Bernedoodle vs Bernese Mountain Dog: Which is Right for You?

Bernese Mountain Dog History

The Bernese Mountain Dog, also known as Berner Sennenhund in its native Switzerland, is a large breed of dog that was originally bred for farm work. The breed’s origins can be traced back to the Roman invasion of Switzerland, where they were used as working dogs for herding and guarding livestock.

Over time, the breed evolved and became popular among farmers in the Swiss Alps. They were used to pull carts, herd cattle, and act as watchdogs. In the early 20th century, the Bernese Mountain Dog was introduced to the United States and quickly gained popularity as a family pet and show dog.

Today, the Bernese Mountain Dog is recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club and is still used for farm work in some parts of the world.

Bernedoodle History

The Bernedoodle is a relatively new breed of dog that was created by crossing a Bernese Mountain Dog with a Poodle. The first Bernedoodle was bred in 2003 in Ontario, Canada.

The goal of breeding the Bernedoodle was to create a dog that had the temperament and loyalty of the Bernese Mountain Dog but with a non-shedding coat that was hypoallergenic. The Poodle was chosen as the other parent because of its hypoallergenic coat and intelligence.

Since their creation, Bernedoodles have gained popularity as family pets due to their friendly nature, intelligence, and hypoallergenic coat. They are not yet recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club, but are recognized by the International Designer Canine Registry.

In summary, the Bernese Mountain Dog has a long history as a working dog in Switzerland and has gained popularity as a family pet and show dog in the United States. The Bernedoodle is a newer breed that was created by crossing a Bernese Mountain Dog with a Poodle and has gained popularity as a hypoallergenic family pet.

Physical Characteristics

Bernese Mountain Dog Features

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, sturdy breed that typically weighs between 70 to 115 pounds and stands 23 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a distinctive tricolored coat with a black base, white chest, and rust-colored markings on the face and legs. The coat is thick and moderately long, with a soft undercoat and a slightly wavy or straight outer coat.

Bernese Mountain Dogs have a broad head with a strong jaw and dark, almond-shaped eyes. Their ears are triangular and hang down close to the head. They have a muscular neck and a deep chest, with straight front legs and well-angled hindquarters. Their tail is long and bushy, and they have large, round feet with thick pads.

Bernedoodle Features

The Bernedoodle is a hybrid breed that is a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle. They come in a variety of sizes, ranging from miniature to standard, depending on the size of the Poodle parent. Their coat can be curly, wavy, or straight, and can come in a wide range of colors, including black, white, brown, and gray.

Bernedoodles have a similar body shape to the Bernese Mountain Dog, but they are typically smaller and more agile. They have a broad head with a slightly tapered muzzle, and their eyes can be dark brown or blue. Their ears are typically longer and more floppy than those of the Bernese Mountain Dog. They have a deep chest and well-muscled legs, with a long, bushy tail.

Both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Bernedoodle are beautiful breeds with unique physical characteristics. While the Bernese Mountain Dog is a larger, more traditional breed with a distinctive tricolored coat, the Bernedoodle is a newer hybrid breed with a wider range of colors and coat types.

Temperament and Behavior

Bernese Mountain Dog Temperament

Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their gentle and calm temperament. They are loyal, affectionate, and good-natured, making them great family pets. They are also intelligent and eager to please, which makes them easy to train. However, they can be reserved with strangers and may exhibit guarding behavior towards their family and property.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are also known for their love of the outdoors. They enjoy hiking, running, and playing, and they need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. They are also known for their love of children and are great with kids of all ages.

Bernedoodle Temperament

Bernedoodles are a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle, and they inherit traits from both breeds. They are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, and they are great with children and other pets. They are also intelligent and easy to train, making them a great choice for first-time dog owners.

Bernedoodles are also known for their energy and love of exercise. They enjoy running, hiking, and playing, and they need plenty of physical activity to stay healthy and happy. They are also known for their hypoallergenic coat, which makes them a great choice for people with allergies.

Both Bernese Mountain Dogs and Bernedoodles are great family pets with friendly and affectionate temperaments. However, Bernedoodles may be a better choice for people with allergies or those looking for a dog with more energy and a hypoallergenic coat.

Health and Lifespan

Bernese Mountain Dog Health

Bernese Mountain Dogs have a lifespan of about 7-10 years. They are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health issues. Some of the most common health problems that Bernese Mountain Dogs can develop include:

• Hip Dysplasia
• Elbow Dysplasia
• Bloat
• Cancer
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Hip and elbow dysplasia are common in large breeds like the Bernese Mountain Dog. Bloat is a serious condition that can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Cancer is also a concern, and Bernese Mountain Dogs are particularly prone to developing a type of cancer called histiocytic sarcoma. PRA is an eye disease that can lead to blindness.

