Bernedoodle – The Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle Mix

The Bernedoodle is a cross between a Poodle and Bernese Mountain Dog.

Other popular names for the Bernedoodle are the ‘Bernese Mountain Poodle’ and the ‘Bernese Poodle’

Use the quick links below to find answers to all your Bernedoodle questions!

Or scroll on down for the whole story!

What is a Bernedoodle?

The Bernedoodle is the offspring of the purebred Poodle and the purebred Bernese Mountain Dog.

Unlike his purebred parents, the Bernedoodle is a newer generation crossbreed. And the outcome of cross breed matings is not as predictable as the outcome of a mating between two dogs of the same breed.

Your cute little Bernese Poodle could grow up to be a lot like his Poodle parent, or a lot more like his Mountain Dog ancestors

The unpredictability of crossbreeding is one of several issues that arise when people argue about whether cross breeding is a good thing or not. We’ll look at that debate in a moment.

But one of the first things you might want to know, if you are considering a gorgeous Bernedoodle puppy, is just how big will your fluffball grow?

How big do Bernedoodles get?

The size a Bernedoodle puppy will reach when full grown will depend to some extent on which type of Poodle one of his parents is.

• A Standard Poodle crossed with a Bernese Mountain Dog will produce the largest Bernedoodle. You could have a dog that reaches up to 27 inches in height and weighs a hefty 70lb to 80lbs. Possibly even more!
• A Miniature Poodle crossed with a Bernese Mountain Dog will result in a Mini Bernedoodle. This is likely to be a much smaller dog but there is plenty of scope for surprises with one parent being so large.
• And a Toy Poodle crossed with a Bernese Mountain Dog will give you the Tiny Bernedoodle.

Read on for a brief overview of the controversies of crossbreeding and see why there are valid points to both sides of the debate.

Common Debates about Crossbreeding

A crossbreed dog is also called a “hybrid” or a “designer dog.”

One thing many people like about purebred dogs is the fact that they have been deliberately bred throughout generations to ensure things like size, temperament, and physical characteristics remain consistent.

When crossbreeding a dog between two purebred parents, those above traits, along with many others, may vary from one puppy to another, especially if the parent breeds are very different.

But that doesn’t mean purebred dogs are perfect.

As many of us in the dog-loving community are aware, purebred dogs have become increasingly plagued by certain health issues. Most of these are caused by generations of overbreeding in progressively smaller gene pools.

Those who support crossbreeding claim the practice could be a solution to such health issues. Others disagree.

You can follow this link to read more about the  purebred vs mutts debate.

Let’s talk a bit more about the Bernedoodle, since he brought you here in the first place, let’s find out where his ancestors came from!

Where Does the Bernedoodle Come From?

Because crossbreeding is a newer practice, the Bernedoodle is a fresh addition to the dog world.

Luckily, we are able to learn more about him and what to expect by taking a look at the histories of his purebred parents.

Origins of the Poodle

Today, the Poodle is the national dog of France. But did you know he was originally bred in Germany nearly 400 years ago? Back then, the Poodle was best known for his skills in duck hunting!

In fact, that’s where the Poodle’s famous haircut came from. Utilized today mostly in show, the Poodle’s flamboyant coat style was originally designed for practical reasons.

The complex poms on his head, tail, chest, and legs were meant to help him swim more swiftly. They would also help protect the more sensitive parts of his body while he hunted in freezing waters.

It wasn’t long before the Poodle became known for more than just his hunting skills. Soon he was regaling audiences in the circus with his stunning coat. But it wasn’t just his beauty that had people mesmerized!

The Poodle is incredibly intelligent and quick to pick up tricks, so he was the perfect addition to theatrical acts.

It’s no surprise that the Poodle eventually found himself branching out from circus life to roam France and Europe, acompanying noblemen who intended to show him off for his extravagant coat and graceful gait.

Considering where the Poodle began, it’s safe to say he’s had a rags-to-riches history. But what about the Bernese Mountain Dog?

Let’s find out!

Origins of the Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog comes from Switzerland, where he could be found roaming the Swiss Alps.

Formerly known by locals as the Dürrbachhund, after the small town of Dürrbach from which he originated, the Bernese Mountain Dog was initially used as a working dog.

He was used to pull heavy loads and was widely used to help with farming tasks before industrial machinery became commonplace.

The Poodle and the Bernese Mountain Dog Today

Today, both the Poodle and the Bernese Mountain Dog are incredibly popular family pets, renowned for their intelligence, friendly nature, and work-ethic.

With two histories as rich as the Poodle’s and the Bernese Mountain Dog’s, it’s easy to see the appeal in an offspring that carries traits from both breeds.

