Bernedoodle

Canis lupus familiaris

Also called Bernese Mountain Poo, Bernese Mountain Dog x Poodle

A sweet, loving and playful dog that bonds closely with its family, often following them from room to room.

Size	Small
Weight	4.5 to 40.8 kg (10 to 90 lb)1 2 3
Height	25 to 76 cm (10 to 30 in)1 2 3
Lifespan	6 to 18 years2 3 1
Coat	Wavy, curly or straight
Origin	Canada; Purina credits Sherry Rupke of SwissRidge Kennels with the first deliberate litters in 2003.1 4
Last checked	2026-10-01

CrossbreedShort profile

affectionate family dog

clever and eager to please

playful and goofy

2 3 1

Personality what they are like

A sweet, loving and playful dog that bonds closely with its family, often following them from room to room. It is bright and keen to learn, and does best with kind, consistent training from puppyhood.2 3 1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Bernedoodle. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upevery year

Coat and looks how to spot one

wavy, curly or straight

The coat can be curly, wavy or fairly straight depending on the dog, and many are low-shedding thanks to the Poodle side, though this is not guaranteed.2 1 3

Coloursblack, white and tan tricolourblackblack and whiteblack and brownbrownwhitegrey2 1 3

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Moderate to high, depending on which parent it takes after. Daily walks at a steady pace plus play; many enjoy hiking, swimming and dog sports. Keep sessions shorter while young dogs are still growing.2 3 1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Brush several times a week, checking behind the ears and around the neck for tangles, and plan a professional groom every few months. Keep ears clean and nails and teeth tidy.2 3 1

Home where they are happiest

Standard-sized dogs are happiest with a garden and room to move; smaller Bernedoodles can manage in an apartment with daily walks.3 1

Food basics what goes in the bowl

A good-quality complete food in measured portions split into two or three meals; Dogster suggests about 2-3 cups of kibble a day for a standard-sized dog.3

Company who they like around

Loves people and usually does well with children and other dogs, especially when socialised young. Introduce cats and small pets with care.2 3 1

The story where it all began

The Bernedoodle was first bred on purpose in 2003 by Sherry Rupke of SwissRidge Kennels, who wanted to blend the Poodle's sharp mind with the Bernese Mountain Dog's loyal, easy-going character. The Bernese side comes from Swiss farm dogs, while the Poodle began as a water retriever.1 4

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Bernedoodles come in toy, mini and standard sizes depending on the Poodle parent.2
2
They are often called 'velcro dogs' because they like to stay close to their owners.2
3
The Bernese Mountain Dog parent is one of four Swiss mountain dog breeds.3
4
Despite its French image, the Poodle actually comes from Germany.3

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name 'Bernedoodle' is a portmanteau of 'Bernese' (from the Bernese Mountain Dog parent) and 'doodle' (a common suffix for Poodle crosses).5

Name ideas for your new friend

MapleTeddyHazelFinnOliveCharlieLunaBearRubyMochiJasperWillow

A day in the life told by a Bernedoodle

I wake up and pad softly to my human's bedroom. They stir, so I wag my tail. We go downstairs, and I sit politely while they get my breakfast. After, we walk through the park, I sniff flowers and chase a leaf. My human throws a ball, and I bring it back, dropping it at their feet. At home, I follow them from room to room, lying down near their chair. When the mail arrives, I tilt my head at the sound. In the afternoon, we play tug-of-war with a rope toy. I growl playfully. At night, I snuggle on the sofa, my head on their lap. I sigh, content. Another perfect day.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

The Royal Kennel Club: Crossbreeds are not recognised as pedigree breeds, but they can be registered on the Activity Register and take part in agility, obedience and similar events.6

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Blueberry Oat Biscuits

These simple, three-ingredient biscuits are full of fibre and antioxidants from blueberries, and are easy to make in small sizes for toy and small dogs.

You need

100g oats
1 banana (mashed)
40g fresh blueberries (chopped)
a little water (as needed)

How

Preheat your oven to 175°C.
Mix the mashed banana, oats and chopped blueberries together in a bowl.
Add splashes of water a little at a time, stirring until the mixture comes together in one large ball.
Roll the mixture out on a lightly floured surface to about 1–2 cm thick.
Use a small cookie cutter or a knife to cut out shapes suitable for a small dog.
Place the shapes on a lined baking tray and bake for 15–20 minutes until slightly browned.
Leave to cool completely before serving.

