12 Fascinating Facts About the Bernedoodle — The Mix Everyone Loves

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Melissa Murray
2 days ago
6 min read

Key points:

Bernedoodles combine the gentle, loyal nature of the Bernese Mountain Dog with the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle.
These dogs come in a variety of sizes, colors, and personalities, making them one of the most adaptable designer breeds around.
With proper care, Bernedoodles can live up to 12-18 years and thrive as affectionate family companions.
Despite their hypoallergenic reputation, Bernedoodles need consistent grooming to stay healthy and happy.

If you’ve ever dreamt of a dog with the brains of a Poodle and the heart of a Bernese Mountain Dog, meet the Bernedoodle, which provides the best of both worlds wrapped in a fluffy, lovable package.

Known for their clownish charm, soulful eyes, and allergy-friendly coats, Bernedoodles have quickly become one of the most adored hybrid breeds in the world.

Whether you’re thinking about bringing one home or you’re already living with a curly-coated companion who has stolen your heart (and probably your couch), this guide has everything you need to know. Below, we’ll share 12 fascinating Bernedoodle facts that’ll make you love this breed even more.

1. Bernedoodles come in four sizes

Bernedoodles can fit into just about any lifestyle thanks to their variety of sizes. While there is some discrepancy among sources on classification, Bernedoodles are generally divided into four categories, with sizes depending mostly on whether the Poodle parent was standard, miniature, or toy.

The four sizes of a Bernedoodle are:

Standard Bernedoodle: 23-29 inches, 70-90 lbs
Medium Bernedoodle: 20-26 inches, 40-50 lbs
Mini Bernedoodle: 18-22 inches, 25-40 lbs
Micro Bernedoodle: 12-17 inches, 15-24 lbs

No matter the variety, all Bernedoodles bring the same goofy charm and people-loving personality.

2. The Bernedoodle lifespan can reach up to 18 years

Bernedoodles are in it for the long haul. While the Standard Bernedoodle tends to live around 12-15 years, Mini and Micro Bernedoodles often reach 14-18 years, in part due to the idea of “hybrid vigor.”

This potential benefit means that some first-generation mixed-breed dogs may have a lower risk of certain inherited health issues compared with their purebred parents. However, mixed breeds can still inherit genetic conditions, so it’s not a guarantee of perfect health.

3. They’re known for a friendly, goofy temperament

Bernedoodles are friendly, affectionate, and intelligent, but also full of silly antics that keep their families laughing.

The Bernedoodle’s temperament and easygoing nature makes them fantastic with children and other pets. They thrive on human connection and feel happiest when they’re right in the middle of the action (or as the center of attention).

Fluffy black and white dog with tongue out, surrounded by lush green leaves, exudes happiness and playfulness.

4. Bernedoodles are highly intelligent

With a Poodle parent, it’s no surprise Bernedoodles are star students. They love learning new tricks, mastering puzzles, and showing off for praise. Their intelligence makes them highly trainable, but also means they need mental stimulation to stay content.

Without enough to do, a bored Bernedoodle might decide your shoes, the rug, or even your bed is the next enrichment activity. Keep things interesting with puzzle feeders, hide-and-seek games, or scent work sessions. They’ll thank you with good manners and that signature Bernedoodle grin.

5. Their coats can be curly, wavy, or straight

A Bernedoodle’s gorgeous coat is one of their most prized attributes. Their coats can be curly, wavy, or straight, each bringing its own texture and level of maintenance. Curly-coated Bernedoodles shed the least but need the most grooming to prevent matting. Wavy coats, which are most common, strike the perfect balance between soft and manageable. Straight coats resemble the Berner’s silky fur and tend to shed a bit more.

Their colors are just as varied as their coat types, with Bernedoodles exhibiting black, white, brown, cream, apricot, sable, phantom, and the beloved tricolor that mimics the Bernese Mountain Dog’s signature look. Some even inherit merle markings, giving them an extra dose of uniqueness.

