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Bernedoodle: Breed Guide, Care, Health & What to Know (2026)

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bernedoodle

You’ve probably seen them at the dog park—those stunning, shaggy companions with tri-color coats that turn heads everywhere they go. Bernedoodles have surged in popularity over the past decade, becoming one of the most sought-after designer breeds in North America. This intentional cross between the gentle Bernese Mountain Dog and the intelligent Poodle promises the best of both worlds: a loyal, family-friendly temperament wrapped in a low-shedding coat.

But before you fall for those soulful eyes and teddy bear looks, you need to understand what living with a Bernedoodle actually entails—from their grooming demands and health considerations to their exercise needs and training requirements.

Table Of Contents

What is a Bernedoodle?

A Bernedoodle is a designer dog created by crossing a Bernese Mountain Dog with a Poodle, combining the best traits of both parent breeds. This hybrid first appeared in 2003 and quickly gained popularity among families looking for a friendly, intelligent companion with a low-shedding coat.

Understanding where this breed comes from, how it’s classified, and what you should call it helps you make sense of what you’re really getting when you bring one home.

Bernedoodle Breed Origins

The Bernedoodle emerged in North America during the 2000s, when breeders crossed the Bernese Mountain Dog with the Poodle to blend the Bernese’s calm temperament with the Poodle’s hypoallergenic coat. This crossbreeding capitalized on hybrid vigor and genetic diversity, aiming to reduce shedding while preserving affectionate traits.

Breeding history shows intentional selection of Standard Poodles for larger sizes, with smaller varieties for Minis and Tinys. The development of new breeds like the Bernedoodle can benefit from scientific study summaries to improve their methodological rigor.

Designer Breed Status

As a hybrid breed, the Bernedoodle doesn’t have formal Kennel Club recognition from major organizations like the AKC, which only registers purebred dogs. However, you’ll find registration options through designer breed registries that document crossbreeding lineage and canine genetics.

This hybrid classification means breed standards aren’t standardized nationwide, so you’ll encounter significant variation in size, coat type, and temperament across different breeders. To better understand the terminology used in breed descriptions, researchers often consult dictionary search tools.

Common Naming Variations

You’ll encounter several spelling variations when searching for this crossbreed between the Bernese mountain dog and poodle. These naming trends reflect the hybrid breed’s informal development and lack of standardized terminology across breeders and registries.

Common spellings include Bernedoodle, Bernese Doodle, and Berne-Poo, though these doodle breeds often share similar traits regardless of naming convention.

Common breed labels include:

  • Bernedoodle – the most widely recognized spelling
  • Bernadoodle – an alternative variation gaining popularity
  • Bernese Poodle – descriptive name origins approach
  • Berne-Poodle – hyphenated etymology format

Bernedoodle Appearance and Coat Types

One of the most appealing things about Bernedoodles is how different they can look from one dog to the next. Since they’re a cross between two distinct breeds, you’ll find quite a bit of variety in size, coat texture, and coloring.

If you’re curious about what to expect, checking out photos of different Bernedoodles can give you a sense of just how wide that variety really is.

Let’s break down what you can expect regarding their physical appearance.

Size Varieties (Standard, Mini, Tiny)

size varieties (standard, mini, tiny)

You’ll find three distinct sizes when exploring this hybrid breed: standard, miniature, and tiny. Standards usually reach 70–90 pounds, while miniatures land between 20–50 pounds, and tinies stay under 20 pounds.

Proper early socialization with cream French Bulldogs and other breeds helps these hybrids develop confident, well-adjusted temperaments regardless of their size category.

Each size comparison comes with unique growth patterns and exercise needs—standards mature around 24 months versus minis at 12–18 months. Weight management matters greatly for joint health implications across all varieties.

Coat Textures and Colors

coat textures and colors

Your Bernedoodle’s coat can swing from tight poodle curls to loose waves, sometimes even straighter patches—all in one litter. Tri-color patterns (black, white, rust) steal the show, though you’ll spot solid blacks, merles, and bi-colors too.

Texture variations mean grooming needs differ: curlier coats mat faster without regular brushing, while wavy types offer easier coat maintenance but still need consistent care.

