Though the term “designer dog” has managed to get tagged with some unfortunate connotations today, here’s one that truly embodies great design. The Bernedoodle is one of the most popular hybrid breeds trending today.
What Are Bernedoodles?
The sweet, cuddly, gentle, yet loyal, and lion-hearted Bernedoodle is a superb blend of the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle.
It’s the perfect option when you’re considering getting your first family dog because the whole idea of breeding them originally was to create a companion.
While the designer dog status means that you could pay a hefty sum for one of these, you may get lucky when you visit your local shelter the next time. Unfortunately, many Bernedoodles, like other exotic and unusual breeds, do end up in shelters when they’re abandoned or lose their way.
They’re certainly not meant to be show dogs or candidates for kennel club competitions. No two Bernedoodles are alike because the genes from both parental lines express themselves in different permutations and combinations, and you will find delightful variations in a single litter.
However, Bernedoodles have been inbred for several generations over the 21st century, and you may have a challenge on your hands if you’re looking for one that’s not temperamental, hyper, or stubborn due to poor breeding. If you’ve adopted a rescue dog, you may have to deal with a variety of behavior and/or health-related issues.
Let’s get to know more about the two amazing breeds that come together to create this cute and lively furry friend.
Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is big, powerful, and constructed for hard, physical work with a genetic legacy that harks back to ancient Roman mastiff hounds. Bred initially in Switzerland, they are strikingly gorgeous, affectionate, loyal, and have a calm, placid nature. Originally, they were bred to accompany Alpine herders through snowy mountain terrains and used as draft animals to pull carts and help out on the farm.
People are sometimes confused about whether this breed is the same as St Bernard, and though they’re cousins, there are major differences between the two.
- St Bernard is a giant dog, much larger and heavier than the Bernese
- The Bernese needs grooming as it has longer hair
- St Bernards are available in only two colors, while Bernese are available in tricolor
- Bernese live longer than St Bernards
Main Characteristics:
- Large, sturdy working dog
- Height: Males: 25-27 inches, Females: 23-26 inches
- Weight: Males: 80-120lbs, Females: 75-100lbs
- Dry-mouth breed
- Thick, silky, moderately long tri-colored coat in rust, white and black
- Highly muscular with a sturdy, wide back
- Dark, intelligent eyes
- Thrives in cold weather
- Head flat on top, with moderate-sized ears
- Straight, strong legs, low busy tail
- Teeth have a scissor bite
Temperament:
- Gets along with all in the family but is often attached to one
- Gentle with children, affectionate and patient
- Imposing, but not threatening
- Aloof with strangers
- Outdoor dogs and don’t do well in small confined apartment spaces
- Need lots of exercises but don’t have too much endurance
- Can move very fast
- Good guardians and can work well with other pets
Poodle
There are several size varieties of poodles. They include the Standard, Miniature, or Toy. This breed is considered the aristocrat among breeds and was reportedly bred in the Middle Ages in Germany as a water dog. Some experts opine that they may have originated in France, Russia, Piedmont, or even West Africa. The characteristic poodle Lion-crop was a practical solution when they were used as retrievers or hunters. The long and bushy chest hair provided insulation in the water, while the shaven hindquarters prevented drag. The hair tufts provided grip and purchase.
Main Characteristics:
- Intelligent, obedient, athletic
- Hypoallergenic coat
- Height can vary between 45 and 28 cm for the different varieties
- Weight can vary between 71-14lbs for the different varieties
- 50 different styles of clips are allowed
- Wide variety of colors including white, black, brown, apricot, silver, beige, red, etc
- Parti-colored breeds are also available
Temperament:
- Eager, athletic, active, highly intelligent, and quick learners
- Standard Poodles are strong and much bigger
- Very sociable
- Require physical and intellectual stimulation
- Initially reserved and aloof with strangers but with time is a warm and affectionate companion
- Enjoys sports
- Good with children
All About Bernedoodles
With the right blend of physical and emotional characteristics, your Bernedoodle can be sheer magic! A friendly, loyal, lovable, and active companion who’s great with kids and eager to please. They combine the loyalty and stoic nature of the Bernese with the playful, intelligent, and lively personality of the Poodle.
Main Characteristics of Bernedoodle:
- Usually pure black, black-n-white, black-n-brown, or tricolor
- Depending on the gene expression, they may be either smaller built than the Bernese or larger than the Poodle (based on type)
- Most owners love their “Teddy Bear” shaggy dog looks
- A thick wavy coat that sheds minimally
- Height may be around 23-29 inches
- Weight may be around 70-90lbs
- Not many genetic health issues
- Lifespan can be up to 18 years for the smallest
The temperament of Bernedoodle:
- Affectionate makes a great family pet
- Very fond of small children and great companions as your kids grow
- Intelligent and lively
- Need lots of affection and attention
- Not suited to homes that are too busy to pay attention to the pet
- Love both the outdoors and indoors
- Don’t respond well to loneliness
Feeding and Care of Bernedoodle:
- Tiny varieties more suited to apartments
- A regular feeding schedule should be created to avoid obesity
- Feed at the same time each day, with age-appropriate food
- Voracious and greedy, so don’t ever feed at the table
- Give limited amounts of treats
- High-maintenance dogs
- May be susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia and skin problems
- Can develop behavior problems if not trained and socialized well
How Much Does A Bernedoodle Cost?
Whether you choose to adopt or purchase from a breeder, a Bernedoodle puppy can set you back between $500-5000. Potential buyers often ask how much is a Bernedoodle. Coat color plays a huge role in determining the price. The more variations in color, the more the asking rate.