Quick Answer:
The Bernedoodle is a Bernese Mountain Dog – Poodle cross that comes in standard (50–90 lbs), mini (25–49 lbs), and tiny (10–24 lbs) sizes. They typically have wavy to curly, low-shedding coats that require professional grooming every 6–8 weeks and daily brushing to prevent mats. They are gentle, intelligent, and excellent family dogs with a lifespan of 12–18 years. Key health concerns include hip/elbow dysplasia, eye conditions, and Addison's disease.
Breed Overview
The Bernedoodle is a designer crossbreed created by crossing a Bernese Mountain Dog with a Poodle. First intentionally bred in 2003 by Sherry Rupke of SwissRidge Kennels in Ontario, Canada, the Bernedoodle was developed to combine the Bernese Mountain Dog's gentle, loyal temperament with the Poodle's intelligence, athleticism, and low-shedding coat.
One of the key motivations behind the cross was to address the Bernese Mountain Dog's tragically short lifespan. Purebred Bernese typically live only 6–8 years, largely due to a high cancer rate. By crossing with Poodles, breeders aimed to increase longevity through hybrid vigor, and Bernedoodles typically live 12–18 years depending on size.
Like other Doodle breeds, Bernedoodles are not recognized by major kennel clubs. However, they have rapidly grown in popularity and are now one of the most sought-after designer breeds. Their combination of a striking tri-color coat, low shedding, gentle temperament, and trainable intelligence makes them appealing to a wide range of families, including those with allergies.
Bernedoodle Sizes
Bernedoodles come in three sizes determined by the size of the Poodle parent. Understanding the size differences helps you choose the right fit for your living situation and lifestyle.
Standard
Bernese x Standard Poodle
- Weight: 50–90 lbs
- Height: 23–29 inches
- Best for: Houses with yards
Mini
Bernese x Mini Poodle
- Weight: 25–49 lbs
- Height: 18–22 inches
- Best for: Most homes
Tiny / Toy
Bernese x Toy Poodle
- Weight: 10–24 lbs
- Height: 12–17 inches
- Best for: Apartments
Standard Bernedoodles are the most popular and the closest in size and temperament to the original Bernese Mountain Dog. Mini Bernedoodles offer a more manageable size while retaining the breed's gentle nature. Tiny Bernedoodles are the rarest and can be harder to find from reputable breeders, as the significant size difference between the Bernese and Toy Poodle makes ethical breeding more complex.
Coat Types & Colors
The Bernedoodle's coat is one of its most defining features, and the type of coat your Bernedoodle develops has a major impact on grooming requirements and shedding levels. There are three main coat types, largely determined by the furnishing genes inherited from each parent.
Curly Coat
The most Poodle-like coat with tight curls. Sheds the least and is the most allergy-friendly, but requires the most grooming. Curly coats mat quickly and need daily brushing and professional grooming every 6–8 weeks. Most F1B Bernedoodles (75% Poodle) have curly coats.
Wavy / Fleece Coat
The most common Bernedoodle coat type, with loose waves or gentle curls. Sheds minimally and is relatively easy to maintain compared to curly coats. Still requires regular brushing (every other day) and professional grooming every 8–10 weeks. Most F1 Bernedoodles have wavy coats.
Straight Coat
The least common, most Bernese-like coat. Straight-coated Bernedoodles shed more than their wavy or curly counterparts and are not considered hypoallergenic. They are the easiest to maintain day-to-day but require more cleanup due to shedding.
Popular Color Patterns
The most coveted Bernedoodle color is the tri-color pattern inherited from the Bernese Mountain Dog: black, white, and rust/tan markings. This striking coloring commands the highest prices from breeders. Other common colors include solid black, black and white (bi-color), sable, phantom (black with tan points), and merle (in Australian Bernedoodles). Coat color can lighten significantly as Bernedoodles mature, especially in those carrying the fading gene from the Poodle side.
Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks is essential for keeping a Bernedoodle's coat mat-free
Temperament & Personality
Bernedoodles are widely praised for their gentle, affectionate nature. They inherit the Bernese Mountain Dog's calm devotion and the Poodle's playful intelligence, creating a dog that is both a cuddly companion and an enthusiastic playmate. Most Bernedoodles are deeply bonded to their families and thrive on being included in daily activities.
They are typically excellent with children, showing patience and gentleness even with younger kids. Their moderate energy level means they are happy to play in the yard but equally content to curl up on the couch for movie night. This adaptability is one of the breed's most appealing qualities.
