Bernedoodle Breed Guide
Bernedoodles blend the Bernese Mountain Dog’s calm devotion with the Poodle’s smarts and coat qualities. They are patient, people-oriented companions that flourish when given structure, steady socialization, and thoughtful grooming.
💡 Did You Know?
Bernedoodles are often called “Velcro dogs” because they love to stick close to their favorite humans. Many Bernedoodles have worked as therapy dogs in children’s hospitals and nursing homes thanks to their gentle, intuitive nature.
Bernedoodle at a Glance
| Parent breeds | Bernese Mountain Dog × Poodle |
|---|---|
| Average size | Mini 25–35 lbs, Standard 70–90+ lbs |
| Coat textures | Wavy to curly tri-color, bi-color, or sable; low shedding with routine care |
| Energy level | Moderate; 45–60 minutes of low-impact exercise plus enrichment |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years for minis, 10–13 for standards |
| Ideal homes | Families wanting a gentle companion, therapy homes, cooler climates |
Highlights
- Devoted, gentle temperament that bonds closely with family members.
- Prefer cooler weather; monitor for overheating in hot, humid regions.
- Slow-maturing—expect extended puppy antics and gradual confidence building.
- Coat mats easily; introduce grooming table routines early.
Temperament & Family Fit
Bernedoodles are affectionate and often described as Velcro dogs. They tend to shadow their people and appreciate gentle handling. Many are naturally cautious with new sights and sounds—pair socialization with confidence-building games rather than forcing interactions.
With consistent exposure to children, Bernedoodles become patient, tolerant playmates. Teach kids how to respect resting spaces and grooming time to maintain trust.
Exercise & Mental Work
Focus on low-impact exercise, especially during joint development. Daily walks, hikes on soft terrain, and swimming build stamina without pounding joints. Short, positive training bursts and nose work sessions keep their minds busy.
Because Bernedoodles can be stubborn, reinforce cues with tasty rewards and end sessions on a success. Trick training and cooperative care exercises strengthen your bond.
Activity Ideas for Bernedoodles
- Swimming: Excellent low-impact exercise, especially in summer.
- Hiking: Soft forest trails are perfect for their joints.
- Nose work: Hide treats or toys to engage their scenting abilities.
- Trick training: Keep sessions short and upbeat to maintain focus.
- Puzzle toys: Rotate interactive feeders to stave off boredom.
Grooming Requirements
Coats may be straight, wavy, or curly. Even low-shedding coats benefit from thorough comb-outs two to three times weekly. Regular de-matting ensures airflow to the skin and prevents hot spots.
Schedule professional grooming every six to eight weeks. Keep nails trimmed short to protect joints, and monitor ears for wax buildup—Bernedoodles with heavy ear leather are prone to yeast.
Estimate Annual Grooming Costs
Health Outlook
Monitor for orthopedic disorders (hip and elbow dysplasia), heart disease, eye issues, and degenerative myelopathy. Large standards can also develop bloat—feed measured meals, consider slow feeders, and avoid heavy exercise immediately before or after eating.
Support joints with a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and keep their weight lean to reduce stress on hips and knees.
Health screenings to request
- Hip and elbow dysplasia (OFA or PennHIP)
- Eye examinations (CERF)
- Degenerative myelopathy (DM) genetic test
- Von Willebrand disease (vWD) test
- Cardiac evaluation
Living With a Bernedoodle
Establish routines that blend activity and relaxation. Many Bernedoodles enjoy working as therapy dogs or hiking partners. Provide cool resting areas in summer and supervise interactions with strangers until confidence grows.
✓ Best For
- Families with children
- Cooler climates
- Active households
- Therapy or service roles
○ Not Ideal For
- Hot, humid climates
- Apartment living (standards)
- Very sedentary lifestyles
- Low grooming commitment
Puppy Preparation Timeline
Getting ready for your Bernedoodle puppy? Follow this week-by-week timeline to ensure you’re fully prepared for bringing home your new family member.
4–6 Weeks Before Pickup
- Research veterinarians and schedule the new puppy appointment.
- Compare pet insurance plans and enroll prior to pickup.
- Puppy-proof living spaces and remove toxic plants or hazards.
- Order a starter bag of the food your breeder currently feeds.
- Outline a training plan and reserve a spot in puppy classes.
- Decide on household rules for furniture, sleeping areas, and off-limit rooms.
2–3 Weeks Before Pickup
- Begin purchasing key supplies like crates, bowls, and toys.
- Set up the puppy-safe zone with baby gates and a crate.
- Choose a groomer familiar with doodle coats.
- Stock cleaning essentials such as enzyme spray and towels.
- Plan pickup day and arrange for a calm first few days at home.
- Map out introductions for existing pets and create a daily schedule.
