How Much Does a Bernedoodle Cost?

Last Updated on March 1, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Bernedoodles are rapidly growing in popularity as family-friendly companion dogs. This hybrid breed combines the intelligence of Poodles and the sweet temperament of Bernese Mountain Dogs into one adorable, fluffy package.

However, Bernedoodles are not inexpensive pets. Understanding the many factors influencing Bernedoodle costs can help you budget for buying and properly caring for one of these amazing dogs.

Deciding to welcome a Bernedoodle into your home is a big commitment involving significant investment. However, the loyalty and affection of these gentle giants make them well worth the cost for the right owner.

By performing thorough research and selecting an ethical breeder, you can find your perfect Bernedoodle at a price that fits your budget.

How Much Does a Bernedoodle Cost?

The upfront costs of bringing home a Bernedoodle are the most expensive part of ownership. However, this initial investment in your furry companion lays the foundation for a lifetime of joy and companionship.

The average purchase price for a Bernedoodle puppy ranges from $1,500 to $5,000. Mini Bernedoodles tend to cost $2,000 to $4,000, while standard sizes range from $3,000 to $5,000. Tiny Bernedoodles are rare and can cost $4,000 to $5,500.

According to Happy Oodles, the average Bernedoodle costs $2,000 to $5,000. They also say you should expect price ranges of $750 for lower-end poorly bred puppies to $20,000 for high-end Bernedoodles.

Rocky Mountain Bernedoodle lists the following prices:

• Other Color Bernedoodle: $3,750.
• Tricolor Bernedoodle (mini size): $3,950.
• Teddy Bear Bernedoodles: $3,950.

And a Reddit discussion revealed that standard-size pups from the Texas Hill Country cost $2,500 per puppy.

The wide price range reflects the many factors impacting cost, especially breeder reputation and puppy generation. Well-bred pups from reputable breeders understandably command higher prices.

Deposit and Waiting Lists

Reputable breeders often require a non-refundable deposit of $300 to $600 to reserve a puppy. Due to high demand, waiting lists can be 6 months to 2 years. The deposit secures your place in line once an appropriate litter arrives.

Health Guarantee and Contracts

Ethical breeders provide a 1 to 2 year health guarantee against genetic defects. They also utilize contracts outlining responsibilities for both breeder and buyer. Review all documentation carefully before committing.

Breed Overview

Bernedoodles result from crossing a Bernese Mountain Dog with a Poodle. They come in three generations:

• F1 – Bernese Mountain Dog x Poodle
• F1B – F1 Bernedoodle x Poodle
• F2 – F1 Bernedoodle x F1 Bernedoodle

Later generations have a higher likelihood of producing hypoallergenic, non-shedding coats.

Traits and Characteristics

Bernedoodles are:

• Intelligent, loyal, and affectionate
• Excellent family pets and companions
• Moderate to high energy
• Relatively low shedding and hypoallergenic (in some coats)
• Fun-loving and gentle

Their sweet temperament and teddy bear appearance explain their surging popularity.

Factors Influencing Bernedoodle Costs

Many variables affect the price of Bernedoodle puppies. Understanding these differences can help match you with the perfect dog within your budget.

Breeder Reputation and Location

The experience, ethics, and reputation of the breeder significantly influence cost. Avoid backyard breeders only focused on profit. Reputable breeders invest in their dogs’ health and welfare, which raises their puppies’ value.

Location also matters. Breeders on the coasts or in urban areas often charge $1000 to $3000 more than rural breeders for similar-quality pups.

Size, Coat Type, and Color

Standard Bernedoodles range from 50 to 110 pounds and cost $3000 to $5000. Mini Bernedoodles weigh 15 to 45 pounds, starting around $3500. Hard-to-find tiny Bernedoodles are 10 to 25 pounds and approximately $4500 to $5000.

Straight coats are moderately shedding. Wavy or curly coats are more hypoallergenic. Rare tri-color and merle coats fetch premium pricing.

You can also read our articles about the cost of breeds like the Maltipoo, Shih Tzu, and the Blue Heeler.

Generation and Pedigree

F1 Bernedoodles with purebred parents cost $3000 to $5000. F1B and F2 generations range from $2000 to $4000 due to more variations in size, coat, and temperament.

Imported Swiss and Australian lineages advertised as “true” Bernese Mountain Dogs can add $3000 or more to the puppy price. Not necessarily better, just different origins.

