Bernedoodle Vs Sheepadoodle (Which Is Better?) PHOTOS

If you’ve settled on bringing a new Doodle breed puppy home, you probably have difficulty choosing one that fits your lifestyle. Assuming you’ve narrowed it down to the Bernedoodle or Sheepadoodle, which one of the two should be right for you?

While these two designer breeds have many similarities, they have distinct differences that might make it easier for you to decide. Both dogs are adorable and family-friendly. However, questions such as activity level, grooming, health, and cost might arise before settling on one.

Table of Contents

This guide will help you answer all the questions you may have when choosing between the Bernedoodle vs. Sheepadoodle. Ultimately, you’ll make the wisest decision and take home one of the most popular dogs among pet owners.

What Is a Bernedoodle?

The Bernedoodle is a product of the beautiful, powerful, calm Bernese Mountain Dog and the bright, energetic, friendly Poodle.

Bernedoodle puppy white background — Bernedoodle puppy on a white background.

Bernedoodles vary in color and size depending on the parents used in the mix. Breeders often use the Standard Poodle to aim for a large dog. However, some breeders may include Mini, Medium, or Tiny Poodles in the breeding process.

Bernedoodles are long-haired and may have a bi-color or tri-color coat. They’re also intelligent, kind, and loyal to people, making them excellent family dogs.

What Is a Sheepadoodle

The Sheepadoodle is a cross between the playful, intelligent, and friendly Old English Sheepdog (OES) and the Standard Poodle. This dog is large and adorable, with a black and white coat. They’re highly energetic, thanks to the large and energetic OES parents.

Sheepadoodle and balls — A Sheepadoodle is sitting on the grass with his blue balls.

Sheepadoodles are long-haired and hypoallergenic. They train pretty well and are friendly, making them fantastic family dogs. If you own a large home and love a playful dog, a Sheepadoodle can be a perfect choice.

Bernedoodle vs. Sheepadoodle: Comparison Table

	Bernedoodle	Sheepadoodle
Weight	10-90 pounds	10-85 pounds
Height	17-29 inches	15-27 inches
Energy levels	Average	High
Temperament	Friendly, affectionate, and playful	Gentle, lovable, and lively
Colors	Black, brown, and white	Black, white, or red
Health	Above average	Average
Lifespan	12-18 years	12-15 years
Cost	$2,000 and up	$1,000 and up

Bernedoodle vs. Sheepadoodle: Which Is Better

Should you pick a Bernedoodle or a Sheepadoodle? Consider the factors below before you decide.

Appearance

Bernedoodles and Sheepadoodles vary in size, weight, and color. Your dog’s size and weight depend on whether you choose a smaller or larger version. Here’s a table describing the size and weight differences in these dogs:

Variety	Bernedoodle Size (inches)	Bernedoodle Weight (pounds)	Sheepadoodle Size (inches)	Sheepadoodle Weight (pounds)
Tiny/Toy	17 or less	10-25	15 or less	10-25
Mini	18-23	25-35	16-18	25-35
Medium	24-26	35-55	19-22	35-55
Standard	27-29	60-90	23-27	55-85

Bernedoodle and Sheepadoodle dogs both outdoors.

A Standard Bernedoodle can weigh between 60 and 90 pounds, while smaller varieties can weigh between 10 and 55 pounds. A Bernedoodle is taller than a Sheepadoodle, with a Standard Bernedoodle standing 27 to 29 inches tall. Smaller versions of this dog are also taller than their Sheepadoodle equals.

Most Bernedoodles have a tri-color coat spread across their bodies in combinations of black, brown, and white. In some rare cases, you’ll find Bernedoodles with gray or dark red coats. These dogs boast thick, long, curly coats.

Standard Sheepadoodles can weigh between 55 to 85 pounds, with a size ranging from 23 to 25 inches tall.

Unlike Bernedoodles, Sheepadoodles have a bi-color coat that combines black, white, or red. Their hair is soft and curly and may have a dome-shaped Poodle head or square sheepdog face.

Temperament

When bringing a new puppy home, it’s critical to consider your dog’s temperament to find out whether it’ll blend well with the family or not. So, which is the most loving and friendly dog that can be an excellent family pet? The truth is that both dog breeds are lovable, loyal, and family-friendly.

However, some of their temperaments can vary since both come from two different parents – Bernese Mountain Dog and Old English Sheepdog.

Bernedoodles are gentle and calm with average energy levels like Bernese Mountain Dogs. A Bernedoodle is very friendly and loves being around people.

On the other hand, Sheepadoodles are highly energetic dogs, more lively and playful. They inherit instinctive herding qualities from their OES parents, making them excellent guarding dogs. They can also create loud and resounding barks to alert you in the case of an intruder.

