Dogs are one of the most adorable creatures on earth, and they make lovely pets to humans. Having a cute and fluffy pet can make anyone’s day 10x better, especially when your pet is a crossbreed dog.
A crossbreed dog is when the parents of the dog have different or several breeds. They are also called “designer dogs” because two different breeds are mixed to create a new breed.
Bernedoodle and Aussiedoodle are examples of mixed breeds or designer dogs. Their common denominator is that they both came from Poodle Dog mated with a Bernese Mountain Dog to birth a Bernedoodle and an Australian Shepherd to birth an Aussiedoodle.
These hybrid dogs are in demand because they are also easy to train, friendly, and fun aside from being great pets!
These two breeds are very interesting, and many wonder how they are different from each other, especially for those interested in getting one. To know more about Bernedoodle and Aussiedoodle, continue reading this article. We are going to talk about how these two differ and what their similarities are.
Origin and Crossbreeding of Bernedoodle and Aussiedoodle
Bernedoodle and Aussiedoodle are hybrids that came from a purebred Poodle heritage. Commonly, breeders tend to set a male poodle to mate with a female Bernese Mountain Dog or Australian Shepherd to achieve the small size of doodles.
The crossbreeding of their kind went wild when people started to recognize their intelligence and hypoallergenic fur coats. However, they are completely different because of their different heritage.
Bernedoodle is a mixed-breed Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle Dog, while Aussiedoodle is a mixed breed of an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle Dog.
Their origins are also dissimilar. Bernedoodle originated from Canada, and Aussiedoodle is not exactly from Australia but the United States.
It is said that Bernedoodles are new breeds and were given birth mostly in shelters of rescued purebreds Poodle and Bernese Mountain Dog.
They are also considered farm dogs because of their lineage Bernese Mountain Dog, which is known for herding in Switzerland. The same goes with Aussiedoodles, and they also have inherited traits of herding and farming.
In terms of recognition of their breed, the American Kennel Club and International Canine Federation do not recognize both Bernedoodles and Aussiedoodles.
However, Bernedoodle is recognized by American Canine Hybrid Club, Designer Breed Registry, and Designer Dogs Kennel Club. Meanwhile, Aussiepoos are not yet recognized by other clubs.
Personalities and Temperament
Bernedoodles and Aussiedoodles are both loyal and intelligent. They are easy to train with several tricks, and they adore performing playful activities such as fetching. Their energy is at a moderate level.
They can quickly adjust and socialize with humans or big families, whereas their chance of biting or acting out is very low. Plus, they love pleasing humans. Thus, they have an attitude of entertaining their owners with the skills they quickly learned.
With all these similarities, Bernedoodles and Aussiedoodles still have to contradict distinctions in terms of personalities.
Aussiedoodles are smarter than Bernedoodles. They can easily learn how to catch a ball or play frisbee even without treats to push them. They have rational personalities, which means they are not too aggressive but not too bashful.
Some breeders described them as having a perfect balance of introverted and extroverted personalities. Nonetheless, Aussie doodles prefer outdoor spaces rather than being enclosed by apartmental walls.
Their inherited herding traits from Australian Shepherd make them more natural and free in farmland environments.
Bernedoodles are known for their gentleness. They are very affectionate and love to always be around their human families. They have a habit of seeking attention from their owners softly and charmingly.
But they still have a goofy side that allows them to be active and playful. They respond better using treats for rewarding their good traits. This kind of reinforcement will train them in serving their families better.
Moreover, they have a friendly personality that makes them a great companion for kids. They don’t bark often, and so there is no chance for them to frighten the little humans.
Physical Characteristics
Coming from the Poodle heritage, both breeds have a big chance to have curly or wavy hypoallergenic coats. They also come in different sizes (small, medium, or large), which depends on the ancestry of Bernedoodles or Aussiedoodles.
Besides coats and sizes, these designer breeds have floppy ears and adorable facial expressions. Nevertheless, Aussiedoodles and Bernedoodles can be distinguished because of the other physical characteristics that set them apart.
