Overview
Breed Group: | Herding and Working Group |
Weight: | 60-100 pounds |
Height: | 20-25 inches |
Lifespan: | 12-15 years |
Coat: | Long, Double Coat |
Shedding Level: | High |
Temperament: | Lovable, Playful, Active |
Good with Kids? | Yes |
Good with Dogs? | Yes |
Good with Cats? | Yes with Socialization |
Exercise Needed: | 1-2 hours per day |
Mental Stimulation Needed: | Lots |
Trainability: | Med/High to High |
Do you love big, fluffy dogs? Do you want a dog that is both active and cuddly? Then you need to check out the Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix. This breed is the ultimate combination of two of the most popular dog breeds, and many people love them… for good reason!
With its sweet personality and playful nature, the Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix is perfect for anyone looking for a new furry friend.
Origin and History of the Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd Mix
The Australian shepherd Bernie’s Mountain dog mix combines two very popular and establish great. Both jobs were bred for working. However, they were bred for very different jobs.
Before we dive into the origin of the Australian Shepherd Bernie’s Mountain dog mix, let’s first examine its parent breeds and how they came to be.
Table of Contents Show
Australian Shepherd Origins
Despite the name, Australian Shepherds are working dogs that originated in California in the early days of the gold rush. The breed likely came from shepherds brought over by Spanish conquistadors in the 1500s, however back then they were generic shepherds.
When gold was found in the American west in the 1800s, the population skyrocketed. To meet the growing need for sheep to feed the miners and in turn, a need for dogs to herd them. The Australian shepherd was developed from the descendants of Spanish and English shepherds imported from their Australian colony.
The AKC didn’t recognize the Australian Shepherd until 1993, when they were entered into the herding group. Their popularity only grew, and they now are in the top 15 most popular breeds
Bernese Mountain Dog Origins
There are four mountain-dog breeds, one of which is the Bernese Mountain Dog, which was long at home in the canton of Bern. This is a vast agricultural region that is vital to the dairy production required for two of Switzerland’s most profitable exports: chocolate and cheese.
Berners earned their keep by droving cattle, guarding farmyards against predators, and serving as gentle companions when the hard work of the day was done. Although the breed was a very useful working dog in the days before mechanized farming and ranching.
A pair of all-around farm dogs were imported by a Kansas farmer in 1926, beginning the American history of the breed. The American Kennel Club registered its first Berner in 1937, and they caught on quickly. Today, the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America sponsors events that test the working ability of these majestic mountaineers, including drafting and carting.
Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix Origins
As with most mixed breeds, there is little documentation on the origins of who first decided to breed the parent breeds together. More than likely, there have been numerous “accident” litters over the last century or so, but it’s likely that breeding became intentional with the rise of “designer dogs.”
The popularity of mixed-breed dogs is controversial, mostly because of the lack of health testing that many designer breeders perform. Puppy mills often produce pet store puppies, so it’s important to look for an ethical breeder or adopt rescue dogs. Regardless of origin, Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mixes still deserve a loving home!
Appearance of the Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd Mix
Because they are mixed-breed dog, the appearance of puppies can vary wildly, even within the same litter. Puppies can have characteristics from either parent breed and in some cases a mix of both.
Let’s break down each individual physical characteristic of the Bernese mountain dog Australian shepherd mix and how the mix breed typically presents.
Weight
Though they can vary in size, most Australian Shepherd Bernese mountain dog mixes average somewhere in between the averages sizes of the parent breeds. Bernese mountain dogs can grow up to 115 pounds, and Australian Shepherds average around 50-60 pounds.
The Aussie Bernese mix is a medium-sized breed averaging around 60-70 pounds, but some are large dogs that can grow up to 100 pounds! It’s common for puppies within the same litter to vary greatly in sizes, as genetics are hardly ever 50/50 in mixed breeds.
Height
When looking at the height of the Australian Shepherd average about 18-23 inches at the shoulder. As a giant breed, a Bernese Mountain Dog averages between 23 and 27 inches at the shoulder.
With this info, we can predict that Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mixes are anywhere from 20 to 25 inches tall, depending on which parent they favor.
Coat
The coat of Aussie Bernese mix dogs can have a huge variety of colors and textures of their coat, but they will all likely be long coat that requires regular grooming.
Length
Both breeds have long coats. The Australian Shepherd has a dense double coat, while the Bernese mountain dog has a silkier texture to their coat.
Often, a hybrid dog of the two will have something in between, with a double coat and a beautiful silky and shiny texture.
Colors
Bernese mountain dogs are predominately black, often with rust or white markings. The AKC standard accepted colors are black, white and rust altogether, and often look for symmetrical markings.
