Managing a Bernedoodle's unmet needs and health issues is crucial to preventing the "out of control" behavior.
Boredom and lack of mental stimulation can lead to destructive behavior, such as chewing and digging.
A Bernedoodle needs at least 30 minutes of exercise and playtime daily to prevent boredom.
Exercise not only keeps them physically healthy but also mentally stimulated, reducing the likelihood of destructive behavior.
A lack of socialization can also contribute to a Bernedoodle becoming "out of control."
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Understanding Bernedoodle Behavior
Bernedoodles are known for their friendly disposition and high energy levels, which can sometimes lead to out-of-control behavior. They thrive on human interaction and are keen to please, although their inner stubbornness can sometimes cloud these tendencies.
Their unique characteristics make them a great breed for families, but also require a tailored training approach. Recognizing their traits will guide you in understanding their behavior.
Bernedoodles are intelligent dogs that can learn commands quickly, but their stubbornness can make training challenging, especially during the adolescent phase. They may challenge you, but consistency and patience are key.
Expand your knowledge: Training a Bernedoodle
Their high energy levels require plenty of exercise, and puppies especially have boundless energy that needs to be channeled into physical activity. This can be achieved through daily walks, playtime, and interactive toys.
Their people-orientation can sometimes lead to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. To avoid this, provide them with plenty of attention and exercise before leaving the house.
Here are some characteristics of Bernedoodles that can help you understand their behavior:
To address out-of-control behavior in Bernedoodles, it's essential to understand their unique characteristics and provide them with the right outlet for their natural drives.
Training and Reinforcement
Training your Bernedoodle requires a deep understanding of their behavior and needs. The first step is to identify the underlying reasons for their out-of-control behavior.
To address biting, it's essential to look at what's driving the behavior. As puppies, biting was a way for them to instigate play, attention, and exploration. If your dog is still doing this, it's likely because they're seeking attention or trying to play.
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Your reaction to your dog's biting is likely reinforcing the behavior. Yelling, pushing, or running away can be fun for an attention-seeking dog. Even redirecting your dog to a toy can create an unwanted behavior chain. Instead, ignore your dog when they start biting, cross your arms, and don't engage with them.
Some dogs are naturally inclined to enjoy biting, chasing, and stalking due to selective breeding. This doesn't mean they're aggressive, but rather that they have a strong instinct that needs an outlet. You can provide an outlet for this drive by adding a flirt pole to your daily routine or playing tug with your dog using rules.
For effective training, it's crucial to establish clear boundaries and rules. Consistency is key, and everyone in the household should use the same commands and methods. Mixed signals can confuse the puppy and hinder progress.
To maintain training, keep up with the rules and boundaries you've set. If you slack, your Bernedoodle may become confused or start to exhibit unwanted behaviors. Leash training requires patience and consistency, and it's essential to practice regularly and make walks an enjoyable routine for both you and your puppy.
Here are some tips for leash training:
Training Techniques
Training your Bernedoodle puppy requires a focused and gentle but firm approach, especially during the potty training phase. This will help make training as effective as possible.
Patience is key when training a Bernedoodle puppy, as it will pass with time and consistent training efforts. Avoid using cleaners with ammonia to clean up accidents, as the scent can encourage them to use the same spot again.
Designate a potty area outdoors that's adequately sized – neither too large nor too small. A space equivalent to two parking spaces is ideal for a large dog, while half that size suffices for a smaller breed.
To maintain control and safety, teach essential commands like sit, stay, come, and down through obedience training. These commands will be invaluable during leash training and walks.
Basic obedience commands like "sit", "stay", and "come" should be taught using positive reinforcement methods, such as rewarding your puppy with treats and praise.
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To leash train your Bernedoodle puppy, start indoors in a controlled environment. Attach the leash to their collar or harness and let them wear it around the house while supervised.
Practice loose leash walking consistently, especially if your puppy tends to pull on the leash. Consider using a front-clip harness to discourage pulling.
To troubleshoot common issues during leash training, be patient with your Bernedoodle puppy, as they may have days when they're more focused and obedient than others. Continue reinforcing positive behavior with treats, praise, and affection.
Dealing with Challenges
You may encounter common bernedoodle issues like barking, chewing, and leash pulling.
Barking can be addressed with specific training techniques.
Chewing is a natural behavior for puppies, but it can be redirected with the right toys and supervision.
Leash pulling can be stopped with consistent training and positive reinforcement.
Broaden your view: Bernedoodle Barking
Common Health Problems
Common Health Problems
Many hybrid dog breeders claim that crossing two different purebreds results in healthier puppies, but science tells us that genes don't necessarily work this way. Most purebred dogs have inherited health disorders in their family history.
Consider reading: Bernedoodle Health Issues
Some breeders use miniature or toy poodles to create smaller Bernedoodles, but crossing giant breeds with small breeds is risky and must be done carefully to avoid complications.
Bernese mountain dogs are prone to various health issues, including cancer, hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases, cardiac disease, hypothyroidism, autoimmune diseases, and von Willebrand disease.
Poodles can also be affected by certain genetic health conditions, such as idiopathic epilepsy, sebaceous adenitis, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, and luxating patella.
Responsible breeders start with healthy, well-bred adult purebred dogs and test them for genetic diseases before breeding them together.
