Bernedoodle Pros and Cons: A Comprehensive Review

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Posted Oct 26, 2024

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The Bernedoodle is a crossbreed between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle, often considered a low-shedding and intelligent breed.

Their friendly nature makes them a great companion for families with children.

Bernedoodles are generally easy to train due to their high intelligence and trainability scores.

Their energy level is moderate, requiring regular exercise but not excessive physical activity.

With proper socialization, Bernedoodles can get along well with other pets in the household.

Their grooming needs can vary depending on the Poodle's influence, but they often require regular brushing and occasional trimming.

Their lifespan is typically between 12-18 years, with some living up to 20 years with proper care.

Pros

Bernedoodles are enchanting companions with a gentle and affectionate demeanor. They are intelligent and make great family pets.

Their hypoallergenic coats are a significant advantage, shedding minimally and producing minimal dander. This makes them an ideal choice for individuals with allergies.

Bernedoodles are adaptable and versatile, thriving in diverse environments and adjusting to various activity levels. They are perfect companions for individuals with different lifestyles, whether living in an apartment or a larger home.

Their low-shedding coat is a great benefit, especially for allergy sufferers. The curlier the coat, the less likely they are to shed.

Intriguing read: Bernedoodle Coat Types

Hypoallergenic

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Bernedoodles benefit from the hypoallergenic coats of Poodles, shedding minimally and producing minimal dander. This characteristic makes them an apt choice for individuals with allergies.

Their low-shedding trait is a result of their Poodle heritage, which is a great choice for allergy sufferers.

Bernedoodle coats vary in waviness, with some being only mildly wavy, to others possessing the tight curls of the Poodle. The curlier the coat, the less likely they are to shed.

For another approach, see: Bernedoodle Shed

Adaptable and Versatile

Bernedoodles are incredibly adaptable and versatile companions, thriving in a wide range of environments. They're perfect for apartment dwellers and those with larger homes.

Their adaptability extends to various activity levels, making them ideal for individuals with different lifestyles. Whether you lead a busy urban life or enjoy the peace and quiet of suburban living, Bernedoodles adjust effortlessly.

They're a great choice for families with kids or for singles who want a low-maintenance yet loving companion.

Cons

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Bernedoodles can be a bit high maintenance, especially when it comes to their grooming needs. You'll need to brush and trim their coat regularly to prevent tangling and skin irritation, which can be time-consuming and may require some financial investment.

Some Bernedoodles may also be skittish with strangers, so socialization is key. You'll want to introduce them to new people and environments early on to help them feel more confident.

Their intelligence can sometimes work against them, making them stubborn or hard to train. Consistent, positive reinforcement training can help, but it's essential to be patient and persistent.

Here are some potential health issues to consider:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Certain eye conditions

And, unfortunately, not all Bernedoodles are non-shedding or hypoallergenic, so if you have allergies or prefer a low-shedding coat, you'll want to research this further.

Potential Issues

Bernedoodles can be prone to certain issues that you should be aware of. Some Bernedoodles may be skittish with strangers, which can make socialization challenging.

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Bernedoodles may also be stubborn or hard to train, so be prepared to invest time and patience into their education. They can be strong-willed, but with consistent and positive reinforcement, they can learn good behavior.

As a hybrid breed, Bernedoodles may inherit health concerns from both parent breeds. Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and certain eye conditions are potential issues that can affect Bernedoodles.

Responsible breeders conduct health screenings to mitigate these risks, but it's essential to work with a reputable breeder to minimize the chances of inherited health problems.

High-Maintenance

You need to be prepared for a lot of grooming with a Bernedoodle. Regular brushing and trimming are a must to keep their coat from tangling, and neglecting this can lead to skin irritation and health issues.

Their high-maintenance coat requires a significant amount of time and effort to keep it happy and healthy.

You'll need to consider whether you have the time and financial security to keep up with this high level of grooming before getting a Bernedoodle.

Grooming and Appearance

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Bernedoodles have a unique appearance that's a mix of their Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle parents. Their coats can be wavy or curly, and they often have a distinctive black, brown, and white pattern.

Their size can vary greatly, with three primary categories: Toy, Mini, and Standard. Toy Bernedoodles are less than 15 inches tall and weigh between 10 and 25 pounds, while Standard Bernedoodles can reach up to 30 inches in height and weigh 90 pounds.

The curly or wavy coat is a defining feature of Bernedoodles, contributing to their low-shedding and hypoallergenic qualities. However, some Bernedoodles may have straight coats, which can shed more and require more frequent brushing.

Here's a breakdown of the different coat types and their maintenance needs:

Regular grooming is essential to prevent matting and tangling, especially for Bernedoodles with longer hair. Professional grooming sessions may be needed every few months to keep their coat healthy and looking its best.

