There’s a new dog in town and it’s a mix of two popular breeds- the Australian Shepherd and the Bernese Mountain Dog.
This crossbreed is known as the Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix, or Aussie Bernese, and there’s a lot of excitement around it!
Here are 18 key facts about this adorable mix breed that you should know about!
Breeding History
The Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain dog mix was created when mixing the Bernese Mountain dog with an Australian shepherd. This occurred in the late 19th century in Australia.
Bernese Mountain Dogs come from Switzerland and are often used as guide dogs because of their excellent hearing. They are highly intelligent and trainable dogs.
The Bernese Mountain Dog is perfect for you if you want a dog that loves to play fetch and chase balls.
On the other hand, Australian Shepherds tend to be playful and energetic. They are good with kids and enjoy spending time outdoors.
Because of their gentle nature, they are great therapy dogs.
When combining the two breeds, you get a dog that is intelligent, obedient, and loving.
This new crossbreed was created to have the best traits of both parent breeds, and it has become a popular choice for families looking for a loyal and loving pet.
Unfortunately, there are also many puppy mills that mass-produce Aussie Bernese puppies without regard for their health or well-being.
So, if you’re considering getting an Aussie Bernese, it’s important to research and find a reputable breeder.
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Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix – Coat & Colors
The coat of an Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix can vary depending on which parent they take after.
If they have a coat like the Australian Shepherd, it will be of medium length and silky. If their coat is more like the Bernese Mountain Dog, it will be thick and coarse.
Their colors can also range from black and white like the Bernese Mountain Dog to the more common tri-color coat of the Australian Shepherd.
No matter what their coat looks like, they will always be beautiful and luxurious.
How Big are they?
These dogs are big! They can range from 23-27.5 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 60-100 pounds. They are a large, athletic breed that needs plenty of space to run and play. If you’re looking for a small lapdog, this is not the breed for you!
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What’s their Temperament like?
Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dogs are often excellent family pets. They are loyal and protective of their loved ones and make great companions.
However, they can also be high-energy and require a lot of exercise. This wonderful breed is also known for being intelligent with an easy-going nature which makes them easy to train.
If you’re looking for a giant breed that will be a loving addition to your family, this mix is a great option!
How Healthy is the Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd Mix?
Unfortunately, due to designer dogs’ popularity, many backyard breeders are not interested in health testing their dogs.
This means that common health conditions can be passed on to puppies without the owners even knowing.
For this reason, it’s important to do your research before buying a Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd mix puppy from a breeder.
The following are common health issues that are known to this breed:
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is one common health condition affecting Bernese Mountain Dogs and Australian Shepherds.
This is a condition where the hip joint does not form correctly, leading to pain and lameness.
It’s important to ask the breeder if the parents of the puppy have been health tested for hip dysplasia, as this can help reduce the risk of the puppy developing the condition.
Elbow Dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia is another common condition that affects both Bernese Mountain Dogs and Australian Shepherds.
This is a condition where the elbow joint does not form correctly, leading to pain and lameness.
Again, it’s important to ask the breeder if the parents of the puppy have been health tested for elbow dysplasia, as this can help reduce the risk of the puppy developing the condition.
Gastric Torsion
Gastric torsion is another health condition that can affect Bernese Mountain Dogs and Australian Shepherds.
This is a condition where the stomach twists, leading to pain and potentially death.
It’s important to ask the breeder if the parents of the puppy have been health tested for gastric torsion, as this can help reduce the risk of the puppy developing the condition.
While common health conditions are something to be aware of, it’s important to remember that all dogs can be affected by health problems at some point in their lives.
The best way to keep your Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd mix healthy is to take them for regular checkups with your veterinarian and to be aware of the common health conditions that can affect them.
Are They Energetic?
Yes, Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd Mixes are energetic dogs that need plenty of exercise.
They are perfect for active families who can provide them with at least an hour of moderate to strenuous exercise every day.
This can include anything from a long walk or run to playing fetch or Frisbee.
Whatever you do, just make sure this mix gets plenty of outdoor exercise!
Mental Stimulation
If you’re thinking about getting a Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd mix, it’s important to know that they are a high-energy breed that needs plenty of time to run and play.
