All About the F1b Reverse Bernedoodle
The F1b Reverse Bernedoodle is a thoughtful blend of the beloved Bernese Mountain Dog and the intelligent Poodle, designed for families who want more of the classic Bernese look and temperament while still benefiting from hybrid genetics.
An F1b Reverse Bernedoodle is approximately:
75% Bernese Mountain Dog
25% Poodle
It is produced by breeding an F1 Bernedoodle (50/50 mix) back to a pure Bernese Mountain Dog. The term “reverse” simply means the backcross is to the Bernese rather than the Poodle.
Appearance
Because of the higher percentage of Bernese genetics, F1b Reverse Bernedoodles often closely resemble a traditional Bernese Mountain Dog.
Common Traits:
Broad head and sturdy frame
Wavy to loose coat texture
Large, affectionate “teddy bear” appearance
Their coats are typically wavy or slightly curly but less tightly curled than higher-Poodle mixes.
Shedding Level: Moderate
They may shed more than Poodle-backcross Bernedoodles due to the higher Bernese percentage.
Temperament
F1b Reverse Bernedoodles are especially known for their calm, affectionate, and loyal personalities.
Typical Personality Traits:
Gentle and patient with children
Strong family bonding
Social and people-oriented
Protective but not aggressive
Moderate energy level
Compared to higher-Poodle mixes, they often display:
Less hyperactivity
A more relaxed household presence
Slightly lower mental stimulation demands
Size
Most F1b Reverse Bernedoodles are:
Standard Size: 60–90+ lbs
Height and build similar to a Bernese Mountain Dog
Lifespan & Health
Average Lifespan:
Pure Bernese Mountain Dog: 6–8 years
F1b Reverse Bernedoodle: Typically 8–11 years
Standard Poodle: 12–15 years
Because they are 75% Bernese, they may still carry some breed-related predispositions. However, hybrid genetics can offer certain health advantages.
Potential Health Benefits:
Increased genetic diversity
Reduced risk of inheriting certain recessive conditions
Possible modest reduction in cancer risk compared to purebred Bernese
Grooming Needs
F1b Reverse Bernedoodles require consistent coat maintenance.
Grooming Requirements:
Brushing 3–4 times per week
Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks
Regular ear cleaning
Nail trimming
Because coats are often wavy rather than tightly curled, they may be easier to brush than high-Poodle mixes but may shed slightly more.
Exercise & Activity Level
They require moderate daily activity:
Daily walks
Playtime in a yard
Light training sessions
Family interaction
They are not typically as high-drive as more Poodle-dominant Bernedoodles but still benefit from mental engagement and structure.
Ideal Home Environment
An F1b Reverse Bernedoodle is an excellent fit for:
Families with children
Homes seeking a calmer large-breed companion
Owners who love the traditional Bernese look
Households prepared for grooming and moderate shedding
They thrive in environments where they are included as part of the family.
Pros & Cons
Benefits:
Classic Bernese appearance
Gentle, family-focused temperament
Moderate energy level
Potential lifespan increase compared to pure Bernese
Considerations:
Not fully hypoallergenic
Moderate shedding possible
Large size requires space
Lifespan typically shorter than higher-Poodle mixes
Is an F1b Reverse Bernedoodle Right for You?
If you love the traditional Bernese Mountain Dog look and personality but want some added genetic diversity from the Poodle, the F1b Reverse Bernedoodle offers a balanced option.
They combine loyalty, affection, and beauty with moderate health improvements — making them a wonderful companion for families seeking a calm, loving, large-breed dog.
For those prioritizing maximum allergy-friendliness or extended lifespan above all else, a higher-percentage Poodle mix may be preferable. However, for families wanting the heart of a Bernese with a touch of Poodle advantage, the F1b Reverse Bernedoodle is an exceptional choice.