Born from a cross between Poodles and Bernese Mountain Dogs, the Bernedoodle is a beautiful dog with an overwhelming personality, perfectly balanced temperament and brilliant intelligence. However, this is not all, since the bernedoodle dog is affectionate and playful, being ideal for all types of families.
Although it can be confused with other mongrel dogs, such as the goldendoodle or the labradoodle, the bernedoodle has particular characteristics that make it a unique dog. Although it is true that they all share part of the poodle's genetics, as we say, they also have completely different traits. Also, did you know that the Bernedoodle is the predecessor to the Australian Cobberdog? Keep reading to discover all the characteristics of the bernedoodle, its origin and much more.
Origin of the bernedoodle
The first bernedoodle came into the world thanks to crosses made by an American breeder, who decided to register the puppies and give them the name bernedoodle. This name is a combination of the names of the two parent breeds, the Bernese Mountain Dogs (berne-) and the Poodles (-doodle). This birth occurred in 2003, when the origin of the bernedoodle breed is established.
Currently, the breed is not listed as an independent breed, as it is simply considered a cross between two breeds. However, it is widely accepted, although no official standard is established for it. There is a variation of the breed called the Australian Bernedoodle, as it arises from the cross between the Australian Bernedoodle and the Australian Labradoodle.
Bernedoodle Features
The bernedoodle is normally a large dog. However, we must clarify that there are three types of Bernedoodle depending on their size, since large, small or toy specimens can be born in the same litter due to the differences that exist between the parent breeds.
- Bernedoodle toy: weighing between 4 and 11 kilograms and a height at the withers of between 30 and 44 centimeters. Although it is called "toy", it is not a real miniature dog, but a classification within this hybrid breed, since toy dogs do not usually exceed 3 kg in weight.
- Small Bernedoodle: weighing between 11 and 22 kilograms and 45-57 centimeters tall. As in the previous case, this type of Bernedoodle really falls within the group of medium-sized dogs.
- Standard Bernedoodle: weighing 30 to 40 kilograms and 58-74 centimeters tall at the withers.
In the same way that the size of each dog can differ even if they were born in the same litter, the coat also varies, which is why there are specimens with straight hair and others with the curly hair, although the latter are the most common. This coat is hypoallergenic, which is one of the reasons the breed has become so popular.
Continuing with the characteristics of the bernedoodle, this dog's head is very proportionate, as is its snout, so that it is neither too wide nor too thin. The eyes are medium, as well as their ears, which are triangular and set high.
The life expectancy of the bernedoodle is between approximately 12 and 15 years, normally being shorter in larger specimens.
Bernedoodle colors
The typical colors of the bernedoodle dog are those that most resemble those of the Bernese Mountain Dog, whose coat is tricolor (black, fire and white). In this case, in addition, it is common to see a white stripe that begins on the forehead and runs through the entire belly. Even so, there are specimens that are only one color, as in the poodle. In this case, they are usually different shades of gray or brown. Likewise, the Bernese Mountain Dog pattern is common, with the white stripe, but two colors instead of three, as well as with different colors, such as black and white, white and gray, etc.
The puppy bernedoodle
The little bernedoodles are incredibly cute, as they are little balls of fur that love to be cuddled and play games. However, it is at this vital stage when dogs of this breed have a more stubborn character, being extremely stubbornThis stubbornness can make training difficult, so it is considered necessary to start their education as soon as possible. Of course, it is essential that the puppy remains with its mother and siblings until natural weaning occurs, which usually occurs around two or three months of age, since it is with its mother that it begins the process of socialization and responsible for transmitting the first teachings. A premature adoption can cause behavioral problems in the future for having hindered this process. Discover How to properly socialize a puppy once weaned and adopted.
bernedoodle character
This mestizo dog stands out for his character Affable, peaceful and reservedHe usually develops a certain dependency towards the members of his family nucleus, but be extremely suspicious of strangers. Therefore, the bernedoodle does not usually tolerate loneliness well, especially if he has not been educated for it. In fact, you may even develop depression or separation anxiety. In this way, it is a dog that needs attention and a lot of love. He is not a good dog for those who spend a lot of time away from home or cannot dedicate the quality time he needs, playing, walking or doing any other activity in his company.
On the other hand, if he has been properly socialized, the bernedoodle fits perfectly with families with children, since he loves to playwith them and spend hours together. Likewise, it adapts well to life with older people or in homes where other dogs, cats or animals already live. However, an adequate presentation should always be carried out to avoid possible problems of coexistence and tolerance.
