When it comes to Doodles, you’re already on the path to excellent companionship. But with so many options like Goldendoodles, Cavapoos, Sheepadoodles, and Saint Berdoodles, choosing the right pup can feel like picking your favorite ice cream flavor: they’re all sweet, but one will suit you best.

At Hoosier Canines, we specialize in Bernedoodle breeding, but we know families are often comparing breeds. So, whether you’re a first-time dog parent or adding another tail to your crew, here’s how Bernedoodles stack up against other popular Doodles.

The Bernedoodle, a lovable cross between the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle, have quickly become one of the most sought-after designer dogs. And it’s easy to see why. With their cuddly coats, calm nature, and family-focused personalities, they offer the best of both worlds: intelligence and loyalty wrapped in a low-shedding package.

Not All Doodles Are the Same

While all doodles share a Poodle parent, they’re not just interchangeable fluffballs. In fact, each doodle breed has its own:

• Energy level
• Size and growth range
• Coat type and grooming needs
• Temperament and social tendencies

So if you’re researching which doodle best fits your lifestyle, you’re in the right place.

Low-shedding Coat: Poodles have a curly coat that doesn’t shed much and therefore their puppies will also have a low-shedding coat. A reputable, responsible breeder, breeds the healthiest dogs with all the correct Genetic tests to ensure each puppy is getting what it should from the poodle side of the cross and their puppies will have coat types as predicted by them.

Intelligence: Yes, they are very intelligent and the credit once again goes to the Poodle. Poodles are ranked as the second-most intelligent dogs in the world, right after Border Collies. Doodle breeds are more likely to get perks of their parent’s intelligence, and that makes them ideal family dogs.

Temperament: One of the most important factors when adopting a particular breed is to look for is its temperament and it is important to know about it before getting a puppy. The temperament of a dog can be defined as its attitude towards different people, other animals, and situations. When it comes to Doodles, they have an exceptional temperament and they do very well with almost everyone, especially kids and animals.

A Breakdown of Popular Doodle Breeds

Before we dive into comparisons, let’s meet the usual suspects in the doodle world, each one a unique mix of smarts, charm, and curls.

Cavapoo

King Charles Spaniel + Poodle

Small, sweet, and snuggly. Usually under 25 lbs. Ideal for apartment living and quieter households. Lower energy than most doodles but still intelligent and affectionate.

Sheepadoodle

Old English Sheepdog + Poodle
Goofy, high-energy, and a natural herder. These teddy bears need room to romp and lots of playtime. Often large in size with a big personality to match.

Saint Berdoodle

Saint Bernard + Poodle
Massive and mellow. This gentle giant is affectionate and great with kids, but needs space (and a mop for drool). Less common but growing in popularity among big dog lovers.

Goldendoodle (Golden Retriever + Poodle mix) is yet another lovely Doodle having a friendly nature and excellent temperament, just like a Bernedoodle. In terms of size, the Goldendoodle tends to be smaller than the Bernedoodle.

Both Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles are affectionate, energetic, healthy, and always ready to accompany their humans. Bernedoodles are often more protective than the Goldendoodles because of the fact that the Bernese Mountain Dogs have a loyal nature.

• Size: Bernedoodles tend to be a bit bigger and more solidly built.
• Temperament: Goldendoodles are often more outgoing with strangers, while Bernedoodles are slightly more reserved and protective, making them better natural watchdogs.
• Coat: Both can be wavy or curly, but Bernedoodles often come in rarer tri-color patterns.

Labradoodles (Labrador Retriever + Poodle Mix) are high-energy, highly social pups who love adventure. They’re enthusiastic, outdoorsy, and great for active households who spend time hiking, running, or playing fetch in the yard.

Bernedoodles tend to have a more laid-back vibe. They still enjoy play and outdoor fun but are generally more content with indoor family time and relaxing by your side.

• Energy Level: Labradoodle wins for athleticism
• Sensitivity: Bernedoodles are gentler and emotionally attuned
• Coat Type: Both can vary (wavy to curly), but Bernedoodle coats are often thicker and fluffier

Saint Berdoodle is a cross between Saint Bernard and Poodle and is considered a large-sized dog with the possibility of reaching up to 200 lbs. It comes in some limited colors with the probability of a wiry, rough, curly, or smooth coat.

• Size: Saint Berdoodles can reach up to 200 lbs, while even the largest Bernedoodles usually top out around 95 lbs.
• Coat & Color: Bernedoodles offer more predictable color patterns, including gorgeous tri-color coats.
• Health & Lifespan: Bernedoodles often live a few years longer (up to 15 years vs. ~12 for Saint Berdoodles).

FINAL Thoughts About Doodles:

One thing is for sure, all of the dogs are lovely and deserve loving families! If we need to decide between one of the mentioned Doodle breeds, it may be difficult because most of them have similar traits and very few differences. All it depends on your requirements and the environment you are living in.

If you have finalized a Bernedoodle as your top choice, contact us so we could help you help you adopt a Bernedoodle that fits your needs!