Smart and somewhat goofy, Bernedoodles are incredibly loveable crossbreeds that adore their families. Also known as Bernese Mountain Poos, Bernesepoos, Bernesedoodles, or Bernepoos, these charming dogs tend to be incredibly Friendly and can vary dramatically in size. It pays to check the heritage of your puppy, if you can't cope with a gentle giant in your home!
Which breed group is the barbet in?
Breed group: none - not recognised by the Kennel Club
Bernedoodle breed history
Similar dogs may have previously existed by accident but breeding of the Bernedoodle is thought to have began around 2003. Sherry Rupke of Swissridge Kennels in America claims to have been the first to intentionally breed poodles with Bernese mountain dogs. As the Bernedoodle is a mixed breed, it is not recognised by the Kennel Club.
Bernedoodle breed characteristics
It is important to note that this crossbreed can be toy, miniature or standard in size, according to its poodle parent. Puppies will inherit characteristics from both parents and in limitless combinations, but these dogs tend to be gentle, affectionate, cute and intelligent. However, Bernedoodles may inherit the stubborn streak of the Bernese mountain dog, a breed which can also be reticent with strangers.
Coats may be curly, wavy or straight and these dogs can be a variety of colours. The poodle parentage may mean that a Bernedoodle won't shed and these endearing pooches have only moderate exercise needs.
- Lifespan: 12-13 years
- Height: up to 74cm
- Weight: up to 41kg
- May be toy, miniature or standard
- Curly, wavy or straight coats
- Variety of colours
- Friendly
- Playful
- Gentle
- Intelligent
- May be stubborn
- Most don't shed
Health issues with the Bernedoodle
As the Bernedoodle is a relatively new mixed breed, there is no history on which to base an assessment of potential health issues. Crosses tend to be less prone to hereditary and congenital conditions than pure breeds and so these dogs will generally enjoy good health. However, due to their parentage, they may suffer from the following conditions:
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Eye problems
- Skin issues
What is the Bernedoodle bred for?
Bernedoodles were bred to produce fabulous family pets. The intention was to create dogs which combined the affection and goofiness of a Bernese mountain dog with the intelligence of a poodle.
What sort of owners does the Bernedoodle suit?
Enormously playful and undeniably adorable, Bernedoodles are wonderful family pets that are amazing with children. They don't need an enormous amount of exercise, but they do crave human company and a great deal of attention. As such, they can live happily anywhere but are suited to households where at least one person is at home all day. prospective owners should always consider the size of dog that they can cope with and then choose a puppy with the appropriate poodle parentage. Standard poodle crosses are very large dogs and so those adorable little puppies could quickly outgrow an apartment or small house.