Everything About Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix
Last Updated on July 4, 2023
In today’s world, when dog sports and breeding have become so competitive, one might wonder what sort of dogs qualify as designer dogs. The term “hybrid” or simply “mix” of a dog can bring out even more questions than solve them.
This article will specifically deal with the relatively obscure but still-known Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain dog mix. Mix breeds are different breeds of dogs that have had their genes combined to form a particular dog breed with the traits of both their parents.
Keep reading below to know more about why these dogs are so unique and why you might get them, albeit after a long search.
Table of Contents
Overview of Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog
Breed Overview:
Group:Unknown
Height:20-25 inches
Weight:60-90 pounds
Coat and Colour:A long coat that is slightly silky. Colours can range from Black and White colourings to Brown, Tan combinations or even tri-colours in some cases.
Life Span:12-16 years
Temperament:Protective, affectionate and eager to please.
Origin:Unknown
The Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain dog mix is one of the more stellar mix breeds if not one. The fact that they are composed of the Australian Shepherd, a herding type dog and Bernese Mountain dog, a working dog and a great guardian, makes the mix of these two some of the most efficient dog breeds.
On the other hand, these dogs may sometimes show traits that slightly differ from one of their parents, as one gene might be stronger than the others. Their long coat can also be slightly hard to groom as it tends to shed a lot and is reserved more to be groomed by a professional groomer.
Due to their parents, these dogs are high-energy dogs. They must be constantly engaged and given exercises to keep them happy and excited. Due to their unique gene pool, these dogs can have slightly fewer health issues than purebred dog breeds, such as Hip Dysplasia or other conditions related to dogs.
History of Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog
The origin of the Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix is not well-documented. However, the mix brings together the Australian Shepherd, which originated in the western United States and is known for its herding abilities, and the Bernese Mountain Dog, which originates in Switzerland and is a working dog with a calm and protective nature.
Breed Overview: Australian Shepherd
Group: Herding
Height: 18-23 inches
Weight: 40-55 pounds
Coat and Colour: Medium-length double coat. Colours are Black, Red, Red Merle and Blue Merle, along with tri-colours that may include Red colours or other combinations.
Life Span: 12-15 years
Temperament: Focused on working and generally energetic
Origin: Western United States
Despite being made solely for herding, the Australian Shepherd has become one of the best companion and family dogs who can be relied upon for doing a particular task without fail. These dogs are generally excellent with children and are smart enough even to be used as police dogs!
These dogs are generally skilful and physically agile; although they may sometimes act lazy, their coat will also need grooming as they can shed quite a bit.
Breed Overview: Bernese Mountain Dog
Group: Working
Height: 23-27.5 inches
Weight: 70-115 pounds
Coat and Colour: Medium-sized double coat. Colours can be Black, Rust & White. Black Tan & White
Life Span: 7-10 years
Temperament: Calm, dominating and protective
Origin: Switzerland
The Bernese Mountain dogs fit their names, for these dogs are bred in such a way to survive working in harsh winters actively and generally have an intimidating frame to scare off potential intruders. However, these dogs will need some training to be perfect guard dogs, as they may often remain aloof to strangers.
These dogs have a striking, muscular presence, and their black and white coat often gives them a handsome appearance of a well-dressed person.
The mix of these two breeds results in a dog with a unique blend of characteristics. While the Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix inherits herding instincts from the Australian Shepherd and a protective nature from the Bernese Mountain Dog, their specific traits can vary from individual to individual due to the genetic combination.
Check this article to learn more about Australian Shepherds vs German Shepherds.
The Personality of The Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog
The Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix exhibits various personality traits that make them excellent companions. Known for their loyalty, activity, and outgoing nature, these mixed breeds form strong bonds with their owners and families. They are devoted and will go to great lengths to protect and please their loved ones.
Regarding training and exercise, the Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix requires regular mental and physical stimulation. They are brilliant and thrive in environments where they can engage in activities that challenge their minds. Training sessions should be consistent, firm, and positive, as these dogs respond well to reward-based methods.
In terms of exercise needs, this mix breed is energetic and requires ample opportunities to burn off its energy. Daily exercise in walks, runs, playtime, and interactive games are essential to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Failure to meet their exercise needs can result in restlessness and destructive behaviour.
Additionally, the Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix has the potential to be a good guard dog. With their protective instincts inherited from the Bernese Mountain Dog parent, they can be trained to be more alert and wary of strangers. Early socialisation and proper training can help them develop the right balance of friendliness and protectiveness.
Coat Colour and Grooming of Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog
The Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix showcases a stunning array of coat colours and requires specific grooming techniques to keep its coat healthy and vibrant. Understanding the coat description and colour variations, as well as implementing proper grooming tips and shedding management, is crucial for owners of this mix breed.
The coat of the Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix is typically lengthy and can have a slightly silky texture. It comes in various colour combinations, such as black and white markings, brown and tan combinations, and even captivating tri-colour patterns. These diverse coat colours make them visually appealing and unique.
To maintain their coat’s health and appearance, regular grooming is necessary. Brushing their coat with a suitable brush helps remove loose hair, prevents matting, and stimulates the skin’s natural oils for a lustrous shine. This grooming routine should accompany occasional baths using dog-specific shampoos to ensure cleanliness and freshness.
Managing shedding is another crucial aspect of grooming this mix breed. You can minimise excessive shedding and maintain a healthy coat by implementing effective shedding management techniques, such as regular brushing and a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients.
If you are curious about some grooming products, you may check Dog Grooming Supplies on Amazon and buy them according to your needs.
Feeding (Diet and Nutrition) of Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog
An Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix diet can be mixed and slightly varied due to their diverse heritage in terms of parents. In general, if you need clarification about which food to start, you can feed them raw cooked meat and other raw foods until you get a proper diet chart from a vet.
Otherwise, you can start feeding them dry dog kibbles; as these dogs are medium-large, you should try to feed them at least twice a day with a constant water supply to keep your mix dog well hydrated. Make sure to choose a diet that includes a high amount of calcium for your mix dog to avoid general health problems of dogs such as Hip or Joint dysplasia.
If you are curious about dog foods, check out a list of the Top 10 Best Dog Food Brands in 2023 that Customers Trust.
Common Health Problems of Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog
Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix breeds often face some common problems a purebred dog faces. However, the scale can be lower as these are mixed breeds.
Some common health problems of Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain dog mix can include:
- Joint Dysplasia: This is one of the most common issues faced by both purebred and mixed dog breeds. The symptoms can vary, from trouble running to being less active than usual.
- Epilepsy: Since the Australian Shepherd is slightly prone to this, a mixed breed of this might be slightly susceptible to such.
- Eye problems: Cataracts and other eye issues may manifest in an Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain dog mix breed.
- Canine Bloat: Another common disease faced by dogs who consume their food and water too rapidly; this condition can be fatal if not treated in time as it causes a particular twisting of the stomach.
- Gum diseases: As an Australian Shepherd, Bernese Mountain dog mix might be prone to biting down on something unclean; it may cause issues related to the gums and require a vet visit.
These are some of the few common health issues an Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix faces. If you are curious about other problems they may face, you should visit your vet to consult about it.
Conclusion
An Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain dog mix can be hard to handle, but it doesn’t mean they are wrong. On the contrary, due to their loyalty and active behaviour, these dogs will often brighten up the dry atmosphere of a home and make you slightly happy.
On the other hand, it will be essential for you to get these mixed dog breeds from only a reputable breeder, along with a health certificate and all tests done to ensure that these dogs are healthy and aren’t ridden with diseases at any point. If you have any other questions, don’t forget to comment below.