Bernedoodle Breed – A Smart Loyal & Intelligent Dog

The Bernedoodle is a unique hybrid breed that is different from other normal breeds. It is a cross between the Bernese mountain dog and the poodle, combining the best traits of both. The Bernese mountain dog is a Swiss breed, while the poodle is a German breed. Some people misspell the Bernedoodle dogs as Burma Doodle, Bernadoodle, Bernie doodle, Bernidoodle, or Burnadoodle. It is currently the most popular cross-breed in the US, Canada, and the UK.

First Bernedoodle Dog – History

In 2003, a pioneering breeder named Sherry Rupke accomplished the first-ever cross between a Bernese mountain dog and a poodle. This was a significant achievement in the field of dog breeding, as the Bernese and poodle breeds are quite distinct from one another. Rupke’s primary motivation for this crossbreed was to create a dog that combined the striking appearance of a Bernese with the intelligence and trainability of a poodle.

One of the key advantages of this crossbreed is the potential to minimize the health issues commonly associated with poodles. Poodles are known to have a higher risk of certain genetic diseases, such as hip dysplasia and eye problems. By combining the poodle’s unique intelligence with the Bernese’s robust physical characteristics, Rupke hoped to create a more resilient and healthy dog breed.

In the years since her pioneering crossbreed, Rupke has become recognized as one of the most experienced and knowledgeable breeders of Bernedoodle dogs. Her farm, SwissRidge Kennel, is renowned in the industry and has produced many healthy and happy Bernedoodle puppies.

Main Characteristics

People love dogs and always want a smart and loyal dog for their company. If you are looking for the best intelligent and loyal dog, the Bernedoodle is a perfect choice for you. It’s also known as Bernedoodle mountain poo.

The crossbreed between the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle will give you a Bernedoodle.

It’s a perfect combination of the intelligence of the poodle and the loyal nature of Bernese. Initially, when the breeder started breeding, they got unhealthy puppies with different health issues. After years of practice, they began to produce healthy dogs.  Now many breeders offer health guarantees and certificates for up to five years.

These dogs are perfect for families as they are smart, Goofy, loyal, loving, and enthusiastic. They have a life span of 7 to 18 years, depending upon the environment and size.

Parents

1. The Bernes Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a remarkable breed that is known for its impressive size, strength, and beauty. These dogs are not only physically imposing but also possess a sweet and affectionate nature that makes them great companions. Berners are generally calm and laid-back, but they are always eager to play and interact with their owners, whom they love to please.

One of the most striking features of the Bernese Mountain Dog is its size. These dogs can grow to be over 27 inches tall and weigh up to 115 pounds. They have a thick, silky, and moderately long coat that is tricolored, with jet black, clear white, and rust-colored fur. The unique markings on their coat and face are a hallmark of the breed and add to their majestic appearance. Their dark eyes are intelligent and expressive, giving them a look of wisdom and understanding.

Despite their imposing size, Berners are hardy and thrive in cold weather. They were originally bred to work on farms and pastures in Switzerland, where their strength and intelligence were put to good use. These dogs are excellent workers and are capable of multitasking, making them ideal for a variety of tasks.

Berners are also great with families and are particularly gentle with children. They have a natural affinity for people and love to be around their owners. However, they tend to become more attached to one person and will often follow them around and seek their attention.

In addition to their physical attributes, Berners are also known for their dignified and aloof demeanor. They are imposing but not threatening and maintain a sense of calm and composure around strangers. Overall, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a remarkable breed that combines strength, beauty, and affection in a unique and captivating way.

2. The Poodle

The Poodle is a dog breed that has been known for its elegance, pride, and cleverness. It has won many best-in-show awards, and it’s easy to see why. Behind the blue ribbons, impressive hairdos, and regal attitude, you will find an affectionate family dog with an ancient history and many talents.

Poodles are considered one of the most intelligent breeds in the world, and they have a lot of abilities and skills. They have excellent problem-solving skills and are highly trainable, making them suitable for various tasks. They have been used as hunting dogs, guide dogs, and circus performers, among other things.

However, as with any intelligent breed, it is essential to keep them mentally and physically stimulated, as bored Poodles can become destructive. Owners who can meet their dog’s needs will find a loving, smart, trainable, and loyal family companion. Poodles are also known for their hypoallergenic coat, which makes them an ideal pet for people with allergies.

