Bernedoodle

A Bernedoodle is a cross-breed between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle, known for their fun-loving and outgoing personality. Bernedoodles have a low-shedding, low-allergen coat that makes them “hypoallergenic”.Bernedoodles are often assigned a generation label such as F1, F1b, F2, or F3. An F1 Bernedoodle has a Bernese Mountain Dog parent and a Poodle parent, while an F1b Bernedoodle has a Poodle parent and an F1 Bernedoodle parent.

How To Care For A Bernedoodle

There are three different Bernedoodle sizes; Standard, Miniature, and Toy. A standard Bernedoodle weighs 61–100 pounds and stands up to 29 inches tall. They live 12–15 years. Mini Bernedoodle weighs 20–45 pounds, stands up to 22 inches tall, and lives 14–16 years. Toy Bernedoodle weighs less than 20 pounds and stands 12–17 inches tall. They live the longest, up to 18 years.

Even though Bernedoodle is a mixed breed, every Bernedoodle size has its own care requirements and ideal lifestyle needs. For example, Toy and Miniature Bernedoodles live happily in a small apartment. But a Standard Bernedoodle might prefer a more spacious dwelling.

Bernedoodle Health Issues

Bernedoodle
Image-Source: animator

The Bernedoodle lifespan ranges from 12–18 years. It inherits features from parent breeds, but Miniatures might have different health issues than Standards. Before you bring in a Bernedoodle pup, get a detailed account of its health history. Breeders must vaccinate dogs,  screen for health conditions, and should be aware of their family history.

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia

Both Hip and Elbow Dysplasia are inherited conditions. Hip Dysplasia loosens a dog’s hip joints during growth and development. Elbow Dysplasia occurs when the dog’s elbow develops abnormally, also causing pain. But if both these conditions aren’t properly treated, your dog will be prone to arthritis.

You can help your dog stay away from the two conditions by keeping him or her at a healthy weight. The fatter your Bernedoodle is, the more pressure will be put on their joints. However, you can treat your dog for the condition by giving joint supplements or operating if the case is severe.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Bernedoodles will experience progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). It declines their eyesight and eventually leads to blindness. Your Bernedoodle may witness clumsiness, dilated pupils, cataracts, and night blindness if he or she is already a victim of the condition. There is no treatment for PRA, but blind dogs can live long and happy lives with proper care.

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV)

Standard Bernedoodles have a deep chest. They are at risk for developing gastric dilatation-volvulus, a severe form of bloat in dogs. When a dog’s stomach fills with gas quickly, it expands and twists. Both the stomach and the spleen can be affected; When the stomach twists the spleen does twist as well. If your Bernedoodle eats too quickly or eats one big meal for the day, he or she might end up with the condition. Here are some symptoms of GDV:

  • Inability to settle
  • Retching
  • Distended abdomen
  • Excessive drooling
  • Stretching the body in a “downward dog” or “praying mantis” position

If you see any of these symptoms, take your dog to the vet or emergency vet right away.

How To Feed a Bernedoodle

Bernedoodle puppies should eat three to four meals a day. If it is a Standard Bernedoodle pup, give him puppy food formulated for large breeds. Bernedoodle adults should eat two meals per day. But, if your dog is a fast eater, try to introduce a slow feeder to stop them from scarfing the meal down.

“Adult dogs can technically get only one meal per day, but this can lead to anxiety and hyper fixation on food,” says Jamie Whittenburg, DVM at Kingsgate Animal Hospital in Lubbock, Texas. “A meal every 12 hours is better for the dog’s mental health and metabolism. More frequent feeding can also help reduce the risk of certain health issues such as GDV because the size of each meal will be smaller and the dog is likely to eat more slowly.”

How much a Bernedoodle should eat depends on your dog’s size, health, and its lifestyle. “When it comes to feeding your Bernedoodle, there is no one-size-fits-all and you should discuss a feeding plan with your veterinarian,” Dr. Whittenburg says.

Behavior and Training Tips for Bernedoodles

Bernedoodles are adorable and kind. They enjoy spending time with children and their families as well as romping around with other dogs. The surprising fact is that they are kind to small pets like cats.

Bernedoodles are goofy, playful, and gentle. Provide Bernedoodles with consistent training to grow them into a sweet and happy dog. Unlike other dog breeds, they do not bark very often. They learn basic cues, fun tricks, and essentials such as crate training and potty training quickly. Bernedoodles love going on walks. You may start leash training immediately to set them out.

How To Groom A Bernedoodle

Bernedoodle
Image-Source:thesprucepets

The Bernedoodle is a low-shedding breed. It needs frequent brushing and regular grooming sessions by a professional.  However, it is a low-maintenance breed. Bernedoodles are outdoorsy dogs, they’ll need a bath whenever they get too dirty. But, do not bathe them often, not more than once a month. This breed needs a lot of brushing. They should be brushed every week. Set up regular grooming appointments! It will keep their hair tangle-free and stop it from growing unruly.

Bernedoodles do not have special eye care, but you may ensure that the hair around the eyes does not obstruct their vision or cause irritation. If you see any noticeable changes in their eyes, contact your vet. Bernedoodle are swimming-lovers. They splash in water. Thus, it’s important to clean their ears to prevent moisture and bacteria accumulation in their ears.

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