When you start shopping for a Bernedoodle, you will run into terms like F1, F1B, Ultra, and Multigen. These describe the generation of the puppy, meaning how it was bred, and they matter because generation affects the coat, the shedding, and how allergy-friendly a puppy tends to be. Here is a plain-language guide to the Bernedoodle generations we raise and what each one means for your family.
F1 Bernedoodle
An F1 Bernedoodle is a first-generation cross: one Bernese Mountain Dog parent and one Poodle parent, so the puppy is about 50 percent of each. F1 Bernedoodles often have that classic Bernedoodle look with wavy coats. They are typically low-shedding, though because they carry an even mix of both breeds, coat and shedding can vary a little more from puppy to puppy than in later generations.
F1B Bernedoodle
An F1B Bernedoodle is an F1 Bernedoodle bred back to a Poodle, which makes the puppy roughly 75 percent Poodle and 25 percent Bernese Mountain Dog. That higher Poodle percentage usually means a curlier coat and more consistent, lower shedding. For this reason, F1B Bernedoodles are a popular choice for families with allergies or anyone who wants the lowest-shedding option possible.
Multigen Bernedoodle
A Multigen Bernedoodle comes from breeding a Bernedoodle to another Bernedoodle across multiple generations. By this point, breeders have had several generations to select for the best coats and temperaments, so Multigen Bernedoodles tend to have very consistent, reliably low-shedding coats. If predictability is important to you, a Multigen is often a great fit.
Ultra Bernedoodle
An Ultra Bernedoodle is a refined, multi-generational Bernedoodle bred specifically for a consistently curly, low-shedding, allergy-friendly coat. Think of it as a Bernedoodle several generations in, selected to combine that soft, non-shedding coat with the gentle Bernedoodle temperament. Ultra Bernedoodles are a wonderful option for families who want both the look and the lowest-shedding coat in one dog.
Which Generation Is Best?
There is no single best generation, only the best fit for your home. If you want the classic first-generation Bernedoodle, an F1 is a great choice. If your top priority is the lowest shedding and the most allergy-friendly coat, an F1B, Multigen, or Ultra is usually the way to go. We are always glad to help you decide based on your family and any allergy concerns. You may also want to read our Coat and Color Guide and our Bernedoodle Sizes page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between F1 and F1B Bernedoodles?
An F1 is a 50/50 cross of Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle. An F1B is an F1 bred back to a Poodle, making it about 75 percent Poodle, which usually means a curlier, lower-shedding coat.
Which Bernedoodle generation is best for allergies?
Generations with a higher Poodle percentage or more generations behind them, such as F1B, Multigen, and Ultra, tend to be the most reliably low-shedding and allergy-friendly.
Do all generations make good family dogs?
Yes. Generation mainly affects coat and shedding. All of our Bernedoodles are raised for the same gentle, family-friendly temperament regardless of generation.
How do I know which generation is right for me?
It comes down to your coat preference and any allergies in the home. Call or text us and we will help you match a generation to your family.
Not Sure Which Generation Fits?
We are happy to help you choose the right generation for your coat preference and any allergy needs. The fastest way to get answers is to call or text us.
