Bernedoodle vs Goldendoodle

If you’re stuck in the Bernedoodle vs Goldendoodle debate, it’s important to compare not just their charming doodle looks but also their distinct personality traits, proper care needs, and how they fit into family life. 

In this direct comparison, we’ll explore these factors to help you decide which doodle is your ideal canine companion.

Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles are popular hybrid dog breeds with unique backgrounds. Bernedoodles, developed by Sherry Rupke, combine the sturdy Bernese Mountain Dog with the intelligent Poodle. Goldendoodles, which combine the friendly Golden Retriever with the clever Poodle, have been popular since the 1960s.

The Bernese Mountain Dog, from the Swiss Alps, was bred to herd cattle and pull carts. The Golden Retriever from Scotland was perfected for retrieving waterfowl. These traits make both doodle breeds intelligent and versatile companions.

The intelligent Poodle, known for its curly coat, has dramatically influenced the Bernedoodle and Goldendoodle breeds. These Poodle hybrids inherit the Poodle’s intellect and hypoallergenic Poodle coat, making them ideal service dogs and family pets. Goldendoodles also show the Poodle’s enthusiasm for water sports and athleticism.

Poodles come in various sizes, resulting in doodles ranging from petite to large, suiting different lifestyles and living situations. This diversity also provides a slightly cheaper doodle puppy making them a more affordable option.

The Poodle’s versatility and desirability are demonstrated by their genetic contribution to these sought-after, popular hybrid breeds.

Standard Bernedoodles are generally larger, reaching up to 29 inches tall and weighing 65 to 110 pounds, influenced by their Bernese Mountain Dog genes. Standard Goldendoodles are slightly smaller, reaching up to 24 inches and weighing between 50 and 90 pounds. Although both Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles come in a variety of sizes, Bernedoodles are generally larger. 

Bernedoodles normally have soft, wavy coats with distinctive black, white, and brown patterns. Goldendoodles can have straight, wavy or curly coats in various coat colors and textures.

Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles are friendly, social, intelligent, and eager to please, making them beloved by families and dog enthusiasts.

Bernedoodles are known for their calmer, affectionate, gentle, and slightly goofy demeanor, while the Goldendoodle temperament is energetic, outgoing, and playful.

Bernedoodles combine the best traits of their parent breeds, showing a laid-back nature from the Bernese Mountain Dog and the sociability and humor of the Poodle. These playful and happy dogs bond strongly with active families and are great with children.

Intelligent and quick learners, Bernedoodles make excellent therapy dogs and excel in obedience training and agility. Early socialization and training help them become comfortable around new people and manage sensitivity or behavioral issues.

Goldendoodles, known for their affectionate nature, make excellent family pets. Their obedience and love for interaction suit active individuals who enjoy outdoor activities like fetch, swimming, and hiking. More energetic than Bernedoodles, they need plenty of exercise to stay happy and well-behaved.

Their adaptability and trainability make them great guide dogs, support animals, and rescue workers. Goldendoodles, reflecting the playful personality of the Golden Retriever, are joyous companions and enthusiastic participants in family adventures.

Bernedoodles, although more docile, have fewer exercise needs but still require up to an hour and a half of daily exercise. With their high energy levels, Goldendoodles need regular, moderate exercise and activities like fetch or agility training to stay stimulated and prevent boredom, making them a perfect addition to an outdoor-loving family.

Caring for Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles requires regular exercise, grooming, and maintenance. Regular grooming, including coat care, nail clipping, and skin care, is essential to maintaining their appearance and overall health and preventing matting and skin issues.

Frequent grooming is essential for Bernedoodles, especially with their hypoallergenic hair. Brush their wavy coat daily or a few times weekly to prevent tangles and matting. Straighter coats tend to shed more and need less grooming, while curlier coats require more attention.

Bathe them with suitable products every 6 to 8 weeks or as needed, brushing beforehand to manage mats. Schedule professional grooming for nail clipping and other tasks every six to eight weeks. A Bernedoodle puppy may need more regular grooming to become comfortable with the process.

Grooming is crucial for Goldendoodles, especially given their varied coat types. Curly-coated Goldendoodles shed less, while straight-coated ones may shed more like Golden Retrievers. Whether their coat is straight, wavy, or curly, it requires a specific grooming regimen.

Regular grooming, along with food, treats, and other essentials, are vital considerations. Routine vet check-ups are also important to catch potential health issues early.

Standard Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles are larger dogs prone to common health issues such as hip dysplasia, eye conditions, cardiac concerns, and patella luxation. Bernedoodles may also suffer from Von Willebrand’s disease, a blood clotting disorder.  At Hoosier Canines, we are dedicated to ensuring the health and quality of our puppies. Our adult dogs undergo comprehensive screenings for these health conditions. This commitment to rigorous health testing allows us to maintain the highest standards and promote the well-being of our amazing Bernedoodles.

Bernedoodles are susceptible to allergies, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV). Regular vet check-ups can help manage these potential health issues. Goldendoodles generally have a longer lifespan but face specific health challenges like heart stenosis, glaucoma, and cancer.

Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles are highly trainable due to their intelligence and eagerness to learn, making positive reinforcement training methods highly effective. Bernedoodles are particularly easy to train and often make great service dogs. Goldendoodles’ accommodating and laid-back personality traits simplify training, especially for first-time dog owners.

Both Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles are excellent family dogs, great with children and other pets. Bernedoodles may be better for households with younger children due to their calmer nature. Both breeds can integrate well into a family with other pets when properly socialized, especially for outdoor-loving households.

Bernedoodles thrive in family environments, forming strong bonds with all members and showing a gentle, patient nature, especially with children. Getting a Bernedoodle from a reputable breeder ensures a well-bred, well-socialized companion. While they typically get along with other animals, early introductions and supervision are recommended for smooth integration.

Goldendoodles are just as family-friendly as Bernedoodles. Their gentle and affectionate nature, influenced by the Golden Retriever, makes them great with children. They are also patient and gentle with other pets, highlighting their sociable and non-aggressive temperament.

Both the loyal and gentle Bernedoodle and the playful and affectionate Goldendoodle offer love and companionship. Bernedoodles have a calm demeanor and form strong family bonds, while Goldendoodles have a lively spirit and adaptability. 

Considering their exercise needs, grooming requirements, and overall health, choose the breed that best fits your lifestyle and family dynamics. With this knowledge, you can confidently select a doodle that will become an integral part of your family.