Bernedoodle vs Labradoodle Breed Comparison (with Photos)

Doodle mixes are some of the most commonly bred dogs in the world. Taking a Poodle’s intelligence, loyalty, and ability not to shed and mixing it with other breeds has been hugely popular amongst dog breeders and owners. 

However, there are so many mixes now that it’s tough to keep them straight, especially if you’re choosing a family dog. What is the difference between a Bernedoodle and a Labradoodle, and which one will work best for your family? 

These two dogs have more similarities than differences, but it’s important to note what sets them apart. When you better understand the breeds, you’ll know which one will fit your family better and narrow down your search for the perfect pup. 

Bernedoodles vs. Labradoodles

Bernedoodles and Labradoodles have become much more popular in the past few decades, as more and more families look to designer dogs for personality and hypoallergenic behaviors. 

You might think that most Poodle mixes are similar–after all, they’ve got some Poodle in them! However, you should consider the other breed – Labrador Retrievers are very different pets from Bernese Mountain dogs, and it shows in their respective Poodle mixes. 

Without further ado, here’s a complete comparison of Bernedoodles and Labradoodles. Looking at everything from temperament to size, we’ll examine the similarities and differences between these two breeds. You can decide what type of puppy will best suit your family’s needs. 

Breeding

Labradoodles are part Labrador Retriever and Poodle. First bred in Australia, these pups combine the loyalty and amiability of a Labrador with the Poodle’s intelligence. Usually 50/50 Labrador and Poodle. 

Bernedoodles, on the other hand, are part Poodle and part Bernese Mountain dog. This mix might not seem as intuitive, but it produces a friendly, calm, and intelligent dog (which doesn’t shed, of course). These dogs were first bred in Canada and continue to be popular worldwide. 

Both of these dogs are healthy and strong when bred correctly. Of course, it’s crucial to pick an ethical breeder who performs genetic and temperament testing. A bad breeder will result in puppy cruelty, health issues, and even inbreeding. 

Temperament

Poodles are intelligent and loyal, and most Poodle mixes inherit these traits. Labrador Retrievers are also very smart, loyal, and have a lot of energy. They’re friendly and sociable dogs, which shows in a Labradoodle mix. 

Labradoodles tend to be high-energy, intelligent, and loyal to their owners. They make great family dogs because they are gentle with kids and love to play. They learn very quickly and are eager to please.

When well trained and socialized, these dogs will stick with your side. 

Bernedoodles have many similar traits–they are loyal, friendly, and clever. However, Bernese Mountain dogs are usually gentle and calm, so that the Poodle mix might be lower energy than Labradoodles. They also train well and quickly, especially with positive reinforcement. 

Energy

All puppies have boundless energy, and these breeds are no exception. If you adopt a puppy, you have to prepare for nights of potty breaks, lots of cleanups, and the destruction of at least some of your shoes. However, some dogs mellow out while others don’t. 

Labradoodles tend to stay pretty high energy. As long as they get enough exercise, they will be genial and obedient. A pent-up dog might act naughty because they have too much energy.

Training and socialization are vital for Labradoodles. 

On the other hand, Bernedoodles can mellow out a lot once they grow out of their puppy stage. They require moderate exercise and benefit from training and socialization, but these dogs tend to be more easygoing than Labradoodles. 

Size

Labradoodles and Bernedoodles both come in mini, medium, and standard. These sizes will vary per dog, but they are generally the same. Bernedoodles are slightly larger than Labradoodles and can weigh in at almost 90 pounds. 

Bernese Mountain dogs are gentle giants, and their Poodle mixes inherit this. Labradors are smaller dogs but can reach up to 60 pounds. Medium and mini breeds have different sizing, but Labradoodles will generally weigh less and not be as tall as Bernedoodle pups. 

Shedding

Both Labradoodles and Bernedoodles tend towards the hypoallergenic aspect of their shared Poodle heritage–Poodles grow hair instead of fur and don’t shed. Instead, their hair grows, and they need regular grooming to prevent matting and skin issues. 