Hypoallergenic and Shedding Traits

hypoallergenic and shedding traits

That poodle lineage often gifts your Bernedoodle a low-shedding coat, though no dog is truly hypoallergenic—dander, saliva, and urine proteins still trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. Generation and parentage directly influence shedding control outcomes.

Regular grooming not only keeps that low-shedding coat manageable but also supports your standard Bernedoodle’s overall lifespan by catching health issues early.

Your best allergy prevention strategy combines:

  • Regular coat maintenance and brushing to control loose fur
  • Weekly bathing for dander reduction
  • HEPA filtration and frequent vacuuming
  • Hypoallergenic testing before committing to ownership

Personality and Temperament of Bernedoodles

personality and temperament of bernedoodles

Bernedoodles bring together the best of both parent breeds, creating dogs with distinct personalities that appeal to families and active owners alike. Their temperament blends the Bernese Mountain Dog’s gentle nature with the Poodle’s sharp intelligence, though individual dogs can vary based on their generation and lineage.

Bernedoodles blend the Bernese Mountain Dog’s gentle warmth with the Poodle’s intelligence, creating distinctly adaptable companions that win over families and active owners alike

Understanding what shapes a Bernedoodle’s personality helps you know what to expect when bringing one into your home.

For a deeper dive into breed temperament and behavioral traits, check out this comprehensive guide to canine personality development that covers genetic and environmental factors across breeds.

Family Friendliness

If you’re searching for family pets that match your household’s energy, Bernedoodles shine as friendly dogs known for their affectionate nature and adaptability. These intelligent companions usually bond with multiple family members, thriving on child interaction when socialized early. Their trainability facilitates smooth household adaptation, while proper socialization techniques improve pet compatibility. With consistent routines and supervision, they integrate beautifully into family dynamics.

Family Trait Bernedoodle Strength
Child Interaction Gentle, patient with kids when trained
Pet Compatibility Adapts well with early socialization
Household Adaptation Flexible to various living spaces
Family Dynamics Bonds strongly with all members

Intelligence and Trainability

Your Bernedoodle’s sharp mind, inherited from poodle and Bernese lineage, makes obedience training rewarding when you utilize their natural trainability. Cognitive development thrives through problem-solving activities like puzzle feeders, while social learning accelerates when they observe modeling.

Optimize their intelligent, trainable nature with:

  1. Short, consistent sessions using positive reinforcement
  2. Clicker training for precise behavioral markers
  3. Impulse-control exercises building self-regulation

Interaction With Children and Pets

When raised with proper pet socialization, your Bernedoodle naturally gravitates toward affectionate interactions with kids and household animals, making them outstanding family pets and companions.

Child safety tips matter: supervise younger children during playtime activities to prevent overwhelming your intelligent, trainable friend.

Household management improves when you establish family dynamics that respect canine behavior—teach kids gentle handling while your Bernedoodle learns calm greetings through consistent positive reinforcement.

Bernedoodle Health and Nutrition

bernedoodle health and nutrition

Bernedoodles inherit health traits from both parent breeds, which means you’ll want to stay informed about potential issues before they become problems.

Feeding your Bernedoodle the right diet and keeping up with vet visits can make a real difference in their quality of life.

Here’s what you need to know about keeping your Bernedoodle healthy and well-nourished.

Common Health Issues

Like many crossbreeds, your Bernedoodle can inherit health issues from both parent lines. Hip dysplasia affects 10–20% of these dogs, while eye disorders like cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy appear in some lines. Allergy issues and skin conditions—especially hotspots—occur with moderate frequency.

Genetic testing and regular veterinary care help you catch problems early, keeping your pup healthier longer.

You’ll want to feed your Bernedoodle a high-quality dog food with named animal protein listed first, adjusting meal portions based on weight, age, and activity level. Puppies need three to four meals daily until around six months, while adults thrive on two measured feedings spaced eight to twelve hours apart.

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids support that gorgeous coat, and monitoring for food allergies keeps digestive issues at bay.

Importance of Veterinary Care

Beyond proper feeding, your Bernedoodle’s long-term wellness depends on consistent veterinary checkups and preventive medicine. Regular health screening catches hip dysplasia, cardiac conditions, and other breed-related issues before they escalate, while emergency care access protects against sudden illness.