Finally, the bernedoodle is attentive and intelligent due to the heritage of the poodle, which represents one of the most intelligent breeds in the world. For this reason, intelligence games are perfect for this mestizo. Likewise, it is important to note that he, at times, can be somewhat territorial, as he seeks to protect his own from possible threats, although he is not an aggressive dog. He is not a barker either, only when he considers that there is a potential danger and feels the need to warn
Bernedoodle care
One of the most important cares for the bernedoodle is performing daily physical exercise, which should bemoderate-high intensity This is essential because it is a fairly energetic dog, which if not exercised enough can suffer both physical and mental changes. Therefore, it is usually best to combine calm walks with games and high-intensity physical activities, such as races or agility circuits.
It is also important to note that the diet must be adjusted to the size of each specimen, always choosing high-quality food, since a good diet is the basis of good he alth. This diet can be based on feed, homemade food or a mixed diet that combines both foods. In the case of the homemade or mixed diet, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian specialized in nutrition in order to cover the nutritional needs of the bernedoodle correctly.
On the other hand, the maintenance of the coat is also part of the care of the bernedoodle, especially in curly-haired specimens. Thus, it is advisable to brush it regularly, about two or three times a week, and visit the dog groomer from time to time, since these dogs do not lose so much hair and dead hair can accumulate, something totally counterproductive. As for the bath, it should be carried out when it is strictly necessary.
Bernedoodle Education
As we have already mentioned, it is very important to start the education of the bernedoodle as soon as possible Even if you adopt him as an adult, you should know that, Due to his incredible intelligence, he tends to adapt very quickly and internalize new knowledge in an amazing way.
Since one of the main "problems" with the bernedoodle dog is that it tends to be very stubborn, the positive reinforcement becomes even more important in this hybrid breed. Thus, training it with prizes, words of encouragement or caresses will allow you to obtain excellent results because the animal will remain motivated and willing to continue learning. Don't miss our article on How to train a dog to be clear about where to start and how.
On the other hand, remember that this is a dog that does not tolerate loneliness, so another aspect to take into account when educating a Bernedoodle is this. It is essential that you get him used to being alone, helping him to associate that moment with positive stimuli, since this way the animal will be calm in your absence and so will you. To do this, consult this article: "How to get a dog used to being alone?"
In general, they are such intelligent dogs and they are so attentive that they do not take long to learn, so with very few repetitions they assimilate the order or the modification in the behavior that we want to transmit. Even so, as happens in any animal, it can happen that they resist certain learning, in these cases it is vital not to despair and, above all, not to use punishment. Patience, calm and perseverance are always the main keys.
Bernedoodle He alth
In general, the bernedoodle does not usually develop the typical diseases of the two parent breeds, so is a fairly he althy dog Without However, this does not mean that you cannot suffer from them, what happens is that in mestizo dogs the incidence of suffering from this type of hereditary diseases is much lower than in pure breeds.
Some of these diseases are bone and joint problems, such as hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia. They can also suffer from eye problems, as well as skin problems. If we observe that our Bernedoodle scratches excessively or has red or irritated skin, we recommend going to our reference veterinarian so that they can determine the causes, which may include atopic dermatitis or skin allergies. To prevent conjunctivitis or other eye problems, it is recommended to clean the eyes at home. To find out how to do it, you can read this article: "How to clean my dog's eyes?".
Other conditions that can occur in this dog, although to a lesser extent, are:
- digestive imbalances
- immune system disorders
- otitis
However, if we go to the veterinary clinic to carry out the periodic check-ups that the professional recommends, maintain its hygiene and offer it all the care it needs, we will have a he althy and strong bernedoodle by our side, as well as happy.
Where to adopt a bernedoodle?
Before making such an important decision as adopting a dog, it is very important to carefully assess the needs of the animal and our lifestyle. As we have mentioned, the bernedoodle needs attention and time, so you must be able to dedicate yourself to it. If you spend many hours away from home, it is probably not the most suitable dog to live with you. Now, if your lifestyle fits perfectly, then don't hesitate to look for a Bernedoodle for adoption because you will have by your side a noble, affectionate dog who will give you the best of himself every day.
To adopt a bernedoodle, you must go to the animal protectors, shelters and associations closest to your place of residence. Since it is a mongrel dog, it is more likely that you will find a specimen willing to share its life with you. But if not, you can always leave your contact details so they can call you as soon as someone is rescued.
