Do Bernedoodles Like Water? The Splashy Truth

By /Published On: May 30, 2025/

Imagine this: It’s a sunny Saturday. You’re sipping lemonade. Your Bernedoodle is sniffing curiously around the yard. Then they spot it, the kiddie pool. In a flash, it’s doodle versus gravity. One dramatic leap later, your afternoon just became a shampoo commercial.

At Double U Doodles, we raise Bernedoodles with the kind of personality that makes every splash an event. So let’s answer one of the biggest questions future Bernedoodle families ask: Do Bernedoodles like water?

The short answer: Yes, most of them do.
The long answer? Let’s dive in.

Why Bernedoodles and Water Just Work

Two Bernedoodles

Bernedoodles are a delightful mix of Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle. While Bernese dogs aren’t natural swimmers, they are adventurous and loyal. Poodles, on the other hand, were bred to retrieve from water. Put those together and you get a Bernedoodle that’s curious, playful, and often water-loving.

Here’s why water play is perfect for Bernedoodles:

  • Exercise that doesn’t feel like exercise 
  • Low-impact movement, ideal for joints 
  • Mental stimulation from new sights, smells, and textures 
  • A way to cool off on hot days 
  • Pure, goofy joy 

Some doodles tiptoe into the water, others dive in with zero hesitation. Each one is different and every splash is part of the fun.

Adult Bernedoodle at Double U Doodles

How to Help Your Bernedoodle Love the Water

Not all Bernedoodles start as swimmers. That’s totally normal. Here are simple steps to build confidence around water:

  • Start small with shallow water, like a kiddie pool or gentle stream 
  • Offer lots of praise for curiosity, even if they only sniff the water 
  • Use a dog life vest for deeper water or first-time swimmers 
  • Make water play positive with favorite toys or treats 
  • Rinse and dry them thoroughly after swimming to avoid skin or ear issues 

The key is patience. For some doodles, water love is instant. For others, it’s a slow and steady friendship.

Bernedoodle puppy sitting on a blue bath mat

Water Games Your Bernedoodle Will Love

  • Kiddie Pool Treasure Hunt: Hide floating toys or treats 
  • Sprinkler Chase: Let them run through the spray for classic summer fun 
  • Dock Fetch: Start from a low dock with floating toys 
  • Kayak Companion: Confident doodles may enjoy calm water outings 
  • Lake Days: Let them explore shoreline and shallow waters safely 

Just remember to bring plenty of towels.

Young girl holding a Bernedoodle's face

Safety First

Before the fun begins, make sure it stays safe:

  • Always supervise, even in shallow water 
  • Start in still, calm water 
  • Use sun protection if your doodle has a light-colored coat 
  • Watch for signs of tiredness 
  • Bring clean drinking water to keep them hydrated 

Water is fun, but your doodle depends on you to keep it safe.

Bernedoodles and Water: FAQ

Do all Bernedoodles like to swim?
Many do, but not all. Some enjoy wading while others love full-on swimming. Let your pup set the pace.

What if my Bernedoodle is afraid of water?
Start slow and use encouragement. Avoid forcing them. Let them explore on their own terms.

Does coat type affect swimming ability?
Sometimes. Bernedoodles with curlier coats may need more rinsing and grooming after water play, but all types can enjoy the water.

Can swimming replace daily walks?
Swimming is a great low-impact activity, but it shouldn’t fully replace daily walks and playtime.

Do Bernedoodles need extra grooming if they swim a lot?
Yes. Always brush and rinse them after swimming to prevent matting and irritation.

Double U Doodles: Where Bernedoodles Make a Splash

At Double U Doodles, we raise healthy, social, ethically bred Bernedoodles who thrive in water and in family life. Whether your future doodle is a full-blown swimmer or just a curious paw-dipper, we’re here to match you with your perfect pup.

If you’re ready to find a Bernedoodle who’s as happy in a lake as they are on your couch, contact us today. Let’s make some waves together!