To reduce the risk of these health problems, it is important to feed a high-quality diet, provide regular exercise, and schedule regular visits to the veterinarian.

Bernedoodle Health

Bernedoodles have a lifespan of about 12-18 years. They are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health issues. Some of the most common health problems that Bernedoodles can develop include:

• Hip Dysplasia
• Elbow Dysplasia
• Bloat
• Addison’s Disease
• Epilepsy

Hip and elbow dysplasia are common in large breeds like the Bernedoodle. Bloat is a serious condition that can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Addison’s disease is a hormonal disorder that can be managed with medication. Epilepsy is a neurological condition that can be managed with medication.

To reduce the risk of these health problems, it is important to feed a high-quality diet, provide regular exercise, and schedule regular visits to the veterinarian. It is also important to choose a reputable breeder who health tests their breeding dogs.

Training and Exercise Needs

Bernese Mountain Dog Exercise

Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, active dogs that require a moderate amount of exercise. They enjoy daily walks and hikes, but they don’t need intense exercise routines. It is important to keep in mind that they are prone to joint and mobility issues, so it’s important to avoid activities that can put too much strain on their joints.

Training Bernese Mountain Dogs can be challenging, as they are independent and can be stubborn. Positive reinforcement training methods are recommended, as they respond well to treats and praise. Early socialization is also important to prevent shyness or aggression towards strangers or other animals.

Bernedoodle Exercise

Bernedoodles are a mix between Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles, and their exercise needs can vary depending on their size and energy level. Generally, they require daily walks and playtime, but they can also benefit from more intense activities like hiking and swimming.

Training Bernedoodles can be easier than training Bernese Mountain Dogs, as they tend to be more eager to please and trainable. Positive reinforcement methods are also recommended for Bernedoodles. As with any dog, early socialization is important to prevent behavioral issues.

In summary, both Bernese Mountain Dogs and Bernedoodles require daily exercise and training, but their specific needs can vary. It is important to tailor their exercise routines to their individual needs and to use positive reinforcement training methods to achieve the best results.

Grooming Requirements

Bernese Mountain Dog Grooming

Bernese Mountain Dogs have a thick, double-layered coat that requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and shiny. They shed heavily twice a year and require daily brushing during these periods to prevent matting and tangling. Regular brushing is also recommended to remove loose hair and dirt, which can help prevent skin irritation and infections. Bathing should be done only when necessary, as over-bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils.

In addition to brushing, Bernese Mountain Dogs require regular trimming of their nails, cleaning of their ears, and brushing of their teeth. Nails should be trimmed every 4-6 weeks, ears should be cleaned weekly to prevent infections, and teeth should be brushed at least twice a week to prevent dental problems.

Bernedoodle Grooming

Bernedoodles have a curly or wavy coat that is low-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for people with allergies. However, their coat still requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and free of matting. They should be brushed at least once a week to prevent tangles and mats, and professional grooming is recommended every 6-8 weeks to keep their coat neat and tidy.

Bernedoodles also require regular trimming of their nails, cleaning of their ears, and brushing of their teeth. Nails should be trimmed every 4-6 weeks, ears should be cleaned weekly to prevent infections, and teeth should be brushed at least twice a week to prevent dental problems.

Overall, both Bernese Mountain Dogs and Bernedoodles require regular grooming to keep them healthy and happy. Bernese Mountain Dogs require more frequent brushing due to their heavy shedding, while Bernedoodles require more frequent professional grooming due to their curly coat.

Suitability for Families

When it comes to choosing a dog breed for a family, there are many factors to consider. Both Bernese Mountain Dogs and Bernedoodles can make excellent family pets, but there are some differences to keep in mind.

Bernese Mountain Dog Family Suitability

Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their gentle temperament and love for their families. They are loyal and affectionate, and they tend to get along well with children and other pets. However, they are a large breed, and their size can be intimidating for some children. They also require a lot of exercise and attention, so they may not be the best choice for families with very young children or those who are not able to provide them with enough exercise and mental stimulation.

Bernedoodle Family Suitability

Bernedoodles are a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle, and they can inherit traits from both breeds. They are generally friendly, intelligent, and easy to train, making them a good choice for families with children. They are also hypoallergenic, which can be a plus for families with allergies. However, like all dogs, they require regular exercise and attention, and they may not be the best choice for families who are not able to provide them with enough exercise and mental stimulation.

Overall, both Bernese Mountain Dogs and Bernedoodles can make great family pets, but families should carefully consider their lifestyle and needs before choosing a breed. It’s important to provide any dog with proper training, socialization, and care to ensure a happy and healthy life.