Goldendoodle vs. Bernedoodle: Which One Is Right For Your Family?
If you’re considering adding a new furry family member to your home, two of the most popular and lovable designer dog breeds to choose from are the Goldendoodle and the Bernedoodle. Both are hybrids, bred from mixing two purebred dogs: the Poodle and the Golden Retriever (Goldendoodle), and the Poodle and the Bernese Mountain Dog (Bernedoodle). Each offers a unique blend of temperament, appearance, and health benefits, making them excellent choices for families looking for a hypoallergenic, friendly, and intelligent dog.
Whether you’re new to the world of Doodles or already familiar with their many perks, this guide will walk you through the key differences between Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles to help you decide which one best fits your family lifestyle.
Temperament & Personality
Goldendoodles are known for their outgoing, friendly nature. Inheriting the Golden Retriever’s eagerness to please and the Poodle’s intelligence, they are often described as cheerful, social, and easy to train. This makes them perfect for active families with kids or first-time dog owners.
Bernedoodles, on the other hand, tend to be a bit more laid-back. While still playful and affectionate, they can be more reserved initially but warm up quickly. Bernedoodles are great for families who want a cuddly companion with a calm demeanor but still enjoy regular play and interaction.
Size & Appearance
Both breeds come in Standard, Mini, and Micro sizes, depending on the size of the Poodle used in breeding.
- Goldendoodles generally have a lighter, wavy or curly coat, often red, apricot, or cream-colored
- Bernedoodles usually have a thicker tri-colored coat (black, white, and brown), resembling their Bernese Mountain Dog parent.
Both are fluffy, adorable, and turn heads everywhere they go, but Bernedoodles tend to have a stockier build, while Goldendoodles are slightly leaner.
Health Benefits of Hybrid Breeds
One of the biggest advantages of choosing a Goldendoodle or Bernedoodle is hybrid vigor. This refers to the improved health that often comes from mixing two purebred dogs. Purebreds can be prone to breed-specific genetic conditions due to limited gene pools, but crossing two distinct breeds can help minimize the risk of inherited diseases.
For example:
- Golden Retrievers are prone to hip dysplasia and certain cancers.
- Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for shorter lifespans and joint issues.
- Poodles, while generally healthy, can be prone to eye disorders and some autoimmune conditions.
Mixing these breeds reduces the likelihood that a puppy will inherit both sets of problematic genes. At My Doodle Crush, our Goldendoodle puppies and Bernedoodle puppies are bred from carefully screened parents, with genetic testing to ensure the healthiest start possible.
Hypoallergenic Qualities
Another major benefit of both breeds is their low-shedding to non-shedding, hypoallergenic coats—a big reason why Doodles have surged in popularity.
While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles are excellent choices for families with allergies. Thanks to their Poodle parent, they inherit a curly or wavy coat that holds onto dander and hair rather than releasing it into the environment.
At My Doodle Crush, we specialize in low to non-shedding Goldendoodle and Bernedoodle puppies that are ideal for homes with sensitive noses.
Energy Levels & Exercise Needs
- Goldendoodles typically have higher energy levels and love to run, fetch, and be part of the action. They thrive with regular walks, yard play, and even agility training.
- Bernedoodles enjoy exercise too but are generally more relaxed. A couple of walks a day and playtime with the family usually keeps them happy.
Both breeds need daily activity and mental stimulation, but Bernedoodles may be better suited to families who prefer a more chill companion.
Trainability & Intelligence
Both Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles are highly intelligent and trainable, thanks to the Poodle’s smarts and the loyal nature of both parent breeds. Goldendoodles may be a touch quicker to pick up tricks and commands, while Bernedoodles respond well to consistency and positive reinforcement.
At My Doodle Crush, our puppies start with early socialization and optional puppy training programs to give families a head start with a well-adjusted dog.
Final Thoughts: Which Doodle is Right for You?
Choose a Goldendoodle if you want:
- A playful, energetic dog
- A lighter, wavier coat
- A dog that thrives in active family settings
Choose a Bernedoodle if you want:
- A calm, affectionate companion
- A tri-colored, or merle plush coat
- A loyal dog with a mellow personality
No matter which you choose, both Doodle breeds are fantastic family dogs with loving personalities, excellent health potential, and allergy-friendly coats.
Ready to find your perfect Doodle match? Explore our current litters of Goldendoodle puppies for sale and Bernedoodle puppies for sale at My Doodle Crush—where health, happiness, and quality breeding come first.