Bernedoodle Generations

Understanding Bernedoodle Types and Generations

Bernedoodles are a mix between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle. They are loved for their friendly nature, soft coats, and playful personalities. But did you know there are different types of Bernedoodles? These are called “generations,” and they tell you how much of each parent breed is in your dog.

Let’s break it down in a simple way!

What Do the Generations Mean?

Breeders use labels like F1 or F1b to explain how a Bernedoodle is bred.

F1 (First Generation)

An F1 Bernedoodle has one Bernese Mountain Dog parent and one Poodle parent.

• 50% Bernese Mountain Dog

• 50% Poodle

• Coat can be wavy, straight, or curly

F1b (First Generation Backcross)

An F1b is an F1 Bernedoodle bred back to a Poodle.

• 25% Bernese Mountain Dog

• 75% Poodle

• More likely to have curly hair

• Often better for people with allergies

F1b Reverse (Reverse Backcross or Ultrabernedoodle)

This is an F1 Bernedoodle bred back to a Bernese Mountain Dog.

• 75% Bernese Mountain Dog

• 25% Poodle

• More like the Bernese in looks and coat

• Usually sheds more

F2 (Second Generation)

An F2 Bernedoodle comes from two F1 Bernedoodles.

• About 50% Bernese Mountain Dog

• About 50% Poodle

• Traits can vary a lot

F2b (Second Generation Backcross)

An F2b is an F1 Bernedoodle bred with an F1b Bernedoodle.

• Around 62.5% Poodle

• Around 37.5% Bernese Mountain Dog

• Often wavy to curly coat

Multigen (Multigenerational)

Multigen Bernedoodles come from breeding Bernedoodles over several generations.

• The percentage of Poodle or Bernese can vary

• Bred for consistency in coat and traits

Quick Comparison Chart

Type	Bernese %	Poodle %	Hypoallergenic Level	Grooming Needs
F1	50%	50%	Low to Medium	Moderate
F1b	25%	75%	Medium to High	High
F1b Reverse	75%	25%	Low	Moderate
F2	~50%	~50%	Low to Medium	Moderate
F2b	37.5%	62.5%	Medium to High	High
Multigen	Varies	Varies	Varies by breeder	Varies by breeder

What Does “Hypoallergenic” Mean?

No dog is 100% hypoallergenic. But dogs with more Poodle genes often shed less. This can make them a better choice for people with allergies. It is important to note however, that allergies can be triggered by more than just dog hair. (Disclaimer: this is not medical advice, nor do we claim to be qualfied to give advice on medical matters or allergies).

Grooming Matters

Bernedoodles with curlier coats need more brushing and regular grooming. This helps prevent tangles and mats. Straighter coats may shed more but are sometimes easier to brush.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right Bernedoodle depends on your lifestyle. If you want less shedding, look for a dog with more Poodle traits. If you love the classic Bernese look, a reverse cross (ultra bernedoodle) might be a better fit. If you don't want lots of dog hair, you will want to make sure to ask the breeder about the dog's coat because without intentional research-based breeding, it is possible that an reverse cross (ultrabernedoodle) may shed more.

No matter the type, Bernedoodles are loving, smart, and wonderful companions!