If you're considering bringing a Bernedoodle into your life, you're probably wondering whether to buy or adopt one. Bernedoodles are a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle, making them a unique and lovable companion.
Bernedoodles are generally considered a hybrid breed, which means their characteristics can vary depending on their lineage. They can inherit traits from both parent breeds, such as the intelligence and loyalty of Poodles and the gentle nature of Bernese Mountain Dogs.
In terms of size, Bernedoodles can range from 20 to 40 inches in height and weigh anywhere from 40 to 90 pounds. Their coats can also vary, with some having a low-shedding Poodle coat and others having a thicker, more shedding Bernese Mountain Dog coat.
Whether you decide to buy or adopt a Bernedoodle, make sure you're prepared to provide the necessary care and attention.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Do Bernedoodle Shed
What is a Bernedoodle?
A Bernedoodle is a crossbreed between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle, typically a Standard Poodle. They're often considered a designer breed.
Their size can vary, but they usually fall between 18 and 24 inches tall and weigh between 40 and 80 pounds. They can be a great fit for families with kids.
Bernedoodles are known for their intelligence, which makes them easy to train. They're also known for being loyal and affectionate with their families.
Breed Characteristics
Bernedoodles come in a wide range of sizes, from 10 to 90 pounds and 10 to 29 inches in height.
Their coats can be either shorter, softer, and curly or wavy, requiring regular grooming and maintenance to keep them clean and free of tangles and mats.
Bernedoodles are known for their hypoallergenic properties, thanks to their furnishings, which are longer, coarser hairs that grow on certain areas of their face and body.
Their lifespan can range from 12 to 18 years, making them a long-term companion.
Here are some key characteristics of Bernedoodles at a glance:
What Do They Look Like?
Bernedoodles come in a wide range of sizes, from small to slightly larger than a medium-sized dog, with a height range of 10 to 29 inches.
Their friendly faces feature floppy ears, and their coat can be either very curly and short or a bit longer and straighter, depending on their genetics.
Bernedoodles are available in many different coat colorings and patterns, including black, white, rust or red, blue, tan, sable, and silver.
Worth a look: Bernedoodle Coat Types
Breed Information
The breed information for Bernedoodles is quite fascinating. They originated from a mix of Bernese mountain dogs and standard poodles in Canada, specifically created by breeder Sherry Rupke in 2003.
Bernedoodles can come in various sizes, including tiny, miniature, and standard, with the standard being the most common. Their coat type is often shorter, softer, and curly or wavy, which requires regular brushing and trimming to prevent tangles and mats.
Their temperament is one of their most endearing qualities, as they are known to be affectionate, playful, and loyal. This makes them a perfect choice for families or first-time dog owners who want a playful companion without high-maintenance care needs.
Expand your knowledge: Bernedoodle Standard
One of the benefits of Bernedoodles is the concept of hybrid vigor, which boosts their health, size, fertility, and longevity. This means they often possess characteristics that exceed those of their purebred parents.
Here's a breakdown of the breed characteristics:
It's worth noting that Bernedoodles can be hypoallergenic due to their furnishings, which are the longer, coarser hairs on their face and body. However, these furnishings require extra grooming and maintenance to keep them clean and free of tangles and mats.
Behavior and Training
Bernedoodles are highly intelligent and easy to train, thanks to their high intelligence and eagerness to please their owners. This makes them a great choice for first-time dog owners or those who want a low-maintenance pet.
However, they can also be stubborn at times, especially in their puppyhood, so it's essential to start training and socialization early on. Proper training and socialization will help them grow out of their puppy rebelliousness and set the stage for easier training as they mature.
Broaden your view: Bernedoodle Potty Training
Bernedoodles are generally quiet, moderate barkers and will only bark loudly when they need to, such as alerting you to something suspicious or getting excited. They may get separation anxiety if left alone for too long, so it's crucial to provide them with enough attention and exercise.
Are Affectionate?
Bernedoodles are known for being a highly affectionate breed. They love to receive attention as much as they love to give it, making them a great companion for families.
Their affectionate nature makes them easily trainable, as they're eager to please and enjoy learning new tricks. They even have a higher-than-average intelligence, which helps them pick up commands quickly.
Bernedoodles make strong bonds with their family members and will enjoy spending as much time with you as possible. Whether it's cuddling, playing, or taking walks, they'll always be happy to be by your side.
Their energetic nature makes them perfect for playing in the park or going on long walks outdoors, but they also love to spend quiet time with their family, learning new tricks and receiving plenty of affection.
Recommended read: Bernedoodle Breeders in New York
Are Aggressive?
Bernedoodles are not known for being aggressive. They are unlikely to attack or develop aggressive behavioral traits. However, they do need a lot of socializing to prevent anxiety or boredom from becoming destructive behaviors. With proper socialization and family time, Bernedoodles can thrive without aggression issues.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles
Do Doodles Bark?
