We Are
Bernie’s Family
Bernie is Our Inspiration for Doing & Being the Best
Created to Give Bernie the Best
Nothing Else Was Good Enough, So We Created Perfect Poop for Bernie
When we couldn’t find a digestive supplement that truly met the needs of our dog, Bernie, we decided to create our own.
It was really embarrassing for us and Bernie when we had to wipe watery poop off his fluffy butt fur, and even worse, throwing out all those rugs that were unsalvageable.
We were tired of the cost and hassle of juggling multiple supplements and opening countless bottles at every meal.
Many products were messy powders that stuck to the bowl, leaving much of it uneaten and wasted. This frustration sparked our mission to make something better for Bernie.
We sought out the best natural ingredients, backed by research, and then partnered with Ph.D. veterinary science researchers, formulation experts, and ingredient specialists. And that’s how our first product, Perfect Poop, was born.
Unique & Better
We design products for our own dogs and only settle for the best.
Support Lifelong Vitality
Our products are designed to keep our dogs as happy and healthy as possible
Simple, Tasty & Easy-To-Serve
Designed to make life easy for you and fun for your dog. We use these products with Bernie. He needs to like it and we have to enjoy using it.
We Couldn’t Stop There
After witnessing the incredible impact Perfect Poop had on thousands of dogs, we knew we couldn’t stop at just one product.
We realized we could offer a wide range of better solutions than what was available on the market. This inspired us to create a full range of products designed to benefit all dogs including our own.
So, we expanded our team and continue to develop products that, like Perfect Poop, are built on cutting-edge research and stand out from the rest. We’re proud of what we’ve created and confident that our products will bring healthier, happier lives to your dogs—just as they have for ours.
Meet Our Team
Dedicated to Supporting Healthy Dogs & Happy Lives
Life feels more complete with dogs as members of the family. Dogs are just amazing and we consider them to be an important and essential part of a well-lived life. We have a passion for these furry companions and are dedicated to helping them enjoy the healthiest, happiest, and longest lives possible.
That’s why every member of our team feels so inspired each day as we research, develop, and test new and better products for the dogs we love so much. We also feel energized when we get to help and support our fellow pet parents and their families.
All of us in the Bernie’s Best team are committed to developing products that enhance dog’s lives and make life more fun and a little easier for pet parents.
Jim
Bernie and Lady’s Dad
Christie
Bernie and Lady’s Mom
Aira
Edesa
Daniel
David
Emily
Remy, Ocean, Basil, Ripley and Ducky’s Mom
Laura
Mom to Mesa and Rambo
Michael
Jordyn
Hannah
Hunter
Ryan
Vince
Jim
Bernie and Lady’s Dad
Christie
Bernie and Lady’s Mom
Aira
Edesa
Daniel
David
Emily
Remy, Ocean, Basil, Ripley and Ducky’s Mom
Laura
Mom to Mesa and Rambo
Michael
Jordyn
Hannah
Hunter
Ryan
Vince
Meet the Real Bernie
Click on my photos to see them Bernie sized!
Our Sweet, Fluffy Boy
Bernie was a Bernese Mountain dog that was born in the early spring of 2016 near Tampa, Florida and moved post-haste to Austin, Texas.
Bernie was a lover of the outdoors and his favorite thing to do was relax in shallow lakes and ponds- especially at Lady Bird Lake and at our ranch where he could wade with our highland cows and enjoy the breeze with the pine trees.
Bernie was an amazing loyal companion to our family, being supportive through home births, sleepless nights with 4 little kids, and always being available for cuddles on the couch.
The Bernie’s Best Way
Just Treat People Right
We consider our customers part of our family. With our flavor swap program, money-back guarantee, and dedicated US-based support, we’re committed to treating you with the same care and respect we’d want for ourselves.
Use The Best Knowledge
Because we make products for our own dogs, We dive deep into the science and only put the best in Bernies. Discover more about our dog health philosophy and commitment to education at Bernie’s University.