How much: Give one small biscuit per day for a toy or small dog, and reduce their main meal accordingly.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Frozen Yoghurt and Fruit Treats

These refreshing frozen treats are perfect for warm days and use simple, dog-safe ingredients. Yoghurt provides calcium and probiotics, while strawberries and apple add vitamins and natural sweetness.

You need

30g plain, unsweetened yoghurt (no additives or sweeteners)
2-3 medium strawberries (washed and chopped)
Half a small apple (cored and chopped into small pieces)

How

Wash the strawberries and apple thoroughly. Core the apple and chop both fruits into small, bite-sized pieces.
Mix the chopped fruit together in a small bowl.
Place a few pieces of fruit (no more than five) into each compartment of a small silicone mould or ice cube tray. Each mould should be roughly 30mm x 25mm x 17mm or smaller.
Pour the plain yoghurt over the fruit, filling each mould to the top.
Place the mould or tray in the freezer for at least 3-4 hours, or until fully frozen.
Pop the treats out of the moulds and serve immediately.

How much: Small dogs can have one treat per day; medium/large dogs can have two per day. These count towards the 10% treat allowance, so reduce your dog's main meals accordingly.

Recipe from PDSA

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Bernedoodle, and at what times?

Feed your Bernedoodle a good-quality complete food split into two or three meals daily. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. Exact times can vary, so ask your vet for a schedule that fits your routine.3 7

What should a Bernedoodle eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A good-quality complete dog food in measured portions is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by the ASPCA. Always check with your vet for a safe diet plan.3 8

How often should I bathe a Bernedoodle?

Bathe your Bernedoodle at least once every three months, or more often if they get very dirty. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every eight weeks. Use a gentle dog shampoo and avoid over-bathing.9 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Bernedoodle need brushing?

Brush your Bernedoodle several times a week to prevent tangles, especially behind the ears and around the neck. Pet Wiki's starting plan recommends brushing once a week, but the breed's coat may need more frequent attention.2 3 1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Bernedoodle's nails, and how often?

Trim your Bernedoodle's nails when you hear them clicking on the floor, about every four weeks. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests nail care every 28 days.9 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Bernedoodle need?

Your Bernedoodle needs daily walks and playtime, with moderate to high activity depending on its parentage. Many enjoy hiking, swimming, and dog sports. Keep sessions shorter while your dog is still growing.2 3 1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Bernedoodle's teeth and ears?

Brush your Bernedoodle's teeth two to three times a week using a dog-safe toothpaste; daily is ideal. Check ears regularly for dirt or redness, but never push anything into the ear canal. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests ear checks every two weeks and teeth brushing every two days.9 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Bernedoodle live?

A Bernedoodle typically lives between 6 and 18 years, with many enjoying a long, healthy life. Provide good care, diet, and regular vet check-ups to support their longevity.2 3 1

Is a Bernedoodle good with children and other pets?

Yes, Bernedoodles are usually wonderful with children and other dogs, especially when socialised from puppyhood. Introduce cats and small pets carefully, as individual temperaments can vary.2 3 1

Can a Bernedoodle be left alone?

Bernedoodles bond very closely with their families and may not enjoy being left alone for long periods. It varies by individual; ask a good breeder or your vet for advice on your dog's needs.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

Parents and lookalikes

Bernese Mountain Dog

Goldendoodle

Sheepadoodle

Labradoodle

Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

Bernedoodle - Purina UK purina.co.ukused for history (2003, Sherry Rupke), size, lifespan, colours, social
Bernedoodle Breed Profile - Adopt-a-Pet adoptapet.comused for size variants, coat, colours, temperament, exercise, fun facts, lifespan
Bernedoodle - Dogster dogster.comused for size, lifespan, grooming, diet, living, fun facts
Bernedoodles - SwissRidge Kennels swissridgekennels.comused for originating kennel
petmd.com petmd.com
What is a crossbreed dog? - The Royal Kennel Club royalkennelclub.comused for recognition
VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-10-01. Text is written in our own words from these sources.