Some Bernedoodles can be cautious or reserved with strangers initially, a trait inherited from the Bernese side. Early socialization helps them develop confidence and friendliness with new people. They also tend to be sensitive dogs that respond poorly to harsh training methods, preferring positive reinforcement and gentle guidance.
Exercise & Activity Needs
Bernedoodles have moderate exercise needs, typically requiring 30 to 60 minutes of activity per day. Standard Bernedoodles need more exercise than minis or toys. They enjoy walks, hiking, swimming, and interactive play sessions. Their Poodle heritage gives them a natural affinity for water, and many Bernedoodles are enthusiastic swimmers.
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for this intelligent cross. Puzzle toys, training sessions, nose work games, and food-dispensing toys help keep their minds engaged. A bored Bernedoodle can develop destructive habits, so variety in their daily routine is important.
Unlike some high-energy breeds, Bernedoodles are generally good at matching their owner's energy level. They can be active hiking partners on weekends and calm couch companions on weekdays, making them versatile family dogs.
Grooming & Coat Care
Bernedoodle grooming is the single biggest commitment of owning this breed. While they shed less than many breeds, their thick, wavy to curly coats are highly prone to matting. Mats form when loose hairs get trapped in the coat and tangle together, eventually pulling on the skin and causing discomfort or even skin infections.
Daily brushing with a slicker brush is the foundation of Bernedoodle coat care. Brush all the way down to the skin, not just the surface of the coat, using a technique called line brushing. After brushing, run a metal comb through the coat to catch any remaining tangles. Pay extra attention to high-friction areas that mat first: behind the ears, under the collar, armpits, groin, and where the legs meet the body.
Professional Grooming
Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks is essential for Bernedoodles. A full grooming session includes bathing, blow-drying, full-body haircut, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and sanitary trimming. Popular Bernedoodle haircut styles include the teddy bear cut (1–2 inches all over with a rounded face), the lamb cut (shorter body with fluffier legs), and the puppy cut (uniform length all over).
- Brushing: Daily with a slicker brush, followed by a metal comb. Non-negotiable for curly and wavy coats.
- Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks at home, or as part of professional grooming. Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner designed for curly coats.
- Haircuts: Every 6–8 weeks. Keep the coat at a manageable length; longer coats look beautiful but mat faster.
- Ear care: Clean ears weekly. Bernedoodles with ear furnishings may need hair plucked from the ear canal to prevent infections.
- Nail trimming: Every 2–3 weeks. Overgrown nails hidden by fluffy paw fur are a common issue.
Grooming Cost Estimate
Professional Bernedoodle grooming typically costs $75–$120 per session for standard sizes and $60–$90 for minis. Severely matted coats incur additional fees of $20–$50. Budget approximately $600–$1,000+ per year for professional grooming on a 6–8 week schedule. See our dog grooming cost guide for more details.
Grooming Tools for Bernedoodles
Dremel PawControl Dog Nail Grinder
4 speed settings with LED light for precision. Quiet motor reduces pet anxiety. Easy cordless use.
Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush
Professional-grade slicker brush for doodles, poodles, and long-coated breeds. Removes mats without pulling.
Andis Excel 5-Speed Dog Clipper
Professional detachable blade clipper with 5 speed settings. Quiet rotary motor for nervous dogs.
As an Amazon Associate, OurPetGroomer earns from qualifying purchases. Product prices are approximate and may change. We only recommend products we believe will benefit your pet.
Health Issues
One of the primary advantages of the Bernedoodle cross is improved health and longevity compared to the purebred Bernese Mountain Dog. However, Bernedoodles can still inherit health conditions from either parent breed. Choosing a reputable breeder who performs comprehensive health testing on both parents significantly reduces the risk of genetic issues.
Hip & Elbow Dysplasia — The Primary Concern
Both Bernese Mountain Dogs and Standard Poodles are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, making it the most common inherited condition in Bernedoodles. The joints develop abnormally, leading to arthritis, pain, and reduced mobility. Standard Bernedoodles are at higher risk due to their larger size.
Prevention: Choose breeders who provide OFA or PennHIP certifications for both parents. Maintain a healthy weight, avoid excessive exercise on hard surfaces during puppyhood, and discuss joint supplements with your vet. Treatment ranges from $500–$2,000 for conservative management to $3,500–$7,000 for surgical intervention.
Eye Conditions
Bernedoodles can inherit progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cataracts, and other eye conditions from both parent breeds. Reputable breeders screen for PRA through DNA testing and perform annual CAER eye exams. Early detection through regular veterinary eye exams allows for better management.
