Are you on the fence about adding a Bernedoodle to your family? When searching for all the facts to take into consideration, it is easy to get overwhelmed, but don’t worry! This article will serve as your guide to Bernedoodles, helping you to confidently answer the question, “Is a Bernedoodle right for you?” 

What Is a Bernedoodle?

A Bernedoodle is a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle.  Bernese Mountain Dog – This Swedish-born breed is known for its herding nature.  Poodle – This German-born breed is known for its hunting nature. Check out the beautiful Bernedoodles at Deb’s Doodles! It’s believed that this cross-breed was created to combine the good qualities of both breeds, as well as to expand their average lifespan. What is the average lifespan of these two breeds, though?

Bernedoodle Lifespan

One of the main factors you’ll want to consider when choosing the best dog for your family is their average life expectancy. (Everyone always wishes they could have more time with their canine companions, after all).  Sadly, the average lifespan of a Bernese Mountain Dog is only around 7 years, while that of a Poodle is anywhere from 12-15 years.  It was believed that cross-breeding these two breeds would expand their lifespans. Thankfully, this theory proved to be true! The average Bernedoodle lifespan ranges from 12-18 years!  So if you’re looking for a dog that can be with your family for a long time, the Bernedoodle is right for you! 

Bernedoodle Health

Now that you’re aware of the average lifespan of a Bernedoodle, you’re probably wondering more about their health history. Your Bernedoodle will most likely be healthy overall, though there are some potential issues they could develop. Here are some common health concerns for Bernedoodles that you should be aware of: 

• Allergies – Did you know that Bernedoodles are considered to be great dogs for people with allergies? So, it’s ironic that Bernedoodle, themselves, often experience allergies. 

Bernedoodles could potentially develop either food or environmental allergies. If your dog is showing signs of itching, licking a lot, developing ear or skin infections, or experiencing hair loss, then they may have an allergy problem.  Fortunately, allergies are easily treatable so long as you take your Bernedoodle to the vet for a treatment plan!

• Dysplasia – Seeing as how the Bernedoodle is a “large dog” breed, they are prone to both elbow and hip dysplasia. If you’re not aware of what dysplasia is, it refers to when someone has abnormal joint development. If your Bernedoodle gets dysplasia, it could cause it to experience pain or lameness. 

You can help to prevent dysplasia from developing by taking care to not over exercise your Bernedoodle puppy. You’ll want to allow them to have plenty of time to rest to ensure that their joints develop properly.  You can also prevent dysplasia from occurring by keeping your Bernedoodle at a healthy weight. Don’t worry… if your Bernedoodle develops dysplasia, it can be treated by either medication or surgery if need be. 

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy – This is a condition in which the eyesight starts to deteriorate to the point of blindness. 

If your Bernedoodle shows signs of clumsiness, cataracts, dilated pupils, or night blindness then they likely have developed PRA.  Although there is (sadly) no cure for PRA, your Bernedoodle could still live a long and happy life while being blind.

• Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) – If you have a standard-sized Bernedoodle, they’re at a high risk of developing this illness. GDV is an extreme case of bloat (when your dog’s stomach quickly fills with gas which causes their stomach to twist and possibly entangle the spleen as well). 

Symptoms of GDV include excess drooling, a distended stomach, retching, and an inability to settle down.  This is a life-threatening condition so if your doodle is showing signs of this condition, you’ll need to take them to the vet immediately for treatment.  You can prevent your Bernedoodle from developing GDV by ensuring that they don’t eat too quickly. Feeding your dog smaller portions a few times a day, rather than one large portion one time a day, will help to protect them from eating too fast. 

• Cancer – Sadly, Bernedoodles are also prone to getting cancer (from their Bernese Mountain Dog heritage). The larger your Bernedoodle is, the higher the risk of them developing cancer. 

So, if you have a standard Bernedoodle, it poses the highest risk, then a mini Bernedoodle has the next highest risk, then a toy Bernedoodle has the lowest risk of developing cancer.  Now that the (potential) “bad” news is out of the way, let’s discuss some “good” news about your Bernedoodle! 

Bernedoodle Temperament

Your dog’s temperament is made up of their biologically given behavioral characteristics. Here are some of the most common Bernedoodle temperament qualities you can look forward to: 

• Affectionate – If you’re looking for a cuddly dog who will be great with you (and your children), then the Bernedoodle is a great fit for you! 

The Bernese Mountain Dog genes in your Bernedoodle make them a rather affectionate dog.  Unlike other large breed dogs, you shouldn’t have to worry about your Bernedoodle being rambunctious with your children at all. They’ll likely even become the protector of your (child)ren.  Since Bernedoodles are so affectionate, they prefer not to be left alone for long periods.  So, if you’re someone who is home often or at least for part of the day each day, then a Bernedoodle will be a great fit for you!

