Welcoming a Bernedoodle puppy into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience. These adorable, fluffy companions are known for their playful energy, affectionate nature, and intelligence. However, like all puppies, Bernedoodles can have their moments of boundless energy and mischievous behavior. Many new owners find themselves wondering: “When will my Bernedoodle puppy calm down?” This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about managing your Bernedoodle puppy’s energy and helping them transition into a well- behaved and calmer adult dog.
Understanding Bernedoodle Puppy Behavior
Bernedoodle puppies are full of life, curiosity, and playfulness. Their behavior is influenced by their parent breeds—the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle—both of which contribute unique traits to this hybrid breed.
High Energy Levels
• Poodle Influence: Poodles are energetic and playful, traits that often carry over to Bernedoodle puppies. Expect bursts of zoomies and plenty of enthusiasm for playtime.
• Puppy Energy: Like all puppies, Bernedoodles have high energy levels during their early months as they explore the world around them.
Intelligence and Curiosity
• Bernedoodles inherit intelligence from their Poodle lineage, making them curious and eager to learn. This also means they can get into mischief if not properly supervised or mentally stimulated.
Social and Affectionate
• Bernedoodles thrive on interaction and form strong bonds with their families. They love attention and may follow you around the house to be part of the action.
When Do Bernedoodle Puppies Calm Down?
The age at which Bernedoodles calm down varies depending on factors like size, individual personality, and training. Here’s a general timeline:
6-12 Months: The Adolescent Stage
• During this period, your Bernedoodle will still have plenty of energy and may test boundaries.
• Consistent training and regular exercise are essential to managing their behavior.
1-2 Years: Maturing into Adulthood
• Most Bernedoodles begin to settle down around their first birthday. By 18-24 months, they’ll start showing more mature and calmer behavior.
• Larger Bernedoodles (Standard size) may take a bit longer to calm down than smaller ones (Mini and Micro).
2+ Years: A Calm and Balanced Adult
• By the age of two, most Bernedoodles have developed a balanced temperament. They’ll still enjoy playtime but will also appreciate relaxing and snuggling with their family.
Tips for Managing Bernedoodle Puppy Energy
1. Provide Plenty of Exercise
• Daily Walks: Aim for at least 30-60 minutes of walking per day, depending on your puppy’s size and energy level.
• Playtime: Incorporate games like fetch, tug-of-war, and chase to help burn off energy.
• Interactive Toys: Use puzzle toys and treat-dispensing toys to keep them mentally and
physically engaged.
2. Establish a Routine
• Puppies thrive on consistency. Set a daily schedule for feeding, potty breaks, playtime, and rest.
• A predictable routine helps reduce anxiety and encourages better behavior.
3. Socialize Early
• Expose your Bernedoodle puppy to various people, pets, and environments to build their confidence and reduce fear-based behaviors.
• Proper socialization helps prevent excessive excitement or nervousness in new situations.
4. Prioritize Training
• Start Early: Begin basic obedience training as soon as you bring your puppy home. Focus on commands like “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “leave it.”
• Positive Reinforcement: Use treats, praise, and play to reward good behavior.
• Crate Training: Teach your puppy to see their crate as a safe space where they can relax
and decompress.
5. Encourage Rest and Relaxation
• Puppies need plenty of sleep to grow and stay healthy. Make sure your Bernedoodle has a quiet and comfortable spot to nap.
• Limit overstimulation by balancing playtime with rest periods.
Dealing with Common Challenges
Nipping and Chewing
• Why It Happens: Puppies explore the world with their mouths, and teething can intensify chewing behaviors.
• Solutions:
o Provide appropriate chew toys to soothe teething discomfort.
o Redirect nipping to toys and discourage biting hands or clothing. o Use commands like “no bite” and reward calm behavior.
Jumping
• Why It Happens: Puppies jump to greet people or get attention.
• Solutions:
o Teach your Bernedoodle to sit before receiving attention.
o Avoid rewarding jumping by turning away and waiting for them to calm down.
Excessive Barking
• Why It Happens: Puppies may bark out of excitement, boredom, or to alert you to something.
• Solutions:
o Identify the cause of barking and address the underlying need. o Teach commands like “quiet” or “enough,” and reward silence.
Signs Your Bernedoodle is Calming Down
As your Bernedoodle matures, you’ll notice:
Shorter Play Bursts: They’ll engage in play but will tire out faster and settle down afterward
• More Relaxed Behavior: Your dog will spend more time lounging or snuggling instead of constantly seeking activity.
• Improved Impulse Control: They’ll respond more reliably to commands and show patience.
• Fewer Mischievous Behaviors: Chewing, nipping, and jumping will decrease with consistent training and maturity.
Supporting Your Bernedoodle’s Transition to Adulthood
Helping your Bernedoodle transition from an energetic puppy to a calm and balanced adult requires patience, consistency, and love.
Here are some tips:
• Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge and reward your dog’s progress, whether it’s mastering a new command or showing calmer behavior.
• Maintain Routine: Even as they mature, a consistent schedule helps reinforce good habits.
• Continue Training: Ongoing training ensures your Bernedoodle remains well-behaved and mentally stimulated.
• Provide Love and Attention: Remember that Bernedoodles thrive on human interaction. Spend quality time bonding with your dog.
Conclusion
While Bernedoodle puppies are full of energy and enthusiasm, they eventually calm down as they mature. By providing proper training, exercise, and socialization, you can guide your Bernedoodle through the puppy stage and enjoy a lifetime of companionship with a well- behaved and affectionate adult dog. Remember, every Bernedoodle is unique, and patience and consistency are key to helping them thrive at every stage of life.