If you are considering adopting a Poodle, it is advisable to prioritize rescue organizations or shelters to provide a loving home to a dog in need. Adopting from a shelter or rescue organization is a great way to help dogs in need and provide them with a second chance at life. However, if you decide to purchase a Poodle puppy, it is crucial to choose a reputable breeder.

Conduct thorough research to ensure that the breeder follows ethical practices and prioritizes the well-being of their dogs. Reputable Poodle breeders prioritize the health and temperament of their dogs, conduct necessary health screenings, and provide a nurturing environment for the puppies. This active approach ensures that you bring home a healthy and happy pup while discouraging unethical breeding practices.

Sizes

Bernedoodle dogs are available in three distinct sizes, namely Standard, Mini, and Tiny. These sizes are determined by the different generations of crossing. It is important to note that the size of a Bernedoodle is a crucial factor to consider when selecting a pet. Therefore, it is essential to understand the differences between the three sizes to make an informed decision. The Standard Bernedoodle is the largest of the three, followed by the Mini Bernedoodle, and the Tiny Bernedoodle is the smallest. By understanding the differences between these sizes, one can choose the most suitable Bernedoodle for their needs.

• Standard Bernedoodle
• Mini Bernedoodle
• Tiny Bernedoodle

Colors

The color of a Bernedoodle dog is determined by the colors of its parents. There are primarily three colors: black, white, and brown, with some Bernedoodles having a combination of these colors. However, a Bernedoodle can also have other colors. They can be a single color, two-colored, or three-colored.

Coat Types

Bernedoodles are a breed of dogs known for their curly and long coats. While some Bernedoodles have straighter layers, others have curlier coats that can be harder to groom. Due to the thickness of their coats, they are well-protected from the environment, but in the summer season, the hot climate can be a challenge for them. To prevent their coats from getting matted, Bernedoodles with curlier layers need to be brushed more often. Some pet owners brush their Bernedoodles’ coats daily to keep them straight. Additionally, trimming the layers once a week or month, depending on how quickly they grow, is necessary to maintain their coat’s health.

Personality

Bernedoodles are a breed of dog that inherit many useful features and the best personality traits from Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles. They are highly intelligent, hardworking, loyal, and a bit goofy. However, it’s important to note that every dog can have different characteristics depending on its parents.

These furry friends love to be around families and especially enjoy the company of children and other dogs. They are naturally social and crave interaction with people. To ensure they remain well-adjusted, it’s best to socialize them from an early age. It can be challenging to motivate them for training, but once they get started, their intelligent brains help them to learn commands quickly.

Mini and Tiny Bernedoodles are typically perfect for households. They have a high energy level and need a short walk each day. However, if they spend most of their time playing with people at home, they don’t necessarily require a daily walk.

Health and Lifespan

Bernedoodle dogs are typically healthier than their parents due to cross-breeding which minimizes the risk of genetically inherited diseases. Compared to Bernese mountain dogs, Bernedoodles have fewer chances of getting cancer. However, they can still experience some health problems such as skin issues, eye problems, hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia, especially in hot climates. While all breeding dogs can be affected by different health conditions, Bernedoodles are generally healthy. Some common health problems that Bernedoodles can experience include:

• Elbow and Hip dysplasia
• Eye problem
• Von Willebrand’s Disease

The average lifespan of a standard Bernedoodle is 12-15 years, while mini Bernedoodles can live up to 17 years, and tiny Bernedoodles can live up to 18 years.

Behavior with Other Pets

Bernedoodles are known for their friendly and calm behavior when interacting with other pets. However, it’s crucial to train them from an early age and supervise their interactions with other animals, especially mini and tiny Bernedoodles who might be more vulnerable. Although Bernedoodles love spending time outside and playing with humans, they can tolerate short periods of time in a shelter if required.

Things to keep in Mind Before Owning a Bernedoodle

For your ease, we have consulted some professionals and gathered information about the Bernedoodle, and tried to make it easy for you. As we know, the Bernedoodle is super intelligent and can adapt behavior according to the environment. Let’s see what we should keep in our minds before owning a bernedoodle as a pet.

1. Feeding

Taking care of your Bernedoodle involves several important aspects, including feeding, exercising, training, and regular testing for health issues. Feeding your Bernedoodle is crucial to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients for their growth and development. As a puppy, they require a minimum of four meals a day, while mature Bernedoodles can be fed twice a day. Frequent meals can help reduce the risk of bloat, especially for larger Bernedoodles. It’s important to provide high-quality, energetic food that meets their daily nutritional requirements. Calorie requirements vary based on size

1. Standard           1400 to 1800 calories
2. Mini                  750 to 1400 calories
3. Tiny                   400 to 960 calories

2. Exercising

Generally, the Bernese mountain dog is less active than a poodle, which is more active and energetic. So we can say the Bernedoodle gets the energetic behavior from the poodle. They love exercise and hike for hours. If you are looking for walking, they will be your perfect partner.

