Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog – Traits & Care Requirements

The hybrid Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog combines two well-known dog breeds. However, because the Australian Shepherd and the Bernese Mountain Dog were developed for very distinct roles in very distinct environments, their offspring are incredibly unpredictable in terms of appearance and temperament.

If you appreciate a dog with a strong work ethic, intelligence, loyalty, and gorgeous hair, this hybrid breed may be of interest to you. Below, you will learn more about the characteristics, appearance, temperament, and health of the Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog breed. 

Appearance Of Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog

Although Australian Shepherds are still lighter than Bernese Mountain dogs, this crossbreed is still a substantial breed and may still reach weights of up to 100 lbs. They will reach a height of around 23 to 25 inches, depending on whether they are female or male, and will have a thick coat with coloring from both parent breeds. 

Some will show more pronounced colors, markings, and traits from either breed. The differences between males and females are negligible. Because they may be utilized for reproduction, females are occasionally more costly.

Australian Shepherd VS Bernese Mountain Dog 

Australian Shepherd

Surprisingly, the Australian Shepherd originated in America. They were bred explicitly on the West Coast. Later, dogs from Australia, Germany, and the Basque region were combined to form this breed.

Australian Shepherds are highly regarded as working dogs. The AKC registration of the breed did not disturb many people in the Aussie community. They believed that exhibiting dogs would take precedence over breeding working dogs. However, the Australian Shepherd was first acknowledged as a breed in 1993.

Australian Shepherds are built for speed. They can run quickly because of their lean, muscular physique, which is not bulky.

Bernese Mountain Dog

Longer records exist for the Bernese Mountain Dog. In actuality, extremely early instances of these dogs may be found in fossils from 3000 BC.

Today’s Berner has its roots in Switzerland, namely in the Bern region. According to research, they are descended from Mastiff dogs that were combined with neighborhood dogs and brought from Rome.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, they were widely used as general farm dogs. They made excellent watchdogs and friends because of their size, loyalty, solid physique, and quiet, kind demeanor. They pushed carts and went to graze with the cows. These days, they are household pets that may serve as therapy dogs and watchdogs.

The endurance-bred Bernese Mountain Dogs prefer to leisurely wander around the property while performing their duties as livestock protectors rather than race around excessively. When they notice a predator, they immediately spring into action, prepared to fend it off, but up until that time, they conserve their energy.

Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix

While many people like the outcome of combining two distinct breeds, there is ongoing controversy about whether dog breeds should be mixed. Some people worry that combining breeds may diminish the characteristics that make each breed special.

They also claim that purebred animals raised ethically may be traced back for many generations. Health, temperament, and appearance are therefore all determinable. They are also worried about the proliferation of puppy farms as a result of the popularity of various mixed breeds, or “designer” dogs. 

There isn’t much information available about the beginnings of the Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix. Whether the original cross between these two breeds was unintentional or whether it was done on purpose to create the stunning Berner Aussie, it worked out quite well

Therefore, both of these parent breeds come from working backgrounds and spent their early years working on farms. It’s no surprise that they swiftly gained popularity as family pets in households around the nation given that they are canines that are both clever and attentive while also being loving.

Temperament and Traits

Both of these breeds don’t have a reputation for being aggressive. However, research suggests that, compared to the Bernese, the Australian Shepherd may be a little bit more aggressive toward other dogs.

Australian Shepherds are renowned for being eager workers, easily taught, and devoted to their families. Some Australians might be wary of strangers and protective of their loved ones. When teaching them, this must be kept in mind. 

Additionally, they tend to herd and defend. After all, they are working dogs. However, Aussies are content as companion dogs if they are kept occupied and have enough connection and training with their owner.

Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dogs share several personality traits. However, they tend to be a more relaxed breed of dog in comparison to others. They are calm and kind, yet still have the work ethic, curiosity, and loyalty of a working dog. With strangers, an Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog could exhibit some shyness. These hybrid breeds are likely to be devoted to their families and like nothing more than spending time with them when they work or play.

How To Take Care Of Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog

Food

The Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog breed is a large dog. Therefore, it requires a lot of food. Depending on its size and the advice of the veterinarian, feed the dog twice each day. To adequately care for the Australian Mountain Dog’s joints, use a meal designed for large canines.

Of course, you should always provide your Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog access to fresh water. These dogs need a lot of water due to how energetic they are and the length of their coat.

It’s crucial to remember that this breed is prone to dietary allergies. If you discover that your dog has skin reactions, such as dry skin, allergies may be to blame. If you suspect your dog has food allergies, consult your veterinarian and adjust the diet.

Exercise & Training

Because both the Australian Shepherd and the Bernese Mountain Dog are working breeds, they may be active for extended periods of time. Bernese Mountain Dogs are typically way more laid-back than the Australian Shepherd. Australian Mountain Dogs have a slightly more relaxed back than Australian Shepherds. However, they still need to work out a lot.

The Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog requires at the very least an hour of exercise each day. Walking or playing outside can both count toward this hour of intense exercise. It is also important to include engaging toys and mental stimulation throughout the dog’s day in addition to this hour of activity.

Those dogs are very trainable and benefit greatly from ongoing training. They require constant entertainment in order to avoid boredom and destructive behavior inside your house. They are eager to please and very bright. Training dogs also encourages them to release some of their energy.

Take them for lengthy strolls or excursions at least twice daily to maintain a steady supply of energy. To make them more readily exhausted, try throwing a ball or a frisbee for them to recover. It is advised that they exercise for 60 to 90 minutes each day to be joyful.

Additionally, you could try giving your Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog some indoor stimulation toys to keep them entertained when you’re away from home or at work.

Grooming

Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dogs require quite a bit of grooming. Since both of this dog’s parents have long coats, you may anticipate your Berner having one as well. These mixed-breed dogs have extremely thick coats that are constantly shed throughout the year, but more so in the summer. To reduce matting and excessive shedding, brush your dog’s coat at least once weekly.

The dog will require regular tooth brushing and occasional nail trimming. If you can afford it, getting a genuine groomer who is skilled in this breed’s required grooming regimen would be appreciated by these dogs.

Facts about Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog

• The Australian Shepherd and Bernese Mountain Dog cross produce a gorgeous dog with less health risk and energy than either purebred breed alone.
• Celebrities adore Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog dogs. These adorable, perceptive, and entertaining puppies have long been a favorite of Sarah Michelle Gellar, who plays the lead in Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
• Many of these dogs have appeared in motion pictures. Australian Shepherds and Bernese Mountain Dogs were popular breeds for usage in silent films. Therefore, being a star runs in their family. 
• Dogs of mixed breeds are often healthier than those of purebreds because they are less likely to get illnesses that are inherited from a single breed.
• The typical lifespan of this dog mix is between 8 and 11 years, but Aussies may live up to 15 years and Bernese mountain dogs only survive for about 7 or 8 years.

Bottom Line

All in all, the Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog can be the best option for you if you’re seeking a playful, perceptive, and devoted friend. Although this breed is extremely dedicated to working and adores spending time with families, it has high activity, dietary, and grooming needs. The good news is that Australian Mountain Dogs are well worth the effort because of their loyalty and loving nature.