Read on to learn more about the possible traits your Bernedoodle could inherit!

Personality of the Bernedoodle

As previously mentioned, crossbreeding comes with its share of controversy. One of the issues is the inability to predict with certainty the type of temperament your crossbreed could inherit from his purebred parents.

In this case, both the Poodle and the Bernese Mountain Dog share a few of the same behavioral traits that will more than likely be passed on to their Bernedoodle puppy.

For example, both the Poodle and the Bernese Mountain Dog are intelligent breeds who are very alert and friendly.

They bond well with their family members and enjoy taking part in family activities.

Are Bernedoodles good family dogs?

Both Poodles and Bernese Mountain dogs are known to do very well with children.

Like any large dog, they need to be well trained to ensure that they are safe and good company both at home and while visiting friends and family.

The Poodle, for example, makes a wonderful student who is eager to please and enjoys learning new tricks. He is incredibly active and will need a steady amount of exercise and play.

Despite his size, the Bernese Mountain Dog is more docile than his Poodle counterpart. He will enjoy lounging around the house and watching his family from a nice, cozy spot in the corner.

That’s not to say the Bernese Mountain Dog won’t enjoy a nice run in the yard. He also makes a great jogging or hiking partner. Remember, this dog was once a working breed, and he is used to walking long distances.

For this reason, the Bernese Mountain Dog will also require adequate exercise to remain fit and strong, just like the Poodle.

What Does a Bernedoodle Look Like?

It’s always going to be difficult to know exactly what a crossbreed puppy will look like. He could inherit a wide range of physical traits from either one of his purebred parents.

In this case, the Poodle and the Bernese Mountain Dog look as different as can be. So things like height, weight, coat color, and texture are going to vary depending on what parent the Bernedoodle takes after most.

To help identify some of the possible traits your Bernedoodle could inherit, we’ll look at the physical traits common to his parents.

Defining Characteristics of the Poodle

The Standard Poodle has a lean, muscular build and a curly coat that comes in three standard colors:
∙ Apricot
∙ Black
∙ Brown

The Poodle stands over 15 inches tall and weighs approximately 40-70 pounds.

Defining Characteristics of the Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is renowned for his massive size and stunning, tri-colored coat that is primarily black, tan, and white.

This large breed is famous for his beauty as well as his size, standing at a towering 27 inches tall and weighing in at 70-115 pounds!

Remember, your Bernedoodle could inherit any of the above traits.

Grooming the Bernedoodle

When it comes to a crossbreed like the Bernedoodle, we are dealing with a dog that has one parent who is hypoallergenic and the other who is not.

While the poodle does not shed, the Bernese Mountain Dog has a longer coat that sheds profusely and requires consistent brushing and grooming.

It’s more likely that your Bernedoodle will shed, even if it’s just slightly. We recommend brushing him with a wire brush to collect dead hair at least once a week.

Other than that, both the Poodle and the Bernese Mountain Dog only require occasional bathing, so you can count on the same for your Bernedoodle.

Your Bernedoodle will need his ears checked and cleaned weekly to avoid infection caused by waxy build-up and moisture.

He will also need regular nail trimming so as to not encounter splitting and cracking, as such occurrences can cause your Bernedoodle infection and pain.

Training and Exercising the Bernedoodle

As we’ve discussed above, the Poodle is slightly more active than the Bernese Mountain Dog.

But both breeds need adequate exercise, attention, and play.

The same goes for their Bernedoodle puppy!

We recommend daily walks and time to play and romp in the yard.

Your Bernedoodle may also enjoy trips to the local dog parks or hikes in the woods!

One thing to note is the Bernese Mountain Dog does not tolerate heat well, and this could easily translate to his Bernedoodle offspring.

Keep this in mind whenever letting your Bernedoodle outside to play for extended periods of time.

Of course, always make sure there is adequate shade and plenty of access to fresh water with any dog who enjoys being outside often.

As with all breeds, we recommend early socialization and training at an early age to ensure a well-adapted dog.

Lifespan and Health Issues of the Bernedoodle

As mentioned, it is still unclear if crossbreeding is a true solution to the generational health problems that have been problematic for purebred dogs.

For this reason, it’s best to be aware of all the health issues the Bernedoodle’s purebred parents are predisposed to.

For instance, the Poodle has a lifespan of 10-18 years.

She can be prone to epilepsy, hypoglycemia, Addison’s Disease, progressive retinal atrophy, thyroid issues, hip dysplasia, and bloat.

The Bernese Mountain Dog has a shorter lifespan that extends anywhere from 7-10 years.

