The Bernedoodle is a gentle, intelligent, and highly trainable hybrid dog breed that is a cross between the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle. “Invented” in 2003, Bernedoodles, as well as their smaller hybrid relatives, the Mini Bernedoodle, have exploded in popularity ever since, with some becoming social media stars. One of the most notable characteristics of this breed is their intelligence. As descendants of Poodles, famous for their sharp minds, this breed exhibits remarkable cognitive abilities. Loyalty is another inherent trait in this breed from their Bernese Mountain Dog heritage. Incredibly devoted to their pet parents, this breed strives to be a constant source of comfort and companionship. Whether it’s learning new tricks or obedience commands, they are quick studies and enjoy mental stimulation
Bernedoodle coats can vary and look more Poodle-like or more closely resemble the Bernese Mountain Dog. Usually they have wavy, curly coats that don’t shed much, which can help make them more suitable for people with allergies to dander. Sometimes Bernedoodles can have straighter coats, which shed more and are less hypoallergenic.
The thickness of their coat helps this breed thrive in cool temperatures while providing them a fair amount of protection from the heat of summer months, as well. The color of Bernedoodle coats have quite a range. Some are pure black, others are black and white, and others are black and brown. Sometimes Bernedoodles are tri-colored with patches of black, white, and brown. They may even have other colors, as well.
The most popular coat colors and markings for people seeking a Bernedoodle tend to resemble the tri-colored Bernese Mountain Dog. The curlier the Bernedoodle’s coat is, the harder it is to groom. Because they shed less, they need to be brushed more often to prevent their coat from getting matted.
Some Bernedoodle owners brush their dog’s coat daily and treat it as a bonding experience, which this breed tends to love. Their coat must also be trimmed every few months, depending on how quickly it grows.
Tiny and Miniature Bernedoodles are more suited to apartment life, while Standard Bernedoodles do better with a nice yard to run around. Generally, this breed doesn’t require much personal space, and as long as their moderate needs for physical and mental stimulation are met, they shouldn’t be too destructive.
Just how much exercise your Bernedoodle needs will depend on their size, with the toy versions needing slightly less than the standard. But all can benefit from a daily walk to explore the neighbourhood and socialise with other doggos.
It’s also important for your Bernedoodle to have designated playtime. While some pups are perfectly content with a long stroll or jog, the Bernadoodle is a goofy, playful doggo. They’ll have much more fun playing ball and tug-o-war than they would walking around sniffing bushes (not that they’ll say no to that, though!). And keep in mind that your Bernedoodle will expect your full participation. They’ll prance around and try to grab your attention until the whole family is involved in the game.
