When it comes to Bernedoodles, one of the most sought-after features is the striking and rare tri-colored coat. A well-marked tri-colored Bernedoodle combines a base of black with rich accents of white and tan, creating a beautiful and unique appearance that resembles the traditional Bernese Mountain Dog markings. But achieving this ideal coloration is no easy feat—let’s explore why.

Why It’s Hard to Achieve a Good Tri-Color

Breeding for a true tri-color in Bernedoodles involves complex genetics. It’s not just about pairing two dogs and hoping for the best; there are specific genes at play that control the color and placement of the markings. These genes don’t always align perfectly, which is why a good tri-color Bernedoodle is rare and highly prized. Some litters may have puppies that carry only two of the three colors, or the markings might not be in the "ideal" places—such as tan points not appearing clearly above the eyes or on the legs.

On top of that, breeding for health and temperament is always the priority at Joley Aire, meaning we won't compromise the wellbeing of the puppies just for specific markings. This balance makes achieving a truly well-marked tri-colored Bernedoodle even more difficult—but it's worth it when those stunning puppies are born!

True Tri-Color vs. Phantom Abstract

One thing many potential puppy parents ask about is the difference between a true tri-color Bernedoodle and a phantom abstract. A true tri-color Bernedoodle has a distinct black coat with white markings and well-defined tan points on the face, chest, and legs. In contrast, a phantom abstract may appear similar but lacks the precision and distribution of the tan markings that create the classic tri-color look. Phantom abstracts typically have tan points but may not have as much white, making them beautiful in their own right, but different from the traditional tri-color.

Tri-Color Variations: Merle and Parti

Within the tri-color family, there are stunning variations that further diversify these already unique dogs. For example, merle tri-colored Bernedoodles combine the classic tri-color markings with the merle gene, which adds a marbled or dappled effect to the coat, creating a one-of-a-kind look.

Parti tri-colored Bernedoodles feature larger white patches that break up the black and tan colors, offering a more playful, patchy appearance.

While both merle and parti are still considered tri-colored, these variations introduce extra complexity into breeding, making them even more special.

Joley Aire's Commitment to Stunning Tri-Colored Bernedoodles

At Joley Aire, we have a proven history of producing some of the most beautiful tri-colored Bernedoodles. Our attention to detail in selecting the right breeding pairs, combined with our commitment to health and temperament, ensures that we consistently raise quality puppies with stunning markings. Our tri-colored Bernedoodles are known for their rich, vibrant colors and perfect markings that make them stand out in any crowd.

As we look ahead to our upcoming litters, we're excited to announce that we expect to have tri-colored Bernedoodle puppies, including possible merle and parti variations. These puppies will inherit not only beautiful coats but also the family-friendly temperament that Joley Aire is known for.

Join the Waiting List!

If you’ve been dreaming of adding a tri-colored Bernedoodle to your family, now is the perfect time to join our waiting list. Spots fill up quickly, and being on the list gives you a place in line to pick from our upcoming litters. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to bring home one of these stunning, family-friendly puppies.

Join the waiting list now!

We can’t wait to match you with the perfect puppy!