Some specific health issues that can affect Bernedoodles include:
- Cancer, such as malignant histiocytosis (MH)
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Eye diseases, such as entropion and ectropion
- Cardiac disease, such as subaortic stenosis (SAS)
- Hypothyroidism
- Autoimmune diseases, such as meningitis
- Von Willebrand disease
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat)
- Idiopathic epilepsy
- Sebaceous adenitis
- Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
- Luxating patella
Unmet Needs
Meeting a dog's basic needs is simple, but it's not always enough to prevent mouthy behavior.
Providing food, water, shelter, love, and playtime is a great start, but it's essential to consider your dog's individual needs based on their temperament, breed, and age.
Depending on your dog's growth rate, they may require three meals a day until they're a year old, and even longer for giant breed dogs.
Check this out: Bernedoodle Breed
You should also ensure you're increasing their food intake according to their growth, with your vet's approval.
Here are some daily activities to consider:
- Short training sessions (5-10 minutes) to work on basic obedience and tricks
- Mental enrichment options, such as our 14-Day Training Challenge
- Increased physical exercise, like a daily walk or a game of fetch
- Ensuring your dog gets enough sleep, as overtiredness can be a sign of mouthy behavior
By providing a more physically and mentally enriching day-to-day life, you can help address unmet needs and reduce mouthy behavior in your dog.
Dealing with Stubbornness
Dealing with stubbornness in your dog can be frustrating, but staying calm and persistent will yield the best results. Staying calm is crucial, as physical punishment can lead to fearfulness and aggression.
Positive reinforcement is the way to go when dealing with stubborn behavior. This means using treats and praise to encourage good behavior, rather than relying on punishment.
To address stubbornness, you'll need to be patient and consistent. This means setting clear boundaries and rewards for your dog, and sticking to them.
Here are some key things to keep in mind when dealing with stubbornness:
- Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise.
- Avoid physical punishment, which can lead to fearfulness and aggression.
- Stay calm and patient, even in the face of challenging behavior.
By following these tips, you can help your dog overcome stubbornness and develop good habits. Remember, consistency and patience are key.
Maintaining the Training
Consistency is key when it comes to maintaining the training you've put into your Bernedoodle puppy. If you slack on the rules and boundaries you've set, your Bernedoodle may become confused or start to exhibit unwanted behaviors.
You've worked hard to teach your Bernedoodle basic obedience commands like "sit", "stay", and "come." Now, it's essential to keep up with these rules and reinforce them regularly.
To maintain control during walks, you'll want to keep practicing leash training. This involves regular practice and making walks an enjoyable routine for both you and your puppy.
Be patient with your Bernedoodle, as they may have days when they are more focused and obedient than others. It's normal for them to have ups and downs, but with consistent reinforcement, they'll learn to stay on track.
Here are some common issues you may encounter during leash training and how to address them:
By following these tips and staying consistent, you can maintain the training you've put into your Bernedoodle puppy and help them become a well-behaved and well-adjusted member of your family.
Walking and Leash Control
Walking and Leash Control is a crucial aspect of Bernedoodle training. To establish control, start by choosing the right equipment, such as a comfortable, well-fitting collar or harness, a lightweight, sturdy leash, and high-quality treats.
To make the introduction smooth and positive, allow your puppy to wear the collar or harness indoors for short periods, then attach the leash and let them drag it around under your supervision. Praise and offer treats when your puppy willingly accepts the collar, harness, and leash.
Begin leash training indoors in a controlled environment by attaching the leash to your puppy's collar or harness and letting them wear it around the house while supervised. Encourage your puppy to follow you around the house using positive reinforcement, such as treats and verbal praise.
To maintain control during walks, use basic obedience commands like "sit", "stay", and "come." These commands will help you regain your puppy's focus if they start to pull on the leash.
For your interest: Bernedoodle Potty Training
To handle distractions during walks, use treats to reward your puppy for paying attention to you, even in the presence of other dogs, wildlife, or interesting scents. Be patient and understanding, as it may take some time for your Bernedoodle to learn how to handle distractions appropriately.
Here are some tips to help you maintain loose leash walking:
- Start with short walks and gradually increase the distance as your puppy becomes more comfortable.
- Stop walking and wait for your puppy to relax the tension if they start to pull on the leash.
- Practice loose leash walking consistently to help your puppy learn to walk without pulling.
By following these tips and being patient and consistent, you can help your Bernedoodle learn to walk on a loose leash and maintain control during walks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Bernedoodles ever calm down?
Bernedoodles may not calm down completely, as their energy levels can vary depending on individual factors and exercise. Regular exercise can help, but it may take time for your Bernedoodle to learn to manage its energy.
How do you discipline a Bernedoodle?
To discipline a Bernedoodle, focus on positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewarding good behavior with treats and praise, rather than punishment. Consistency and patience are key to developing a well-behaved and well-adjusted Bernedoodle.
Why is my Bernedoodle so bad?
Bernedoodles can exhibit stubborn behaviors like refusing to listen or becoming overexcited, but these traits often fade with age and can be improved with training
Sources
- https://www.thesprucepets.com/bernedoodle-full-profile-history-and-care-5205278
- https://peachonaleash.com/beyond-puppy-biting-when-mouthy-behavior-continues-into-adolescence/
- https://www.wisconsindesignerdoodles.com/stokeshire-doodle-puppy-blog/training-your-stubborn-bernedoodle-puppy-a-comprehensive-guide
- https://www.premierdoodles.com/puppy-training-guide
- https://arrowtpets.com/how-to-leash-train-your-bernedoodle-puppy/
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