Bernedoodle vs Goldendoodle
Bernedoodle or Goldendoodle
It’s a hard decision. Both the Bernedoodle and Goldendoodle are unquestionably adorable, outstanding breeds. But could one be a better fit over the over for you or your family? Although very similar in many ways, the Bernedoodle and Goldendoodle also hold some differences that may help you decide which doodle is the right fit for you.
Both breeds hold similarities in size, personality, maintenance and health. Both are hybrid, designer pups that originated in late 90’s early 2000’s and have gained a growing popularity ever since. They became popular for their cute, furry, teddy bear appearances but the introduction of both breeds created a pup that held high quality characteristics of their parents and a healthy, lifelong companion. Hip dysplasia, eye conditions and cardiac issues are sometimes health issues in both breeds that stem from an irreputable breeder who fails to test for health concerns in parent lineage. With a good breeder, these dogs are all round healthy dogs with no complications who have a long lifespan of 10-15 years. These qualities have made both breeds appealing, but the no to little shedding also bumped their popularity, especially with allergy sufferers. Whether you go with the Bernedoodle or the Goldendoodle, both have minimal shedding, but both still need a high amount of maintenance. Regular brushing will prevent matting and grooming every 8-10 weeks is usually necessary for either breed. Both come in beautiful wavy or curly coats and a wide selection of patterns or colors ranging from browns, reds, black, to white, cream or grey/silver. Size selections is also similar between both breeds offering as small as a 14lbs to, to a 26-35lb min or a larger standard dog which 45 pounds or larger. Originality and uniqueness of appearance are not a downfall to either of these two breeds on top of their stellar personality traits. With both breeds inheriting the awesome characteristic traits of their pure-bred parents, the poodle is what both breeds have in common. Poodles, who rank in the top 4 smartest dog categories, pass this very valuable characteristic trait down to the Bernadoodle or goldendoodles. Both breeds are intelligent and easy to train. This makes them appealing to first time owners who are less acquainted with the frustrating task and “how tos” of training new pups. Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles also make great therapy or guide dogs because of their obedience and eagerness to please. Beside these great personality traits, both breeds are known for their happy, friendly, social dispositions and are adaptable to various environments especially those with children or other pets.
So, you’re probably wondering with all these wonderful similarities, what sets them apart? Choosing between a Goldendoodle and a Bernedoodle dog boils down to a matter of preference in minor details. Although both Bernedoodle and Goldendoodles have gained popularity in the last 20-30 years, rumor has it that the Goldendoodle may have been around even longer. It is believed that the granddaughter of the late Charles Dickens, Monica Dickens, may have been the first one to breed a Goldendoodle back in 1969 because she wanted to combine the best qualities of the Golden Retriever and the Poodle. She just may have succeeded! Even though both are hybrid dogs who have the poodle as a parent, the Goldendoodle is the combination of a Golden retriever and a poodle, while the Bernedoodle is a combination of the Bernese mountain dog and poodle. While both hold many positive traits, they tend to differ in some respects, personality wise and this is where you may decide one breed suits your family better than the other. The Golden Retriever enjoys, just as its name insinuates “retrieving” therefore their active personality is what makes the Goldendoodle playful and energetic. The Bernese Mountain dog on the other hand is a working dog who loves some serious companionship. Therefore, the Bernedoodle is affectionate and loyal and needs large doses of attention. They are protective and will bark more than a Goldendoodle but for that reason make great watchdogs. Bernedoodles still tend to be slightly more laid back yet more stubborn than a Goldendoodle. The Goldendoodle also loves attention but is more independent and content with alone time. Parent dogs ultimately determine the personality characteristics but also differences in appearances. Goldendoodles usually come in solid colors rather than various color patterns, with golden being the most popular color choice. Bernedoodle colors, however, are categorized by pattern with the traditional “tri color” being the signature “color” of Bernedoodles. Because of their beauty and appealing personalities, both breeds tend to be costly, with Bernedoodles slightly higher in price. Bernedoodles generally range from $2500-$4000 per pup while Goldendoodles cost as low as $800 to upwards $3500. With a slightly higher popularity, Goldendoodle breeders tend to be easier to find and may be the reason for price differences. Both are worth their weight in gold.
Overall, after all comparisons are made, the similarities and differences of a Bernedoodle and Goldendoodle are minimal and boil down to sheer preference. They both make great companions and each hold outstanding unique qualities. Ask any Bernedoodle owner or Goldendoodle owner and they will fill your ear with endless compliments about their pup. Both of their popularity says it all. Now go decide!
–Carrie Tippmann