Bernedoodles are a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle, and as such, they can inherit a variety of coat types from their parents.
The most common coat types in Bernedoodles are F1, F1B, and F2, which determine the texture, length, and curl of their fur.
F1 Bernedoodles can have a wavy or straight coat, while F1B Bernedoodles tend to have a curly or wavy coat.
A F2 Bernedoodle's coat can be a combination of their parents' coat types.
What Is a Bernedoodle?
A Bernedoodle is a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Standard Poodle. This unique mix of breeds is what makes them so fascinating.
Their coat is a key characteristic, and it's inherited from their parent breeds. The coloration of a Bernedoodle's coat is often similar to that of a Bernese Mountain Dog.
The Bernedoodle's coat is short and curly or wavy, thanks to their Poodle genetics. This is what makes them a great option for people with allergies, as their curlier coat is more hypoallergenic.
If a Bernedoodle has more of the Bernese Mountain Dog's genetics showing through, their coat tends to be straighter and longer. This means they may shed more often, which is something to consider for owners who prefer low-maintenance grooming.
A unique perspective: Bernedoodle vs Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernedoodle Coat Types
Bernedoodle coats can vary and look more Poodle-like or more closely resemble the Bernese Mountain Dog. They usually have wavy, curly coats that don’t shed much.
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. Their coat must also be trimmed every few months, depending on how quickly it grows.
Their coat color has a wide range, including pure black, black and white, black and brown, and tri-colored with patches of black, white, and brown. Some Bernedoodles may even have other colors.
The curlier the Bernedoodle’s coat is, the harder it is to groom. Bernedoodle owners often brush their dog’s coat daily to prevent matting.
Bernedoodles can have straighter coats, which shed more and are less hypoallergenic. This makes them a good choice for people with allergies to dander.
A unique perspective: Bernedoodle Black
Grooming and Shedding
Bernedoodles have wavy, curly coats that don't shed much, making them suitable for people with allergies to dander. Their curly coat requires more brushing to prevent matting.
The thickness of their coat helps them thrive in cool temperatures and protects them from the heat of summer months. Brushing their coat daily is a great bonding experience for Bernedoodle owners.
Bernedoodles with straighter coats shed more and are less hypoallergenic, but they require less brushing.
Explore further: Curly Hair Dog Types
Grooming a Bernedoodle
Grooming a Bernedoodle requires regular brushings, especially for those with very curly fur prone to tangling. Brush your dog several times a week to prevent matting.
Their coat must be trimmed every few months, depending on how quickly it grows. Daily brushing can be a bonding experience for Bernedoodles, who tend to love it.
Curlier coats are harder to groom, but they shed less, making them more suitable for people with allergies to dander. Some Bernedoodles may have straighter coats that shed more and are less hypoallergenic.
Taking your Bernedoodle to a groomer every three to four months is recommended for a full bath, deshedding, and trimming any fur that may be uncomfortable or getting in their eyes.
Broaden your view: Cats Grow Winter Coats
Do Bernedoodles Shed?
Bernedoodles can shed, but the amount of shedding depends on their genetics. If the poodle trait is stronger, they might not shed a lot, but if the Bernese mountain dog trait is stronger, they might shed more.
The curlier your bernedoodle's fur is, the less likely they are to shed. However, this also means they'll need more brushing and grooming to prevent matting.
Bernedoodles with straighter, longer fur will require less brushing, but they're also more prone to shedding fur throughout the day. This can be a bit of a trade-off, but it's essential to consider when deciding on a bernedoodle as a pet.
Comparison and Facts
Bernedoodles can weigh anywhere from 10 to 90 pounds, depending on their size, with Miniature Bernedoodles weighing between 25 to 50 pounds and Tiny ones around 10 to 25 pounds.
Their lifespan is relatively long, typically ranging from 12 to 15 years. This means you'll have plenty of time to enjoy their affectionate company.
Bernedoodles are known for their low-shedding, wavy or curly coat, making them a popular choice for people with allergies. Regular brushing and occasional professional grooming are usually recommended to prevent matting, especially for curlier coats.
Here's a breakdown of Bernedoodle sizes and weights:
Bernedoodle vs Goldendoodle
Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles can have different types of coats, depending on their parent breeds and how their coats are expressed.
Bernedoodles typically have a thick, wavy, or curly coat that is often tricolor, with black, white, and brown markings.
Their plush coat is great insulation against the elements and requires moderate grooming needs.
It's worth noting that getting a non-shedding tricolored Bernedoodle can be a challenging process that requires many generations of breeding and can be quite expensive.
Goldendoodles, on the other hand, can have a straight, wavy, or curly coat that is usually gold, cream, or red in color.
Curly or wavy Goldendoodle coats are the most popular and can require less brushing, but still need a moderate amount of brushing overall.
Flat or straight coats are more common in earlier generations and will likely still shed, although not quite as much as a Golden Retriever would.
Related reading: Curly Coated Retriever Breeders
Quick Facts
Bernedoodles are a unique and lovable breed that's gained popularity in recent years. They originated in the United States around 2003.
Here are some quick facts about Bernedoodles:
- They come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and tiny, weighing between 50 to 90 pounds, 25 to 50 pounds, and 10 to 25 pounds respectively.
- Bernedoodles typically live for 12 to 15 years.
- Their coats are usually wavy or curly and low-shedding, making them a great choice for those with allergies.
- Bernedoodles are known for being affectionate, intelligent, and social dogs, making them great therapy dogs.
- They require moderate exercise, including regular walks, playtime, and mental stimulation.
- Bernedoodles are intelligent and trainable, responding well to positive reinforcement methods.
- Their grooming needs vary depending on their coat type, but regular brushing and occasional professional grooming are usually necessary.
- As with any mixed breed, Bernedoodles may inherit health traits from their parent breeds, so regular veterinary care and health checks are crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my Bernedoodle puppy coat change?
Yes, Bernedoodles can experience coat color changes as they mature, particularly due to the influence of their poodle parent. This can result in a change from black to silver or cream, making each dog's coat unique.
Sources
- Coat & Shedding (moonstruckbernedoodles.ca)
- Bernedoodle Dog Breed Information & ... - DogTime (dogtime.com)
- Sherry Rupke of SwissRidge Bernedoodles (bernedoodles.com)
- Bernedoodle: Dog Breed Guide (dogacademy.org)
- Bernedoodles VS Goldendoodles: Similarities & Differences (prideandprejudoodles.com)
Featured Images: pexels.com