Health Screenings and Vaccinations

Reputable breeders invest $500 to $1500 per breeding dog in health screens for common issues like hip dysplasia. They also fully vaccinate and deworm puppies, adding $300 to $600 in costs passed to the buyer.

Ongoing Costs of Bernedoodle Ownership

While the purchase price is the biggest upfront cost, owners should also budget for significant ongoing expenses in food, healthcare, training, and other care.

Food and Nutrition

Quality commercial dog foods cost $100 to $150 monthly. Veterinary dental diets or fresh food preparations can exceed $200 per month. Treats, chews, and supplements add more.

Grooming and Care

Bernedoodles require regular brushing and combing to prevent matting. Most owners use professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks at a cost of $65 to $100 per visit.

Nail trims run $15 to $30 monthly. Some owners opt to purchase grooming tools and DIY these tasks.

Exercise and Training

Bernedoodles need 45 to 90 minutes of daily exercise and playtime. Basic obedience classes range from $150 to $300 for group sessions. Private training can exceed $500. Interactive toys are also essential.

Health Care and Insurance

Veterinary costs include exams, vaccines, preventatives like flea and tick medication, and emergencies. Annual costs run $500 to $1,000.

Pet insurance starts at around $30 monthly and can help manage significant vet bills.

Additional Expenses

Beyond routine costs, owners should anticipate extra expenses for supplies, travel, and unexpected vet care.

Supplies and Accessories

Crates, beds, bowls, leashes, toys, and other supplies average $500 to $1,000 upfront. Ongoing costs for food, treats, toys, and beds add up over time.

Shipping or Transportation

For long-distance breeders, shipping or transportation costs $300 to $1,200. Some breeders deliver puppies themselves for a fee.

Emergency Veterinary Costs

Accidents and illnesses happen. Emergency vet visits can easily top $1,500 or more for overnight stays, surgery, tests, and specialist care.

Budgeting for a Bernedoodle

Bernedoodles involve major financial investment. Planning ahead and budgeting can help provide them the lifetime of care they deserve.

Estimating Total Costs

Total first-year costs often reach $5000 to $7000. Expenses decrease in subsequent years but always include significant care and upkeep. Lifetime costs can exceed $20,000.

Planning for Unexpected Expenses

Veterinary emergencies, training challenges, or puppy chewing sprees happen. Have an emergency fund or financial buffer for unexpected costs.

Value of Investment in Companionship

While a major commitment, a Bernedoodle provides incredible companionship and joy. For the right owner, the investment repays itself many times over in unconditional love.

Final Words

Bernedoodles make wonderful pets for active families, but involve major financial commitment. Carefully considering the purchase price, ongoing ownership costs, breeder reputation, and your budget helps ensure this investment provides maximum rewards of canine companionship.

Performing due diligence sets your new Bernedoodle, and your wallet, up for long-term health, happiness, and success together. While Bernedoodles do require significant upfront and lifelong monetary investment, pet owners report they are worth well more than their cost in love and loyalty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the lifespan of a Bernedoodle?

Bernedoodles generally enjoy life expectancies of 12 to 15 years. With attentive preventive care and early treatment of any emerging health issues, many live even longer lives well into their teens.

Their average lifespan is similar to Poodles and slightly longer than Bernese Mountain Dogs. Proper exercise, nutrition, vet care, and attentive ownership help ensure a long, happy life.

What are the cons of a Bernedoodle?

Potential downsides of Bernedoodles include:

• High initial purchase price and ongoing costs
• Moderate to high exercise needs
• Requires regular brushing and grooming
• Can develop health issues like hip dysplasia
• May display stubbornness or difficult training tendencies
• Risk of separation anxiety
• May not be hypoallergenic despite claims

Performing health screens and working with ethical breeders minimizes risks of health and behavioral issues.

Are Bernedoodles ever aggressive?

No, Bernedoodles have a wide reputation for being gentle, patient, and loyal family dogs. They are not known for aggression when properly socialized and trained.

Their sweet temperament makes them a popular choice for families with children. Like any dog, occasional issues like resource guarding can develop without proper training and care.

However, any aggressive tendency is extremely untypical of the breed. Their gentle nature is a foundational trait of hybrid vigor in Bernedoodles. With responsible ownership, Bernedoodles make wonderfully affectionate companions.