Do Bernedoodles have undercoats? Yes, It’s True!

A common question about Bernedoodles is whether they have undercoats. The answer is yes, Bernedoodles can have undercoats, though it varies depending on their specific genetic makeup. Generally, dogs have two types of coats: an undercoat and an overcoat. In Bernedoodles, the undercoat is often referred to as their hair coat. As they grow, Bernedoodles may shed some of their hair and their coat can change color, typically lightening from black to silver due to the influence of their Poodle ancestry?.

Bernedoodles’ coats can be wavy, curly, or straight. Wavy coats, also known as fleece coats, are a blend of both parent breeds and are usually low to non-shedding. Curly coats, resembling the Poodle’s, shed the least and are often preferred by those with allergies. Straight coats, more akin to the Bernese Mountain Dog’s, tend to shed more and are considered lower maintenance?. The coat type and potential for color changes are influenced by the dog’s genetics. While it is difficult to predict the exact coat type of a Bernedoodle puppy, by the time they are around 6 to 8 months old, their adult coat will start to become evident. Unfortunately, there is no test currently available to determine if a Bernedoodle carries the fading gene responsible for these color changes?. To minimize coat fading, breeders often select Poodle parents that do not carry the fading gene. Regular grooming is essential for maintaining a Bernedoodle’s coat, especially if it is wavy or curly, to prevent matting and maintain its appearance

Bernedoodle Undercoat Types

Bernedoodles are a crossbreed between Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles, resulting in coats that can vary widely in color, thickness, and texture. First-generation Bernedoodles (F1) typically exhibit more predictable traits inherited from their parents compared to later generations. Bernedoodles can come in a range of colors, including black, brown, and solid black. They are also available in single-color, bi-color, and tri-color variations. The most popular color pattern is the tri-color coat, which features a combination of white, black, and brown, resembling the Bernese Mountain Dog. Tri-color Bernedoodles often have evenly distributed colors, which many people find appealing?.

Coat Types

Bernedoodles generally have thick hair, which helps them endure both cold and warm weather. They can have three main types of coats: straight, wavy, and curly.

1. Straight Hair Coat

• • The straight hair coat is the least hypoallergenic and tends to shed the most. Although called “straight,” it may have a slight wave. The length and texture depend on the parents’ hair. Straight-haired Bernedoodles are less common than their curly and wavy-coated counterparts.

2. Wavy Hair Coat

• • • The wavy coat, also known as the fleece coat, is the most common among Bernedoodles. This coat type sheds less or not at all and provides a flowing appearance. It strikes a balance between the Poodle’s curls and the Bernese Mountain Dog’s straight hair.

3. Curly Hair Coat

• • Curly-haired Bernedoodles are the most hypoallergenic and have tight curls similar to a Poodle’s. While they do shed, the hair typically does not scatter, making them ideal for people with allergies. Regular trimming and brushing are necessary to maintain the coat’s condition?.