F1, F1B, Reverse F1B, F2, and Multigen Bernedoodles Explained

Reverse F1B

F1B Bernedoodle

Wavy F1 Bernedoodle

Multigen

When researching Bernedoodles, you’ll come across terms like F1, F1B, Reverse F1B, F2, and Multigen. These aren’t just breeder lingo: They represent genetic lineage, and they impact everything from coat type and shedding to temperament and size consistency. This post breaks down the meaning of each generation and how science supports the traits often attributed to them.

Why Generations Matter in Bernedoodles

The term "generation" refers to how many times the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle genetics have been mixed. Each generation alters the ratio of Bernese to Poodle DNA, affecting coat furnishings, curliness, shedding, and even health traits. Understanding these generational differences helps allergy sufferers, families with young children, and first-time dog owners make informed choices.

F1 Bernedoodle (First Generation)

Genetic Makeup: 50% Bernese Mountain Dog × 50% Poodle Coat: Wavy Furnishings: They have one copy of furnishings from the Poodle side. (What are "furnishings"? We dive into it more here.)

The F1 generation is the result of a purebred Bernese Mountain Dog crossed with a purebred Poodle. Genetically, this generation has the most predictability in coat type and furnishings.

Scientific Note: F1s are predictable and can be an option for people with light allergies. The presence of furnishings, governed by the RSPO2 gene, is critical. F1 Bernedoodles always (except in rare cases if you have and breed an unfurnished Poodle) carry one copy of furnishings.

F1B Bernedoodle (Backcross)

Genetic Makeup: 75% Poodle × 25% Bernese Mountain Dog Coat: Usually curly or wavy Furnishings: Each puppy has a 50/50 chance of being fully furnished (2 copies of furnishings) vs 1 copy of furnishings Allergy-Friendly: Fully furnsihed F1B's are generally better suited for allergy-sensitive households

F1B Bernedoodles are created by breeding an F1 Bernedoodle back to a purebred Poodle. Coats are usually curly or wavy and have lower shedding. Because Poodles carry two copies of the furnishing gene (FF), F1B offspring are more likely to be fully furnished and, therefore, more hypoallergenic when compared to F1's.

Science Insight: A 2020 study published in Canine Genetics and Epidemiology confirmed that dogs with at least one copy of the furnishing gene are significantly more likely to retain hair and dander rather than shed it freely, reducing allergen dispersion in the environment.

Reverse F1B Bernedoodle

Genetic Makeup: 75% Bernese Mountain Dog × 25% Poodle Coat: Often wavy to straight Furnishings: Each puppy has a 50/50 chance of having 1 copy of furnishings Allergy-Friendly: Not ideal for most allergy sufferers

A Reverse F1B is the result of breeding an F1 Bernedoodle back to a Bernese Mountain Dog, reversing the usual Poodle backcross. This generation maintains more Bernese traits in appearance and temperament and is less likely to inherit low/no-shedding, allergy-friendly coats and gentics.

Scientific Note: These dogs may carry only one or zero copies of the RSPO2 gene, making them more likely to be improperly furnished (i.e., no facial furnishings) and shed more. This makes reverse F1Bs less suitable for families with allergies.

F2 Bernedoodle (Second Generation)

Genetic Makeup: F1 Bernedoodle × F1 Bernedoodle Coat: Highly variable (can be straight, wavy, or curly) Furnishings: Unpredictable and highly variable Allergy-Friendly: Mixed

F2 Bernedoodles are the product of breeding two F1 Bernedoodles together. Because each F1 carries a mixed set of genes, their offspring display wide variability. You may end up with an F2 puppy that looks and behaves more like a Bernese or one that closely resembles a Poodle.

Science Insight: In litters without genetic testing, 25% of F2 puppies may lack furnishings altogether. This is due to Mendelian inheritance patterns when two carriers (Ff) are bred together, resulting in a 25% chance of "ff" (unfurnished), 50% "Ff", and 25% "FF". We genetic test all of our breeding dogs prior to breeding and puppies are genetic tested shortly after birth. We want to know exactly what we're working with and what we're producing. "Genetics" is one of Becky's favorite subjects.

Multigen Bernedoodle (Multigenerational)

Genetic Makeup: F1B × F1B, or later-generation crosses Coat: Highly variable but can be predicted by parents genetics Furnishings: Highly variable but can be predicted by parents genetics Allergy-Friendly: Highly variable but can be predicted by parents genetics

Multigenerational Bernedoodles are selectively bred over multiple generations to stabilize coat traits, temperament, health, size and other considerations based on the breeders goal for their program. Breeders often select parents that are fully furnished and low-shedding, producing offspring with the most consistent hypoallergenic characteristics; sometimes...

Scientific Note: With advancements in genetic testing (e.g., Embark, Paw Print), breeders can now screen for genes like RSPO2 (furnishings), KRT71 (coat curl), and MC5R (shedding) to better predict outcomes.

Genetic Testing: A Non-Negotiable for Predictability

While generation labels help set general expectations, the most accurate predictor of coat type and allergen potential comes from genetic testing. Responsible breeders test for:

• RSPO2 (furnishings)

• KRT71 (curl)

• MC5R (shedding)

• Other health-related SNPs

At Bernedoodle Boutique, we don’t guess: We test. We use these genetic tools not only to reduce shedding but also to promote better health, structure, and temperament in our litters.

Final Thoughts: Choose the Generation That Fits Your Life

Whether you're looking for allergy relief, a certain coat style, or a specific temperament, understanding generations helps you make the most informed decision. Each generation has its pros and cons, but with careful selection and transparent breeding practices, you can find a Bernedoodle that fits beautifully into your life. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions! Like we mentioned, "Genetics" is one of Becky's favorite subjects.