What Is a Bernedoodle? A Family Breeder's Guide
By Zach, Z and Z Doodles · · 5 min read
If you have spent any time around dog lovers lately, you have probably heard the word Bernedoodle. It is a fluffy, friendly, soft-coated family dog, and more people are asking about them every year. I am Zach, and my family raises Bernedoodle puppies here in Central Illinois. Here is a plain-language guide to what a Bernedoodle actually is, and whether one might fit your home.
The short answer
A Bernedoodle is a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle. The goal of the pairing is simple: take the gentle, loving nature of the Bernese and combine it with the intelligence and lower-shedding coat of the Poodle. The result is a dog that is typically affectionate, playful and eager to be part of the family.
Because a Bernedoodle is a crossbreed rather than a purebred, no two are exactly alike. Even puppies from the same litter can differ in size, coat and personality. That is part of the charm, and it is also why a careful breeder matters so much.
Where Bernedoodles came from
The first Bernedoodles were bred in the early 2000s. Breeders wanted a dog with the calm, sweet temperament of the Bernese Mountain Dog but with a coat that shed less and was easier on allergy-sensitive households. Since then the breed has grown steadily in popularity, and today they are common in family homes, therapy work and anywhere a loyal companion is welcome.
Temperament: what to expect
Most Bernedoodles are gentle, loyal and people-focused. They tend to bond closely with their families and often want to be in whatever room you are in. They are usually good with children and friendly with visitors, with a playful, goofy streak that lasts well into adulthood.
They are also smart. That intelligence is a gift when you train them consistently, and a challenge if you leave them bored. A Bernedoodle with nothing to do can invent its own entertainment, and you may not enjoy the results. Daily walks, play, short training sessions and puzzle toys keep them happy.
The coat
Bernedoodle coats are usually soft and range from straight to wavy to curly. Wavy and curly coats are the most common and tend to shed the least. Colors often include tri-color (black, white and rust), black and white, or solid black.
Low shedding does not mean low maintenance. These coats need regular brushing, often several times a week, and a professional groom every six to eight weeks or so. If you skip brushing, mats can form close to the skin. We cover this in detail in our guide to grooming a Bernedoodle.
Size
Size depends largely on the size of the Poodle parent and on the individual puppy. Adult Bernedoodles can range from fairly small to large. If size matters to you, and it should if you live in an apartment or have a small car, ask the breeder what to expect from that specific litter. Read more in how big do Bernedoodles get.
Are they hypoallergenic?
Many allergy-sensitive families do well with Bernedoodles because they shed so little, but no dog is fully hypoallergenic. Allergens also come from skin and saliva. If allergies are a concern, spend time with the breed before you commit, and talk to your doctor. Our post on whether Bernedoodles are hypoallergenic goes deeper.
Health and lifespan
Like every breed, Bernedoodles can be prone to certain conditions, including joint problems and some inherited issues from the Bernese and Poodle sides. This is exactly why both parents should be health-tested. Lifespans are often quoted at around 12 to 15 years, though every dog is an individual. Good genetics, a healthy weight, regular vet care and plenty of exercise give your dog the best chance.
Is a Bernedoodle right for you?
A Bernedoodle may be a great fit if you want an affectionate companion, you can commit to daily exercise and regular grooming, and you are ready to train patiently. They are not a good match if you are away from home all day with no plan for your dog, or if you want a coat you never have to touch.
How we raise our Bernedoodles
At Z and Z Doodles, our puppies are raised underfoot in our home, never in a kennel. Both parents are health-tested, we raise only a couple of litters a year, and we match each puppy to the family whose home and personality fit best. Every puppy goes home around eight weeks, vet-checked, with a written health record and a health guarantee, and we stay just a message away for the life of your dog.
If you would like to meet the pups, see our available puppies. You can also read our answers to common questions, or contact us any time. We are happy to talk through whether a Bernedoodle is the right dog for your family.
Zach and his family raise Bernedoodle puppies at home in Central Illinois. Every puppy is health-tested, raised underfoot, and backed by lifetime breeder support. Meet the family.
