Australian Labradoodle vs. Bernedoodle: What's the Difference?

At the Labradoodle Corral, we’re often asked about the differences between various Doodle breeds. As specialists in Australian Labradoodles, we recognize the importance of understanding how they compare to other popular Doodle varieties. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the distinctions between Australian Labradoodles and Bernedoodles. Both are known for their intelligence, friendly nature and hypoallergenic qualities. However, their difference in size, temperaments and care requirements make them suitable for different types of families and lifestyles. 

Breed Origins and History

Australian Labradoodle

The Australian Labradoodle’s story began in the late 1980s in Australia. Wally Conron, the breeding manager for the Royal Guide Dog Association of Australia, sought to create a hypoallergenic guide dog for a woman with vision impairments and a husband who was allergic to dogs. By crossing Labrador Retrievers with Standard Poodles, and later incorporating other breeds like Cocker Spaniels and Irish Water Spaniels, the Australian Labradoodle was born. 

Over the years, careful breeding has refined the Australian Labradoodle into a distinct breed with consistent traits. Their original purpose as service dogs has shaped their temperament and trainability, making them excellent companions and working dogs. 

Bernedoodle

The Bernedoodle is a more recent addition to the Doodle family, first bred in the early 2000s. Bernedoodles combine the gentle, loyal nature of the Bernese Mountain Dog with the intelligence and hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle. Unlike the Australian Labradoodle, which has been bred over multiple generations, Bernedoodles are often first or second-generation crosses, leading to more variability in their traits. 

Physical Characteristics: Size, Coat & Appearance

Size Comparison

Australian Labradoodles are medium-sized dogs. Males can reach up to 22 inches tall and approximately 65 pounds. 

Bernedoodles are generally larger dogs. Males can reach up to 29 inches tall and roughly 90 pounds. 

The size difference between the dogs can be significant, with standard Bernedoodles potentially outweighing their Australian Labradoodle counterparts by 25 pounds or more. You can also find miniature versions of both dog breeds.

Coat Type & Texture

Australian Labradors' coats have been refined over generations of breeding. It’s typically wavy or curly, low-shedding and bred for consistency. The texture can range from fleece-like to wool-like, depending on the specific breeding lines. 

Bernedoodles, on the other hand, have more varied coat types because of their recent origin and diverse genetic makeup. Their coats can be straight, wavy or curly, and the texture often depends on which parent breed’s genes are more dominant. While many Bernedoodles have the sought-after Poodle-like coat, some may inherit the thicker, more shedding coat of the Bernese Mountain Dog. 

Colors and Markings

Australian Labradoodles often come in solid colors, while Bernedoodles offer a wider range of color combinations, often featuring the tri-color pattern characteristic of Bernese Mountain Dogs: 

• Black and white
• Black and brown
• Tri-color (black, white and brown) 
• Sable
• Merle (in rarer cases)

Temperament and Personality

Australian Labradoodle

Australian Labradoodles are known for their: 

• Moderate-to-high energy levels
• Friendly and outgoing nature
• Eagerness to please
• Adaptability to various situations

These traits make them excellent family dogs, therapy animals and working companions. Their service dog heritage shines through in their attentiveness and desire to bond with their human family members. 

Bernedoodle

Bernedoodles are known for their: 

• A calm and gentle demeanor
• Strong loyalty to their family
• A patient nature, especially with children
• A slightly more independent streak

While still affectionate, Bernedoodles may be more content to lounge by your feet than constantly seeking attention. Their Bernese Mountain Dog ancestry contributes to their relaxed nature, making them well-suited for families seeking a less high-energy pet. 

Trainability and Intelligence

Both breeds are highly intelligent, but their approach to learning can differ:

Australian Labradoodle

• Highly trainable due to their history as service dogs
• Quick to learn new commands and tricks
• Thrive on mental stimulation and variety in training
• Excel in obedience, agility and service work

Bernedoodle

• Intelligent but may show occasional stubbornness
• Can be sensitive to harsh training methods
• May take a bit more time to master complex tasks
• Enjoy working closely with their owners

For both breeds, early socialization and positive reinforcement training methods are key to raising a well-behaved adult dog. 

Health and Longevity

Common Health Concerns

Australian Labradoodles may be prone to: 

• Hip and elbow dysplasia
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
• Ear infections due to their floppy ears

Bernedoodles might have issues with: 

• Hip dysplasia (especially in larger sizes)
• Elbow dysplasiaVon Willebrand’s disease
• Certain cancers (inherited from the Bernese Mountain Dog side) 

Both breeds benefit from regular veterinary check-ups and health screenings to catch and address any issues early. 

Life Expectancy

• Australian Labradoodles typically live 12-15 years
• Bernedoodles have a slightly wider range of 12-18 years, with smaller sizes often living longer

The longevity of both breeds allows for many years of companionship, investing in their health and care all the more worthwhile. 

Grooming and Maintenance

Australian Labradoodle Grooming

• Regular brushing (2-3 times per week) to prevent matting
• Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks
• Occasional bathing as needed
• Regular ear cleaning to prevent infections

Bernedoodle Grooming

• Daily brushing recommended, especially for curlier coats
• Professional grooming every 8-12 weeks
• More frequent bathing may be necessary, especially for active dogs
• Attention to the beard area to keep it clean and tangle-free

Both breeds require consistent grooming to maintain their coats and overall health, with Bernedoodles generally needing more frequent attention because of their varied coat types. 

Family Suitability and Lifestyle Fit

Australian Labradoodles are ideal for: 

• Families with a more active lifestyle
• Those looking for a versatile companion for outdoor activities
• Households with older children who can match their energy
• Individuals interested in dog sports or therapy work

Bernedoodles are well-suited for: 

• Families with young children, thanks to their patient nature
• Those seeking a more laid-back family dog
• Households with a moderate activity level
• People who enjoy leisurely walks and cuddle sessions

Hypoallergenic Characteristics

While no dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic, both breeds are often sought after by people who suffer from allergies. 

• Australian Labradoodles are more consistently low-shedding due to their multi-generational breeding
• Bernedoodles can vary more in their coat type and shedding level, with curlier coats typically being more allergy-friendly 

For those with severe allergies, spending time with the specific dog you’re considering is always recommended before committing. 

Choose Your Perfect Doodle Companion

Both Australian Labradoodles and Bernedoodles offer unique qualities that make them wonderful family pets. Your choice between these two lovable breeds should depend on: 

• Your activity level and lifestyle
• The size of the dog that best fits your living situation
• Your grooming commitment and preferences
• Whether you prioritize a more energetic or laid-back companion

The Labradoodle Corral specializes in Australian Labradoodles and believes in their exceptional qualities as family pets and working dogs. But we know every family’s needs are different. We encourage you to consider all aspects of these wonderful breeds to find the perfect match for your home. 

Remember, whichever breed you choose, you’re signing up for years of love, companionship and joy. If you have any questions about Australian Labradoodles or need guidance in your decision-making process, don’t hesitate to contact us at the Labradoodle Corral. We’re here to help you find your ideal furry family member!

Contact the Labradoodle Corral for more information about Australian Labradoodles and to find your perfect match. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate the world of Doodles and find the ideal furry companion for your family.