If you’re looking to get a new puppy, you might be thinking about getting a Bernedoodle. The Bernedoodle, a delightful mix of the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle is more than just a bundle of fur; they are smart, friendly, and an adaptable companion that’s becoming a popular choice for people who love the Bernese but are looking for a low-shedding dog.
But, before you run out and get one, there’s more to these dogs than meets the eye.
Sure, you might know about their adorable looks and the many sizes they come in, but we’ve got some interesting tidbits that might surprise you.
From their unexpected coat color changes to their vocal nature, here are 20 facts you may not know about the Bernedoodle that’ll make you see this cute crossbreed in a whole new light.
So, grab your favorite drink, get comfy, and let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what you may not know about the Bernedoodle.
20 Facts You May Not Know About the Bernedoodle
1. Bernedoodles Can Be Sensitive
Bernedoodles are remarkably sensitive to their owner’s emotions. This trait is inherited from both their Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle parents who are known for their responsive and empathetic nature towards human emotions.
They are very skilled at picking up on subtle cues and can often be found trying to comfort their owners when they are sad or distressed. This emotional intelligence makes them excellent companions and great therapy dogs, but also means they can be prone to anxiety if there’s tension around them.
Due to this sensitivity they can react negatively to harsh training methods or loud environments, thriving instead on positive reinforcement, gentle guidance, and a peaceful, stable home environment.
2. Late Bloomer
Like many large dogs, Bernedoodles can take longer to reach maturity compared to other breeds. While physically they may grow rapidly, their personalities and temperaments continue to develop and mature well into their third year.
This prolonged adolescence means they retain their playful, puppy-like behavior longer than expected. For many people this can be a great trait, but not everyone wants a puppy for that long.
3. Varied Energy Levels
While some Bernedoodles are laid back, others can take after the poodle and have high energy levels that surprise their owners.
Their energy isn’t always predictable based on their size, with some larger Bernedoodles being couch potatoes and some smaller ones being bundles of energy.
4. Not all are Furnished
What gives Bernedoodles (and other doodles) their distinctive facial hair (mustache and eyebrows) is a gene known as the ‘furnishings’ gene. This gene is responsible for the longer hair on the face and is a dominant trait inherited from the Poodle side. Not all Bernedoodles will have pronounced furnishings.
5. Wide Color Variations
While many people associate the Bernedoodle with the traditional tri-color coat of the Bernese Mountain Dog, Bernedoodles can come in a wide array of colors including bi-color, sable, brindle, black and even phantom, reflecting the vast coat variations of their Poodle parent.
6. Color Changing Coats
Another fact you may not know about the Bernedoodle is that they have the potential for their coat color to change as they grow older. This trait is particularly attributed to the “fading gene” inherited from the Poodle lineage. Puppies born with darker coats, such as blacks and browns, may see their fur lighten over time.
This phenomenon is especially noticeable in Bernedoodles with merle, sable, or brindle coats, where the distinct patterns and colors can evolve significantly from puppyhood into adulthood.
7. May Shed Seasonally
While we are on the subject of their fur, Bernedoodles, often praised for their low-shedding coats, can shed seasonally. Though not all will, some Bernedoodles can still experience seasonal shedding even if they don’t shed much throughout the year.
8. Not Always Hypoallergenic
As with all doodle breeds the Bernedoodle is not guaranteed to be hypoallergenic. Allergenicity can vary greatly among individual dogs. The more a Bernedoodle sheds, the less likely they can be considered hypoallergenic.
9. They Run Hot
Bernedoodles tend to run hot. This is not really a surprise when you consider the Bernese Mountain Dog originates from the Swiss Alps where it’s often cold and that the poodle’s curly coat was developed to keep them warm in the water.
Because of their tendency to be hot many do not take to their crate where space is limited to spread out, thus making crate training difficult. To help with the heat, set up a fan to blow on them or place their crate near an air conditioner vent.
You can also check out our post on 13 Crate Training Mistakes You Don’t Want to Make for more crate training tips.
10. They Prefer to Sleep on the Floor
Because they run hot, Bernedoodles prefer to sleep on the floor rather than a bed. In fact, it’s not uncommon to find a Bernadoodle sleeping on the bathroom or kitchen tiles where the floor is cooler.
11. Bernadoodles Like to Sleep on Their Backs
Another way they like to sleep is on their backs. By exposing their belly, where the fur is thinner and the skin is less insulated, they can release body heat more efficiently, helping them to maintain a comfortable body temperature, especially during warmer weather.
12. “Velcro” dogs
Bernedoodles have earned the nickname “Velcro” dogs for their remarkable tendency to stick by their owner’s side, much like the fastening material itself. This behavior is a testament to their deeply ingrained desire for companionship and loyalty.
13. Prone to Separation Anxiety
Their need for closeness goes beyond just wanting to be in the same room. Bernedoodles often seek physical contact, whether it’s sitting at your feet while you work or following you from room to room, no matter how short the distance.
This characteristic makes them outstanding companions, but it also means they can struggle with separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods
14. Rarely Bark
Known for their quiet demeanor, Bernedoodles are not prone to excessive barking. They tend to bark only when necessary, making them great for families who prefer a quieter household.
15. Very vocal
Although the Bernedoodle may not bark much, they are known for their “talking”. This includes a wide range of sounds like whines, grumbles, soft growls, and some barking. This behavior is their way of communicating.
They will even “argue” with their owners using these sounds, especially if they disagree or are displeased with something.
16. The Bernedoodle Lean
As we already covered, Bernedoodles tend to get hot easily. Because of this many don’t like to be cuddled, unless it’s cold, but they do like to lean against their person. Most owners believe this is their way of cuddling without getting too hot.
17. Lose Their Puppy Teeth Quickly
Berniedoodle owners have stated that their pups lost large numbers of their puppy teeth all at once. It seems once they are ready for their adult teeth, all the puppy teeth come out very quickly. Sometimes they lose two or more teeth at a time.
18. Stubborn
They inherit high intelligence from both parent breeds, but they can also inherit the occasional stubbornness. This trait can make training a challenge, requiring patience and consistency.
19. May Be Born with a Pink Nose
They inherit this trait from the Bernese Mountain Dog side of the genes. All Bernese Mountain Dogs are born with pink noses, while only some poodles are born that way. Their nose turns black as they age.
20. Nose Color Changes
The nose color of a Bernedoodle can change with the seasons. Known as “winter nose” or “snow nose,” this condition causes the nose pigment to lighten during the winter months and darken again in the summer. This isn’t harmful, but it’s an interesting part of their look.
Final words
As we wrap up our list of the 20 Facts You May Not Know about the Bernedoodle, we uncover a breed that offers a wonderful mix of qualities and a few surprises.
Choosing a Bernedoodle means adding a smart, flexible, and loving family member. Whether it’s their low-shedding coat, their emotional intelligence, or their playful and affectionate nature that catches your eye, a Bernedoodle is bound to bring joy and laughter into your life.