What is a Bernedoodle?
The Bernedoodle is a designer dog breed created by crossing a Bernese Mountain Dog with a Poodle. This mix has become popular because it combines the best qualities of both parent breeds. Bernese Mountain Dogs bring good-natured and calm personalities, while Poodles contribute their intelligent and active nature.
Most Bernedoodles weigh between 55 and 93 pounds and stand 19 to 25 inches tall at the shoulder. Their lifespan ranges from 10 to 13 years with proper care. Because this is a mixed breed, individual dogs can vary quite a bit in appearance and temperament depending on which parent they take after more.
If you are considering adopting or buying a Bernedoodle, understanding both parent breeds helps you prepare for what to expect. Use our breed quiz to see if a Bernedoodle fits your lifestyle, or check the calorie calculator to plan their nutrition.
Parent Breeds at a Glance
| Trait | Bernese Mountain Dog | Poodle |
|---|---|---|
| Size | giant | medium |
| Weight | 70-115 lbs | 40-70 lbs |
| Height | 23-27" | 15-22" |
| Lifespan | 7-10 yrs | 12-15 yrs |
| Activity | Moderate | High |
| Grooming | High | High |
| AKC Group | Working | Non-Sporting |
Bernedoodle Temperament and Personality
The Bernedoodle typically shows a blend of personality traits from both parents. Common traits include being good-natured, calm, strong, intelligent. Individual personalities can lean more toward one parent, so meeting the specific puppy before committing is always a good idea.
Early socialization plays a big role in how any dog develops. Expose your Bernedoodle puppy to different people, dogs, sounds, and environments during the first 16 weeks. This builds confidence and reduces the chance of fear-based behaviors later in life.
Health and Common Conditions
Mixed breeds often have fewer health problems than purebreds because of increased genetic diversity. That said, Bernedoodles can still inherit conditions from either parent breed. Regular vet visits and preventive care go a long way in keeping your dog healthy.
Health issues to watch for:
- ● Hip Dysplasia
- ● Elbow Dysplasia
- ● Heart Disease
- ● Bloat
- ● Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- ● Epilepsy
- ● Sebaceous Adenitis
Ask for health clearances from the breeder before buying a Bernedoodle puppy. Responsible breeders test both parent dogs for hip dysplasia, eye conditions, and breed-specific genetic disorders.
Grooming Needs
Grooming level: High
Bernedoodles require regular brushing (3-4 times per week minimum) and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Their coat can mat easily if neglected.
Check our grooming schedule tool for a personalized plan.
Exercise Requirements
Activity level: High
Plan for 45-60 minutes of daily activity. Bernedoodles enjoy walks, swimming, and interactive play. A tired dog is a well-behaved dog.
Use our calorie calculator to match food intake with activity level.
Feeding Your Bernedoodle
A Bernedoodle weighing 55 to 93 pounds typically needs about 825 to 1395 calories per day, depending on age and activity level. Puppies need calorie-dense food split into 3-4 meals. Adult dogs do well with 2 meals per day.
High-quality protein should be the foundation of your Bernedoodle's diet. Check our best food for Bernese Mountain Dogs and best food for Poodles for brand recommendations that work well for this mix. For puppies, our puppy weight calculator helps track healthy growth.
Bernedoodle FAQ
How big does a Bernedoodle get?
A full-grown Bernedoodle typically weighs between 55 and 93 pounds. Size can vary depending on which parent's genes are more dominant. Bernedoodles come in Tiny, Mini, Standard varieties, so the size range is quite broad.
How long do Bernedoodles live?
The average Bernedoodle lifespan is 10 to 13 years. Mixed breed dogs often benefit from genetic diversity, which can reduce certain breed-specific health risks.
Are Bernedoodles good family dogs?
Bernedoodles tend to be great family dogs. They inherit traits from both Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles, which often includes a friendly and loyal temperament. Early socialization is still important for any dog.
Do Bernedoodles shed a lot?
Shedding depends on which parent's coat the Bernedoodle inherits. Bernese Mountain Dogs have high grooming needs, while Poodles have high grooming needs. Your Bernedoodle's coat type will determine how much brushing is required.
How much exercise does a Bernedoodle need?
Bernedoodles need regular daily exercise. With a Bernese Mountain Dog parent (Moderate energy) and a Poodle parent (High energy), expect your Bernedoodle to need at least 30 to 60 minutes of activity per day.
What health problems do Bernedoodles have?
Bernedoodles can be prone to health issues from both parent breeds, including Hip Dysplasia, Elbow Dysplasia, Heart Disease, Bloat. Regular vet checkups and a balanced diet help prevent many of these conditions.
How much does a Bernedoodle cost?
Bernedoodle puppies typically cost between $1,000 and $3,000 from a reputable breeder. Prices vary based on the breeder's location, parent pedigree, and coat color. Adoption from a rescue is a more affordable option and usually costs $200 to $500.
Are Bernedoodles easy to train?
Both Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles are known for their intelligence, which usually makes Bernedoodles responsive to training. Positive reinforcement methods work best. Start training and socialization early for the best results.