Doodles are generally quiet, moderate barkers and will only bark loudly when they need to.
Your dog might get excited and bark quite a bit, or they may see something suspicious around your property and alert you to it.
However, they won’t bark constantly or yap at every little thing they see.
Training Dogs
Bernedoodles are highly intelligent and easy to train, which makes them a great breed for first-time dog owners. They learn commands and new tricks easily due to their higher-than-average intelligence.
However, Bernedoodles can be stubborn at times, especially in their puppyhood. Proper training and socialization should be started early to help them grow out of their puppy rebelliousness.
With consistent training and positive reinforcement, Bernedoodles can learn to be well-behaved and socialized. Professional dog training isn't mandatory, but it's recommended to ensure your dog is well-behaved and socialized.
If you opt for training classes, you can expect to pay around $100 annually. This cost can vary depending on the location and trainer.
To help you train your Bernedoodle effectively, here are some tips:
- Start training early, ideally from 8 weeks old.
- Be consistent and patient with your training.
- Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise.
- Provide plenty of physical and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Remember, every dog is different, and what works for one Bernedoodle may not work for another. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can help your Bernedoodle become a well-behaved and loyal companion.
Care and Maintenance
Bernedoodles are energetic dogs that need to spend lots of time with their family, as they crave affection and can become anxious when left alone for too long. They should never spend more than 8 hours home alone.
To keep your bernedoodle happy and healthy, you'll need to give them at least two long walks per day and some playtime out in the yard with their toys. This will help them get the exercise they need to stay active and engaged.
Regular grooming is also a must, especially if your bernedoodle has a curly coat. They'll need to be brushed a few times a week, and their hair will need to be regularly groomed to keep it out of their eyes.
For more insights, see: Long Haired Bernedoodle
Do Shed?
Bernedoodles can shed, but it depends on the strength of the poodle or Bernese mountain dog trait. They might not shed a lot.
The curlier your bernedoodle's fur is, the less likely they are to shed. This is because curly fur requires more brushing and grooming, which helps reduce shedding.
Dog Nutrition
Your bernedoodle's diet is crucial for their overall health and happiness. They should be eating a diet consisting of high-quality dry or wet dog food.
To determine the right amount of food for your bernedoodle, consider their size and age. Daily food amounts can range from 1 to 7 cups, split into two or three meals.
It's essential to feed your bernedoodle at the right times to keep them satisfied and prevent overeating. Splitting meals into two or three a day can help with this.
Occasional healthy treats can be a nice addition to your bernedoodle's diet, but make sure they're not overdoing it.
See what others are reading: Best Dog Food for Bernedoodle Puppies
Health Problems
Taking good care of your Bernedoodle is crucial to prevent or catch health issues early on. Regular vet visits can help identify problems before they become too serious.
Hip and elbow dysplasia are common health issues that can affect Bernedoodles. This is a condition where the joints don't develop properly, leading to arthritis and mobility problems.
Eye diseases are another potential health issue that Bernedoodles may face. Regular eye exams can help detect any issues early on.
Allergies can cause skin issues and discomfort for Bernedoodles. If you notice your dog scratching or chewing at their skin, consult with your vet to rule out allergies.
Hot spots can be painful and itchy for Bernedoodles. Keeping their coat clean and well-maintained can help prevent these skin issues.
Von Willebrand disease is a rare bleeding disorder that Bernedoodles may be predisposed to. This condition affects blood clotting and can be managed with regular check-ups and medication.
Expand your knowledge: Mini Bernedoodle Health Issues
Dog Lifespan
Bernedoodles typically live 10-15 years. They are generally healthy dogs and make great long-term companions.
Their lifespan can vary depending on their size, with smaller sizes generally living longer than the standard size.
Bernedoodles are known to live between 12 and 18 years. This is a relatively long lifespan for a dog breed.
Smaller Bernedoodles often outlive their larger counterparts, which is a common trend in many larger dog breeds.
This means that with proper care, a Bernedoodle can be a loyal companion for many years.
Worth a look: Lifespan of Bernedoodle
Cost and Ownership
The cost of a Bernedoodle can be a significant factor in your decision to buy or adopt one. Bernedoodle prices can range from $500 to over $5,000.
You should expect to pay at least $3,000 for a purebred Bernedoodle puppy from a quality breeder. This price includes necessary vaccinations and more. At Central Illinois Doodles, Bernedoodle prices start from $4,000.
Long-term costs for a Bernedoodle can add up quickly, with expenses exceeding $1,000 annually. This includes food, grooming, health care, and accessories. With a life span of 10-12 years, you can expect to pay at least $14,000 for buying and upkeeping your Bernedoodle.
The Bernedoodle price varies depending on multiple factors, such as its coat type, color, size, demand, and the breeder you're purchasing from. Buying a Bernedoodle is a long-term investment that requires careful consideration of these costs.