• Intelligent – If you’re seeking an intelligent dog for your family, you’ll be pleased with your Bernedoodle. 

Due to their Poodle heritage, Bernedoodles are considered one of the most intelligent dog breeds. (This is why poodles are often used as guide and service dogs).  They’re always eager to learn new things, making them easy to train.  They do tend to get bored easily, though, so you’ll want to stock up on some brain games for your doodle to remain mentally stimulated! 

• Energetic – Considering that both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle are hard-working breeds, it’s no surprise that the Bernedoodle is full of energy, right?

Your Bernedoodle will require a lot of exercise when they’re fully grown. On average, you will need to give them at least an hour per day of exercise.  To keep your Bernedoodle regularly exercised, you’ll want to include things like active walking, active running, playing fetch, agility exercises, etc.  The Bernedoodle is one of the top dog breeds for families with all these sought-after qualities. 

Bernedoodle Care

Regardless of what breed of dog you have, they will require a lot of care to stay happy and healthy.  Remember, the happier and healthier your dog is, the easier your life will be!

Grooming

Your Bernedoodle will not be considered a low maintenance dog in the grooming department. 

Coat Care

They could have a coat like a Bernese Mountain Dog, Poodle, or a combination of both.  If its coat resembles that of a Bernese Mountain Dog, then it will likely be straighter and fur-like. This means more chances of shedding, so keep that in mind.  If its coat resembles that of a Poodle, then it will likely be curlier and hair-like. This means less chance of shedding, though they will need frequent haircuts, just like you. If you’re looking for a hypoallergenic coat, then the Bernedoodle is a great fit for your family!  Regardless of what type of coat your Bernedoodle ends up with, the shedding won’t be “too much to handle”. However, they will need to be brushed regularly (daily is best, but at least weekly) to prevent their coats from matting. Be sure to tell your breeder which type of coat you’d prefer so they can match you with the right Bernedoodle! Look at the Bernedoodle Moms and Dads at Deb’s Doodles!

Skin Care

As with any dog, if your Bernedoodle gets too dirty, you’ll want to bathe them immediately.  To keep your Bernedoodle’s skin healthy and prevent it from drying out, it’s best to not bathe them more than once a month.

Diet

The amount of food you feed your Bernedoodle depends on their size (standard, mini, or toy). As with any dog, it’s best to ask your vet which type of food to feed your Bernedoodle and how much to feed them.

Exercise

The amount of exercise your Bernedoodle will need will vary according to their age. Here’s a general guideline of how much exercise they’ll need daily: 

Bernedoodle Appearance

Bernedoodles come in various sizes and colors (and coat types, as you now know). While looks aren’t everything, you may still care to know what your Bernedoodle could look like. 

Size

Just like Poodles, there are three size categories that your Bernedoodle could fall into: 

• Standard Bernedoodle – Your standard Bernedoodle could weigh between 60-100 pounds. (Remember, the larger the dog, the shorter their lifespan typically is). Their lifespan is approximately 12-15 years. 
• Mini Bernedoodle – If you’re interested in a mini Bernedoodle, it will likely weigh between 20-45 pounds and live approximately 14-16 years. 
• Toy Bernedoodle – Being the smallest of the Bernedoodles, a toy Bernedoodle will most likely weigh less than 20 pounds and live approximately up to 18 years.

Color

Most Bernedoodles will be either black, brown, or white in any of the following patterns: bicolor, tricolor, brindle, merle, sable, or tuxedo. 

Bernedoodle Training

You’ve already learned about the most common characteristics of the Bernedoodle breed. There are, however, a few characteristics they could develop that you could consider “annoying” such as digging or barking at unwanted times.  Don’t worry…If you ensure that your Bernedoodle puppy gets proper training early on then these annoyances can be easily corrected. (Another great way to prevent your doodle from digging is by giving them mentally stimulating toys to play with regularly). Training your Bernedoodle is also important for many other reasons such as learning basic commands, becoming comfortable with being left in their crate, and learning how to properly walk with a leash/harness. It’s also important for your Bernedoodle to learn how to interact with other dogs, children, and adults in various situations.  Do you want the best training for your Bernedoodle? Check out Deb’s Camp Doodle today!

Conclusion

You’ve learned a lot of information about the Bernedoodle breed now, so here’s a quick refresher for your reference: 

Now you’ve learned the basics of what to expect as a Bernedoodle owner! If you’re looking for a dog that will be great with your children, equally loves outdoor exercising and indoor cuddles, and is always eager to learn new things, then a Bernedoodle is the perfect choice for you and your family.  Find your Bernedoodle at Deb’s Doodles today!

Debbie

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