What is the Bernedoodle temperament like?
Well-bred Bernedoodles tend to blend the best attributes of the Bernese and the Poodle. They are fun, friendly, playful, goofy, sociable dogs. In other words, the perfect companion dogs! Gentle around children and the elderly, these dogs just seem to know what people can handle. In fact, they make excellent therapy dogs as they are easy to train, very intelligent and love to work.
Bernedoodles do need to be taught right from wrong. Because they are very intelligent and sociable, a lack of training or human interaction can lead to problems. Purebred Bernese Mountain Dogs can be strong-willed, and that trait may also show in the Bernedoodle. Training and exercise will make both owner and Bernedoodle happy.
Most Bernedoodles have a moderate activity level. They love to play, run, hike and fetch, but when it’s time to relax, they definitely have an “off” switch.
These are social, loyal dogs, and do best when fully integrated in your life. Like most dogs, they want to be with you and part of the action.
Are Bernedoodles hypo-allergenic?
While there is no such thing as a fully-hypoallergenic dog, Bernedoodles tend to be allergy-friendly. Most people with allergies to dog dander (i.e., those who experience sneezing, watery eyes) are fine with a Bernedoodle.
Every Bernedoodle has a different coat. The curlier the coat the less it will shed. Most Bernedoodles have the wavy type coat which gives them the typical ’doodle look. This type of coat is low- to non-shedding and fine for most people with allergies to dog dander.
If you are allergic to dog saliva, however, you will most likely be allergic to Bernedoodles -you will know if you are allergic to salvia if your skin will break out in hives when a dog licks you. I always suggest that prospective clients meet some Bernedoodles if they can!
How long do Bernedoodles live?
As a breed, the Bernedoodle is still young, so there is limited information about longevity. However, it appears that hybrid vigor is indeed at play in creating a hardy dog that will be with you for a long time. Standard Bernedoodles are predicted to live 12-15 years.
How do we get matched to a pup?
We have a Coronation Day when the pups are between 4-6 weeks old where all our families come to choose their reserved pup, usually in the order the deposit was received. However, we do offer personality picks if you know traits and behaviors you’re looking for in a pup, so we can help you make a match.
What is the difference between male and female Bernedoodles?
Males tend to be larger than females, but beyond that, there is not a major difference between the genders. Males tend to be more affectionate, goofy, but also a bit more stubborn. Females tend to be more independent but easier to train and less stubborn. These differences are actually quite subtle, and both males and females make amazing pets. I think temperament is more important than gender when matching dogs to owners.
What are the grooming requirements for a Bernedoodle?
Like Poodles, Bernedoodles have hair, not fur, and shedding is minimal or non-existent. That’s the upside. The downside is that it does need to be brushed regularly to prevent matting, and clipped every 8-12 weeks, or so, depending on your preferences and the dog’s activities. If your Bernedoodle is very active outdoors, you will likely find a shorter clip easier to maintain. But many owners enjoy the bonding time of regular brushing and choose to keep their Bernedoodle in a fuller coat.
Generally speaking, a curly coat is less likely to shed but more likely to become matted if not brushed regularly. Daily brushing will probably be required, as well as professional grooming every 8-12 weeks. Make sure to be very specific with the groomer as to how you want your dog groomed; most groomers will not have encountered a Bernedoodle and may default to a standard Poodle clip unless directed otherwise. Be specific and show the groomer photos of how you want your dog to look.
You should take your pup to the groomer only after its full set of vaccines (at around 14- 16 weeks). To get them used to the process, ask the groomer not to use clippers. Just have the pup bathed, clean the ears and cut the nails. The next time you visit, you can have the pup clipped.
Avoid bathing your Bernedoodle too often, as it strips essential oils from the coat.