Make Things The Right Way
We design our products for our own pets and don’t compromise. You can rest assured our products are clean, trusted and safe.
Just Treat People Right
We consider our customers part of our family. With our flavor swap program, money-back guarantee, and dedicated US-based support, we’re committed to treating you with the same care and respect we’d want for ourselves.
Use The Best Knowledge
Make Things The Right Way
We design our products for our own pets and don’t compromise. You can rest assured our products are clean, trusted and safe.
About Us
Bernie’s Best was founded by Jim & Christie Finnigan to create the best health supplements for their dog Bernie – the company’s namesake and motivation. While Bernie was our original inspiration for creating the best dog supplements rooted in science, Lady (a Great Pyrenees) and our newest Berner, Ace, motivate us to continue to be and create the best.
We are headquartered in Austin, TX and work with accredited suppliers, retailers and partners to produce the very best pet supplements.
Our Sweet, Fluffy Boy
Bernie thrived when he was off-leash exploring hiking trails and parks, beaches, lakes, rivers, streams, forests, deserts, swamps but he was also able to strut his fluff in big cities. He once stayed at the Fairmont in San Francisco and behaved like a king with the most impressive regal swagger. Bernie was an emotional therapist to everyone he met, and a rockstar with babies and little kids. He loved to check on and smell every one of his kids and babies- especially if they needed a diaper change. He was equally excited with diaper changes and the refrigerator door opening. Bernie’s favorite foods included his raw beef diet mixed with Bernie’s Perfect Poop, cheddar cheese, raw bone marrow bones, peanut butter and he looked forward to eating every fig off our backyard tree when they were in season. Bernie loved his showers after running through mud and would “click laugh” during his conditioner treatment (we would have to wait a few minutes with the water off and he would get his full body conditioner massage). We loved him so very much, and we are happy to share this product that helped him become healthier with consistent poops.
In late 2018, Bernie welcomed Lady into the family. Lady is a Great Pyrenees 3-times-failed-rescue until we saw her adorable worried face and knew she was our girl Bernie’s partner for life. Lady is indeed an unbreakable and vocal wild child who is the protector of the yard and all kids and animals large and small in our family. When everyone is asleep, Lady is still on duty and will go “bed hopping” visiting everyone individually in our family for mid-dream cuddles. It befounds us each morning how she was in 5 beds during the night. Her theme song is Baby Beluga, we all sing it to her (with Baby Beluga substituted as “Lady Lechuga”, we know this makes no sense, but it sounds right)and she grins ear-to-ear listening to it in the car. She greets us after school with howling, which she has trained us to all do in unison. We did manage to train her in howling “I LOVE YOU”, which she dearly means.
The beginning of love: tiny paws, big dreams, and a warm embrace.
Homeward bound: the start of a lifetime of adventures.
Curiosity in the grass, his world growing bigger every day.
Bounding with joy, chasing dreams—along with dad!
A water dog at heart, Bernie found magic in every splash.
Post-swim cuddles: wrapped in warmth and love.
Neck deep in happiness, a swimmer through and through.
A well-earned rest, swimming dreams on the ride home.
Peek-a-boo! Always curious, always close.
The feathered touch of whimsy, a moment of pure Bern
Belly rubs = bliss. His favorite way to say, 'More, please!'
Ever the helper, eager to join in, even with the groceries.
Our Perfect Poop model, proving healthy looks this good.
Charming Chompers and Bernie’s charming smile—a perfect match.
Marvelous Mobility for a marvelous boy, patiently waiting his turn for the next chew treat.
Our family complete, with Bernie at the heart of it all.
Best friends forever: Bernie and his littlest buddy.
Snack time and playtime—a dog’s dream come true.
Packed with love, ready for the next big adventure.
Beauty and the Beast: a tale as old as time, now with paws.
Halloween glow, Bernie’s charm shining brighter than the pumpkins.
Every trip is the best trip when Bernie’s along for the ride.