Aussiedoodles tend to have tighter and shorter coats than Bernedoodles. Their usual height is between 11 to 15 inches, and their average weight is 47.5 pounds.
The common coat colors of Aussie doodles are mixes of three colors (tri-colors) – white, brown, and black, but with a touch of either blue merle or red merle coat. When it comes to shedding, Aussie doodles frequently shed and require moderate grooming.
Bernedoodles can have a straight fur coat besides curl and wavy. They are much bigger than Aussiedoodles because their height ranges between 10 to 30 inches while their average weight is 50 pounds.
The coat colors of Bernedoodles also come together in three colors: white, brown, and black. They require more grooming because they don’t shed like Aussie doodles. Bernedoodles can go through a season without shedding a bit.
Health Conditions and Life Expectancy
Bernedoodles and Aussiedoodles are considered to be healthy dogs. They inherit a trait known as Hybrid Vigor, which means they will grow healthier than their purebred parents. The scientific explanation for this is that the genetic diseases of the purebred parents can only be passed on to their purebred offspring.
If a purebred parent goes through a crossbreeding process, the genetic diseases or illnesses cannot be transferred and will only be eliminated in the genes of the hybrid offspring. However, designer dogs still require proper care and attention in their health to prolong their lifespan.
Aussiedoodle is a dog that needs tons of exercise, but it can survive with a little sleeping time. They usually eat 4 to 5 cups of high-quality dry food divided into two meals a day for their food consumption.
They can hang out in cold weather conditions because of their coats, but they can also tolerate humid weather. Their average lifespan is 10 to 15 years. Aussie doodles are prone to cataracts, thyroid disease, hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and skin allergies in terms of health problems.
Bernedoodles require average time for exercises, and like aussiedoodle, they don’t spend much time sleeping. They eat bigger high-quality dry foods (about 6 to 8 cups divided into two meals). They can also tolerate both cold and humid weather conditions.
Bernedoodles live longer than Aussiedoodles. Their life span is between 12 – 18 years. For medical concerns, bernedoodles are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases, and skin allergies.
Usual Expenses for Bernedoodles and Aussiedoodles
The cost of Bernedoodles is more expensive than Ausiedoodles. The reason for this is Bernese Mountain Dog is one of the high-priced dog breeds. The price of a Bernedoodle ranges between $2,700 – $5,000.
Meanwhile, Aussiedoodles have a more affordable price range, and it is between $750 – $1,500. Getting an Aussiedoodle at a lower price probably means you are purchasing a designer dog produced by Backyard Breeders (amateur animal breeder). Thus, you have to be mindful of where you obtain your Aussiedoodle to avoid purchasing a sickly dog.
The price of purchasing a crossbreed dog is just the start-up cost. Having pets demands proper maintenance, and to give the best care they need, you will have to release more finances for them. It may sound costly, but the joy of having a charming and adorable dog outweighs the demands.
Here is the list of maintenance care that you will need to prepare for before buying a designer dog:
- Food Expenses – Bernedoodles and Aussiedoodles must have a healthy diet to grow physically strong and immune from illnesses.
- Veterinarian Care/Appointment – A regular checkup or appointment should be part of your dog’s schedule to monitor their health status and detect early signs of diseases.
- Soft beds or Small Abode – Beddings are beneficial to create a comfortable space for your Bernedoodle or Aussiedoodle. A soft bed can suit their clingy personality.
- Toys and Treats – To train them well, you will need props such as toys or treats to get the dogs’ attention. This type of strategy will stimulate their interactive and obedience skills. Be sure that you purchase non-toxic, non-lead toys.
- Pet Insurance – Many owners consider getting health insurance for their dogs who badly need monthly checkups to save more money.
- Bath and Grooming Appointment – A regular visit for your doodle’s grooming must be done since they have curly non-shed coats. Getting this kind of appointment will also give your dogs special bath and nail clipping treatments.
- Pet fees – This is only applicable for those living in apartments where the housekeeper charges additional rental fees for dog owners.
