The Best Toys and Enrichment Activities for Your Bernedoodle

If you’ve ever shared your home with a Bernedoodle, you know these dogs are full of love, energy, and a touch of mischief. Bless their hearts, they’re smart as a whip and need both mental and physical stimulation to stay out of trouble.

Down here in the South, we like to say “an idle pup is a mischievous pup,” and that couldn’t be truer when it comes to Bernedoodles. Without the right toys and enrichment activities, your doodle might just create their own “projects”—like chewing your favorite cowboy boots or redecorating the porch with a flowerpot.

So, let’s dig into the very best toys, games, and enrichment ideas to keep your Bernedoodle entertained, healthy, and happy.

Why Bernedoodles Need Enrichment

Bernedoodles aren’t just cute, they’re also a combination of two of the smartest breeds: the Poodle and the Bernese Mountain Dog. That mix means they need more than a casual walk to stay satisfied. They crave:

• Mental stimulation (puzzle solving, scent games)

• Physical exercise (fetch, hiking, swimming)

• Social interaction (time with people and other pups)

When their needs are met, you’ll notice fewer behavior problems, more calm evenings, and a doodle that’s downright content.

Best Toys for Bernedoodles

Because of their size and strength, not every toy will hold up to a Bernedoodle’s enthusiasm. Here are some tried-and-true favorites:

1. Durable Chew Toys

Bernedoodles love to chew, especially during teething stages or when they’re left alone. Choose toys made from rubber or nylon that can withstand strong jaws. Brands like KONG or Nylabone are dependable.

Pro Tip: Stuff a rubber chew toy with peanut butter and freeze it. It’ll keep your doodle busy for a good long while on a hot Southern afternoon.

2. Interactive Puzzle Toys

Puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys are perfect for engaging your doodle’s mind. They’ll spend time working out how to get the goodies, which keeps them occupied and mentally sharp.

3. Fetch and Tug Toys

From tennis balls to rope toys, fetch and tug-of-war are excellent outlets for energy. Just make sure the ball is large enough that it can’t be accidentally swallowed.

4. Plush Toys with Squeakers

Some Bernedoodles adore soft toys. They may carry them around like prized possessions. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t rip out the stuffing.

Enrichment Activities for Bernedoodles

Toys are great, but structured activities make all the difference in keeping a Bernedoodle well-rounded and happy.

Backyard Agility Course

Set up tunnels, jumps, or even a few hay bales in your yard. These pups are athletic and thrive when challenged. Bonus: it’s fun for the whole family to cheer them on.

Water Play

Bernedoodles often love to swim. On a hot summer’s day, let them splash in a kiddie pool, swim in a safe pond, or chase the hose spray while you water the garden.

Hide-and-Seek

Hide treats or toys around the house or yard, then let your doodle sniff them out. It taps into their natural foraging instincts.

Playdates with Other Pups

Social dogs like Bernedoodles benefit from interaction. Invite a neighbor’s pup over or head to a local dog park for some tail-wagging fun.

DIY Enrichment Ideas (Southern-Style Creativity)

You don’t have to break the bank on toys. With a little creativity, you can make enrichment games from household items:

• Muffin Tin Game: Place treats in a muffin tin and cover them with tennis balls. Your doodle will love figuring out how to uncover each one.

• Towel Roll-Up: Hide kibble inside a towel, roll it up, and let your pup unroll it to get the reward.

• Cardboard Box Adventure: Put a few toys inside a cardboard box and let your doodle tear into it (under supervision).

These activities are budget-friendly and give your dog the variety they crave.

Keeping Things Fresh: Rotate Toys Weekly

Just like kids with a toy box, dogs can get bored with the same toys day in and day out. A simple way to keep your doodle interested is to rotate their toys. Put a few away for a week, then bring them back out—it’ll feel brand new again.

The Joy of an Enriched Bernedoodle

At the end of the day, enrichment isn’t just about keeping your Bernedoodle busy—it’s about deepening your bond. Whether you’re tossing a frisbee in the backyard, watching them splash in a pond, or laughing as they outsmart a puzzle toy, these moments are what make life with a doodle so sweet.

Here in the South, we know that happiness often comes from the simple things: a porch swing at sunset, a glass of sweet tea, and a dog by your side who’s had a full day of fun. With the right toys and enrichment, your Bernedoodle will be healthy, fulfilled, and always ready for the next adventure.