Pet insurance cushions the financial impact of unexpected treatments, and your vet’s guidance on canine health—from vaccines to weight management—keeps your dog thriving for years.

Bernedoodle Care and Grooming Needs

bernedoodle care and grooming needs

Your Bernedoodle’s daily care routine goes beyond just keeping them fed and healthy. These dogs need consistent grooming, plenty of physical activity, and early training to thrive in your home.

Let’s break down what you’ll need to do to keep your Bernedoodle happy, well-groomed, and mentally stimulated.

Grooming Frequency by Coat Type

Your Bernedoodle’s grooming needs hinge entirely on coat type. Curly, poodle-like coats demand daily brushing to prevent matting and keep that hypoallergenic, low-shedding promise alive. Wavy coats need attention 3–5 times weekly, while straighter textures get by with 2–3 sessions.

Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks maintains coat health, and proper brushing techniques with quality grooming tools make shedding control and matting prevention manageable.

Exercise and Activity Requirements

Keeping your Bernedoodle brushed matters, but movement matters more. Standard varieties need moderate to high daily exercise—think 45–60 minutes split between brisk walks, aerobic activities, and off-leash safety protocols. Mental stimulation prevents boredom-driven destruction, so mix up exercise routines with:

  1. Interactive fetch sessions combining cardio and focus work
  2. Trail hikes offering terrain variety and sensory enrichment
  3. Swimming for joint-friendly, full-body conditioning
  4. Puzzle toys rotating through outdoor activities for cognitive challenge

Socialization and Training Tips

Early socialization between 3 and 14 weeks reduces fear responses, so expose your pup to diverse people, sounds, and environments using positive reinforcement.

Clicker training accelerates cue acquisition during short 5–10 minute sessions.

Practice leash manners and impulse control in distracting settings, teach children calm approaches, and watch for canine communication signals like lip licking to keep obedience training stress-free.

Factors to Consider Before Getting a Bernedoodle

factors to consider before getting a bernedoodle

Bringing a Bernedoodle into your life isn’t a decision you should make on impulse—these dogs require specific conditions to thrive. You’ll need to evaluate whether your home, schedule, and budget can accommodate their unique needs.

Let’s look at the key factors that will determine if a Bernedoodle is the right match for your lifestyle.

Suitable Living Environments

Your home setup matters more than you’d think when bringing a Bernedoodle into your life. This low-shedding dog breed thrives when you provide:

  1. Space requirements with yard safety: Secure outdoor areas for daily exercise and mental stimulation
  2. Climate control for comfort: Consistent indoor temperatures that support their thick coat
  3. Family dynamics and noise levels: Calm, family-friendly environments where your Bernedoodle feels secure and connected to pet ownership routines

Time and Attention Requirements

Realistically, you’ll spend 60 to 90 minutes daily on structured exercise and mental stimulation through training sessions and interactive play. Daily schedules should include two walks, puzzle feeders, and consistent dog training to prevent boredom-related behavior issues.

This designer breed demands regular social interaction and active canine companionship, making dog care and maintenance a significant daily commitment for busy households.

Annual Cost of Ownership

Your wallet will feel it—owning a Bernedoodle means committing $2,000 to $3,500 annually beyond initial costs. Monthly expenses for dog care and maintenance include:

  1. Veterinary Fees and Insurance Options ($450–$1,300 yearly for pet care and health screenings)
  2. Grooming Budget ($500–$1,000 for professional coat maintenance)
  3. Food, training, and supplies ($350–$1,200 supporting dog ownership and responsibility)

Budget wisely for animal health emergencies and long-term pet ownership and responsibility.

Top 6 Essential Products for Bernedoodles

Owning a Bernedoodle means investing in the right tools to keep your dog healthy, comfortable, and well-groomed. From managing their unique coat to maintaining dental hygiene and supporting their intelligent minds, having quality products on hand makes daily care easier and more effective.

Here are six essential items every Bernedoodle owner should consider adding to their pet care arsenal.

1. Hertzko Self Cleaning Pet Brush

Hertzko Dog & Cat Brush, B00ZGPI3OYView On Amazon

Managing a Bernedoodle’s dense, wavy coat requires a grooming tool that truly works. The Hertzko Self Cleaning Pet Brush effectively controls shedding with angled bristles that penetrate your dog’s low-shedding, hypoallergenic fur without irritating sensitive skin. Its push-button mechanism simplifies brush maintenance, eliminating the struggle of tangled pet hair removal.

