Bernedoodle Complete Breed Guide

The Bernedoodle is a hybrid breed that combines two exceptional breeds — the gentle, loyal Bernese Mountain Dog of Switzerland and the highly intelligent, versatile Poodle of Germany and France. First intentionally bred in 2003 by Sherry Rupke of SwissRidge Kennels in Ontario, Canada, this breed was created to be a calm, affectionate, and highly intelligent companion dog. Bernedoodles come in Toy, Mini, and Standard sizes, making them an accessible choice for a wide range of homes and lifestyles.

The word most often associated with Bernedoodles is "affectionate" — they love their people, are gentle with children, and thoroughly enjoy being close to their human family. They inherit sharp intelligence from their Poodle parent and a calm, devoted nature from the Bernese Mountain Dog, resulting in a dog that is genuinely easy to live with and a joy to train. Bernedoodles integrate beautifully into family life, getting along well with children, other dogs, and cats. They respond best to a positive, rewards-based approach and thrive when training sessions are consistent and encouraging. Whether you are looking for an active companion for outdoor adventures or a calm, loving presence at home, the Bernedoodle adapts naturally to the life you live.

Lifestyle & Living Conditions

When they are still young, Bernedoodles can be a little bit headstrong. Therefore, it is important that you start your Bernedoodle puppy with socialization and training early. Use a clear, strong voice with a kind, positive tone to train your Bernedoodle. They are very intelligent with an eager-to-please nature that makes it easier for them to be trained. It might take a few repeats of your instruction, but these pups are usually quick to comply with commands. Reward good behavior and obedience with meaty, bite-sized treats and lots of praise and encouragement. Bernedoodles are extra-sensitive to your tone and mood, so harshness will scare them into shying away from you.

Exercise & Activity

Bernedoodles are a moderately active cross-breed. Daily walking, play, and interaction is recommended. Their natural gait is a slow trot, so walking a Bernedoodle should be easy for most people.

Overall, the temperament of the Bernedoodle is playful and affectionate. They interact well with children and generally love to spend lots of time with their human families. Because they need to be in close and consistent proximity with their human families, you will find that they don’t do well when left alone for long periods of time. Bernedoodles make great family dogs because they are friendly and easy to socialize. A lot of intelligence is passed on from the Poodle parent, which allows the Bernedoodle to be able to work as a therapy dog, with the proper training.

Bernedoodles are known for the hypoallergenic properties of their coats. Bernedoodle coats are typically wavy and curly, which results in minimal shedding. Curly coats require frequent brushing to prevent tangles, as well as periodic trimming. Bernedoodles can range in colors, with the most common combinations being either black, black and brown, black and white, or black, white, and brown. Each Bernedoodle's appearance can vary because it is a crossbreed, meaning each litter has genetically different parents.

The Bernedoodle lifespan ranges from 12-18 years, depending on how big your dog is. As a general rule, smaller dogs live longer than larger dogs. These dogs can inherit conditions from both of their parent breeds, but Miniatures might have different health issues arise than Standards. Before you bring your puppy home, check with your Bernedoodle breeder to get a complete health history for your pup and their parents. Bernedoodles can be prone to the following health conditions: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Allergies, and Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV).

Medical References