6. They’re considered hypoallergenic

Although the theory that hypoallergenic dogs do not shed is floating around (much like their fur), no dog is truly non-shedding. However, Bernedoodles come pretty close. Their coats trap loose hair and dander, reducing what ends up on your floors and furniture, making them a wonderful option for allergy-prone families.

Person carrying fluffy, panting dog on a path

7. Grooming is a big commitment

A Bernedoodle’s coat might be gorgeous, but it doesn’t stay that way on its own. Expect to brush several times a week, schedule professional grooming every 6-8 weeks, and clean their ears regularly to prevent infections.

Many owners choose a low-maintenance “teddy bear cut,” which keeps their coat short and fluffy without daily detangling, although regular brushing needs to happen at home to prevent matting.

8. Bernedoodle puppies can be pricey

Bernedoodles are in high demand, and that means a higher price tag. You’ll typically pay $2,000-$5,000 for a puppy from a responsible breeder, depending on coat color, size, and generation (like F1 or F1B). Tricolor and mini Bernedoodles often cost more since they’re harder to produce.

It’s worth noting that good breeders perform extensive health testing on the parent dogs. That extra investment upfront helps ensure a healthier, happier puppy, and fewer costly veterinarian visits later.

9. They’re a newer designer breed

Bernedoodles haven’t been around for long. In fact, they were first intentionally bred in 2003 by Sherry Rupke in Canada. Her goal was to combine the Poodle’s smarts and low-shedding coat with the Bernese Mountain Dog’s loving, loyal nature. In just two decades, Bernedoodles have gone from rare to wildly popular, popping up in family homes, therapy programs, and even social media fame. Their friendly disposition and photogenic faces have made them a standout doodle breed.

10. Physical and mental activity is a must

Bernedoodles are athletic, but they’re not a high-octane breed that requires intense daily exercise. About 30-60 minutes of activity per day — a long walk, some backyard fetch, or a swim — is usually enough to keep them happy.

Standard Bernedoodles may need a bit more movement, while Mini and Micro varieties are content with shorter bursts. Too little exercise can lead to restlessness or anxiety, so plan on daily playtime and mental enrichment to keep your pooch happy and your home intact.

11. They love to swim

Many Bernedoodles are natural-born swimmers, thanks to their Poodle roots. Whether it’s chasing a ball into the lake or splashing in a backyard pool, they tend to dive right in, sometimes literally. Swimming is also a great low-impact workout for dogs with joint issues, especially larger Standards. Always introduce water gradually and supervise closely, especially around deep or open bodies of water.

12. Bernedoodles are generally healthy, but not immune to issues

Crossbreeding helps diversify genetics, which can reduce the risk of certain hereditary conditions. Still, Bernedoodles can inherit health issues like elbow or hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), allergies, and ear infections. Routine veterinary visits, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight all contribute to long-term wellness.

Ask your veterinarian about regular joint screenings or eye exams, as early detection is key to a happy, active life.

Fluffy black, white, and brown puppy with a green collar on a plain white background

Is a Bernedoodle right for you?

If you’re looking for a loyal, social, and intelligent dog who fits seamlessly into family life, the Bernedoodle might be the perfect match. They require consistent grooming, attention, and affection, but in return, they’ll give you years of unconditional love.

Before adopting, make sure to consider factors like size, activity level, and grooming needs. And don’t forget to protect your pup’s future. Pumpkin Dog Insurance can help cover the cost of eligible vet bills, so you can focus more on cuddles and less on expenses.

Fetch your free quote today!

FAQS

Do Bernedoodles shed?

Bernedoodles are low-shedding, so they may be a good hypoallergenic breed choice for people with allergies. Regular grooming helps reduce loose hair and dander, but you should always spend time with a specific dog first to see if they will trigger an allergy flare.

How much do Bernedoodles cost?

Prices typically range from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on your Bernedoodle’s size, color, and breeder.

Are Bernedoodles aggressive?

No, outright aggression is very uncommon. Bernedoodles are naturally affectionate and social when properly trained and socialized.

How big do Bernedoodles get?

Standard Bernedoodles can reach up to 90 pounds, while Minis and Micros are much smaller, typically weighing under 40 pounds.

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