1 Week Before Pickup
- Double-check your supply list and wash bedding and blankets.
- Set up the crate in a quiet area and make it cozy.
- Prepare and freeze stuffed enrichment toys for the first week.
- Install baby gates to block stairs and off-limit rooms.
- Create a contact list with vet, emergency vet, breeder, and trainer numbers.
- Prep simple meals for yourself—you’ll be busy!
2–3 Days Before Pickup
- Confirm pickup timing with your breeder and review the puppy’s routine.
- Request a comfort item with the litter’s scent.
- Prepare the car with towels, water, and cleaning supplies.
- Charge cameras or pet monitors and review the first-night plan.
Day Before Pickup
- Do a final puppy-proof walk-through at floor level.
- Measure out first meals and set up the potty area.
- Refresh the crate with clean bedding and a safe chew.
- Pack a pickup bag with towels, treats, paperwork, and water.
- Get a solid night of sleep—tomorrow is big!
Pickup Day!
- Adjustable collar, leash, and ID tag.
- Towels, cleaning supplies, and travel water bowl.
- Paperwork folder for health records.
- Comfort item from the breeder if available.
At the breeder:
- Collect health records, vaccine history, and microchip info.
- Review feeding schedule, favorite toys, and sleep habits.
- Ask when the puppy last ate and went potty.
- Confirm the breeder’s preferred contact method for questions.
First 24 Hours at Home
The car ride home:
- Have a passenger hold the puppy or use a secure travel crate.
- Expect accidents; stay calm and clean up promptly.
- Keep stimulation low—soft voices and no loud music.
- Break up long drives with water and potty stops.
Arriving home:
- Go straight to the potty spot before entering the house.
- Introduce one room at a time to avoid overwhelming your puppy.
- Offer water and allow quiet time to decompress.
- Hold off on visitors for a few days to build confidence.
Puppies often cry as they adjust. Place the crate in your bedroom, set alarms for potty breaks, and use white noise to soothe. Consistency makes the transition easier.
First Week Goals
- Schedule a vet visit within 72 hours for a wellness check.
- Establish a predictable routine for meals, potty breaks, and naps.
- Introduce crate training with positive associations.
- Practice daily handling of paws, ears, and teeth.
- Document potty times, appetite, and notable behaviors.
- Vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 12 hours.
- Refusal to eat for over 24 hours.
- Extreme lethargy, breathing issues, or collapse.
- Signs of poisoning or ingesting a foreign object.
Puppy Supply Shopping List
Bringing home a Bernedoodle puppy? Use this interactive checklist to make sure you’re prepared with everything you need for a smooth transition.
Interactive Shopping Checklist
Check off items as you purchase them. Your progress is stored locally in your browser.
🍽️ Food & Water ($80–150)
🏠 Crate & Sleeping ($150–300)
✂️ Grooming Essentials ($100–200)
🦮 Collars, Leashes & ID ($50–100)
🎾 Toys & Enrichment ($80–150)
📚 Training & Cleanup ($60–120)
🏥 Health & Safety ($100–200)
💡 Optional but Helpful ($100–250)
📊 Shopping Progress
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Prices are estimates—shop sales, consider gently used items, and invest in quality grooming tools that last for years.
Regional Climate Considerations
Bernedoodles inherit the Bernese Mountain Dog’s preference for cooler weather. Understanding your climate helps you tailor daily care year-round.
❄️ Cold climates (ideal)
Best regions: Northern states, Canada, mountain areas, Pacific Northwest.
Bernedoodles thrive in cold weather thanks to their thick coats. They love snow play and cooler temperatures.
- Perfect for year-round outdoor activities.
- Natural insulation keeps them comfortable in winter.
- Use paw balm to protect against ice and salt.
- Check for snowballs between paw pads after play.
🌤️ Moderate climates (good with care)
Best regions: Mid-Atlantic, Upper Midwest, Northern California.
Bernedoodles adapt well with mindful summer management.
- Walk during cooler morning or evening hours.
- Provide air conditioning or cool indoor spaces.
- Encourage hydration and use cooling mats.
- Schedule lighter trims but maintain coat coverage for sun protection.
🌡️ Hot/Humid climates (challenging)
Challenging regions: Southeast, Southwest, Deep South, Florida, Texas.
Bernedoodles can overheat quickly in humid heat; extra precautions are essential.
- Limit outdoor time during peak heat and provide shade.
- Watch for signs of heat stress: heavy panting, drooling, lethargy.
- Offer indoor enrichment and consider swimming as a cooling activity.
- Mini Bernedoodles tolerate heat slightly better than standards.
Download Breed Care Sheet
Print this one-page reference guide to bring to breeder meetings, vet visits, or keep on your fridge.