Bernedoodle Pros & Cons: Is It the Right Breed for You?

Are you thinking about getting a Bernedoodle? This adorable dog breed, a mix of a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle, is super popular because of its cute looks, friendly personality, and curly coat. But, like any pet, owning a Bernedoodle comes with both awesome perks and some challenges. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Bernedoodles—their pros, cons, and whether they’re the perfect fit for your home. Let’s dive in!

What Is a Bernedoodle?

A Bernedoodle is a hybrid dog breed, meaning it’s a cross between two purebred dogs: the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle. This mix combines the gentle, loyal nature of the Bernese Mountain Dog with the smarts and low-shedding coat of the Poodle. Bernedoodles are often called “designer dogs” because they’re bred to combine the best traits of both parents.

They come in three main sizes:

Standard Bernedoodle: Large, usually 50–90 pounds.
Miniature Bernedoodle: Medium, around 25–50 pounds.
Tiny Bernedoodle: Small, typically 10–24 pounds.

These sizes make Bernedoodles a great choice for different homes, whether you live in a big house or a small apartment. But before you decide, let’s look at the good and not-so-good parts of owning one.

Pros of Owning a Bernedoodle

Bernedoodles have tons of qualities that make them a favorite for families, singles, and even seniors. Here are the top reasons why people love them:

1. Super Friendly and Great with Families

Bernedoodles are known for their sweet and loving personalities. They get this from their Bernese Mountain Dog parent, who is famous for being gentle and loyal. These dogs love hanging out with their human families and are super patient with kids. Whether you have toddlers or teens, a Bernedoodle will likely be their best buddy.

They also get along well with other pets, like cats or other dogs. This makes them perfect for homes with multiple animals. If you want a dog that’s all about love and cuddles, a Bernedoodle is a great pick.

2. Really Smart and Easy to Train

Thanks to their Poodle parent, Bernedoodles are super smart. Poodles are one of the smartest dog breeds, and Bernedoodles inherit that brainpower. This makes them quick learners who love to please their owners. Whether you’re teaching them basic commands like “sit” or “stay” or fun tricks like rolling over, they catch on fast.

With early training and socialization (introducing them to new people, places, and animals), Bernedoodles grow up to be well-behaved dogs. They’re also great at activities like agility or obedience competitions if you want to take their training to the next level.

3. Hypoallergenic Coat (Great for Allergy Sufferers)

One of the biggest perks of a Bernedoodle is their low-shedding coat, which comes from the Poodle side. While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic (meaning they won’t cause any allergies), Bernedoodles shed very little, which makes them a good choice for people with mild allergies.

Their coats can be curly like a Poodle’s or wavy, and they come in cool colors like black, white, cream, or even tri-color patterns (black, white, and brown). This low-shedding feature also means less dog hair around your house, which is a win for keeping things clean.

4. Different Sizes for Different Homes

Bernedoodles come in a range of sizes, so you can pick one that fits your lifestyle. If you live in a small apartment, a tiny or miniature Bernedoodle might be perfect. If you have a big house with a yard, a standard Bernedoodle could be a great match. This variety makes them super versatile, whether you’re a city dweller or a suburban homeowner.

5. Playful and Fun-Loving

Bernedoodles have a playful side that makes them a blast to have around. They love games like fetch, tug-of-war, or just running around in the backyard. Their playful energy is great for active families who enjoy spending time outdoors. Plus, their happy attitude can brighten up anyone’s day!

Cons of Owning a Bernedoodle

While Bernedoodles are amazing, they’re not perfect for everyone. Here are some challenges you might face if you bring one home:

1. High Grooming Needs

That beautiful, curly coat comes with a catch—it needs a lot of care. Bernedoodles require regular brushing (at least 2–3 times a week) to prevent their fur from getting tangled or matted. Matted fur can be uncomfortable for the dog and even cause skin problems.

You’ll also need to take them to a professional groomer every 6–8 weeks for a trim, bath, and nail clipping. Grooming can get pricey, with costs ranging from $50 to $100 per visit, depending on where you live. If you’re not ready to spend time and money on grooming, a Bernedoodle might not be the best choice.