As a Sheepadoodle owner, you may frequently see your dog trying to herd children and other pets, accompanying the behavior with nipping. When raising a Sheepadoodle puppy, consider routine and affectionate training to eliminate the nipping trait.

Activity Level

The Bernedoodle is a laid-back dog, perfect for dog parents living in smaller apartments. The dog is happier relaxing on the couch. If you don’t prefer a dog that jumps up and down and runs around your house or yard, the Bernedoodle can be a good bet.

brown and white Bernedoodle — A Bernedoodle waits for his owner.

However, ensuring your dog gets at least 60 minutes of routine daily exercise is advisable. Bernedoodles can gain weight quickly if allowed to eat and spend days resting on the couch.

On the other hand, a Sheepadoodle requires intense physical exercise daily. The dog inherits herding traits and higher energy levels from its OES parent.

A Sheepadoodle requires enough space at home to run and play around freely. Expect to spend approximately 90 minutes daily taking your dog out for walks. Failure to provide proper exercise to both dogs may result in destructive behaviors.

Grooming and Maintenance

The Poodle genes in both dogs make them shed less. If you’re worried about owning pets that trigger allergic reactions, the Bernedoodle and Sheepadoodle are hypoallergenic.

dog brushes on a pink background — Dog brushes on a pink background.

However, the regular grooming and maintenance these dogs require can be challenging. Their long hair has a slight curl and requires brushing and combing regularly. Brush your dog’s hair at least 2-3 times a week and cut their hair every 6-12 weeks.

If you don’t want your dog to have a bunch of painful mats, knots and tangles, create a scheduled routine at home for monthly baths, hair brushing, hair cutting, nail clipping, nail cutting, and teeth brushing.

Health

The Bernedoodle can maintain an excellent physical condition but can inherit diseases that affect the Bernese Mountain Dog, such as cardiac issues, eye problems, hip and elbow dysplasia, and Von Willebrand’s Disease.

A Sheepadoodle puppy lying on the grass.

The Sheepadoodle is a relatively healthy dog but can inherit various diseases from its OES parent. These diseases include cataracts, deafness, gastric torsion, progressive retinal atrophy, and retinal detachment.

Both dogs are susceptible to Poodle parents’ diseases, such as Cushing’s, skin conditions, ocular diseases, and thyroid issues.

Training

Bernedoodles and Sheepadoodles are intelligent dogs, making them easy to train. However, training should begin early in life, and you should expose your puppy to new people, places, pets, sights, and sounds.

Sheepadoodle puppy in the grass — Sheepadoodle puppy standing on the grass.

Keep up with mental and physical stimulation from the puppy stage and adulthood. The goal is to help your dog learn and maintain positive characteristics. The best way to ensure your dog acquires favored traits is by introducing a reward-based training method.

When raising a Bernedoodle or Sheepadoodle, your dog will manifest a strong desire to learn and please you. Both dogs listen to commands, and with consistent training, they learn what you want and never forget.

Dog training should start early in your dog’s life if you want your furry friend to acquire the desired traits.

Lifespan

Doodles are generally healthy dogs, and with proper nutrition, exercise, and regular veterinary care, you can expect your Bernedoodle or Sheepadoodle to live longer than many other breeds.

how long do Bernedoodles live — How long do Bernedoodles live? [Bernedoodle Lifespan Guide]

Bernedoodles can enjoy an average lifespan of 12 to 18 years. With good care, feeding, breeding, and exercise, your dog can live more than the average time frame.

On the other hand, Sheepadoodles have a lifespan ranging from 12 to 15 years, with others living longer than this.

Cost

The cost of a Bernedoodle or Sheepadoodle puppy varies depending on the breeder, size, age, and color. Look for a reputable breeder who can take you through the parent’s history and health documentation and answer all your questions.

Expect to pay more for a Bernedoodle puppy compared to a Sheepadoodle puppy. Bernedoodles have an adorable tri-color coat that makes them more precious. A well-bred Bernedoodle puppy can cost over $2,000, while a quality-bred Sheepadoodle puppy can cost upwards of $1,000.

Bernedoodle vs. Sheepadoodle: Final Thoughts

Picking between the Bernedoodle and Sheepadoodle can be a headache for anyone. While both have desirable similarities, thanks to their Poodle parents, they have distinctive traits you can use to choose the one that suits you and your family.

A Bernedoodle is suitable for homes with limited space and smaller children. The dog doesn’t require intense exercise, which can be a good choice for anyone living a sedentary lifestyle. However, if you choose this dog, expect to pay a little more.

On the other hand, a Sheepadoodle is less expensive but requires plenty of space at home to play around. The dog is highly energetic, so you should schedule daily exercise. Your Sheepadoodle can be a perfect choice in homes with older children due to its power and playfulness.