If this caught your attention, see: Grooming Bernedoodle

Low-Maintenance Grooming

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Bernedoodles have low-maintenance coats compared to other breeds.

Their coats require regular brushing to prevent matting, but this is a relatively simple task.

Professional grooming sessions are only needed every few months.

Coat and Grooming

Bernedoodles have a unique coat that's a combination of their poodle and Bernese mountain dog parents. This coat can be a game-changer for people with allergies, as it's considered hypoallergenic.

The curly or wavy coat of a Bernedoodle is one of its most distinctive features, and it's a big reason why many people choose this breed. This type of coat sheds very little, which makes it a great option for those who want a low-maintenance pet.

However, not all Bernedoodles have curly or wavy coats. Some may have straighter coats, which shed more and require more frequent brushing to prevent matting. In fact, straight-coated Bernedoodles need daily or every-other-day brushing to remove loose hair and prevent matting.

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To keep your Bernedoodle's coat looking its best, you'll need to brush it regularly. The frequency of brushing will depend on the type of coat your Bernedoodle has. Curly and wavy coats need brushing a few times a week, while straighter coats require daily or every-other-day brushing.

Professional grooming is also a must for Bernedoodles. Depending on the length and type of coat, you may need to take your Bernedoodle to a professional groomer every four to eight weeks.

Here's a rough guide to the grooming needs of Bernedoodles:

Remember, grooming is an essential part of caring for your Bernedoodle. By brushing and grooming your dog regularly, you can help prevent matting, tangling, and shedding.

Personality and Traits

Bernedoodles are known for their affectionate and gentle nature, making them an excellent choice for families with children. They inherit this trait from their Bernese Mountain Dog parent and are typically loyal and great with families.

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Their calm energy is a bonus for first-time dog owners, as they are easy to handle and provide a friendly companion. Bernedoodles are also excellent emotional support dogs, which is a testament to their loving demeanor.

One of the standout features of Bernedoodles is their low-shedding coat, thanks to the Poodle genes. This makes them a great choice for individuals with allergies, as the minimal shedding reduces the amount of dander in the air.

Bernedoodles are intelligent and trainable, thanks to their Poodle parentage. They are eager to please their owners, which makes them highly responsive to commands. Early socialization and training are key to their well-rounded development.

Bernedoodles come in various sizes, from standard to miniature and toy, making them suitable for a range of living situations. They are adaptable and can thrive in both apartments and houses, as long as they receive regular exercise and mental stimulation.

Here are some key personality traits of Bernedoodles:

  • Affectionate, gentle, and goofy personality
  • Calm, docile energy
  • Excellent emotional support dogs
  • Good with children
  • Low-to-non shedding
  • Intelligent and trainable
  • Adaptable to various living environments

Keep in mind that Bernedoodles may be apprehensive around strangers, so socialization is crucial to help them feel comfortable and affectionate around new people. With positive reinforcement training, they can become charming and charismatic companions.

Exercise and Living Needs

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Bernedoodles require a significant amount of exercise to stay happy and healthy. They need at least 60 minutes of daily physical activity, which can be a challenge for busy families or individuals with limited mobility.

Garrett, a Bernedoodle owner and advocate, recommends giving them a job to do, such as going for walks, agility trials, or even wearing a backpack, to help them feel more fulfilled and reduce anxious behaviors.

Bernedoodles love to be active outdoors, and they enjoy activities like hiking, swimming, and running. They also love being your snuggle buddy and require lots of attention and TLC. Personal space is not a part of their vocabulary, and they should not be left alone much, as this can result in separation anxiety.

Here are some fun activities that Bernedoodles can enjoy:

  • Agility
  • Hiking
  • Flyball
  • Running
  • Swimming
  • Rally
  • Dock jumping

As a gentle-natured breed, Bernedoodles are especially great with children and bark infrequently. They are more likely to befriend an intruder than scare them away, making them a wonderful addition to families.

Large Size

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Living with a large Bernedoodle can be a challenge, especially for those residing in compact spaces. They can reach up to 29 inches in height.

Their size also means they require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. This can be as simple as a daily walk or playtime in the yard.

Bernedoodles weighing between 70 and 90 pounds need plenty of space to move around. This can be a problem for those living in small apartments or condos.

Regular exercise can help mitigate this issue, but it's essential to consider the size of your home before bringing a large Bernedoodle into your life.

You might enjoy: Big Bernedoodle

Daily Exercise Requirement

Bernedoodles require a significant amount of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. They need at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day, which can be challenging for busy families or individuals with limited mobility.