Beach days and best friends: joy as endless as the waves.
Ranch life suits him—a true gentleman in his cattleman’s hat.
Two peas in a pod: Bernie and Lady, the most perfect pals.
Snow wrestles and wagging tails—a winter wonderland of fun.
Taking a breather, together under the open sky.
Chasing donkeys, living his best ranch dog life.
Majestic in the stream, a true guardian of nature’s beauty.
Hiking companion, wind in his fur, joy in his soul.
Gardens and grandeur, Bernie finds beauty wherever he goes.
Turning back, always keeping his family in sight.
Helping in the planters, always ready to make us smile.
Lake house vacation, soft beds, and peaceful views.
That smile, that spirit—forever etched in our hearts.
Standing at the shore, gazing ahead: forever ready for the next great adventure. We’ll always remember and treasure our time with our sweet, fluffy boy Bernie.
Jim
Bernie and Lady’s Dad and CEO
Whether at home or in the office, my official title is Bernie & Lady’s Dad. Bernie brings boundless joy and adventure to our family’s everyday life. I’m on the other end, ensuring Bernie’s Best continues to thrive. Christie and I founded Bernie’s Best with the belief that every pup deserves to live their happiest, healthiest life. After all, it’s our motto! Collaborating closely with our incredible team, we strive to deliver the best products and experiences. Our mission is to reach thousands of pet parents and their beloved companions.
Bernie, our 8-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog, serves as the inspiration behind Bernie’s Best! His younger sister, Lady, is a 6-year-old Great Pyrenees. Dogs infuse each moment with boundless adventure, joy, and unwavering love. Our affection extends not only to our own dogs, Bernie and Lady, but also to yours! It’s this deep love and care for our furry companions that inspired us. We want to share the same high standards and dedication to canine health with dogs everywhere.
Christie
Bernie and Lady’s Mom and Co-founder
I’m the proud dog mom of Bernie and Lady. I am also the “whiteboard synthesizer” at Bernie’s Best. I guide our vision and direction by ensuring every decision aligns with our core mission. To help all dogs live happier, healthier lives.
While Bernie is more like Mom and Dad’s dog, Lady is adored by our children and is full of affection. Dogs are perpetual fun-seekers, and they never fail to bring out Jim’s playful baby voice. We’ve built Bernie’s Best with a dedication to providing the best for our furry friends. We draw inspiration from our own beloved companions. Every product and experience we offer is infused with the same love and care that Bernie and Lady bring into our lives every day.
Aira
Accounting Manager
In my role, my focus is on all things accounting and taxes. I also enjoy data analysis and working on presentations.
The sheer positivity that dogs exude never fails to captivate me. A dog’s influence isn’t limited to those who own them or are near them. A glimpse of a dog during a stroll or watching them in an online video can instantly brighten my day. Their capacity to uplift goes beyond borders and boundaries.
Edesa
Operations Specialist
Dogs hold a special place in my heart due to their unwavering love and loyalty. They serve as my ultimate stress relievers, offering a sense of calm in their presence. Whether I’m feeling joyful or down, I find solace in their constant companionship. To me, they’re not just pets but cherished members of the family.
Daniel
Customer Support Specialist
The cheerfulness and loyalty of dogs towards their owners stand out to me. The ritual with my high school dog, where we’d race home together after school, is a cherished memory. Knowing the joy they bring, I’m considering welcoming a dog back into my life soon.
David
Maybellene’s Dad and Director of Operations
I’m in charge of planning, purchasing, and overseeing the production of every product. On the customer-facing front, I ensure smooth access to sales channels. I also manage fulfillment and support operations.
Maybellene, my Golden Retriever, has been a cherished companion ever since. One of the most beautiful things about dogs is that they embody the essence of a true best friend. Relationships with people can be complex, but the love shared with a furry friend is simple. There’s an innate understanding and unwavering support between us. A dog’s loyalty adds immense value to our lives, making every moment worthwhile.
