Bring Us Your Bernedoodles!
✨ Bernedoodles are our biggest clients. ✨ One day they’re a cuddly teddy bear, the next... well they’re still a cute, cuddly teddy bear but strong enough to drag you down the street like a rogue sled dog! That charming puppy playfulness can turn problematic if not addressed early. Let's train them before they start completely running the show. A well-trained Bernedoodle is a happy Bernedoodle. And a happy Bernedoodle means you keep your coffee, dignity, and rotator cuff intact.
Why 9-Month-Old Bernedoodles Keep Us Busy and Why Now is the Time for Training
If we had to name the most common call we get, it would be this:
"Hi! Our 9-month-old Bernedoodle is keeping us on our toes—sneaking snacks from the counter, making a break for it when the door opens, and deciding recall is optional. Can you help?"
Bernedoodles are popular in Central Oregon, and for good reason. They’re smart, friendly, and make great adventure companions. But around 9 months old, many owners realize their fluffy puppy is no longer a small, manageable ball of curls. They’re big, strong, and—without training—can become reactive, pushy, or difficult to handle.
The Second Fear Period: Why Reactivity Often Starts Now
Around 6-14 months, dogs go through a second fear period (also called a secondary fear imprint stage). During this time, they may suddenly:
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Bark at strangers or other dogs they previously ignored
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React nervously to new places, objects, or sounds
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Hesitate in situations they used to be confident in
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Show more defensive or avoidance-based behaviors
This is why some 9-month-old Bernedoodles develop reactivity, lunging or barking on leash even if they were friendly as puppies. If this behavior isn’t addressed early, it can become a long-term habit.
Training Goals for a 9-Month-Old Bernedoodle
A professional trainer helps set clear expectations so your dog grows into a well-mannered adult. Here aer some skills we focus on:
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Obedience Skills We Reinforce in Training:
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Recall
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Heel
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Polite Greetings (no jumping on people)
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Place (lie down and settle)
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Leave it (no digging, no food snatching)
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Quiet (no barking)
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Door Threshold Manners (won’t run out)
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Stay
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Kennel / Crate Training
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Load Up (into a car or crate)
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Loose Leash Walking
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No Digging
In Bend and Redmond, Bernedoodles are one of the most popular breeds—and at 9-12 months, they make up our biggest client base. Structured training can really help!
We specialize in working with this age group, using balanced, personalized training to help your Bernedoodle grow into a well-mannered adult. Whether you’re dealing with pulling, barking, or selective hearing, we can help. This playful, independent stage is completely normal, and with the right training, your Bernedoodle can grow into a well-mannered, reliable companion. Sign up for a training evaluation - let’s make life easier (and keep those snacks where they belong)!
How It Works
Compare Training Cost Options
Private Training – For Dedicated Owners
1 Hour of Private Training (with Owner) – $200. One-on-one training designed to teach you and your Bernedoodle essential skills and behavior management. If you’re committed to working with your dog (we recommend 2 hours per day, 7 days a week) private training can be a great option.
Day Training
Full Day of Day Training – $200. A full day of hands-on training for your dog. Can include a free overnight stay (non-peak only, some blackout dates), valued at $75.
30-Day Board & Train
Our most commonly recommended program for Bernedoodles. This immersive 4-week training experience provides structure, socialization, and professional guidance, ensuring long-lasting results. If you’re planning a Spring Break or summer trip, book early—our schedule fills up fast! Boarding with training is a great way to save since it’s only a small increase in cost over regular vacation boarding, making it an excellent value.
1-Week Board & Train
In rare cases, we offer shorter board and train stays, but one week is generally not enough for most Bernedoodles to get the full benefit of training. Please visit our 1-Week Board & Train page for details.
Why Choose a Board & Train for Your Bernedoodle?
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Faster, More Reliable Results – Daily professional training accelerates progress, especially for large, energetic adolescent dogs.
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Full Immersion – Dogs learn in a structured, distraction-free environment, reinforcing good behavior 24/7.
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Owner Support & Training – At the end of the program, we provide clear guidance so you can continue reinforcing training at home.
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Convenience – Ideal for busy owners or those traveling who want their dog trained while they’re away.
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Long-Term Success – Proper training at this stage prevents lifelong behavioral struggles.
Ready to Train Your Bernedoodle?
Whether you choose a board & train or private lessons, we’ll help your dog become the well-mannered companion you’ve always wanted. Schedule early to secure your spot!
Forms:
Get on Our Schedule
To avoid disappointment, get ahead of the curve and contact us for reservations!
971-419-5561