Everything you need to know before getting a Bernedoodle
The Bernedoodle Breed explained
What Is a Bernedoodle?
A Bernedoodle is a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle. The goal is simple:
✔️ Loving, people-focused temperament
✔️ Intelligence and trainability
✔️ Lower shedding than a Bernese
✔️ A versatile family companion
They are intentionally bred dogs, not accidental mixes.
Bernedoodle Sizes
Bernedoodles come in multiple sizes, depending on the Poodle parent.
Standard Bernedoodle: 45–90 lbs
Mini Bernedoodle: 20–40 lbs
Micro / Petite Bernedoodle: 10–20 lbs
Size is influenced by genetics, structure, and breeding selection—not guesses.
Do Bernedoodles Shed?
Shedding depends on coat type and generation.
Most Bernedoodles are low shedding
Not all are non-shedding
No dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic
A well-bred Bernedoodle with a furnished, curlier coat will shed the least.
Bernedoodle Coat Types
Straight / Wavy: More shedding possible
Wavy-Curly: Most common and ideal balance
Curly: Lowest shedding, highest grooming needs
Coat genetics matter. Guessing leads to disappointment.
Bernedoodles are incredible dogs when bred intentionally and raised correctly.
Temperament, health, structure, and early development are everything.
Done right, they’re not just pets.
They’re family.
Bernedoodle Temperament
Bernedoodles are known for being:
Loyal and people-oriented
Affectionate without being frantic
Emotionally intuitive
Gentle but playful
Deeply bonded to their family
Well-bred Bernedoodles are confident, stable, and social.
Are Bernedoodles Good Family Dogs?
Yes—when bred and raised correctly.
Excellent with children
Typically good with other dogs
Can coexist well with cats
Thrive in family environments
They do best when included in daily life—not left out back.
Energy Level & Lifestyle Fit
Bernedoodles are moderate energy dogs.
Enjoy walks, hikes, and playtime
Happy to relax at home afterward
Not hyper, but not lazy
Need daily movement and mental stimulation
They adapt well to active families and calmer households.
Apartment vs House Living
Bernedoodles can live in:
Apartments (with proper exercise)
Homes with or without yards
Rural or suburban environments
What matters most is structure, routine, and engagement.
Grooming Needs
Bernedoodles require regular grooming.
Brushing: 3–5x per week
Professional grooming: every 6–8 weeks
Matting happens fast without maintenance
If you don’t want grooming—this is not your breed.
Training & Intelligence
Bernedoodles are very intelligent.
Learn quickly
Respond best to positive training
Thrive with structure and consistency
Can outsmart unprepared owners
Early training is not optional—it’s essential.
Exercise & Mental Stimulation
Daily needs include:
Walks or play sessions
Mental enrichment (training, puzzles)
Human interaction
Bored Bernedoodles become mischievous Bernedoodles.
Bernedoodle Health & Lifespan
Average lifespan: 12–15 years
Ethical breeding reduces risk of:
Hip and elbow dysplasia
Eye conditions
Genetic diseases
Health testing matters more than color, size, or price.
Bernedoodle Generations Explained
F1: 50% Bernese / 50% Poodle
F1b: Higher Poodle content (often lower shedding)
Multigen: More predictable coats and temperaments
Generation impacts coat, shedding, and consistency.
Cost of a Bernedoodle
Bernedoodles are an investment.
Costs reflect:
Health testing
Quality care
Time, training, and socialization
Ethical breeding practices
Cheap puppies often come with expensive problems.
Common Bernedoodle Myths
❌ “They don’t need training”
❌ “They never shed”
❌ “They’re low maintenance”
❌ “All Bernedoodles are the same”
Truth matters. Expectations matter more.
Is a Bernedoodle Right for You?
A Bernedoodle is a great fit if you want:
✔️ A loyal companion
✔️ A family-oriented dog
✔️ A smart, trainable partner
✔️ A dog who lives with you, not around you
They are not for people who want zero effort.