He is most often predisposed to hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, bloat, and mast cell tumor.

As previously mentioned, the Bernese Mountain Dog does not do well in hotter environments.

You can avoid the risk of heatstroke in your Bernedoodle by being aware of outside temperatures when going for walks or allowing him time in the backyard by himself.

Early health screening for your Bernedoodle is an option we like to recommend.

This can help to prevent or prepare for certain health problems you may end up encountering in the future.

Is the Bernedoodle Right for Me?

Both the Poodle and the Bernese Mountain Dog are intelligent breeds who enjoy being around their family members and do well with children, so we can expect the Bernedoodle to behave similarly.

Odds are the Bernedoodle will also be a large, active crossbreed who will do best in homes with yards rather than in smaller apartments.

Also, remember that hotter climates may not be suitable for your Bernedoodle.

If you don’t mind a bit of shedding and if you have the ability to train and exercise your Bernedoodle on a consistent basis, then this just might be the perfect crossbreed for you!

Finding a Bernedoodle Puppy

Finding a Bernedoodle puppy from a reliable source is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your potential dog.

You can avoid a massive headache just by doing a bit of research and going through the proper resources.

When on the hunt for a puppy, we recommend looking at all your options. Do you want to go through a shelter? Or will you be looking for Bernedoodle breeders?

If you have your sights set on adopting your Bernedoodle from a local shelter or a Bernedoodle rescue, remember that there is a chance you may not find the crossbreed right away.

Don’t set yourself up for disappointment! Try calling your local shelters first and asking to be notified when a Bernedoodle arrives.

Also, be sure to ask about health screening options, temperament issues, and any backstory the shelter may have on your Bernedoodle, such as where he came from and how he wound up there.

How much are Bernedoodles?

If you plan on going to a breeder to purchase your Bernedoodle puppy, expect to drop anywhere from $500 to over $1000.

The Bernedoodle price will vary depending on the breeder and the Bernedoodle’s purebred parents. For example, if the breeder is well known and often produces high-quality show dogs, prepare to pay more.

If you are lucky, you may be able to find a Bernedoodle available for adoption from a shelter or rescue organization.

Keep in mind that although shelters are a fraction of the price of breeders, there will be adoption fees that can run anywhere from $50-$100.

On the flip side, shelters will often cover the initial veterinary fees, ensuring your Bernedoodle is healthy, happy, and ready to be brought home!

Bernedoodle breeders

Remember that not all breeders are responsible. Be sure to ask plenty of questions regarding temperamental and health issues with previous litters or the parents of your Bernedoodle.

Reputable breeders should be able to deliver certificates that prove their dogs have been screened for health and temperamental issues, so don’t be shy about asking for those.

If you would like more information and help on finding Bernedoodle puppies, you can visit your local AKC club.

To find a club in your area, visit www.AKC.org.

Good luck, and we hope your Bernedoodle brings you lots of joy for years to come!

References

• Louise Harper, A Kennel Club Book, Bernese Mountain Dog – A comprehensive Guide to Owning and Caring for your Dog
• Jerome Abadie, Benoit Hedan, Edouard Cadieu, Clotilde De Brito, Epidemoilogy, Pathology, and Genetics of Histiocytic Sarcoma in the Bernese Mountain Dog Breed, Journal of Heredity, Volume 100
• Borbala Turcsan, Adam Miklosi, Eniko Kubinyi, Owner Perceived Differences Between Mixed-Breed and Purebred Dogs
• Tiffani J Howell, Tammie King, Pauleen C Bennett, Puppy Parties and Beyond: the role of early age socialization practices on adult dog behavior, Volume 6, pages 143-153
• Domenico Santoro and Rosanna Marsella, Research in Veterinary Science,
  Volume 73, Issue 3, Pages 231-236
• Nathan B Sutter and Elaine A Ostrander, Dog Star Rising: The Canine Genetic System, Nature Reviews Genetics, Volume 5, pages 900-910
• Journal of Heredity, Volume 94, Issue 1, Analysis of Genetic Variation in 28 Dog Breed Populations With 100 Microsatellite Markers, D.N. Irion A.L. Schaffer, T.R. Famula, M.L. Eggleston, S.S. Hughes N. C. Pedersen
• Lowell Acumen DVM, DACVD, MBA, MOA, The Genetic Connection; a Guide to Health Problems in Purebred Dogs, Second Edition, 2011
• Purebred Vs Mutt-Common Objections to Mixed Breed Dogs
• Carol Beuchat Ph.D., The Myth of Hybrid Vigor in Dogs…Is A Myth