At 3.2 ounces, this purple slicker brush is ideal for routine dog grooming sessions at home, though it won’t replace professional tools for heavy deshedding. Regular use ensures your Bernedoodle’s breed characteristics shine through a healthier, mat-free coat.

Best For Bernedoodle owners who want an affordable, easy-to-clean brush for regular at-home grooming sessions to manage shedding and prevent matting in wavy coats.
Brand Hertzko
Target Animal Dogs and Cats
Weight 3.2 ounces
Primary Use Grooming
Made In Not specified
Age Suitability All ages
Additional Features
  • Self-cleaning retractable bristles
  • Ergonomic comfort grip
  • Suitable sensitive skin
Pros
  • Push-button self-cleaning mechanism makes removing collected fur quick and hassle-free
  • Angled, gentle bristles work well on sensitive skin while reaching through dense, wavy Bernedoodle coats
  • Lightweight and ergonomic design at 3.2 ounces makes extended grooming sessions comfortable
Cons
  • Build quality feels cheap to some users, and the button can become difficult to press over time
  • Not as effective as professional-grade tools like the Furminator for heavy deshedding needs
  • Can be awkward to maneuver in tight spots or around ears and paws

2. Ouai Fur Bebe Dog Shampoo

OUAI Fur Bébé Pet Shampoo, B08ZJYBN9YView On Amazon

Your Bernedoodle’s curly or wavy coat demands more than basic pet grooming products. Ouai Fur Bebe Dog Shampoo delivers gentle cleansing with a luxe Mercer Street scent—Italian lemon, Turkish rose, jasmine sambac, and white musk—while aloe vera, rambutan seed extract, and panthenol provide fur hydration tips your hypoallergenic companion needs.

This gluten-free, paraben-free formula promotes dog skin care for sensitive skin solutions, leaving low-shedding coats soft and shiny. At 16 fluid ounces for approximately $28, it’s a premium investment in your Bernedoodle’s grooming routine.

Best For Bernedoodle owners seeking a premium, gentle shampoo that cleanses curly or wavy coats without stripping natural oils while leaving a long-lasting, sophisticated scent.
Brand OUAI
Target Animal Dogs
Weight 1.28 Pounds
Primary Use Cleaning
Made In Not specified
Age Suitability All ages
Additional Features
  • Mercer Street scent
  • Contains aloe vera
  • Gluten and paraben free
Pros
  • Formulated with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera and panthenol that keep sensitive skin comfortable and reduce irritation
  • Leaves fur noticeably soft, shiny, and manageable—perfect for Bernedoodles prone to tangles or dryness
  • Free from harsh chemicals (parabens, phthalates, sulfates), making it safe for dogs with allergies or skin sensitivities
Cons
  • Expensive at roughly $28 for 16 ounces, which adds up quickly for larger Bernedoodles or frequent baths
  • Small bottle size means you’ll need to restock often if you have a big dog or wash regularly
  • Premium price point may not deliver enough extra benefit over mid-range options to justify the cost for budget-conscious owners

3. Coastal Pet Dog Nail Trimmer

safari professional stainless steel nail b0002rjm8cView On Amazon

After bathing your Bernedoodle, nail trimming completes the grooming ritual. The Coastal Pet Dog Nail Trimmer features stainless steel precision blades, an ergonomic non-slip grip, and a built-in safety stop to prevent over-cutting—critical for first-time groomers tackling dog hygiene.

Available in standard and large sizes for $8-$12, it manages thick nails with clean cuts, reducing your pet’s stress during claw care.

Regular trimming every two weeks prevents overgrowth and joint discomfort, making this lightweight tool indispensable for consistent dog care and proper trimmer safety.

