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Bernese Mountain Dog × Poodle
Origin: United States/Canada
Weight
10–90 lbs (varies by Poodle size)
Height
12–29 inches
Lifespan
12–18 years
Coat
Wavy to curly
Breeder Cost
$2,000–$5,000
Adoption Cost
$100–$400
The Bernedoodle combines the Bernese Mountain Dog's gentle, loyal nature with the Poodle's intelligence and low-shedding coat. They are often tricolored (black, white, and brown) and are known for their goofy, playful personalities. Bernedoodles may benefit from hybrid vigor, potentially living longer than the Bernese Mountain Dog's average of 7–10 years.
Best For
Families with children, those who want a gentle giant companion, active households with space
Bernedoodles need 30–60 minutes of moderate exercise daily. They enjoy outdoor activities, hiking, and play sessions. Their calm nature makes them more adaptable than many high-energy doodle breeds.
The Bernedoodle's wavy or curly coat requires brushing 3–4 times weekly to prevent mats. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks is essential.
Coat type: Wavy to curly; low-to-moderate shedding; often tricolor
Bernedoodles may benefit from hybrid vigor, potentially reducing the Bernese Mountain Dog's high cancer risk. Buy from breeders who health-test both parents for hip dysplasia and PRA.
Hip & Elbow Dysplasia
Inherited from the Bernese side. Buy from breeders who OFA-certify both parents.
Cancer
The Bernese Mountain Dog has one of the highest cancer rates of any breed. Hybrid vigor may reduce this risk, but it's still a concern.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Inherited from the Poodle side. DNA testing of parents is important.
Addison's Disease
Inherited from the Poodle side.
Bloat (GDV)
Standard Bernedoodles have a deep chest. Feed multiple small meals.
The Bernedoodle was first intentionally bred in 2003 by Sherry Rupke of SwissRidge Kennels in Ontario, Canada. The goal was to combine the Bernese Mountain Dog's loyal, calm temperament with the Poodle's hypoallergenic coat and longer lifespan. The Bernese Mountain Dog's short lifespan (7–10 years) was a significant motivation — crossing with a Poodle has produced dogs that often live 12–15 years.
Bernedoodles were first intentionally bred in 2003 — one of the newer designer breeds.
The Poodle cross significantly extends the Bernese Mountain Dog's short lifespan from 7–10 years to 12–15 years.
Their tri-color coat (black, white, and rust) is one of the most sought-after patterns in the designer dog world.
Tiny Bernedoodles (crossed with Toy Poodles) can weigh as little as 10 lbs, while Standard Bernedoodles can reach 90 lbs.
They inherit the Bernese Mountain Dog's love of cold weather and snow.
Owning a Bernedoodle is a long-term financial commitment. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to budget for.
Annual Cost
$1,800–$3,200
First Year (incl. setup)
$4,000–$7,000
Varies by size; quality food important for joint health
Hip dysplasia, skin conditions, and eye issues possible
Wavy/curly coat needs professional grooming every 6–8 weeks
Intelligent and gentle; positive training works beautifully
Mental enrichment for this clever hybrid
Recommended; cancer risk inherited from Bernese side
* Estimates based on national averages. Costs vary by location, lifestyle, and individual health needs. Emergency vet visits are not included.
Estimated US Population
~200,000 in the US
Adoption Trend
Bernedoodles have grown rapidly in popularity as buyers seek a large, low-shedding family dog with the Bernese Mountain Dog's striking tri-color appearance. Their combination of the Berner's calm temperament and the Poodle's intelligence makes them highly sought after. Their shorter lifespan (inherited from the Berner side) is a consideration for prospective owners.
Use the guides below to compare practical options alongside this breed's care needs.
The right technology makes dog ownership easier, safer, and more connected — whether you're home or away. These are the products our editors consider must-haves for every dog owner.
Automatic Feeder
Schedule precise meals so your dog eats right — even when you're not home.
GPS Tracker
Real-time location tracking — because dogs follow their nose, not the fence line.
Pet Camera
Two-way audio and HD video — stay connected and soothe your dog from anywhere.
Robot Vacuum
Built for pet hair — keeps your home clean without lifting a finger.
Products marked with SmartPaws Recommended are ones we've independently reviewed and recommend across the site. All Amazon links include our affiliate tag — purchases support SmartPaws at no extra cost to you.
Joint Supplement
Nutramax Cosequin Maximum Strength Joint Supplement
Proactive joint support for a breed prone to hip dysplasia.
SmartPaws RecommendedOmega-3 Supplement
Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet Fish Oil
Anti-inflammatory support and potential anti-cancer benefits.
SmartPaws RecommendedGPS Tracker
Fi Series 3+ Smart GPS Dog Collar
Active Bernedoodles can roam — GPS tracking provides peace of mind.
SmartPaws RecommendedTemperament
Climate & Physical
Compatibility
Rural & Outdoor
Scores reflect breed tendencies. Individual training significantly affects both livestock safety and off-leash reliability.
Based on breed-specific genetic health risks and common conditions
Many Bernedoodles are waiting in shelters and breed-specific rescues. Adoption costs are typically $100–$400 vs. $2,000–$5,000 from a breeder.
Read our Rescue Guide →Breed-specific challenges, techniques, and training timeline — written specifically for Bernedoodle owners.
Read Training GuideGet a printable PDF with traits, cost of ownership, health notes, and best-fit summary — free.