Bernedoodle vs Goldendoodle: Which Breed Is the Better Fit for You?

If you’re looking to adopt a new dog, you may be trying to decide between a Bernedoodle and a Goldendoodle . Both of these breeds are Poodle mixes and share some similar characteristics. However, since Bernedoodles have one parent that is a Bernese Mountain Dog and Goldendoodles have one parent that is a Golden Retriever , there definitely are a few key differences between the two breeds. Keep reading; we’ll share important details about each breed so you can choose whether a Bernedoodle or a Goldendoodle will be the right addition to your home.

Comparing Bernedoodles vs Goldendoodles

Since Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles are mixed breeds, their exact size, appearance, temperament, and other traits can vary depending on the specific mix of features they inherited from each of their parents. The table below helps to highlight the general characteristics of each breed.

The 6 Key Differences Between Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles

Ready to take a closer look at the key differences between Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles? Let’s explore the 6 ways these two breeds differ from one another.

Bernedoodle vs Goldendoodle: Size

One notable difference between Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles is their size. Since Bernese Mountain Dogs are larger than Golden Retrievers, a standard-size Bernedoodle is larger than a standard-size Goldendoodle. Standard Bernedoodles can weigh between 55 and 90 pounds and stand between 23 and 29 inches tall. On the other hand, a standard Goldendoodle weighs between 40 and 60 pounds and stands between 20 and 24 inches tall.

Some Bernedoodles or Goldendoodles are made by mixing a miniature Poodle with either a Bernese Mountain Dog or a Golden Retriever. These dogs are naturally smaller than those mixed with a standard-sized Poodle. A miniature Bernedoodle weighs between 25 and 49 pounds and stands between 18 and 24 inches tall, and miniature Goldendoodles weigh between 15 and 35 pounds and stand between 13 and 20 inches tall.

Bernedoodles are also bred to be toy-sized. These dogs are 75% miniature Poodle and 25% Bernese Mountain Dog. Tiny Bernedoodles weigh between 10 and 24 pounds and stand between 12 and 17 inches tall.

Bernedoodle vs Goldendoodle: Appearance

One of the most obvious differences between Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles is their appearance. A Bernedoodle’s coat is tri-colored with black, white, and brown, though it is mostly black. Bernedoodles have either wavy or curly fur.

A Goldendoodle is typically gold, red, caramel, cream, or apricot in color. In some cases, Goldendoodles may have a phantom color, which is black or gray. A Goldendoodle’s coat is often curly like their Poodle parent’s coat, but in some cases, Goldendoodles may have straight or wavy fur.

To maintain their coats, the Goldendoodle should be brushed daily to keep its curling fur free from tangles. The Bernedoodle can get away with several brushings a week.

Bernedoodle vs Goldendoodle: Temperament

While Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles are both very friendly breeds, there are some other differences in their temperament. Bernedoodles are much calmer and more relaxed than Goldendoodles. Many Bernedoodles are happy just to sit and cuddle with their owners, but Goldendoodles have higher energy levels and will be looking to play more.

Both breeds can be prone to separation anxiety. For the Goldendoodle, it arises from its social nature. Bernedoodles have a pack instinct that can cause anxiety for them if left alone for too long.

Bernedoodle vs Goldendoodle: Health

Overall, Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles are both healthy dog breeds. However, each breed has its own concerns that owners should be aware of. Since Bernedoodles are larger, they may develop hip or elbow dysplasia . Bernedoodles are also more likely to lose eyesight when they’re older.

Goldendoodles have a higher risk of developing an ear infection due to their floppier ears. They may also be more likely to suffer from tooth or gum disease.

Bernedoodle vs Goldendoodle: Lifespan

The lifespans of these two breeds can also differ. The lifespan of a standard Bernedoodle is between 12 and 15 years, while the lifespan of a Goldendoodle is about 10 to 15 years. The miniature versions of each breed typically have a longer lifespan and may live to be up to 18 years old.

Bernedoodle vs Goldendoodle: Price

While the price to purchase either a Bernedoodle or Goldendoodle can vary quite a bit depending on the breeder you use and the dog’s family history, Bernedoodles are generally more expensive. The average cost of a Bernedoodle is about $3,500, but they can cost anywhere between $2,000 and $5,000.

Goldendoodles are a bit cheaper with an average price of around $2,000. However, you may see some Goldendoodles that are as cheap as $500 and others that cost up to $5,000.

As you can see, both Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles have a lot of positive characteristics. Which breed feels like the best fit for your family?

What Haircuts Work For Doodles?

One distinctive characteristic of doodles is that they are cousins of poodles, who historically have sported very interesting haircuts! The “poodle” in your doodle means your dog will likely have naturally wavy or curly hair. We’ve created a list of some haircut options that may work for your doodle, piggybacking off of those time-tested cuts that poodles have proven are attractive and workable.

• Dutch Cut (Mohawk) While this cut is a popular choice for poodles who compete in shows, results may vary with your doodle. This classic cut features long hair on the top of the head, while the facial hair is shaved, giving the dog a mohawk look. The sides are left medium–length, while the paws are also shaved. The tail can also sport a pom pom or longer hair (if your doodle’s hair won’t create a pom pom).
• Lion Cut As the name implies, your doodle will look similar to a lion with this cut, as the neck and wither hair are left long to resemble a lion’s mane, while the legs, back, muzzle, and forehead are cut short. The tail is shaved to the near end, which is left long to give it a pom pom effect.
• Poodle Cut (Teddy Bear Cut) If your doodle enjoys masquerading as a wild animal, another option besides the lion cut is the teddy bear cut, which is basically a poodle cut. This mid-length haircut showcases the doodle’s natural curls, while its face is cut to look rounded, and its paw hair is left longer to mimic bear paws. A pom pom tail is an option with this popular cut.
• Lamb Cut This cut conjures domestic tranquility, as your doodle will look like a sweet lamb. While the body hair is cut short, the legs are cut to a medium length. The head, feet, and tail can be tailored to the owner’s preference.
• Short Cut Not only is this cut one of the most popular for most doodle owners, but it is also low maintenance. Doodles with naturally short hair do well with this cut, where all the body hair is cut short, hair on the ears is left longer, and the face and paws are shaved.
• Puppy Cut This hairstyle is popular for multiple dog breeds. The dog’s body hair is cut short, but the facial hair is left longer. This cut is fairly low-maintenance, but you’ll need to give your doodle regular brushing.
• Summer Cut When the summer heat turns up, this haircut can help your doodle stay cool. All the hair is cut very short except for pom poms on the legs and a tufted or pom pom tail.

Up Next:

• Bernedoodle Lifespan: How Long Do These Cute Dogs Live?
• The 22 Best Dog Toys for Your Doodle
• Adorable Golden Retriever Wearing A Bow Tie Dances with His Owner

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