Labradoodles and Bernedoodles have reduced shedding because of their mixed breeding. While there’s no guarantee that any mixed breed dog will be entirely hypoallergenic, the shedding levels are virtually unnoticeable in either breed. They have reduced dander and are much less likely to trigger allergic reactions. 

It’s vital to meet a pet before adopting them to ensure that they fit in with your family. If someone in your house struggles with dog allergies, this is doubly important. You don’t want to bring a dog home only to rehome them later. 

Coloring

The coloring of a Bernedoodle might be what sets it apart the most. Bernedoodles can vary from one to tricolor, depending on their breeding. Some Bernedoodles take on the complete coloring of a Bernese Mountain dog, with brown, white, and black.

Others are more two-toned or single color. 

Labradoodles tend to be one color. They follow the colors of Labrador Retrievers, from blond to black. Commonly, Labradoodles are brown or black since blonder Retrievers are Goldendoodles or Golden Retriever mixes. 

Rarely both of these breeds can have a merle patterned coat. Merle patterning is slightly more common in a Bernedoodle because it’s rare for Poodles or Labs to merle. However, the splotchy, multi-colored coat is in high demand and makes a beautiful dog. 

Coat

The coat of a mixed breed dog depends on the mix. If your dog is a three-quarters Poodle and one-quarter Bernedoodle, they are more likely to have a curlier coat, like a Poodle. However, a 50/50 mix will lean towards the straight, shaggy fur of a Bernedoodle. 

Bernedoodles tend to have straighter coats, while Labradoodles are more likely to end up with some curl. However, this depends on the breeding situation, individual genetics, and sometimes chance. 

Both dogs shed much less than their purebred counterparts because of Poodle genetics. The further down the genetic line you go, the more assured you are of not shedding (a fourth-generation Labradoodle is much less likely to shed than a first-generation). 

Health

Genetics plays a big part in your dog’s health. Responsible breeders will test potential breeding dogs for common issues such as joint dysplasia, genetic defects, and personality traits. Both Bernedoodles and Labradoodles can live long and healthy lives when bred well. 

Generally, the smaller a dog is, the longer its life will be. Like most large dogs, Standard Bernedoodles can suffer from hip and joint issues as they age. You can usually prevent these with moderate exercise (not too much) and good breeding, but some things are inevitable. 

Labradoodles are also prone to hip dysplasia, bleeding disorders, and eye problems. However, these usually develop as the dog ages. If well taken care of, either of these dogs can live long and healthy lives. 

Training

Poodles, Bernese Mountain dogs, and Labradoodles are all working dogs, whether show dogs, hunting dogs, or farm dogs. It is much easier to train working dogs, and both of these mixes learn incredibly well. 

Bernedoodles and Labradoodles respond well to positive reinforcement like treats and praise. They are friendly and very eager to please. Once they realize what you want them to do, they won’t forget.

Availability and Pricing

Both dogs are relatively available in the United States, but it’s usually easier to find a Standard Labradoodle. Labradoodles have been bred since 1989 and are a national sensation. They are more well known, and there are more breeders worldwide. 

Bernedoodles are somewhat harder to find. Although the number of breeders is growing, you might have to drive a few hours to meet a Bernedoodle puppy. Bernedoodles are also a bit more expensive, depending on the breeder and size you choose.

Neither dog will be cheap because they’re designer dogs. 

Labradoodles tend to range from $1,000 to $2,000, while Bernedoodles can be anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000. If a breeder advertises much cheaper than this, it’s probably a scam or a puppy mill and you should avoid such. However, you can sometimes find these pups at shelters or in need of rehoming. 

Final Thoughts

Whether you decide to get a Bernedoodle, Labradoodle, or another Doodle mix, you will get a loving, loyal, and intelligent dog. With proper training and socialization, you will find the best family dog you could ask for!