(2 minutes read)
Bernedoodles represent an excellent mix between Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles which makes them popular because of their passionate disposition along with their gorgeous appearance. The wavy and curly hair texture of their coats comes from genetic origins. Knowledge about coat origins together with an understanding of genetic composition lets breeders and owners anticipate coat traits and properly care for their grooming needs.
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The Origin of the Bernedoodle's Coat
The coat characteristics of Bernedoodles are inherited from both parent breeds. Both the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle bring different coat features into this hybrid breed which features the thick double fur for cold weather protection and the poo-like curly coat type. The coat type of Bernedoodles depends on dominant and recessive gene expressions from the parent breeds.
Genetics Behind Wavy and Curly Hair
A Bernedoodle's exceptional coat texture depends on particular genetic factors that manage curling and waviness throughout its hair. KRT71 (Keratin-71) leads to a fundamental gene control of coat texture because it decides between straight, wavy, and curly fur in dogs.
1. Wavy Coat (Heterozygous Curl Gene)
Bernedoodles with a wavy coat inherit one straight-coat gene from the Bernese parent and one curl gene from the Poodle parent. The genetic combination between these traits produces waves that form loose rounded shapes that make the coat smooth and easy to handle. A Wavy-coated Bernedoodle presents light shedding that needs periodic brushing to avoid hair bundling
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2. Curly Coat (Homozygous Curl Gene)
Bernedoodle puppies developed with curly locks will inherit two curl genes from their Poodle parent which results in tight fur while maintaining hypoallergenic properties. Ixterling type coats benefit allergy victims yet brushings become necessary multiple times to maintain their fur in good condition.
3. Straight Coat (Recessive Gene Expression)
The coat traits of Bernese Mountain Dogs dominate over others causing some Bernedoodles to develop a straighter coat. F1 Bernedoodles as well as backcrossed generations might display this coat trait. Yet it remains uncommon.
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Coat Types and Generations of Bernedoodles
Different Bernedoodle generations exhibit varying coat patterns based on their genetic makeup:
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F1 Bernedoodles (50% Bernese, 50% Poodle) – Most have wavy coats, but some may lean toward either straight or curly.
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F1B Bernedoodles (75% Poodle, 25% Bernese) – More likely to have curly coats due to increased Poodle genetics.
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F2 Bernedoodles (F1 x F1 breeding) – Coat texture varies widely, depending on inherited genes.
Managing Wavy and Curly Bernedoodle Coats
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Wavy coats need brushing every few days to prevent tangles.
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Curly coats require professional grooming every 6–8 weeks to keep them manageable.
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Regular baths with gentle, moisturizing shampoos help maintain coat health.
Final Thoughts
The coat characteristics of Bernedoodle dogs result from a genetic combination between their parents. To make better choices regarding grooming along with allergy control and breed selection people need to comprehend the genetic foundation that controls wavy and curly coats in dogs. The distinctive charm of each Bernedoodle becomes more prominent because of its wavy or curly coat.
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