Bernedoodle Dog Registration

General Appearance

The Bernedoodle, also known as the Bernese Mountain Poo, is a designer breed created by crossing the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle. These dogs make amazing companions, known for their playful and friendly nature. Bernedoodles thrive on interaction and love spending time playing with their owners.

 

Proportion and Symmetry

Although Bernedoodles may appear square in build, they are actually slightly longer in body than tall. Having sturdy bones is essential, and the breed has a full, well-balanced physique.

 

Substance

Bernedoodles are medium-sized dogs with a wide range of sizes due to their mixed heritage. They typically stand between 10 to 30 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 10 to 90 pounds. This variation depends on how much Bernese Mountain Dog or Poodle influence each puppy inherits. Despite this size range, Bernedoodles have an impressive lifespan of 12 to 18 years.

 

Head

The Bernedoodle’s expression is intelligent, animated, and gentle. They have dark brown, slightly oval eyes with close-fitting eyelids (inverted or everted eyelids are faults). Blue eyes disqualify the dog. The ears are medium-sized, triangular with gently rounded tips, set high and hang close to the head at rest. When alert, the ears move forward and raise at the base, aligning with the top of the skull.

The skull is flat and broad, with a slight furrow and a well-defined stop. The muzzle is strong and straight, complemented by a black nose. Lips are clean and slightly developed, reflecting the breed’s dry-mouthed nature. Teeth meet in a scissors bite, and an overshot or undershot bite is a serious fault. Dentition is complete.

 

Body

The Bernedoodle has a strong, muscular neck of medium length. The topline remains level from the withers to the croup. The chest is deep and capacious with well-sprung ribs, but not barrel-shaped. The brisket reaches at least to the elbows. The back is broad and firm, and the loin is strong. The croup is broad and smoothly rounded to the tail insertion. The bushy tail is carried low at rest but may have an upward swirl when alert—never curled over the back. The tail bones should be straight and reach the hock joint or below.

 

Forequarters

The shoulders are moderately laid back, flat-lying, well-muscled, and never loose. Legs are straight and strong, with elbows placed well under the shoulders. Pasterns slope slightly but remain strong. Dewclaws may be removed. Feet are round and compact with well-arched toes.

 

Coat

Bernedoodles have a thick, moderately long coat that is slightly wavy or straight with a natural bright sheen. Extremely curly or dull coats are considered undesirable. The breed is typically shown in its natural coat, with minimal trimming recommended.

 

Color

Coat colors vary widely. Some Bernedoodles have pure black coats, while others feature combinations of black and white, black and brown, or tri-colored patches. Most popular colors resemble the tri-colored Bernese Mountain Dog.

 

Gait

The Bernedoodle’s natural working gait is a slow trot, but they are also capable of speed and agility, reflective of their draft and droving heritage. They display a good reach in front and a powerful drive from the rear, transmitted through a level back. Their movement is efficient, with front and rear legs on each side following the same plane, converging toward the center line at increased speeds.

 

Temperament

Bernedoodles are wonderful companion dogs, thriving on interaction and playtime with their owners. They are playful, intelligent, and very friendly. This breed was bred for companionship and loving family life rather than for looks alone.