curly; light-shedding; needing regular brushing and bathing. Grooming and trimming will be needed. Bernedoodles rarely have extremely straight or extremely curly hair.
 
Shedding:
F1B Bernedoodles will be low- to moderate-shedding, but this will vary among pups in the same litter. Routine brushing will help. Be prepared to vacuum.
 
Allergy Friendliness:
F1B Doodles are ecommended for individuals and families with moderate to severe allergies, although you can not depend on any hybrid to be fully "hypo-allergenic."
  
Colors:
Bernedoodles can have different colors depending on the genes passed to the pup. Bernedoodle puppies have several different color possibilities:

  • All black

  • Black & white
  • Black & tan/rust
  • Tri-Color (black, white, brown)

While the tri-color is often the most desirable, it is also the most difficult to produce when breeding and, thus, are much more uncommon and often carry a much higher cost. As with any breeding, a mix of different colors will often come from the same litter. The upcoming litter from Lady and Hank has a high likelihood of producing tri-color Bernedoodles, but oftentimes, even those that are genetically predisposed to this coloration will produce puppies that are black w/white, white w/black, and other assortment of colors. We won't know until they're born.

TEMPERAMENT

The intelligence and obedience of Bernedoodles make them an ideal family pet. They exemplify the Berner's friendliness and they are loyal to their family. They are friendly toward children as well as other dogs and pets, assuming that they are socialized well. Bernedoodles enjoy spending time with people as well as other dogs – otherwise they might get into mischief if they are left alone. They train easily due to their intelligence and pleasing nature. They are medium-to large sized family dogs with easy dispositions. Bernedoodles will often bark and alert their owners when a visitor is near. They are protective of their owners and are generally good guard dogs.
  
The Bernedoodle loves to play, and retains the strong instincts of the Bernese Mountain Dog and the desire to serve and please the owner. This is a good breed for children and are known to be playful, fun, and very affectionate.

LIFESPAN

One of the greatest benefits of this particular hybrid is the likelihood of increasing the lifespan of the dog. The Bernese Mountain Dog population had decreased to the point that breeders often had to breed back to lines that were already represented (relatives). While this was acceptable in some cases, it also carried with it some inherent genetic issues.  One of these that was passed on to the Berners was a shortened lifespan, generally 8-10 yrs at best. They have also become increasingly susceptible to certain genetic diseases, most all of which are common among larger dogs.

By crossing the majestic Bernese Mountain Dog with a Poodle, many of the genetic deficiencies may be overcome by the bloodline of the Poodle. Yes, poodles have their own share of potential issues, but together, these two breeds complement and strengthen each other, providing a strength to their gene pool which should extend their lifespan to be 12-14 years, as well as reducing their predisposition to some of the genetic issues outlined above.

We have examined the genetic line of both the sire and dam and believe that they are excellent examples of their respective breed and come from quality lines that have been free of any outstanding hip, eye, cancer, or other genetic abnormality.

We trust that this will be carried on by the Bernedoodle puppies and caution the new families to consult with a vet regarding feed, care, and exercise of the puppy, particularly during the first year of life. Too much rapid weight gain is not healthy for any large dog and, likewise, excessive exercise can put an undue strain on the joints during this critical time of development in their lives. 
 

BERNEDOODLE REGISTRY

The Bernedoodle hybrid is not recognized by the American Kennel Club or American Canine Association as an independent breed. We do, though, provide supporting documentation to demonstrate the outstanding lineage from which our Bernedoodle puppies have come.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

You may have questions about Bernedoodles, the selection process, and how to get the right puppy for your family. Visit our FAQs and see if we don't answer some of these questions for you!

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS