Labradoodle vs. Bernedoodle: The Key Differences (With Pictures)

Are you considering adding a lovable, low-shedding poodle mix to your family? Two of the most popular options are the Labradoodle and the Bernedoodle. Both of these delightful designer dogs combine the intelligence and friendly nature of the Poodle with the devoted companionship of either the Labrador Retriever or the Bernese Mountain Dog. But while they have some similarities, these two doodle breeds also have distinct differences. Let‘s take a closer look at how the Labradoodle and Bernedoodle compare so you can decide which one might be the best fit for your lifestyle.

The Labradoodle was first developed in Australia in the 1980s. The goal was to create a guide dog for visually impaired individuals that would also be suitable for those with allergies to shedding dog hair. By crossing a Labrador Retriever with a Standard or Miniature Poodle, breeders aimed to produce a friendly, trainable service dog with a low-shedding coat. The results were so successful that Labradoodles quickly gained popularity around the world as amazing family pets too.

The Bernedoodle, on the other hand, is a more recently developed hybrid. They were first purposefully bred in 2003 by crossing a Bernese Mountain Dog with a Standard, Miniature, or Toy Poodle. The intent was to create a lower-shedding and longer-lived version of the beloved Bernese. With hybrid vigor from the crossing of two breeds, Bernedoodles were noted to have fewer health issues than their purebred parents. Their charming, goofy personalities also won many hearts and the Bernedoodle quickly established itself as another popular poodle mix.

When it comes to size, both breeds have quite a range since they can be bred from Standard, Miniature or Toy Poodles. Labradoodles typically weigh anywhere from 15 to 65 pounds and stand 14 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder. Standard Labradoodles, a Lab crossed with a Standard Poodle, make up the larger end of that spectrum.

Bernedoodles have an even wider size range because they can also come in a Toy variety, bred from Toy Poodles under 10 pounds. In general, Bernedoodles weigh between 10 to 90 pounds and are 12 to 29 inches tall. Standard Bernedoodles, from the Standard Poodle, are the largest, followed by Miniatures in the 20-50 pound range and Toys under 20 pounds.

Both Labradoodles and Bernedoodles usually have wavy to curly coats, thanks to their Poodle genes. They are considered lower-shedding and hypoallergenic compared to their Labrador and Bernese parents. Still, no dog is completely non-shedding or allergen-free. Doodles still require regular brushing to prevent tangles and mats as well as trims every 6-8 weeks to keep their continuously growing hair in check. Professional grooming is recommended for both breeds.

Between the two, Bernedoodles tend to have thicker, longer, more high-maintenance coats. They often have an adorable shaggy look if left to grow out. Labradoodles usually have a coat that is a bit easier to manage, ranging in texture from a fleecy retriever-like hair to a denser poodle wool. Brushing them a few times a week rather than daily can be sufficient.

When it comes to temperament, both Labradoodles and Bernedoodles are loving, loyal companions that bond closely with their families. They are known for being affectionate and great with kids. Labradoodles tend to take after their outgoing, happy-go-lucky Lab parent. They are very friendly, even to strangers, and have an eager-to-please attitude that makes them easy to train.

Bernedoodles, on the other hand, tend to be a bit more reserved with people they don‘t know. They usually warm up quickly but are not quite the wiggly greeters that Labradoodles are. Bernedoodles are also known for being especially playful, silly and downright comical. They love to goof around and show off. Some owners note that their Bernedoodles have a stubborn streak too and can take more convincing when it comes to training.

Both of these dogs were bred to be active, athletic companions, so they need plenty of exercise to be happy. Labradoodles in particular are tireless and do best with one to two hours of walking, running, playing, swimming and more each day. They make excellent adventure buddies for active families. Bernedoodles also love a good romp, but their endurance is a bit lower. One hour per day of moderate activity is usually sufficient to keep them fit.

In addition to physical exercise, Labradoodles and Bernedoodles both need mental stimulation to prevent boredom. They do well with consistent training, puzzle toys, games, and interactive play. Labradoodles tend to be extremely trainable, making them naturals for obedience competitions, agility, and service or therapy dog work. Bernedoodles also catch on quickly but can be a little more independently minded. With their playful spirit, they excel at learning tricks and often steal the show!

As with any dog, especially a mixed breed, Labradoodles and Bernedoodles can inherit certain health problems from their parent breeds. Responsible breeders will do thorough health testing on the sire and dam to minimize risks. In general, both crosses tend to have better health than purebred dogs due to hybrid vigor. However, it‘s still important for owners to be aware of the issues that can pop up.

For both breeds, hip and elbow dysplasia, eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy, skin problems and allergies, and certain cancers such as lymphoma are the primary health concerns. Labradoodles may be more prone to joint issues from the Lab side, while Bernedoodles can have an increased risk of Wobbler Syndrome and Degenerative Myelopathy from their Bernese parent.

With proper care, a healthy diet, and regular vet checkups, Labradoodles and Bernedoodles often enjoy long lifespans. Labradoodles live an average of 12-14 years. For Bernedoodles, life expectancy ranges from 12-18 years depending on size. Like many small dogs, Toy and Miniature Bernedoodles tend to have the greatest longevity. Standard Bernedoodles live 12-15 years on average.

So which doodle is right for you? Both Labradoodles and Bernedoodles can make wonderful, loving companions for active families or individuals. Labradoodles are usually the better choice if you want an outgoing, retriever-like dog who will be friendly to everyone and easier to train. Go with a Bernedoodle if you prefer a more discerning dog who will still be playful and affectionate but might need a little extra consistency and positive reinforcement in training.

Also take into account the wide range of sizes in both breeds. Minis and Toys are great if you live in an apartment or have a small yard, while Standard sizes are best suited for homes with more indoor and outdoor space for a large, energetic dog to romp.

No matter which breed or size you choose, be sure to do your research and select a reputable breeder who does thorough health testing, provides health guarantees, and raises their puppies in enriching environments. If possible, meet the parent dogs in person to get a sense of the temperament and traits your new pup is likely to have. While there are no guarantees with a mixed breed, this will help set you and your new best friend up for a long, happy, healthy life together!