Bernedoodle
About the Breed
The Bernedoodle is a designer crossbreed created by combining the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle. This cross is known for its affectionate temperament, intelligence, and often lower-shedding coat.
They are typically friendly, social, and deeply devoted to their families. They are often playful and goofy, while also enjoying close companionship and attention.
Because this is a crossbreed rather than a standardized breed, size, coat type, and temperament can vary depending on the generation and the parent dogs involved.
History
This breed was intentionally developed in the early 2000s to combine the gentle, family-oriented temperament of the Bernese Mountain Dog with the intelligence and coat qualities of the Poodle.
The goal was to create a versatile companion dog that may shed less while maintaining the affectionate and loyal nature of both parent breeds.
Height
These dogs vary widely depending on whether the Poodle parent is Toy, Miniature, or Standard.
Toy Bernedoodles may stand about 12–17 inches tall.
Mini Bernedoodles generally stand about 18–22 inches tall.
Standards often stand about 23–29 inches tall.
Weight
Toy breeds often weigh 10–24 pounds.
Mini breeds generally weigh 25–49 pounds.
Standards commonly weigh 50–90 pounds or more.
Life Expectancy
About 12–18 years is commonly cited, depending on size and genetics.
Overall Health
These dogs are generally healthy, but they may inherit health conditions from either parent breed.
Common concerns include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, eye disorders, allergies, thyroid disease, and certain inherited genetic conditions.
Large and giant individuals may also be at increased risk for orthopedic issues and bloat.
Health Testing They Should Have
Hip evaluation
Elbow evaluation
Cardiac evaluation
Eye examination by a veterinary ophthalmologist
Degenerative Myelopathy testing
Von Willebrand Disease testing
Additional genetic screening relevant to both parent breeds
Breed Traits and Characteristics
They are affectionate, intelligent, and highly social dogs. They often form strong bonds with their families and typically enjoy being included in daily activities.
Many are playful and clownish, while others may be more calm and easygoing depending on the individual dog and bloodlines.
Temperament Ratings
Affectionate with family: 10/10
Good with young children: 9/10
Good with other dogs: 8/10
Shedding level: 3/10
Watchdog/protective nature: 6/10
Energy level: 7/10
Grooming frequency: 9/10
Drooling level: 3/10
Coat Type
They may have straight, wavy, or curly coats.
Colors
Common colors include tri-color black, white, and rust, black and white, sable, merle, and various solid colors.
Markings
Many display tan points, white markings, tuxedo patterns, parti coloring, or merle depending on genetics.
Breed Standard Snapshot
Because this breed is a crossbreed, there is no universally accepted breed standard. In general, well-bred Bernedoodles should be balanced, structurally sound, and possess a friendly, stable temperament.
Exercise Needs
They require regular daily exercise and mental stimulation. Most do well with walks, play sessions, training, and family activities.
Training Needs
Bernedoodles are highly intelligent and generally respond well to positive reinforcement. Early socialization and consistent training are important for developing a confident and well-mannered companion.
Overview
The Bernedoodle is a popular companion dog created by crossing the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle. This combination is valued for blending the affectionate and loyal nature of the Bernese Mountain Dog with the intelligence and trainability of the Poodle. The result is often a friendly, social, and highly interactive dog that thrives when included as a close member of the family.
Bernedoodles are known for forming strong bonds with their people and generally enjoy being involved in daily activities. Many are playful and gentle with children and can do well with other pets when properly socialized. Their adaptable personalities make them appealing to a wide range of households, from active families to individuals seeking a devoted companion.
Because this is a crossbreed, appearance, coat type, size, and temperament can vary considerably. Some inherit low-shedding coats that require frequent brushing and professional grooming, while others may shed more and have different maintenance needs. Prospective owners should be prepared for regular exercise, consistent training, and ongoing grooming regardless of coat type.
Responsible breeders should complete health testing on both parent breeds and be transparent about orthopedic, cardiac, and genetic screening. Buyers should also understand that no crossbreed can guarantee a specific coat type or health outcome.
For owners who are prepared for grooming, training, and companionship needs, the Bernedoodle can be an affectionate, intelligent, and entertaining addition to the family. With proper care and responsible breeding practices, this crossbreed can provide many years of loyalty, fun, and devoted companionship.
Breed Resources
Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America
Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA)