21 Tips to Help Train Your Bernedoodle Puppy
The Bernedoodle Training Adventure Begins…
So, you’ve brought home your adorable, floppy-eared Bernedoodle puppy. Congratulations! Now comes the fun part: training your new furry best friend. Bernedoodles are smart, affectionate, and full of personality, which makes them a joy to train… most of the time. (Let’s be real—every puppy has their “chew your favorite shoe” moments.)
Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or a seasoned pro, these 21 tips to train your Bernedoodle puppy will help you raise a well-mannered, happy pup. Let’s dive in!
1. Start Early (But Not Too Early)
Bernedoodle puppies are quick learners, so begin training as soon as your puppy settles into their new home—usually around 8-10 weeks old. However, keep sessions short (5-10 minutes) to match their tiny attention spans.
2. Use Positive Reinforcement
A Bernedoodle puppy thrives on praise and treats! Reward good behavior with small, tasty treats, verbal praise (“Good job!”), and pets. Avoid punishment—it can make them anxious or stubborn.
3. Master the Name Game
Before teaching commands, ensure your puppy knows their name. Say their name in a happy tone, and when they look at you, reward them. Soon, they’ll come running every time!
4. Potty Training = Patience + Consistency
Take your pup outside:
✅ First thing in the morning
✅ After meals
✅ After naps
✅ Before bedtime
To be successful, take them out every 45 minutes during playtime to avoid the indoor accident.
Praise them when they go in the right spot!
5. Crate Training = Safe Space
A crate isn’t a punishment—it’s their cozy den. Make it inviting with a soft blanket and toys. Start with short periods and gradually increase time.
6. Socialize, Socialize, Socialize!
Expose your Bernedoodle puppy to new people, dogs, sounds, and environments early in positive situations. Well-socialized pups grow into confident, friendly adults.
7. Teach “Sit” First
“Sit” is the easiest command to start with. Hold a treat above their nose, move it back, and say “sit.” When their bottom hits the floor—reward!
8. Leash Training Takes Time
A Bernedoodle puppy can be a strong puller. Start indoors with a lightweight leash, rewarding them for walking beside you.
9. Redirect Chewing (Save Your Shoes!)
Puppies chew—a lot. Provide durable chew toys and swap them out when they gnaw on furniture. Frozen carrots are a great teething relief!
10. “Leave It” – A Lifesaver Command
Hold a treat in your closed hand. When your pup stops sniffing/nibbling, say “leave it” and reward with a different treat. This keeps them safe from harmful objects.
11. “Drop It” for the Toy Hoarders
Playing tug-of-war? Offer a treat in exchange for the toy while saying “drop it.” Soon, they’ll release on command.
12. Handling Exercises
Get your puppy used to being touched—paws, ears, and mouth—so vet visits and grooming are stress-free.
13. Prevent Jumping Early
Turn away and ignore them when they jump. Reward only when all four paws are on the ground.
14. Teach “Stay” in Baby Steps
Start with a short “stay” (1-2 seconds), then gradually increase time and distance.
15. Mealtime Manners
Make them wait before eating to instill patience. Say “okay” to release them to their bowl.
16. End the Nipping
Puppy teeth are sharp! If they nip, let out a high-pitched “ouch!” and redirect to a toy.
17. Capture Calmness
Reward your Bernedoodle puppy when they’re lying down quietly. This encourages good behavior without constant commands.
18. Fun with Puzzle Toys
Bernedoodle puppies are smart—keep them busy with interactive toys that challenge their brains.
19. Consistency is Key
Use the same commands (e.g., “down” vs. “lie down”) and ensure all family members follow the same rules.
20. Nighttime Routine
Limit water before bed, take a final potty break, and place a snuggle toy in their crate for comfort.
21. Enjoy the Bernedoodle Puppy Phase!
Training takes time, so be patient and have fun. One day, you’ll look back and miss those tiny puppy antics!
FAQs: Training Your Bernedoodle Puppy
How long does it take to train a Bernedoodle puppy?
Every pup learns at their own pace, but with daily consistency, you’ll see progress in a few weeks. Advanced training (like off-leash recall) may take months.
Are Bernedoodle puppies easy to train?
Yes! They’re intelligent and eager to please, but they can also be playful and stubborn. Keep training fun and rewarding.
What’s the best treat for training?
Small, soft treats (like chopped-up chicken or training bites) work best. Save high-value treats (cheese, hot dogs) for tough commands.
My Bernedoodle puppy barks a lot—how do I stop it?
Teach the “quiet” command by rewarding silence after barking. Also, ensure they get enough exercise and mental stimulation.
When should I start obedience classes?
Puppy classes can begin as early as 10-12 weeks old, after their first round of vaccinations.
Final Thoughts on Training Bernedoodle Puppies
Training your Bernedoodle puppy is a journey filled with laughter, treats, and a few chewed slippers. But with patience, love, and these 21 tips, you’ll have a well-behaved, happy companion in no time.
At Fox Creek Farm, we’re passionate about raising healthy, well-adjusted Bernedoodles who are ready for their forever homes. Have a training success story? Share it with us in the comments!
Now, go enjoy those puppy cuddles—you’ve got this!