They also need mental stimulation, as they are prone to separation anxiety.
To keep your dog happy and healthy, make sure to provide them with plenty of physical activity and brain exercise.
This can include things like training, agility courses, and even simple games like fetch. Brain games are especially important for this breed, as they are very intelligent and need to be challenged mentally.
Are they easy to Groom?
Coat Grooming
The Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd Mix is an easy dog to groom. They have a double coat, which means they have a thick, dense undercoat and a softer outer coat.
The undercoat sheds heavily twice a year, in the spring and fall. During those times, you will need to brush your dog more frequently to help remove the loose hair.
For the rest of the year, brushing once or twice a week is sufficient. These dogs do not require professional grooming and can be trimmed at home with scissors or clippers.
Nails
Their nails should be trimmed regularly, as overgrown nails can be uncomfortable and even painful for your dog.
You can trim your dog’s nails at home with a nail trimmer, or you can take them to a groomer or veterinarian to have it done.
Ears
Like all dogs, the Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd Mix need their ears checked regularly for wax buildup, debris, or infection.
To clean their ears, use a cotton ball dampened with ear cleaner and wipe the inside of the ear flap. Be mindful to ensure you don’t insert anything into their ear canal.
Teeth
These dogs also need their teeth brushed regularly to prevent tartar buildup and gum disease. Try to brush your dog’s teeth at least once a week, using toothpaste made specifically for dogs.
Bottom line
The Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd Mix is an easy dog to groom, with only a few basic needs. Their double coat requires brushing once or twice a week, they need their nails trimmed regularly, and their teeth should be brushed at least once a week.
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Are They Easy to Train?
Yes, this mixed breed is easy to train. This includes potty training, obedience training, and behavioral training.
Potty Training
The Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd Mix is an intelligent breed, making potty training relatively easy.
Crate training may be necessary for puppies that are not yet housebroken. The key to successful potty training is consistency and patience.
Obedience Training
Obedience training is important for any dog, but it is especially important for the Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd Mix.
This breed can be willful, so it is important to start obedience training early. Basic commands such as sit, stay, come, down, and leave it should be taught early.
Training should also be positive and consistent, with rewards given for good behavior.
Behavioral Training:
The Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd Mix can sometimes be stubborn, but with patience and consistent training, most dogs will eventually respond well.
Positive reinforcement techniques such as clicker training can address behavioral issues such as separation anxiety and barking.
Further to the above, providing treats or praise after the desired behavior is displayed is recommended.
This encourages the dog to continue exhibiting the desired behavior in order to receive more rewards.
Another way to positively reinforce good behavior is through playtime – letting the dog have an extra few minutes of fetch or tug-of-war after following commands can be a great way to show them that their good behavior is being noticed and appreciated.
With consistency and patience, almost any dog can be trained effectively using positive reinforcement methods.
Nutrition
When it comes to nutrition, Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd Mixes are high-maintenance.
They require a high-quality dog food diet that is packed with nutrients. However, they can also enjoy the occasional treat of human foods. Just be sure to avoid any foods that are high in fat or sugar.
The ideal food for this mix consists of high-quality proteins, fats, and carbs. Brands that use all-natural ingredients are always a good choice. You should also aim for a food that is high in fiber to help with digestion.
When it comes to human foods, you can give this mixed breed some cooked meat or vegetables.
Just be sure to remove any bones or fat before giving them to your dog. And as always, moderation is key! Too much of anything, even healthy foods, can cause problems for your pup.
Doggie treats are also a great way to show your love for your furry friend. However, be sure to give them in moderation and choose healthy options. There are plenty of all-natural dog treats on the market that are both nutritious and delicious!
The bottom line is that this mix needs a high-quality, well-rounded diet to stay healthy and happy.
So, be sure to do your research and talk to your vet before making any big changes to their diet.
The Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd Mix – Dog Friendly?
Yes! The Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd Mix is a dog-friendly mix. They are great with children and other dogs, and love to play fetch and go on walks.
Due to their size, they may not be suitable for apartments or small homes, but otherwise make great companion dogs.
When it comes to other dogs, this mixed breed tends to get along better with ones that are of a similar size.
