From Chew Toys to Calm Nights: How to Survive the Bernedoodle Puppy Phase

Welcoming a Bernedoodle puppy into your home is nothing short of joyful. They're goofy, loving, and impossible not to fall for. But if we’re being honest, those early weeks? They can be a wild ride. The puppy phase comes with plenty of growing pains—especially when you're juggling it all in a laid-back place like Cottonwood, AZ or the surrounding areas. That’s exactly why we’re here: to walk you through what to expect and how to navigate the ups, downs, and downright messy moments like a seasoned dog owner.

Whether you’ve recently adopted or are still looking at Bernedoodle puppies for sale in Arizona, especially from Doodling Pups, LLC, this guide will give you a better picture of what raising a Bernedoodle really involves—and how to survive it.

What Makes the Puppy Stage So Tough?

Bernedoodles are a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle, combining the intelligence of the Poodle with the laid-back loyalty of the Bernese. But even with their smart and friendly nature, they’re still puppies—curious, mischievous, and full of energy.

Here’s what makes the puppy stage especially challenging:

• Teething & Chewing: Your pup will chew everything. Shoes, cords, furniture—nothing is off-limits.

• Housebreaking: Potty training is a marathon, not a sprint. Accidents are going to happen.

• Separation Anxiety: Bernedoodles are people-loving dogs. Being left alone, even for a short time, can lead to whining, barking, or destructive behavior.

• Boundless Energy: They need daily play and mental stimulation, or they’ll find their own (sometimes chaotic) ways to burn energy.

Step 1: Establish a Routine (And Stick to It)

One of the first things you should do is create a schedule for your puppy. Feedings, potty breaks, naps, and training sessions should happen at roughly the same times every day.

Consistency is your best friend during the puppy phase. It helps your Bernedoodle feel secure and understand what’s expected. Puppies thrive on structure, and having that in place early on will prevent a lot of chaos later.

Step 2: Focus on Positive Reinforcement

Your Bernedoodle is highly intelligent—and that’s both a blessing and a curse. Smart dogs get bored fast. The key to keeping them engaged and well-behaved? Make learning fun. Positive reinforcement training means rewarding the behaviors you want to see again.

Use treats, praise, or toys as rewards. And remember: never punish your puppy. It only confuses them and can damage your bond.

Step 3: Invest in Early Socialization

Between 8–16 weeks, your puppy is going through a critical development window. This is the time to expose them to different sounds, people, dogs, and environments. Living in or around Cottonwood, AZ gives you access to lots of dog-friendly spots—quiet parks, scenic trails, and even pet-friendly cafés.

This kind of exposure helps your Bernedoodle grow into a well-adjusted, confident adult dog. A properly socialized puppy is less likely to develop fear or aggression issues later on.

Step 4: Be Patient With Potty Training

Housebreaking takes time. Even with a reliable schedule, accidents are part of the process. Crate training is a proven method that encourages puppies to “hold it” and not soil their sleeping area. Start small: take your puppy outside every couple of hours, especially after meals or naps.

If you live in a place like Cottonwood or its surrounding areas, weather can be your friend—sunny days mean fewer excuses to skip potty trips. Still, patience is key. A few weeks of consistency can lead to years of hassle-free living.

Step 5: Burn Off That Puppy Energy

A bored Bernedoodle is a destructive Bernedoodle. These pups need physical activity and mental engagement daily. Walks, puzzle toys, fetch, tug-of-war—rotate your activities to keep things fresh.

For owners in Arizona, mornings and evenings are ideal for outdoor play due to the heat. If you're lucky enough to live near shaded trails or have a secure backyard, you’re already set up for success.

And when you need a break? Doggy daycares or professional trainers can be a trusted resource for temporary help.

Step 6: Embrace the Chaos (It Won’t Last Forever)

It’s easy to get overwhelmed when your days are filled with chewed-up slippers, midnight potty breaks, and seemingly endless barking. But take heart—the puppy stage is temporary.

In just a few months, your wild little fluffball will mellow out. The chewing will stop. The accidents will decrease. And those adorable, chaotic moments will turn into cherished memories.

And when your puppy finally curls up at your feet after a long day, you’ll realize it was all worth it.

Choosing the Right Breeder Matters

Surviving the puppy stage actually starts before you bring your Bernedoodle home. Buying from a trusted, reliable breeder like Doodling Pups, LLC gives you a head start. Their puppies are known for healthy temperaments, early socialization, and excellent bloodlines.

Located in Arizona and serving families in Cottonwood and nearby areas, Doodling Pups, LLC is a top-rated source for Bernedoodle puppies. Their focus on ethical breeding and early puppy development makes a big difference during those first few months.

Final Thoughts: You've Got This

No one said raising a puppy would be easy. But if you lean into the process, ask for help when needed, and show your Bernedoodle plenty of love and patience, you’ll come out the other side with a happy, well-behaved companion for life.

So if you're browsing Bernedoodle puppies for sale in Arizona, know that the puppy stage is just the beginning of an incredible journey. And with the right tools, mindset, and support—especially from breeders like Doodling Pups, LLC—you’ll absolutely make it through.