F1 vs F1B vs F2 Bernedoodle: What’s the Difference?

Written by August Croft
Updated: September 28, 2023
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Did you know that there are different types of bernedoodles known as F1 vs F1B vs F2 bernedoodles? What do these figures mean, how are these bernedoodles different from one another, and how can you learn which one is best for you if you are considering adopting one? If you’ve always wanted to learn more about how dog genetics work, you’re in the right place!

In this article, we will compare and contrast everything you need to know about bernedoodles, including what all of these “F classifications” stand for. We will go over their appearances and behaviors, as well as their genetics and ancestries. Finally, we will address the different costs related to each one of these bernedoodles. Let’s get started now!

Comparing F1 vs F1B vs F2 Bernedoodle

F1 vs F1B vs F2 Bernedoodles
The F1 is a cross between a purebred poodle and a purebred Bernese mountain dog, while the F1B is a cross between a poodle and an F1 bernedoodle, and the F2 is a cross between two F1 bernedoodles exclusively.
F1 BernedoodleF1B BernedoodleF2 Bernedoodle
Parents or AncestryCross between a purebred poodle and a purebred Bernese mountain dogCross between a purebred poodle and an F1 bernedoodleCross between two F1 bernedoodles only
AppearanceHypoallergenic wavy and curly coat found in black, white, or gray. Found in multiple sizesVery curly coat with even less dander and shedding. Comes in more colors and has a slimmer body styleTotal chance as to what appearance you get, but that is what makes it fun! More colors and sizes available than any other generation
Originally Bred ForHypoallergenic households seeking the personality of the Bernese mountain dog but in a longer-living dogExtremely hypoallergenic households who also want a smaller bernedoodle compared to the F1sHybrid vigor dog with some potential hypoallergenic qualities; a healthy dog with a unique look and personality
BehaviorPerfect 50/50 blend of both the poodle and the Bernese mountain dogMore poodle than Bernese mountain dog in terms of personalityMay have a personality similar to an F1, but it is totally random
CostHigh, depending on breederCan be more or less, depending on breederCan cost the most, if you want a rare color

Key Differences Between F1 vs F1B vs F2 Bernedoodle

F1 vs F1B vs F2 Bernedoodles

The personality of the F2 bernedoodle is much harder to predict compared to the F1 and F1B bernedoodle.

©Cavan-Images/Shutterstock.com

There are many key differences between F1 vs F1B vs F2 bernedoodles. The F1 bernedoodle is a cross between a purebred poodle and a purebred Bernese mountain dog, while the F1B is a cross between a poodle and an F1 bernedoodle, and the F2 is a cross between two F1 bernedoodles exclusively. This leads to a variety of differences in the costs, personalities, and appearances of all of these different bernedoodles.

Let’s talk about all of these possible differences in more detail now.

F1 vs F1B vs F2 Bernedoodle: Behavior

F1 vs F1B vs F2 Bernedoodles

Most F1 bernedoodles end up with a perfect blend of poodle and Bernese mountain dog personalities compared to the poodle-majority personality of the F1B.

©Philip Steury Photography/Shutterstock.com

When it comes to the behavior of all of these different types of bernedoodle, there are some significant variations. For example, F1 bernedoodles often end up with a perfect blend of poodle and Bernese mountain dog personalities compared to the poodle-majority personality of the F1B. But what about the behavior of the average F2?

The personality of the F2 bernedoodle is much harder to predict compared to the F1 and F1B bernedoodle. It can be entirely random, though you can expect any bernedoodle to have a high level of intelligence as well as friendliness to other animals and strangers. These dogs are high energy, but they love being with their families most of all!

F1 vs F1B vs F2 Bernedoodle: Appearance

F1 vs F1B vs F2 Bernedoodles

The F1 has a slightly wavy or curly coat, while the F1B has a very curly coat, and the F2 can be either one way or the other.

©Maria Bell/Shutterstock.com

The appearances of all of these bernedoodle generations differ greatly, depending on breeding. For example, the F1 has a slightly wavy or curly coat, while the F1B has a very curly coat, and the F2 can be either one way or the other. In addition, the F1B and the F2 bernedoodles come in many more coat colors compared to the F1 bernedoodle generation.

F1 vs F1B vs F2 Bernedoodle: Ancestry and Parent Dogs

F1 vs F1B vs F2 Bernedoodles

The F2 bernedoodle is a descendant of two F1 bernedoodles, which gives them more genetic uniqueness compared to the F1 and the F1B bernedoodles.

