Bernedoodle
The Bernedoodle combines the Bernese Mountain Dog's gentle, calm temperament and striking tricolour markings with the Poodle's intelligence and low-shedding coat — a cross specifically designed to address the Bernese Mountain Dog's tragically short lifespan (6–8 years) and elevated cancer rates by introducing Poodle longevity genes.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Origin
United States
Lifespan
12–18 years
Weight
10–41 kg (22–90 lbs)
Height
38–73 cm (15–29 in)
Exercise
30 to 60 min/day
Diet
Omnivore — high-quality large or giant breed food. Giant breed puppy food for standard sizes.
Taxonomic Hierarchy
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
The Story
The Bernedoodle combines the Bernese Mountain Dog's gentle, calm temperament and striking tricolour markings with the Poodle's intelligence and low-shedding coat — a cross specifically designed to address the Bernese Mountain Dog's tragically short lifespan (6–8 years) and elevated cancer rates by introducing Poodle longevity genes. The Bernedoodle can range enormously in size depending on whether Standard, Miniature, or Toy Poodle was used. The tri-colour Bernedoodle in a wavy or curly coat is the most popular variety and commands premium prices.
Also Known As
Quick Facts
Discover which pets match your lifestyle
Physical Profile
Source: wikimedia
Variable by generation and parent size. The most sought-after appearance is the tricolour wavy coat — black, white, and tan markings of the Bernese in a soft, wavy Doodle coat. Size ranges from Standard (30–41 kg) to Miniature (10–20 kg) to Tiny (under 10 kg).
Grooming
High
Shedding
Low
Brushing
Daily
Bathing
Every-3-4-Weeks
Coat Colors
Recognized By
Source: wikimedia
Temperament & Personality
Gentle, loyal, and playful — the Bernedoodle typically inherits the Bernese's calm, affectionate nature combined with Poodle energy and trainability. Known for being particularly loyal and goofy.
Personality Scores
Adaptability
4/5Attention Need
4/5Friendliness
5/5Playfulness
5/5Protectiveness
2/5Living Profile
Ideal Space
House-Small-Garden
Daily Exercise
30 to 60 min/day
Ideal Weather
-5°C to 25°C
Cognitive Benchmarks
Adaptability
40%
Attention
40%
Playfulness
50%
Communication Style
Stress Signals
separation anxiety, destructive behaviour, clinginess, whining, pacing
Care & Wellness
Professional Care Protocol
- •1–1.5 hours exercise daily. Brushing 3–4 times weekly. Professional grooming every 8 weeks. Giant breed puppy food for Standard Bernedoodles for 18–24 months. Bloat prevention for larger individuals.
Nutrition Notes
Bernese × Poodle. CRITICAL: histiocytic sarcoma risk from Bernese side — anti-inflammatory diet strongly recommended. Bloat risk in larger sizes. Joint supplements from puppyhood. Addison's disease from Poodle side.
Vaccination Schedule
Vaccination Schedule
Senior Care
Cancer risk from Bernese (histiocytic sarcoma) — the primary health concern. Hip dysplasia from both parents. Bloat. Addison's (Poodle). Elbow dysplasia. Cross may live longer than purebred Bernese (10-15 years vs 6-8) — the main reason for the cross. Three sizes (standard, miniature, tiny). 12-15 years expected.
Wellbeing Activities
Nutrition & Sustenance
Daily Calories (Adult)
1400 kcal
Daily Calories (Young)
1000 kcal
Recommended Foods
Foods to Avoid
Health Overview
Hip and elbow dysplasia from both parent breeds. Cancer — Bernese Mountain Dogs have one of the highest cancer rates of any breed. Bloat (GDV) in larger Standard Bernedoodles. Eye conditions. The improved lifespan compared to Bernese is well-documented but the cancer risk reduction is not guaranteed.
Common Conditions
Price Estimates
Pricing Guide
Average estimates as of 2025
Created primarily to extend Bernese lifespan via hybrid vigour. Tricolour (Bernese markings) most sought-after and expensive. Grooming costs very high. India: not suited to hot climate.
Purchase Price
$2,000 to $5,000
Adoption Fee
$100 to $500
Data from 2025
Fun Facts
The Bernedoodle was specifically developed to address the Bernese Mountain Dog's heartbreakingly short lifespan — 6–8 years is the average for a purebred Bernese, with cancer being the primary cause of death. The Poodle's longevity genes appear to significantly extend the Bernedoodle's lifespan, with 12–18 years being documented.
The tricolour Bernedoodle is among the most expensive designer breeds in the world — a tricolour wavy-coated Standard Bernedoodle puppy from a health-tested breeding can cost USD 3,000–5,000 or more.
