Instant-Love puppies:
We occasionally offer professionally trained puppies between the ages of 4-6 months up to 1 year old. These Instant-Love puppies are a great addition to therapy dog programs or busy homes. Please see Instant-Love puppies page for more information and availability.
At Fuzzy Doodle Dogs we understand training can be challenging. Doodle's are super smart dogs, its in their DNA!
The Bernedoodle hybrid is known for blending the clever goofiness of the poodle with the placid loyalty of the Bernese Mountain Dog. When training any dog it is important to learn what works for the individual. It's also important to factor in breed traits.
Bernese were originally developed from mastiff type dogs for overall farm, home guarding and companion duties. They are prized for their kind nature and their size, heavy bone structure and weight add to their stoic nature. As a result Bernese can have a laid back, sensitive and sometimes stubborn nature. Extra large dogs are often aware of their own size and learn that they cannot be forced to do something they do not choose to do. As a result obedience training for extra large dogs in a slow, good-natured way that allows them time to respond and encourages them often works best. They respond well to training that takes advantage of shaping behaviors they already wish to perform.
Poodles are often described as one of the most intelligent of breeds. They are alert, intelligent, loyal, trainable, active, and instinctual. As very smart dogs they can learn commands and tricks very quickly. Originally bred as hunting dogs and water retrievers they often love water and are independent thinkers. This independent, active and smart personality may mean you have a dog who needs a job to do or they will find an outlet for their energy on their own.
The hybrid blend softens the combined nature of both breeds with some traits or characteristics being more pronounced in one individual more than another. Keeping in mind individual personality traits during training can help you determine the most successful approach for your dog! Training is not one size fits all and you should never be afraid to reach out to a professional dog trainer for help who can bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the process. At Fuzzy Doodle's we believe in a balanced training approach that incorporates the individual's personality. This page will provide tips and tricks that may help in your situation and be appropriate for your mini bernedoodle!
Setting aside a few minutes each day to work with your puppy will pay off big in the end! No special equipment is needed and preparing ahead of time can mean more focused work for you and your dog. Always end on a positive note by performing a task the dog is familiar with. This creates a positive association with training sessions. Treats are optional, may be replaced with toys and speed up training. Items you need for a successful training session:
Clicker or marker: A marker is a sound or signal and can be a word such as "yes" or "good" you will use to mark the desired behavior performed.
Treat bag: while not a necessity a treat bag you can clip to your belt keeps pockets free of cookie crumbs and provides quick access to rewards for behaviors.
High value reward: Reward systems vary in type and how they can be used. Rewards should be adjusted to what motivates your dogs. Rewards can include high value treats; such as, dog biscuits, plain meats or cheese, a favorite toy or simple praise. *Use treats high in fat sparingly to avoid risk of pancreatitis*
Leash: a simple slip leash is often all you require. Its suggested to have both a long and short leash.
Other tips include putting away other dogs in the beginning so that you can focus on the time with your puppy and finding a quiet space with minimal distractions. As your puppy learns basic commands you can add in training sessions that include the distraction of other dogs and people. Remember to take your puppy to the bathroom prior to your regular training session to avoid this distraction. Try to create an environment that avoids any reason to scold your puppy during training; remember you are creating a positive association with obedience- so it is better to ignore most inappropriate behavior at this stage in favor of redirection to a more appropriate behavior. Meal time may be an appropriate time to begin work with your puppy if you are using treats. You can use regular kibble as the treat; both controlling your puppy's food intake and providing a reason to work for treats. Beginning a session by offering play or treats to reward the puppy for giving you attention. Keep sessions short to accommodate a puppy's attention span.
Clicker or marker: A marker is a sound or signal and can be a word such as "yes" or "good" you will use to mark the desired behavior performed.
Treat bag: while not a necessity a treat bag you can clip to your belt keeps pockets free of cookie crumbs and provides quick access to rewards for behaviors.
High value reward: Reward systems vary in type and how they can be used. Rewards should be adjusted to what motivates your dogs. Rewards can include high value treats; such as, dog biscuits, plain meats or cheese, a favorite toy or simple praise. *Use treats high in fat sparingly to avoid risk of pancreatitis*
Leash: a simple slip leash is often all you require. Its suggested to have both a long and short leash.
Other tips include putting away other dogs in the beginning so that you can focus on the time with your puppy and finding a quiet space with minimal distractions. As your puppy learns basic commands you can add in training sessions that include the distraction of other dogs and people. Remember to take your puppy to the bathroom prior to your regular training session to avoid this distraction. Try to create an environment that avoids any reason to scold your puppy during training; remember you are creating a positive association with obedience- so it is better to ignore most inappropriate behavior at this stage in favor of redirection to a more appropriate behavior. Meal time may be an appropriate time to begin work with your puppy if you are using treats. You can use regular kibble as the treat; both controlling your puppy's food intake and providing a reason to work for treats. Beginning a session by offering play or treats to reward the puppy for giving you attention. Keep sessions short to accommodate a puppy's attention span.
