Bernedoodle vs Goldendoodle: Which Dog Breed Is Better?
Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles are two of the most popular doodle breeds in the world. Both are created by crossing a Poodle with another well-known dog breed, which results in intelligent, friendly, and low-shedding dogs that are ideal for families.
However, while these two breeds share many similarities, they also have important differences in temperament, size, grooming needs, and energy levels.
If you are trying to decide between a Bernedoodle and a Goldendoodle, this guide explains everything you need to know to choose the right dog for your lifestyle.
Bernedoodle vs Goldendoodle: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Bernedoodle | Goldendoodle |
|---|---|---|
| Parent breeds | Bernese Mountain Dog + Poodle | Golden Retriever + Poodle |
| Temperament | Loyal, calm, affectionate | Friendly, social, energetic |
| Size | 10–90 lbs depending on type | 15–90 lbs depending on type |
| Energy level | Moderate | High |
| Trainability | Intelligent but sometimes stubborn | Very eager to please |
| Grooming needs | High | High |
| Shedding | Low to moderate | Low |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years | 10–15 years |
| Best for | Families wanting a calmer dog | Active families |
What Is a Bernedoodle?
A Bernedoodle is a hybrid dog created by crossing a Bernese Mountain Dog with a Poodle. The breed was first intentionally developed in 2003 and quickly became popular because of its affectionate personality and teddy-bear appearance.
Bernedoodles are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and strong bond with their families.
Bernedoodle Key Traits
• Loyal and affectionate
• Calm personality compared to many doodle breeds
• Good family companion
• Intelligent and trainable
• Often protective of their owners
Because Bernese Mountain Dogs are naturally calm and gentle, Bernedoodles often have a more relaxed temperament than many other doodle mixes.
What Is a Goldendoodle?
A Goldendoodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. This hybrid breed first became popular in the 1990s as breeders attempted to create a dog with the intelligence of the Poodle and the friendly personality of the Golden Retriever.
Goldendoodles are widely known for their extremely social nature and high intelligence.
Goldendoodle Key Traits
• Extremely friendly and social
• Highly trainable
• Great family dog
• High energy levels
• Often used as therapy and service dogs
Because Golden Retrievers are naturally outgoing and eager to please, Goldendoodles are often very easy to train.
Bernedoodle vs Goldendoodle Temperament
Temperament is one of the biggest differences between these two breeds.
Bernedoodle Personality
Bernedoodles tend to be:
• Loyal and attached to their family
• Slightly calmer than many doodle breeds
• Sometimes stubborn during training
• Good watchdogs
Because they inherit traits from the Bernese Mountain Dog, they may be a bit more reserved with strangers.
Goldendoodle Personality
Goldendoodles are typically:
• Extremely friendly
• Very social with strangers
• Highly energetic
• Eager to please
They are often described as one of the most friendly doodle breeds, which is why they are frequently used as therapy dogs.
Bernedoodle vs Goldendoodle Size
Both breeds come in multiple sizes depending on the Poodle parent used in breeding.
Bernedoodle Sizes
• Standard Bernedoodle – 70 to 90 lbs
• Mini Bernedoodle – 25 to 50 lbs
• Tiny or Toy Bernedoodle – 10 to 24 lbs
Goldendoodle Sizes
• Standard Goldendoodle – 50 to 90 lbs
• Mini Goldendoodle – 15 to 35 lbs
• Toy Goldendoodle – 10 to 20 lbs
Overall, both breeds have very similar size ranges.
Bernedoodle vs Goldendoodle Grooming
Both dogs inherit their coat from the Poodle side, which means regular grooming is essential.
Typical grooming needs include:
• Brushing several times per week
• Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks
• Regular ear cleaning and nail trimming
Goldendoodles sometimes have slightly easier coats to manage, while Bernedoodles often have thicker coats due to the Bernese Mountain Dog genetics.
Bernedoodle vs Goldendoodle Energy Level
Energy level is an important factor when choosing a dog.
Bernedoodle
• Moderate energy
• Enjoy daily walks
• Usually calmer indoors
Goldendoodle
• High energy
• Requires more exercise
• Loves running and outdoor activities
Active families often prefer Goldendoodles because they enjoy constant activity.
Health Differences
Both breeds are generally healthy but may inherit conditions from their parent breeds.
Common Bernedoodle Health Issues
• Hip dysplasia
• Elbow dysplasia
• Bloat
• Certain heart conditions
Common Goldendoodle Health Issues
• Hip dysplasia
• Allergies
• Ear infections
• Patellar luxation
Responsible breeders perform health testing to reduce these risks.
Price Difference
The price of both breeds varies depending on the breeder, location, and generation.
Typical prices:
• Bernedoodle: $2,000 – $4,000
• Goldendoodle: $1,500 – $3,500
Bernedoodles are often slightly more expensive due to high demand and limited breeders.
Which Dog Is Better for Families?
Both breeds are excellent family dogs, but the best choice depends on your lifestyle.
Choose a Bernedoodle if you want:
• A calmer dog
• A loyal companion
• A slightly more protective breed
Choose a Goldendoodle if you want:
• A very social dog
• A highly trainable pet
• A dog with lots of energy
Final Verdict
Both Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles are intelligent, affectionate, and family-friendly dogs.
Bernedoodles tend to be calmer and more loyal, while Goldendoodles are often more energetic and extremely social.
The best choice ultimately depends on your lifestyle, activity level, and personal preference.
FAQs
Are Bernedoodles calmer than Goldendoodles?
Yes. Bernedoodles often have a calmer temperament due to their Bernese Mountain Dog genetics.
Which breed sheds less?
Both breeds are considered low-shedding, but shedding varies depending on the coat type.
Are Goldendoodles easier to train?
In general, Goldendoodles are slightly easier to train because Golden Retrievers are very eager to please.
Which breed is better for first-time dog owners?
Goldendoodles are often recommended for first-time owners because they are extremely friendly and trainable.
Do Bernedoodles bark more than Goldendoodles?
Bernedoodles may bark slightly more because they can be more protective of their family.