Skin Issues & Allergies
The thick, dense coat of the Bernedoodle can trap moisture and debris close to the skin, leading to hot spots, bacterial infections, and fungal issues. Some Bernedoodles also develop environmental or food allergies that cause itching, ear infections, and skin irritation. Regular grooming, proper coat drying after baths or swimming, and a high-quality diet help prevent skin problems.
Addison's Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism)
Inherited primarily from the Bernese Mountain Dog side, Addison's disease occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones. Symptoms can be vague and episodic, including lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, muscle weakness, and shaking. Left untreated, it can cause a life-threatening crisis. Once diagnosed, the condition is manageable with lifelong hormone replacement therapy.
| Health Condition | Inherited From | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Hip/Elbow Dysplasia | Both parents | $500–$7,000 |
| Eye Conditions (PRA, cataracts) | Both parents | $300–$3,500 |
| Skin Issues/Allergies | Both parents | $200–$2,000/year |
| Addison's Disease | Bernese parent | $50–$200/month (lifelong) |
The Bernese Mountain Dog contributes the tri-color pattern and gentle temperament to the Bernedoodle
Feeding & Nutrition
Feeding requirements for Bernedoodles vary significantly by size. Standard Bernedoodles typically need 2.5 to 4 cups of high-quality dry food per day, minis need 1.5 to 2.5 cups, and tiny/toy Bernedoodles need 1 to 1.5 cups. Divide daily portions into two meals for adults; puppies should eat three to four smaller meals until six months of age.
Choose a food formulated for your Bernedoodle's size category. Large-breed formulas for standard Bernedoodles include controlled calcium and phosphorus levels to support healthy joint development. Look for foods with named animal proteins as the primary ingredient and avoid artificial preservatives, colors, and excessive fillers.
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid supplements support skin and coat health, which is particularly important for maintaining the Bernedoodle's thick coat. Biotin supplements may also improve coat quality. For larger Bernedoodles, joint supplements with glucosamine and chondroitin are worth discussing with your veterinarian as a preventive measure.
Is a Bernedoodle Right for You?
Great fit if you...
- Want a gentle, affectionate family companion
- Need a low-shedding dog for allergy considerations
- Can commit to daily brushing and regular grooming
- Have the budget for professional grooming ($600–$1,000+/year)
- Are home for much of the day
- Want an intelligent, trainable dog
Not ideal if you...
- Do not have time for daily coat maintenance
- Cannot afford regular professional grooming
- Want a low-maintenance dog
- Are away from home for long hours
- Want a predictable appearance and temperament
- Expect a completely non-shedding dog
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Bernedoodles shed?▼
Bernedoodles are generally low shedding, especially those with curlier coats. Curly coats shed the least, wavy coats shed minimally, and straight coats can shed moderately. Even low-shedding Bernedoodles require significant daily grooming to prevent matting — they trade shedding for high-maintenance coat care.
How much does Bernedoodle grooming cost?▼
Professional Bernedoodle grooming typically costs $75 to $120 per session for standard sizes and $60 to $90 for minis. Severely matted coats may incur additional fees. Budget $600 to $1,000+ per year for regular professional grooming on a 6–8 week schedule.
What sizes do Bernedoodles come in?▼
Bernedoodles come in three sizes. Standard (50–90 lbs, 23–29 inches), Mini (25–49 lbs, 18–22 inches), and Tiny/Toy (10–24 lbs, 12–17 inches). Size depends on the Poodle parent — Standard Poodle, Miniature Poodle, or Toy Poodle respectively.
Are Bernedoodles good family dogs?▼
Yes, Bernedoodles are excellent family dogs. They inherit the Bernese's gentle, affectionate temperament and the Poodle's intelligence. They are typically patient with children, friendly with other pets, and eager to please. Their moderate energy level makes them adaptable to various lifestyles.
What health problems do Bernedoodles have?▼
Common health issues include hip and elbow dysplasia, eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy, skin allergies and hot spots, and Addison's disease from the Bernese side. Crossbreeding may reduce the cancer risk that plagues purebred Bernese Mountain Dogs. Reputable breeders perform health testing on both parents.
Related Breed Guides
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Grooming Schedule
- BrushingDaily
- BathingEvery 4–6 weeks
- Professional groomEvery 6–8 weeks
- Ear cleaningWeekly
- Nail trimmingEvery 2–3 weeks
- Dental care3x per week