Emily
Remy, Ocean, Basil, Ripley and Ducky’s Mom and Director of Educational Initiatives
As Bernie’s Director of Educational Initiatives, I’m passionate about helping people see the world through their dogs’ eyes. My devotion to dogs started early, having been urgently hospitalized with puppy fever as a child, until doctors realized it was incurable. From developing Bernie’s University, our interactive wiki for dog enthusiasts, to helping Customer Service by crafting handy FAQs and consulting on your dog-related questions, I strive to bridge the gaps between pets and the people who love them.
The pack who rules my home and heart is as colorful as they come. Remy the shepherd, my first true love, has the wisdom of a philosopher, the natural athleticism of an Olympian, and the heart to out-fetch any retriever on land or sea. Ocean, my ruggedly handsome Chessie, stakes claim to the comfiest couch spot, and Basil, my wild woman husky, is never far from Ripley, her trusty Aussie mix sidekick. Ducky, my Black Lab and self-appointed shadow, foster-failed her way into the pack and never looked back.
Together, they bring endless delight to my days and ensure I’m always one step behind a missing shoe.
Laura
Mom to Mesa and Rambo and Customer Experience Manager
I have the pleasure of assisting our incredible customers, ensuring that dogs (and their humans!) get the care they need. Chatting with fellow dog lovers all day makes this job feel like a dream come true.
Greetings from Planet Meep! Mesa landed on Earth via meteor, cleverly disguised as the smartest and most endearing dog imaginable. While officially a herding breed and Labrador mix, we’re convinced she’s an alien on a top-secret mission to spread joy and collect as many snacks as possible.
Rambo, an American Doberman born in 2020, is a force to be reckoned with. Everything he does, he does with gusto. He enjoys careening through the yard and barking with unmatched enthusiasm. When not on the move, he’s an expert cuddler and his sister Mesa’s biggest fan.
Dogs have taught me countless lessons in compassion, connection, and pure, unfiltered happiness. I’m honored to share that joy with our customers every day.
Michael
Dad to Clementine and Henry and Marketing Director
Clementine and Henry are my beloved Australian Shepherds. At 15 years old, Clementine radiates wisdom and affection. 1.5-year-old Henry exudes youthful energy and curiosity. They both share a love for breakfast and walks, indulging in these pleasures twice daily. Their sociable nature shines through as they delight in meeting new people, and spreading happiness wherever they go. Dogs embody kindness, joy, and an unwavering zest for life.
Jordyn
Honey and Murphy’s Mom and Marketing Manager
If you step into my office, you’ll always find my golden retrievers, Murphy and Honey, eager to help. They adore and pester one another—as siblings love to do! Dogs bring out my inner child; you can always count on them for countless smiles and cuddles. Many dogs have held the role of best friend in my life, and I’m so grateful to love and care for them throughout theirs.
Hannah
Marketing Program Coordinator
Dogs have an unparalleled ability to bring joy and happiness into our lives! They brighten our world in ways that nothing else can.
Hunter
Mom to Remi and Rue and Marketing Specialist
I have two girls: Remi, a 6-year-old chocolate lab, and Rue, a 4-year-old black lab/golden retriever mix. Dogs hold a special place in my heart due to their remarkable empathy. Their unwavering companionship and loyalty are truly unmatched.
Ryan
Customer Support Specialist
I had the privilege of sharing part of my life with Kobi, my beloved Japanese Spitz who has since passed away. His excitement-filled welcome home, complete with joyful peeing, remains a fond memory. Dogs like Kobi exemplify loyalty and serve as true best friends. They provide unwavering companionship and make every moment enjoyable.
Vince
Dad to Josie and Research & Development Director
Meet my furry friend, Josie, a twelve-year-old Rat Terrier! I strongly believe in the profound impact dogs have on our emotional and social well-being. It’s a genuine partnership that yields enduring benefits. I’m grateful for the chance to contribute to the holistic health of our beloved four-legged pals.