2. They Need Lots of Exercise

Bernedoodles are active dogs who need daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. A quick walk around the block won’t cut it—they need at least 30–60 minutes of activity every day. This could include walks, playtime, or even hikes if oku

3. Possible Health Problems

Like all dogs, Bernedoodles can have health issues passed down from their parent breeds. Some common problems include:

Hip dysplasia: A condition where the hip joint doesn’t form properly.
Elbow dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia but in the elbows.
Eye issues: Like progressive retinal atrophy, which can affect vision.
Bloat: A serious stomach condition that can affect larger dogs.

To reduce these risks, choose a reputable breeder who tests their dogs for these conditions. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy diet can also keep your Bernedoodle in good shape.

4. Separation Anxiety

Bernedoodles love being around their people, which is great—but it can also lead to separation anxiety. If left alone for too long, they might get upset and act out by chewing, barking, or digging. This can be tough for owners who work long hours or can’t take their dog with them.

To help with this, you can train your Bernedoodle to feel okay when alone by starting with short periods and gradually increasing the time. Toys and treats can also keep them busy while you’re gone.

5. Unpredictable Size

Because Bernedoodles are a hybrid breed, their adult size can be hard to predict. Even if you pick a miniature Bernedoodle puppy, they might grow bigger or smaller than expected. This can be an issue if you’re set on a specific size for your home or lifestyle. Talking to a breeder about the parents’ sizes can give you a better idea, but it’s not always exact.

Is a Bernedoodle Right for You

So, is a Bernedoodle the right dog for you? Let’s break it down.

Who Should Get a Bernedoodle?

Bernedoodles are a great fit for:

Families with kids: Their gentle and playful nature makes them awesome family pets.
People with allergies: Their low-shedding coat is a big plus for allergy sufferers.
Active people: If you love walks, hikes, or outdoor playtime, a Bernedoodle will keep up.
First-time dog owners: Their intelligence and trainability make them easier to handle.

Who Should Think Twice?

Bernedoodles might not be the best choice if:

You’re super busy: They need time for exercise, training, and grooming.
You’re on a tight budget: Grooming, vet care, and quality food can add up.
You want a low-energy dog: Bernedoodles need daily activity to stay happy.

Tips for Owning a Bernedoodle

If you decide a Bernedoodle is for you, here are some tips to make it work:

Start training early: Use positive rewards like treats to teach good behavior.
Set a grooming routine: Brush them regularly and schedule grooming appointments.
Exercise daily: Take them for walks, play fetch, or let them run in a dog park.
Find a good breeder: Look for one who tests for health issues and cares about their dogs.
Socialize them young: Expose them to new people, places, and pets to build confidence.

cute puppy bernedoodle standing on two feet

Bernedoodle FAQs

Here are some common questions about Bernedoodles to help you decide:

Bernedoodles aren’t big barkers, but they might bark to alert you or if they’re bored. Training and enough exercise can keep barking to a minimum.

Bernedoodle puppies can cost between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on the breeder, size, and coat color. Reputable breeders who health-test their dogs might charge more, but it’s worth it for a healthy pup.

Bernedoodles typically live 12–18 years, depending on their size and health. Smaller Bernedoodles (tiny or miniature) often live longer than standard ones.

Yes, especially miniature or tiny Bernedoodles! They don’t need as much space as standard Bernedoodles, but they still need daily exercise. A nearby park or regular walks are a must.

They can be left alone for short periods (4–6 hours) with proper training. But their love for people means they might get anxious if left alone too long.

Final Thoughts

Bernedoodles are a fantastic mix of brains, beauty, and love. Their friendly nature, low-shedding coat, and range of sizes make them a great choice for many families. But they do need regular grooming, exercise, and attention to stay happy and healthy. If you’re ready to put in the time and effort, a Bernedoodle could be your perfect furry friend.

Before you decide, visit a breeder, meet some Bernedoodles, and think about your lifestyle. Do you have time for daily walks? Can you afford grooming and vet visits? If the answer is yes, a Bernedoodle might just steal your heart!