A different take: Buying a Schnauzer Puppy
Choosing a Bernedoodle
If you're thinking of bringing a Bernedoodle into your family, it's essential to consider their temperament and needs. Bernedoodles are known for their friendly, outgoing personalities and are often described as being affectionate, loyal, and good with children.
Their intelligence and trainability make them a great choice for families with children or for those who enjoy training their dogs. However, they do require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their fur.
To ensure you're making the right decision, consider the following factors: you want a dog that is friendly and loves being a companion, easily trainable, and gets along with children and other pets. On the other hand, if you plan on leaving your dog at home for more than 8 hours a day or travel frequently, a Bernedoodle may not be the best choice due to their separation anxiety.
Here are some key characteristics to look for in a Bernedoodle breeder:
By considering these factors and characteristics, you can make an informed decision about whether a Bernedoodle is the right fit for your family.
Choosing the Right Dog
If you're considering bringing a Bernedoodle into your family, it's essential to think about your lifestyle and what you can offer them. A Bernedoodle is a friendly family dog that loves being a companion, so if you're looking for a furry friend to hang out with, they're a great choice.
You'll want to consider factors like training and exercise needs. Bernedoodles are intelligent and easily trained, but they do require regular grooming and some exercise to stay happy and healthy. They're not high-maintenance, but they do need some attention to keep their fur from getting tangled.
Bernedoodles are great with kids, but they can be rough players, so it's essential to teach your children how to interact with them gently. With proper training and socialization, a Bernedoodle can easily blend into a family with kids.
Here are some key points to consider when deciding if a Bernedoodle is right for you:
- You want a friendly family dog that loves being a companion.
- You want a dog that is easily trained and intelligent enough to learn more complex commands.
- You need a dog that will easily get along with children or other pets.
- You want a dog that is energetic but doesn’t have extremely high exercise and working requirements.
On the other hand, a Bernedoodle might not be the best fit if you:
- Plan on leaving your dog at home for more than 8 hours a day.
- Don't want to make regular grooming appointments or brush your dog's fur several times a week.
- Live in an apartment with no outdoor space for exercise and play.
Finding a Quality Breeder
Finding a quality breeder is crucial when it comes to buying a Bernedoodle.
Research is key, and you can start by performing an internet search or asking families and friends in your area for recommendations.
A reputable breeder will have proper licenses and certifications, and the living conditions of their breeding dogs and puppies will be humane.
Avoid puppy mills or irresponsible breeding practices, and be wary of prices that seem too good to be true.
You can also check if a breeder is a member of professional organizations, such as the American Kennel Club or the United Kennel Club.
A quality breeder will prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs, and will conduct health tests and provide vaccinations.
You can also ask for references or visit the breeder's facility to see the living conditions and meet the parents of the puppies.
Adopting a Bernedoodle from a shelter or rescue organization is also an option, although it's not a common way to add a Bernedoodle to your family.
Some breeders may charge higher prices, but this is because they prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs, and provide essential vaccinations and health tests.
Be cautious of backyard breeders or puppy mills, as they may not provide proper care or health guarantees for their dogs.
Here's an interesting read: Huskys for Adoption
History of Doodles in the US
The history of Doodles in the US is a fascinating story. Bernedoodles, in particular, have a relatively short but exciting history that dates back to the early 2000s.
The first generation of Bernedoodles, known as F1 Bernedoodles, were 50% Bernese Mountain Dog and 50% Poodle. They were created by breeders who wanted to combine the best traits of both breeds.
As the popularity of Bernedoodles grew, breeders began crossing them with other Bernedoodles, resulting in F2 Bernedoodles, F2B Bernedoodles, and so on. Each generation of Bernedoodles may have different traits, depending on the traits of the parent dogs.
Today, Bernedoodles are recognized by several organizations, including the International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR) and the Designer Breed Registry (DBR).
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the cons of Bernedoodles?
Bernedoodles may be prone to inherited health issues from their parent breeds, including hip and elbow dysplasia, and eye problems. Responsible breeding practices can help minimize these risks, but it's essential to research and understand the potential health concerns associated with this hybrid breed.
Are Bernedoodles good for first time owners?
Yes, Bernedoodles can be a great choice for first-time owners, as they are known for being patient and gentle with all ages. This temperament makes them an ideal breed for those new to pet ownership.
Sources
- Bernedoodle: Dog Breed Guide (dogacademy.org)
- Bernedoodle Puppies for Sale in Wisconsin & Chicago (wisconsindesignerdoodles.com)
- Bernedoodle Puppies For Sale in Pennsylvania (integritybernedoodles.com)
- How Much Do Bernedoodles Cost? (centralillinoisdoodles.com)
- Adopt a Bernedoodle Puppy in Phoenix, AZ (daisymountaindoodles.com)
Featured Images: pexels.com