Best For Pet owners who want an affordable, easy-to-use nail trimmer with safety features for stress-free at-home grooming sessions.
Brand Coastal
Target Animal Dogs
Weight 1.6 ounces
Primary Use Grooming
Made In United States
Age Suitability All ages
Additional Features
  • Precision stainless steel
  • Safety stop included
  • Non-slip grip handle
Pros
  • Stainless steel blades deliver sharp, precise cuts that handle thick nails cleanly without splintering
  • Built-in safety stop prevents over-cutting, making it beginner-friendly and reducing pet anxiety during trimming
  • Ergonomic non-slip grip provides excellent control and reduces hand fatigue during longer grooming sessions
Cons
  • Compact size may feel cramped for users with very large hands
  • Safety stop can occasionally get in the way and limit cutting angles for some users
  • Quality control issues reported, with some customers receiving different brands or lower-quality substitutes

4. Zymox Ear Cleanser For Pets

Zymox Ear Cleanser With Bio Active B0014HYCM0View On Amazon

Beyond nails, your Bernedoodle’s ears demand weekly attention to prevent ear infection. Zymox Ear Cleanser uses enzyme therapy with an LP3 system to maintain pet ear care without harsh detergents, making it gentle for routine cleaning and post-infection flushing.

This 4-ounce veterinarian-recommended solution costs around $12-15 and effectively handles dirty ears while preventing bad smells. Apply the ear cleanser weekly, massage the base, then wipe clean—simple dog care that promotes pet health and wellness through consistent grooming and maintenance for your Bernedoodle.

Best For Pet owners looking for a gentle, enzyme-based ear cleaner to maintain their dog or cat’s ear health through regular weekly cleaning and prevent infections.
Brand Pet King Brands
Target Animal Dogs and Cats
Weight 4 oz
Primary Use Ear Care
Made In USA
Age Suitability Adult
Additional Features
  • LP3 Enzyme System
  • Veterinarian recommended solution
  • Non-toxic and gentle
Pros
  • Uses a non-toxic LP3 enzyme system that’s safe for pets of all ages without harsh detergents or irritants
  • Veterinarian-recommended and made in the USA, providing reliable quality for routine ear maintenance
  • Affordable at $12-15 for 4 ounces and effectively prevents bad odors and discomfort when used consistently
Cons
  • Has a strong odor that some pet owners and pets may find unpleasant during application
  • Not suitable for treating severe or complicated ear infections without veterinary guidance
  • Some pets resist the ear drop sensation, and occasional shipping leaks have been reported

5. Greenies Natural Dental Dog Treats

Greenies Original Regular Natural Dog B006W6YHHIView On Amazon

Healthy teeth matter just as much as clean ears. Greenies Natural Dental Dog Treats tackle plaque and tartar buildup through a unique texture that scrubs down to the gumline, promoting oral health and canine hygiene with every chew.

These veterinarian-recommended dog treats come in size-specific options for your Bernedoodle’s weight, making pet nutrition part of daily dog care.

At roughly $1 per treat in the 36-ounce pack, they’re rawhide-free, digestible, and clinically proven to improve canine health and wellness—fresher breath included, though regular brushing still helps boost pet health results.

Best For Dog owners who want a vet-recommended, digestible dental treat that helps reduce plaque and tartar while freshening breath between professional cleanings.
Brand Greenies
Target Animal Dogs
Weight 36 Ounces
Primary Use Dental Care
Made In Not specified
Age Suitability Adult
Additional Features
  • Clinically proven effectiveness
  • Rawhide-free and bendable
  • Cleans to gumline
Pros
  • Clinically proven to reduce tartar and plaque with a texture that cleans down to the gumline
  • Rawhide-free, easy to digest, and made with natural ingredients plus added vitamins and minerals
  • Size-specific options ensure the right fit for your dog’s weight, reducing choking hazards
Cons
  • At about $1 per treat, the cost can add up quickly for daily use
  • Not a complete solution for bad breath—regular brushing or vet cleanings are still necessary
  • Some dogs chew through them fast, making them less effective as long-lasting dental aids

6. The Intelligence of Dogs Guide

The Intelligence of Dogs: A 0743280873View On Amazon

Understanding your Bernedoodle’s trainability starts with solid insight. The Intelligence of Dogs Guide breaks down canine cognition through breed intelligence rankings, dog IQ tests, and proven training methods that help you tap into cognitive development.

At $13.99, this 320-page resource covers canine behavior, dog intelligence and cognition, and practical ways to assess your pup’s smarts. You’ll get body language tips, personality tests, and obedience strategies that make dog training clearer—even if some readers wish for more engaging stories to balance the technical depth.