If you have a smaller dog, make sure to introduce the two dogs slowly and supervise their interactions until you are confident that they will get along well together.
Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd Mix – Child Friendly?
When it comes to finding the perfect canine companion for your family, you can’t go wrong with a Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd Mix.
These two breeds combined are known for their loyalty, affection, and playfulness, making them ideal pets for families with children.
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large breed that was originally bred in the Swiss Alps for working on farms.
They are gentle giants who love nothing more than spending time with their human companions. The Australian Shepherd, on the other hand, is a medium-sized breed that was developed in the United States for herding livestock.
This breed is energetic and intelligent, and they excel at obedience training.
So, what do you get when you mix these two amazing breeds? A dog that is loyal, affectionate, playful, and intelligent.
Not to mention, they are also great with children. If you are looking for a child-friendly dog breed, then you can’t go wrong with a Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd Mix.
Drooling Levels
The Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd mix is a hybrid dog that makes a great family pet and is wonderful with children. However, they do have some drawbacks. One of those drawbacks is their drooling tendencies.
When looking at the breeds separately, Bernese Mountain Dogs are notorious slobber machines.
They drool when they’re excited, when they’re drinking, when they’re panting, and even when they’re just standing there minding their own business.
It’s all part of their charming appeal, but it can be a bit messy if you’re not prepared for it.
Fortunately, this mix’s Australian Shepherd side helps offset the drooling somewhat.
Australian Shepherds are not as prone to drooling as Bernese Mountain Dogs, but they’re not exactly dry-mouthed either.
When they get excited or work hard, they may drool more than usual.
However, it’s nothing compared to the slobbering of a purebred Bernese Mountain Dog.
So, if you’re considering this mixed breed, be prepared for some drool. But rest assured, it’s all part of their endearing personality.
Barking Levels
This mix is known for being very vocal, which can be a problem for some people.
Typical situations that cause them to bark include when they are left alone, during car rides, and when strangers come to the door.
If you are looking for a dog that is relatively quiet, this may not be the right breed for you. However, if you don’t mind a little bit of noise, then this mix can make a great companion.
Weather Tolerance
These dogs are a mix of two cold-weather breeds, so they are well-suited for climates with lots of shade and cold temperatures. They seem to particularly enjoy cold weather and love to romp in the snow.
This mix is a great choice if you’re looking for a dog who can handle cold weather.
On the contrary, this mixed breed does not tolerate hot weather well.
They are prone to heatstroke and should be kept in cool, shady areas during warm weather. If you live in a hot climate, this may not be the best breed for you.
What’s the lifespan of a Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd Mix?
The average lifespan of a Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd Mix is around 10 to 12 years.
However, some individual dogs may live longer or shorter depending on their overall health and genetics.
Some health problems that may shorten a dog’s lifespan include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cancer, and cardiac conditions.
Therefore, it is important to make sure your dog is up-to-date on all their preventive care including vaccinations, routine deworming, and tick/flea/heartworm prevention.
Regular vet check-ups can also help identify any potential health concerns early on so they can be treated accordingly.
Feeding your dog a high-quality diet and providing them with plenty of exercise will also help them live a long healthy life.
Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd Mix – AKC Recognition
The AKC Breed Kennel Club has officially recognized the Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd Mix as a new breed! This occurred in 2016, and since then, these dogs have been growing in popularity.
The AKC recommends that this breed be socialized early on, as they can be shy around strangers. They also recommend that owners provide plenty of opportunities for exercise, as this breed loves to run and play.
The Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd Mix can make a great addition to any family with proper care and training.
Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd Mix – How much do they cost?
The price for these gentle giants can vary depending on the breeder, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $600 to $1,200 for a Bernese Mountain Dog and Australian Shepherd Mix puppy.
If you manage to find this mix at an animal shelter or rescue organization, the adoption fee is likely to be much lower.
However, keep in mind that mixed-breed dogs can sometimes have unpredictable temperaments and health problems, so it’s always a good idea to do your research before bringing one home.
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Final Thoughts
The Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain dog Mix is a gentle, loving breed that makes a great addition to any family.
These dogs are social, active, and just as cute as can be. If you’re thinking about adding a new furry friend to your home, this mix is definitely worth considering!