- Dog Hotels or Daycare – If you are going on a vacation where dogs are not allowed, and you have no one to take care of your doodle, dog hotels/daycares are now famously everywhere.
- Training School – This is not a requirement for doodles, but if you are willing to invest your pet in a “dog show,” a dog training school is the right place to start.
- Dog Supplies – You must also invest in high-quality food and water containers, poop crater, and other supplies your doodle may need.
Grooming and Maintenance
Grooming is a major essential for Bernedoodles and Aussiedoodles. Their worn and fluffy coats must be trimmed frequently to prevent ticks or fleas in their bodies. Keeping their coats well-trimmed will also improve their appearance, looking irresistibly cute!
Here are few ways you can follow in handling the coat appearance of your doodles:
- Learn the different types of fur coats – Doodle coats are in different sizes and shapes. Understanding how they look and how often they shed will give you an idea of scheduling their grooming appointment.
- Brush their fur daily, or at least thrice, week – Long and scruffy furs tend to tangle up and get sticky. Brushing their fur frequently will prevent the entangles from happening. Plus, it will make their coats softer and silkier.
- Bathe them once or twice a month – Aussiedoodles and Bernedoodles are the types of dogs who like to play in mud/dirt. Thus, bathing them daily is not necessary. Once a week is enough to keep them clean and fresh.
- Schedule Professional Grooming every 3 months – A professional groomer knows the right trim for your doodles.
- Observe their fur around the eyes – If the fur around the doodle’s eyes is getting longer, you must trim it to avoid itchiness or further eye problems.
Deciding whether you should buy an Aussiedoodle or Bernedoodle
There are factors that you need to consider before buying an Aussiedoodle or a Bernedoodle. These factors include financial budget, size of your house, time, number of kids at your home, and environment.
Whether you want an Aussiedoodle or a Bernedoodle, you need to have enough budget to support their diet, grooming, checkups, and other maintenance services.
In terms of spaces, Aussiedoodles prefer a spacious backyard to satisfy their highly energetic personalities. At the same time, Bernedoodles prefer owners who have enough free time to play or cuddle with them.
Another factor to consider is time. It is natural for a dog to be affectionate and seek their owner’s attention. Those pets who are often neglected are likely to get depressed and get sick at an early age. It is vital that you have adequate time to give for your dog (whether Aussiedoodle or Bernedoodle).
If you have a large group of family, both Aussiedoodle and Bernedoodle are the ideal dogs for they are friendly and pleasant.
However, kids are comfier with the gentle personality of bernedoodles, so you should keep that in mind if you have children ages eight and below. On the other hand, the perky side of Aussiedoodles is a great match for families with hyper and playful children.
The environment is another key factor that you should look into. Bernedoodles can survive in the farm fields just like Aussiedoodles because of their herding trait. However, Aussiedoodles are more expected to be comfortable and sheltered in such a farm-like environment.
Conclusion:
Bernedoodles and Aussiedoodles are hybrid dogs with different origins, personalities, physical appearances, and health conditions. These four characteristics can be your determination in choosing between the two breeds. In terms of expenses and maintenance, the two breeds require almost the same.
The choice may be difficult because they are both adorable and loving, but looking into their personalities may alter your mind and help you decide.
The intelligent breed is the Aussiedoodle, while the caring one is the Bernedoodle. Just remember that both breeds are high-quality crossbreed dogs and are great family dogs. Even though most clubs do not recognize them, they are still in demand in the market due to their cuteness.
Furthermore, even though Aussiedoodles and Bernedoodles seem high maintenance, the best service you can give to them is your affection and time.
Dogs can feel when their human parent is showing how much he/she cares for them. Thus, it is important that you cuddle with them, play frisbee with them, and teach them some dog tricks, for these activities will create a precious bond with your pet.
Showing your affection will also stimulate their obedience and loyalty to you. And in times of any unpleasant event, you can expect your doodle to come in your way and give the warm comfort and protection that you need.
Therefore, it is already a smart decision if you choose between Aussiedoodle or Bernedoodle because either way, you will win a great and fun companion!