A standard Bernedoodle can walk up to 60 minutes a day. A dog must need some exercise daily, depending upon its weight and size. A dog with a weight of 40 pounds generally needs 30 minutes of exercise daily. You can also walk your little puppy for 4 to 5 minutes daily without affecting his growth. But over-exercising can be dangerous for your little puppy, so keep the 4-5min rule in your mind.

3. Training

You also have to take care of your Bernedoodle’s training. Proper training from a young age is required. Hopefully, after learning from a young age, he will not create any hurdles in his future life. Bernedoodle should learn how to behave in different environments, especially with other pets.

Some puppies are stubborn, if unluckily you get a stubborn puppy, you need to reduce your expectations. Just keep trying; hopefully, he will learn some manners. But don’t leave your efforts. The training is not an easy task because the dogs don’t like to train, but it becomes easy for them when they start picking.

4. Regular Testing 

Health is a major thing when we talk about taking care of Bernedoodle. Generally, these dogs are healthier, but they can suffer from some health issues inherited from their parents. Regular testing is required for the following diseases.

• Sebaceous Adenitis
• Degenerative Myelopathy
• Patella
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy
• Macro Thrombo Cytopenia

Why do we Need to Wait so Long for a Bernedoodle?

Many people wonder why it takes so long to get a Bernedoodle puppy. The truth is that creating a successful breeding program is a difficult and time-consuming process. Bernedoodle breeding began around 2003, and it can be challenging to achieve the desired results, no matter the size of the Bernese or poodle involved. It takes time to ensure the breeding is successful and check the puppies’ health. If a puppy is imperfect, it must return to the drawing board.

In addition, dogs only go into heat twice a year, which makes the breeding process even more unpredictable. Bernese litters may be smaller than expected, and even when a large litter arrives, the puppies may not meet the exact expectations. Sometimes, the puppies may not even have the desired coat or color, causing further delays.

However, if you are open-minded and willing to compromise on color and coat, you may be able to get your puppy sooner. Waiting for the perfect puppy may take longer, but it is ultimately worth it. So, while the wait may be frustrating, you must ensure you get the best puppy according to your desires.

How Can I Find The Best Breeder?

Looking for the best breeder to buy a Bernedoodle can be daunting, especially if you’re not familiar with the breed. While the size, color, and appearance of the dog can easily be assessed, it’s important to also consider its habits and health. Health certificates are a good indicator of a Bernedoodle’s health, and a reputable breeder should provide you with them.

To ensure you are dealing with a good breeder, look for the following signs:

1. They allow you to meet the puppy’s parents
2. They show you the puppy’s health certificates
3. They provide references
4. They are willing to provide support even after the puppy has been taken home
5. They offer health insurance and ensure the puppy is vaccinated
6. They are open to answering any questions you may have
7. They allow buyers to visit their breeding-house
8. They allow buyers to return puppies for a valid reason

By keeping these points in mind, you can make an informed decision when choosing a breeder for your Bernedoodle.

Is a Bernedoodle Right for You?

Male or Female – Which One is Better?

Both male and female Bernedoodle dogs are good according to their features. After all, every dog is an individual. Usually, the female has smaller size as compared to the male. Also, it is observed that female dogs are more laid back as compared to males.

When we talk about laziness, female is likely lazier as compared to males. Maybe he doesn’t like to walk and exercise compared to the male, who is more active and always ready to go for a walk. Male Bernedoodle is friendly and socializes as compared to females.

Conclusion

If you’re considering getting a Bernedoodle, there are a few things to keep in mind. While this breed is generally a good fit for most people, there are some exceptions. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Bernedoodles require a lot of human interaction, so if you have limited time, this may not be the best breed for you.
2. The breed’s low-to-non-shedding coat means you’ll spend less time, effort, and money on grooming.
3. If your Bernedoodle inherits the high energy of the poodle or the stubbornness of the Bernese (or both!), it will require more attention in terms of exercise and training, especially during the first few years.
4. If you have the time and energy to devote to a demanding dog, a Bernedoodle can become your best friend.