Best For Dog owners who want a detailed, research-based look at canine intelligence and practical tools to evaluate and train their Bernedoodle’s cognitive abilities.
Brand Atria
Target Animal Dogs
Weight 12 ounces
Primary Use Education
Made In Not specified
Age Suitability All ages
Additional Features
  • Dog IQ test
  • Over 100 breeds
  • 320 pages content
Pros
  • Comprehensive breed intelligence rankings and IQ tests help you understand your dog’s natural strengths and learning style
  • Practical training strategies rooted in positive reinforcement and operant conditioning make it easier to improve obedience and problem-solving skills
  • Affordable at $13.99 for 320 pages of insights into dog behavior, body language, and communication patterns
Cons
  • Some readers find the writing dry and wish it included more engaging stories or real-life examples
  • Certain chapters feel too long or include information that doesn’t directly support the main topic
  • The book’s organization could be clearer, and some topics may not feel as comprehensive as expected

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does a Bernedoodle typically cost?

You’ll generally pay $2,000 to $5,500 for a Bernedoodle from responsible breeding programs.

Purchase costs are influenced by pricing factors like size variety, coat color rarity, generation type, and breeder health testing standards, affecting overall breed value.

How often do Bernedoodles need to go to the groomer?

Most dogs with curly or wavy coats visit the groomer every 6 to 8 weeks to manage coat maintenance, prevent matting, and control shedding—though your dog’s grooming schedules depend on texture and activity level.

What is the average life expectancy of a Bernedoodle?

Most Bernedoodles live 12 to 15 years, though miniature varieties often reach 14 to 16 years. Lifespan variance depends on genetic factors, health screening, and preventive care throughout the aging process.

What kind of energy level does a Bernedoodle typically have?

You’ll want to buckle up—these pups pack moderate to high energy patterns that demand daily exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent activity management to channel their playfulness levels and impressive trainability effectively.

How much exercise does a Bernedoodle need each day?

Aim for 30 to 60 minutes of daily exercise, split between brisk walks, play, and mental stimulation.

Physical activity levels vary by size and age, so adjust exercise types and intensity for ideal health considerations and engagement.

How long do Bernedoodles typically live?

Think of your companion as a candle burning bright—most live 12 to 18 years, with Lifespan Factors like size, Diet Impact, and Health Monitoring shaping their journey.

Watch for Aging Signs and prioritize Longevity Tips for peak canine health and wellness.

Are Bernedoodles good for first-time dog owners?

If you’re a first-time owner seeking a companion that’s intelligent, low-shedding, and adaptable to family dynamics, this dog breed’s training needs and health considerations fit well—provided you commit to regular grooming, exercise, and consistent positive training.

Do Bernedoodles bark a lot or excessively?

Like a watchful neighbor, barking in Bernedoodles usually reflects environmental factors and specific triggers, not excessive canine behavior.

With structured training strategies and daily enrichment, you can shape vocalization patterns and achieve effective bark reduction through consistent dog training routines.

What are the differences between Bernedoodle generations?

Generation Comparison in hybrid dogs hinges on breeding and genetics: F1 mixes show greater Genetic Variance and Hybrid Traits, while Poodle Influence rises in F1b and later generations, enhancing low-shedding, hypoallergenic coats and altering Shedding Patterns and dog breed characteristics.

Can Bernedoodles be left alone during workdays?

Leaving your dog alone during workdays might sound ideal, but Alone Time Management is essential. Without proper dog training and behavior planning, Separation Anxiety can develop—consider Doggy Daycare, Home Safety Tips, and strategic Workday Scheduling to protect animal care and wellbeing.

Conclusion

Welcoming a Bernedoodle into your life is like opening a storybook filled with vibrant pages—each day brings a new chapter of loyalty, energy, and unmistakable charm. Their tri-color coats and keen intelligence aren’t just for show; they demand attentive care, thoughtful training, and genuine commitment.

When you’re ready to invest in their wellbeing, you’ll find a companion whose devotion runs deep. With the right guidance, your Bernedoodle becomes more than a pet—an integral part of your family’s narrative.

Avatar for Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is the founder and editor-in-chief with a team of qualified veterinarians, their goal? Simple. Break the jargon and help you make the right decisions for your furry four-legged friends.