©jcburke/Shutterstock.com

The primary difference between the F1, F1B, and F2 bernedoodles has to be their ancestry and parent dogs. We’ve already discussed this point, but the F1 bernedoodle is a cross between a purebred poodle and a Bernese mountain dog, while the F1B is a purebred poodle crossed with an F1 bernedoodle. Finally, the F2 bernedoodle is a descendant of two F1 bernedoodles, which gives them more genetic uniqueness compared to the F1 and the F1B bernedoodles.

F1 vs F1B vs F2 Bernedoodle: Originally Bred For

F1 vs F1B vs F2 Bernedoodles

The F2 was bred less for hypoallergenic reasons compared to the F1 and F1B, and is instead prized for its personality and coat colors.

©Maria Bell/Shutterstock.com

There are distinct reasons why each one of these bernedoodle generations exist. For example, the F1 was originally bred for hypoallergenic reasons and to get a dog with a longer lifespan than the average Bernese mountain dog, while the F1B was bred for an even greater hypoallergenic advantage. Finally, the F2 was bred less for hypoallergenic reasons compared to the F1 and F1B, and is instead prized for its personality and coat colors.

F1 vs F1B vs F2 Bernedoodle: Cost

F1 vs F1B vs F2 Bernedoodles

The F1B is highly sought after for its hypoallergenic coat, while the F2 is sought after for its appearance and unique bernedoodle personality.

©Shandraz/Shutterstock.com

A final potential difference between the F1, F1B, and F2 bernedoodles has to do with their overall costs. The F1 typically costs the most of all of the bernedoodles due to its prized breeding abilities, though the F1B and F2 can cost more than the F1, depending on the breeder and market. The F1B is highly sought after for its hypoallergenic coat, while the F2 is sought after for its appearance and unique bernedoodle personality.

All in all, every bernedoodle generation makes for a wonderful companion animal, especially for hypoallergenic households. Do your research if you are interested in adopting a bernedoodle, and you won’t be disappointed in this fantastic hybrid dog!

What Haircuts Work Well for Bernedoodles?

Adult brown and white bernedoodle dog laying on the grass outdoors.

There are a variety of flattering haircuts that can help your bernedoodle put its best foot forward.

©Cavan-Images/Shutterstock.com

One distinctive characteristic of doodles is that they are cousins of poodles, who historically have sported very interesting haircuts! The “poodle” in your doodle’s ancestry points to your dog likely having naturally wavy or curly hair. We’ve created a list of some haircut options that may work for your bernedoodle, piggybacking off of those time-tested cuts that poodles have proven are attractive and workable.

  • Dutch Cut (Mohawk) While this cut is a popular choice for poodles who compete in shows, results may vary with your doodle. This classic cut features long hair on the top of the head, while the facial hair is shaved, giving the dog a mohawk look. The sides are left medium–length, while the paws are also shaved. The tail can also sport a pom pom or longer hair (if your doodle’s hair won’t create a pom pom).
  • Lion Cut As the name implies, your doodle will look similar to a lion with this cut, as the neck and wither hair are left long to resemble a lion’s mane, while the legs, back, muzzle, and forehead are cut short. The tail is shaved to the near end, which is left long to give it a pom pom effect.
  • Poodle Cut (Teddy Bear Cut) If your doodle enjoys masquerading as a wild animal, another option besides the lion cut is the teddy bear cut, which is basically a poodle cut. This mid-length haircut showcases the doodle’s natural curls, while its face is cut to look rounded, and its paw hair is left longer to mimic bear paws. A pom pom tail is an option with this popular cut.
  • Lamb Cut This cut conjures domestic tranquility, as your doodle will look like a sweet lamb. While the body hair is cut short, the legs are cut to a medium length. The head, feet, and tail can be tailored to the owner’s preference.
  • Short Cut Not only is this cut one of the most popular for most doodle owners, but it is also low maintenance. Doodles with naturally short hair do well with this cut, where all the body hair is cut short, hair on the ears is left longer, and the face and paws are shaved.
  • Puppy Cut This hairstyle is popular for multiple dog breeds. The dog’s body hair is cut short, but the facial hair is left longer. This cut is fairly low-maintenance, but you’ll need to give your doodle regular brushing.
  • Summer Cut When the summer heat turns up, this haircut can help your doodle stay cool. All the hair is cut very short except for pom poms on the legs and a tufted or pom pom tail.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Shandraz/Shutterstock.com

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About the Author

August Croft is a writer at A-Z Animals where their primary focus is on astrology, symbolism, and gardening. August has been writing a variety of content for over 4 years and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Theater from Southern Oregon University, which they earned in 2014. They are currently working toward a professional certification in astrology and chart reading. A resident of Oregon, August enjoys playwriting, craft beer, and cooking seasonal recipes for their friends and high school sweetheart.

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