The Australian shepherd can be tricolor, merle, as well as white markings. When combined, the coat color of a Berner Aussie Mix can have a large variety of looks.
Shedding
Both Bernese Moutain Dogs and Australian Shepherds have coats that shed a lot during certain times of the year, called shedding season. They will need professional grooming occasionally, and a good brushing a few times a week to keep their thick coats tangle-free.
This also helps lower the amount of shedding around the house, but Bernese mountain dog Australian shepherd mix owners should prepare for much of their house to be covered in fur!
Temperament
The temperament of Bernese Mountain Dog Australian shepherd mixes can be defined as lovable, playful, and active. The Bernese Mountain Dog gentle giants were originally bred to help around the farm, but they were also great guard dogs and companions to have after the work was complete. Australian shepherds share the working dog features with the Bernese mountain dog, as well as the companion nature.
When these two breeds combine, their puppies will likely have many of the shared traits and some that are clear breed differences between the bernese mountain dog and the australian shepherd.
Personality
The Berner Aussie mix is an active dog that loves to cuddle with pretty much everyone! High energy, highly intelligent, playful, yet adaptive, the Bernese mountain dog aussie mix is not a mix for novice owners.
Australian shepherd bernese mountain dog mixes are great family pets. These adorable pooches’ gentle nature makes them great companions for active families, but they also are unlikely to pass us a cuddle on the couch with their owners after a long day.
Trainability
The Aussie Berner mix is a large dog breed that is bred from two dog breeds that were bred to perform a job. Aussies were bred to herd sheep, and Berners were bred to protective livestock and pull carts for farmers.
In order for Bernese Mountain Dog Australian shepherd mixes to thrive, they must be mental and physically exercised everyday. Theys are dogs that prefer to have a job to keep them busy throughout the day.
The dogs can also be incredibly stubborn, passed down from their australian shepherd parents. for this reason, a patience owner is required. Crate training is incredibly helpful to keep rowdy puppies from getting into trouble.
Positive reinforcement tactics are the best way to train australian shepherd bernese mountain dog mix dogs. Australian shepherds and Bernersa both can be very sensitive to harsh punishments, so the best owners aim to establish a strong bond for success in training.
Kids
Both Australian Shpeherds and Bernese Mountain Dogs are extremely lovable with their family members, including children. Their protective nature after being bred to protect livestock often gives parents a sense of security. Both parent breeds can also be very nurturing, making them amazing family pets.
Although bernese mountain dog australian shepherd mixes are great with kids, they should never be left alone with kids, like all dogs. Children should also be taught proper boundaries and how to read a dog’s body language to avoid issues.
Other Dogs
Bernese mountain dogs tend to enjoy the company of other dogs, though it is not required to fulfill their needs. Aussies also are social, though they have a tendency to be a bit more shy and sensitive in social interactions.
The combination of these genetics, as well as how much the dog has been socialized in their early life, will determine how the Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix breed. Socialization as a puppy plays a huge role in how well an adult dog will interact with other dogs, but socialization can also be done as an adult dog in a very slow manner.
Other Animals
Bernese mountain dogs were bred to be gentle giants and protect their livestock. Australian Shepherds have much more intense background when it comes to prey drive. while socialization and training can help, a close eyes should be kept on the Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain dog mixes around other small animals, like cats.
Caring For
Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd mix dogs are not for novice owners. The regularly daily exercise, grooming several times a week, and dedicated training. If you can commit to these loving actions, you’ll have excellent family pets in the Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd mix.
Grooming the Bernese Australian Shepherd Mix
The Australian Shoehrd Bernese Mountain dog mix will likely have a long, dense double coat. this coat will require regular grooming appointments, as well as 2-3 brushings a week between appoitnments. They will need regular nail trims, as neglecting nails can lead to downsides for the dog’s health.
Nutrition
Like all dogs, the Australian shepherd bernese mountain dog mix needs a size, age, and lifestyle appropriate dog food. Both Bernese Mountain Dogs and Australian Shepherds are active dogs, so a high-quality dog food is important to ensure they have all the necessary nutrients.
Food should also be geared towards the needed nutrients of their age range. Puppies and senior need different diets than an adult dog, so be sure to research the kibble or other food that you choose for your Bernese Australian Shepherd mix.
Exercise Needs
Australian Shepherds were bred to drive and run cattle. Bernese Mountain dogs were bred to protect livestock and pull farm equipment. As a result, these two breeds and their mix breed descendants are used to lots of exercise.
They will need at least 60-90 minutes of active exercise a day. Some dog owners believe that a fenced in yard is enough for a dog to get the exercise they need, but most needs much more than that to feel fulfilled, both physically and mentally.
