Bernedoodles are lovable crossbreeds of a Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle. With their teddy-bear faces and wavy coats, Bernedoodles are exciting to bring home. However, it is a long-term commitment as well. While they are intelligent and have a family-friendly nature, they are not the perfect fit for every household.

If you’re a first-time dog owner, you need to understand what to expect before your puppy arrives. This includes ensuring that the puppy you bring home came from a breeder who did right by that dog long before you even met. 

Understand the Bernedoodle Personality

Bernedoodles are often described as loyal, playful, and eager to please. They have the gentle temperament of the Bernese Mountain Dog and the trainable nature of the Poodle. However, their Poodle brain means they get bored easily. This boredom can turn into chewed shoes or dug-up flowerbeds. That’s why it’s important to stimulate a Bernedoodle mentally and also be ready to be patient.

Grooming is a Long-Term Commitment

The gorgeous wavy or curly coat of the Bernedoodle dog comes with responsibility. While they are considered low-shedding, they require regular grooming. This prevents matting and tangles. Brushing at home several times a week can prevent painful matting. However, you should still aim for professional grooming every six to eight weeks. This keeps the coat healthy and manageable. If you feel you can handle the responsibility, you’re ready to bring home a Bernedoodle.

The Breeder Matters

Most first-time Bernadoodle or dog owners often tend to focus only on the appearance or price. However, the breeder’s practices should be considered as much. Knowing where your puppy comes from shapes everything about its health and temperament. You should look for ethical and responsible Bernedoodle breeders who:

Perform genetic health testing on parent dogs

Raise puppies in clean and safe environments

Prioritize early socialization with people and everyday experiences

Provide veterinary records, vaccinations, and health guarantees

Show willingness to provide further details even after you bring your pup home

Avoid going to breeders who provide no health clearances or only have vague answers about genetic testing. If you’re not allowed to visit the place where the pups were raised, that should be a red flag. Also, do not accept pups offered far younger than 8 weeks old. 

Know the Health and Nutrition Basics

Like any mixed breed, Bernedoodles can inherit health issues from either parent breed. Potential concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia, eye disorders, and certain cancers linked to the Bernese lineage. However, when breeder health testing is done, the risks are reduced. 

With a balanced and high-quality diet, you can support the healthy growth and development of your pup. There are diets formulated for proper joint and bone development during the growth phase. You can talk to your vet about age-appropriate food. Routine veterinary visits, vaccinations, and dental care should be a part of your routine for a healthy dog.

Training Should Start Immediately

Bernedoodles are prone to certain health conditions and temperamental displays that can be managed. They may be intelligent learners, but this does not automatically translate into good manners. Start training your pup as soon as it arrives home. Start socialization and basic commands early. Stay consistent and use positive reinforcement with treats to produce the best results.

Endnote

The perfect puppy is the one you bring home. Your success with your Bernedoodle begins with understanding the breed and choosing an ethical breeder. Onward, you then commit to your dog’s lifelong physical and emotional well-being.