Their exercise needs can be broken down into one or two walks a day, plus off-leash games of fetch in a safely enclosed space like a fenced yard or dog park. This can include activities like agility, hiking, flyball, running, swimming, rally, and dock jumping.

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Bernedoodles are natural athletes and love to stay active. They thrive on mental and physical stimulation, and their exercise needs should be tailored to their individual energy levels and size.

Here's a rough guide to help you plan your Bernedoodle's daily exercise routine:

Remember, every Bernedoodle is different, and their exercise needs may vary depending on their age, size, and individual energy level.

Health and Care

As a Bernedoodle owner, you'll want to be aware of the potential health issues that can arise. Bernedoodles may be prone to conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia, eye problems, and cancers, so regular veterinary checkups are crucial in monitoring and maintaining their overall well-being.

A balanced diet, regular exercise, and adhering to a recommended vaccination schedule contribute to the long-term health of your Bernedoodle. This means providing a nutritious diet that meets their specific needs, as well as ensuring they get enough physical and mental stimulation.

Some potential health issues to be aware of include:

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Eye Problems
  • Cancers

Responsible ownership involves staying informed about the breed's common health issues and collaborating with a veterinarian to establish preventive measures.

Separation Anxiety

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Separation Anxiety is a common issue for Bernedoodles, leading to destructive behaviors like chewing or barking when left alone for extended periods.

Training is essential in addressing this issue, as it helps them feel more secure and calm when separated from their owners.

Bernedoodles are prone to loneliness, which can result in separation anxiety, causing nervous habits like whining or chewing.

Giving them a job to do, like going for walks or agility trials, can help mimic a job and make them feel more fulfilled and less anxious.

This gentle-natured breed loves children and is unlikely to bark frequently, but they still require lots of attention and TLC to prevent separation anxiety.

In fact, Adam Christman, DVM, recommends giving them a job to do to help them feel more fulfilled and reduce anxious behaviors.

How to Care for

Owning a Bernedoodle can be a delightful experience, but it comes with responsibilities. Proper grooming, training, and regular checkups are essential for ensuring your furry friend's overall health and happiness.

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Regular veterinary checkups are vital for preventing and addressing health issues. Bernedoodles may be prone to conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia.

Bernedoodles require regular grooming to prevent painful matting, especially with their curly coats. They'll need frequent brushing and a haircut every few months.

A balanced diet, regular exercise, and adhering to a recommended vaccination schedule contribute to the long-term health of your Bernedoodle. This also includes keeping an eye on any changes in their behavior, mobility, or appetite for early detection and prompt intervention.

Here are some potential health issues to be aware of:

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Eye Problems
  • Cancers

Bernedoodles are generally healthy, but it's essential to be aware of these potential conditions and collaborate with a veterinarian to establish preventive measures.

Diet and Nutrition

Feeding your Bernedoodle twice a day with measured meals is a good idea, rather than leaving food out all the time.

This helps prevent overeating and keeps your Bernedoodle lean, which is especially important to prevent joint disorders like hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia.

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You'll want to feed your Bernedoodle food formulated for large-breed puppies if they're expected to grow to be giant-sized as adults.

This type of food encourages slow and steady growth, which is healthier for your Bernedoodle.

Talk to your breeder or veterinarian to get a recommendation for a healthy food for your Bernedoodle.

They can also help you determine an ideal healthy weight for your adult Bernedoodle.

If this caught your attention, see: Best Dog Food for Bernedoodle

Frequently Asked Questions

What do vets say about Bernedoodles?

Vets note that Bernedoodles can be prone to hip dysplasia, eye issues, and skin allergies, but responsible breeding practices can reduce the risk of these health problems. Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify potential issues early on.

Do mini bernedoodles bark a lot?

Mini Bernedoodles are generally quiet, with minimal barking, making them a great choice for shared living spaces. However, regular exercise and mental stimulation are still essential to prevent excessive barking and ensure a happy, well-adjusted companion.

What are the health issues with mini Bernedoodles?

Mini Bernedoodles are prone to health issues such as allergies, skin infections, and joint problems like elbow and hip dysplasia. Regular grooming and veterinary care can help prevent or manage these conditions.

What to know before getting a mini Bernedoodle?

Before getting a mini Bernedoodle, consider their strong need for human companionship and potential separation anxiety. This breed requires regular attention and interaction to thrive

Marlene Friesen

Lead Writer

Marlene Friesen is a talented writer with a passion for crafting engaging content that resonates with readers. With a keen eye for detail and a love for animals, she has established herself as a go-to expert in the realm of pet naming. Her articles, which have appeared in various online publications, offer insightful and creative suggestions for choosing the perfect name for your furry friend.