Play fetch, take them on a long walk, or even enter some sort of sport to help them workout their energy regularly. Be wary of joint issues or arthritis from doing sports or activities that are too hard on the joints, especially for larger dogs.
Mental Stimulation
Both parent breeds are bred to work, which requires a lot of mental work to succeed. Australian shepherds originated to herd sheep around fields and farms, which takes a calculating mind to pull off. Bernese mountain dogs are trained for strength as well as smarts.
When we combine these amazing breeds, we get a mix breed pup that is highly intelligent and wants to show it off. When they don’t get a proper outlet to work their brains, bernese mountain dog australian shepherd mixes can become destructive or exhibit other problem behaviors.
Long walks allowing them to sniff can mentally stimulate them, as well as fun treat puzzles. Training sessions and sports also makes your dog think, which these smart dogs love to do!
Health
Though Australian shepherd bernese mountain dog mixes are relatively healthy, as are most mixed breed and purebred dogs, they are prone to certain health problems that arise in either parent breed. The rise of backyard breeders has contributed to these health problems.
Common Minor Health Issues
The Bernese mountain dog australian shepherd mix is a large dog, so joint issues aren’t uncommon as they age. Cataracts are also commons with Australian Shepherds, so they can certainly show up often in their puppies with a Bernese Mountain Dog.
Both breeds also suffer from common allergy issues, resulting in itchy skin, eye discharge, or other uncomfortable symptoms. This mix will definitely need regular vet visits and exams to ensure they are staying healthy.
Potential Major Health Issues
A Bernese mountain dog is considered a giant breed, and therefore have health problems that can arise from that, bloat being the most prevalent. The breed club also suggests screening for Von Willebrand’s disease, which is a blood clotting disorder that occurs in the breed, and a cardiac exam to ensure parents are in excellent heart health.
A purebred Australian shepherd facing many of the same health issues as a purebred Bernese mountain dog. This include hip dysplasia, cancers, and eye health problems. Hip dysplasia is probably the most common issue that the prubred dogs share, making it that much more common in the mix breed puppies.
Lifespan
Bernese mountain dog Australian shepherd mix pups will likely live around the same lifespan as their purebred dogs counterparts. A Bernese mountain dog is said to live around 7-10 years, while an Australian shepherd is said to live 12-15 years.
Looking at these two numbers, we can assume that the descendants of these two working dogs will have an average lifespan around 10-12 years, though staying active and visiting the vet regularly make a huge difference in how long a dog will live.
Getting an Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix
If you are looking for a new dog to add to your home and are ready to commit ot the care of the Australian shepherd bernese mountain dog mix, there are several ways to find the perfect pup!
Things to Consider
When considering on taking home a new Australian shepherd bernese mountain dog mix, keep in mind that they are not the easiest dog to raise or own. It takes quite a commitment to fulfill all their mental and physical needs on a daily basis.
These mixes also tend to be very clingy, and they love the attention from their owners. some people prefer a more independent dog, and they should steer away from the Australian shepherd bernese mountain dog mix.
Ideal Owners
Active families, individuals, and people that intend on working the dogs would be the ideal owners for a Bernese mountain dog australian shepherd mix. Trainers and dog sport competitors may also appreciate the drive and energy in these mixes.
Families and individuals that don’t necessarily participate in a lot of dog-friendly activities may struggle with owning this high-energy mix, but commitment to regular exercise can make all the difference. Regular physical exercise and consistent training is key to owning this dog successfully.
Puppy Prices
Puppy prices for a Bernese mountain dog australian shepherd mix are anywhere from $400 to $2,000, depending on what breeder you choose. A reputable breeder will perform all recommended health test by both breeds, and those tests are not cheap to perform.
The recommended health test by the Australian Shepherd breed club are hip evals, elbow evals, and ophthalmologist evals. The recommended health tests for a Bernese Mountain Dog are hip, elbow and ophthalmologist evals, a cardiac exam, and a DNA test searching to Von Willebrand’s disease.
Adoption
Another avenure of obtaining a bernese mountain dog australian shepherd mix is to reach out to a rescue organization or local animal shelter. Aussie Bernese mixes are not super common, but rescue groups that deal with either of the parent breeds may come across them occasionally.
Some shelters and rescue groups will allow to leave your name for a particular breed or mix, and they will reach out if one comes into the facility. Call around to local rescues and facilities to ask if they offer this program, but don’t hesitate to call to organizations outside of your local township. Many will be willing to drive or meet arrange transport for the right family!
Final Thoughts
Bernese mountain dog australian shepherd mix dogs are great family dogs, excellent working pets, and are full of personality traits that desirable to many dog owners. If you feel like all this info sounds like the perfect dog for you, we highly suggest a bernese mountain dog australian shepherd mix!