An Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix is a recent hybrid that exhibits high energy. They can be a handful, and just like other mixed breeds, they have pros and cons. Still, they are great buddies and companions.
This mix comes from two famous pure breeds, the Australian Shepherd and the Bernese Mountain Dog. Although these dogs are contrasting in certain ways, their offspring is a perfect combination when it comes to character.
If you haven’t heard of this crossbreed before, this article is undoubtedly something you should read on. I will cover a lot about the Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix which might even convince you to own one.
What Is an Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix?
Photo by @daisysprinkles2021 (IG)
An Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix, also known as Aussie Bernese and Berner Aussie mix, is a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Bernese Mountain Dog. They are large and stunning dogs that naturally inherit their parent breeds’ personalities.
You will instantly notice this hybrid’s large size and fluffy coat once they enter a room. At first glance, you may think this is a purebred Australian Shepherd.
However, as you look closer, you will notice distinct traits of a Berner Aussie mix.
Like other dog breeds, an Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix has necessities, and only a responsible and committed owner can meet these needs.
They usually require lots of attention, but they will indeed offer their unconditional love to you in return.
Aussie Bernese Mountain Dog Mix Origin and History
In contrast to purebreds, tracing mixed breeds’ history and origin is challenging. So currently, there is no specific documentation of the first-ever Aussie Bernese despite this hybrid being very new.
Some of these hybrids were produced by intentional breeding, while most are through accidental ones. Both Australian Shepherds and Bernese Mountain Dogs have been popular pure breeds for a long time.
Browsing through the history of these parent breeds may equip you with details to further understand how they may have been produced.
Bernese Mountain Dogs, also known as Berners, are initially bred as farm dogs in Switzerland. They used to accompany cows, protect livestock, and pull carts.
Since this breed is very people-oriented regardless if it’s a male or female Bernese Mountain Dog, they quickly became farmers’ best friends.
In 1926, the first Bernese Mountain Dog was imported by a Kansas farmer, and not so long after that, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed in 1937.
On the other hand, Aussies or Australian Shepherds originated and were developed in America. They have strong herding backgrounds, and they are well-known to be an iconic company of the first American cowboys.
Australian Shepherds were recognized by the AKC in 1991, much later than Berners, and they entered the AKC herding group in 1993.
The Bernese Aussie mix is not AKC recognized like other designer dogs, despite both Australian Shepherds and Bernese Mountain Dogs being recognized. Nonetheless, they still deserve a loving home and a happy life.
Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix Appearance
Photo by @daisysprinkles2021 (IG)
When it comes to appearance, a Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd mix is stunning and fluffy. They have striking eyes, long snouts, and floppy and hairy ears.
Each litter is never identical since the puppies’ appearance depends on the dominant parent genes. Nonetheless, the offspring would always be large puppies with furry tails and long legs.
However, due to its Australian Shepherd genes, an Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix can have docked or naturally bobbed tails.
Regarding coat colors, Berner Aussies are a pop of color. Some are bi-colored, and others are tri-colored. Usually, they are a combination of black, blue, brown, red, white, and even merle.
Australian Shepherds may have passed this down to the hybrid since they have more coat color varieties than Bernese Mountain Dogs, including the rare red merle, blue merle, and black.
Since both its parent dog breeds have thick coats, you can expect their offspring to have one as well. Thus, they are much more suitable in areas with moderate and cold climates.
This cute video of an Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix will surely brighten up your day:
Mortimer the Adorable Australian Shepherd x Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy!!<a href="https://youtu.be/D7u4lIYiOxA" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.bubblypet.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FD7u4lIYiOxA%2F0.jpg" alt="Mortimer the Adorable Australian Shepherd x Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy!!" width="1280" height="700" /><br />Watch this video on YouTube</a>
Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix Size and Weight
The Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd mix is a large hybrid of two large dogs. Depending on their dominant parent genes, they can reach a height between 20 and 25 inches and weigh around 55 to 100 pounds.
Since it’s generally hard to predict crossbreeds, we can check their parents’ size and weight to see further how big they can get.
Australian Shepherds can stand approximately between 18 and 23 inches and weigh around 50 to 65 pounds, while the Berners have a height between 23 and 27 inches and can weigh about 70 to 115 pounds.
Naturally, these hybrids are not suitable for tiny homes. Since they are highly energetic, cramping them up in small spaces with limited movement may cause them to be sluggish and prone to obesity.
Bernese Aussie mixes are usually full-grown at 12 to 18 months of age and would love a big yard to play around.
Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix Temperament and Personality
Photo by @daisysprinkles2021 (IG)
A Bernese Aussie mix is a crossbreed of two active dogs, so you can expect that they are energetic as well. That’s why active families are suited for them because they love doing activities with their owners.
Since this hybrid has a history of being a working dog, they may tend to guard and herd. Moreover, they are also fast learners due to being highly intelligent, making them easy to train and recognize commands.
They are also naturally loyal and protective dogs, making them great companions for everyone, even other pets.
Despite the Australian Shepherd being noted to be more aggressive than Berners, their hybrids show no signs of aggression at all. This means that they get along with other dogs as well.
When it comes to small children, they are very tolerant and friendly, but supervision is still advised as their size can easily knock off a kid, even though they don’t mean it.
Overall, Bernese Aussie mixes are adorable pooches. However, proper training at a young age and early socialization are recommended to ensure they behave appropriately in the presence of other people and animals.
Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd Mix Lifespan and Health Issues
A Bernese Mountain Dog Aussie mix has a pretty long life expectancy similar to their parent breeds. With adequate love and care, these gentle giants have an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years.
As pet owners, it’s great to have a furry companion to grow old with you. However, although they are generally healthy puppies, health problems may still arise, such as hereditary diseases.
Some of the most common health conditions of this mix breed are listed below:
Hip Dysplasia: Since the Bernese Aussie mix is a large dog, it’s common for them to have hip dysplasia. This occurs when there is underdevelopment or abnormal alignment of the hip joint, leading to decreased mobility and pain.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: This condition affects the photoreceptor cells in the retina leading to deterioration and may cause blindness to dogs. Unfortunately, there is no current treatment available for progressive retinal atrophy.
Bloat: Also known as gastric dilation volvulus, bloat happens when air, food, or fluid fills up the stomach and twists it. It is important to note that this is considered an emergency, so rushing to the vet is the best possible solution once this happens.
Deafness: Deafness is more common in senior dogs compared to puppies. This condition happens when nerves inside the ear become damaged. Symptoms are usually gradual so you may not notice immediately. Proper care and support are much needed by dogs with this condition.
Obesity: This is a condition wherein an accumulation of excess fats is present in your Bernese Aussie mix’s body. However, this can also be a result of the lifestyle and diet you provide to them. Obesity can also lead to more severe diseases, so it’s best to keep them active while giving them a balanced diet.
Buying your Bernese Aussie mix puppy from a reputable breeder is a sure way of preventing the development of health problems. Make sure you choose one that is transparent on health records and genetic testing results.
How to Take Care of Your Aussie Bernese Mountain Dog Mix
Photo by @daisysprinkles2021 (IG)
Like other dogs, an Aussie Bernese mix has basic needs from puppyhood until adulthood. Although these needs change depending on their age, they will rely on their owners to meet these requirements.
As early as now, it is wise to know the necessities of this crossbreed to plan and evaluate if you can be the most suitable owner for them.
To help you out, here is an in-depth guide on how to take care of a Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd mix.
Food and Diet
A large and energetic dog may require a high-protein diet with the right balance of essential fats and carbohydrates. It is highly recommended to consult your vet or pet nutritionist for high-quality dog food suggestions.
In general, Bernese Aussie mix puppies should be fed with small meal portions at the same time every day in three to four divided meals. Meanwhile, adults can be given two to three servings of dog food daily.
Since they are trained to be working dogs, you need treats to reward them during training sessions. However, you must be mindful of their weight and refrain from giving extra treats to avoid obesity and bone problems.
Vitamins and supplements should also be a part of their diet to aid in their growth and maintain their optimal health until they grow old.
Also, a fresh bowl of water should always be accessible to your Bernese Aussie mix to avoid dehydration.
Cleaning and Grooming
You may have to prepare extra for this hybrid when it comes to cleaning and grooming. Bernese Aussie mixes may have medium-length coats, but they tend to shed all year round and twice as much during shedding season.
This can be overwhelming, but preparing and knowing what to do can help ease your furry dilemma.
However, they may also sport a short coat if it inherits the gene of a short-haired Australian Shepherd parent.
The amount of shedding can be minimized by brushing this mixed breed regularly. This can also remove debris and prevent matted fur.
Bathing, cleaning their ears and teeth, hair trimming, and nail clipping your dog regularly is essential to maintain their neatness. You can do it at home, or you may let a professional do it a few times annually.
Lastly, a Bernese Mountain Dog has a habit of drooling, and it can be passed down to the offspring.
Although the Bernese Aussie mix tends to drool less, having a small towel to wipe them can prevent the saliva from getting onto people and things.
Training and Exercise
Since they came from working dogs, Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd mixes love physical activities.
Plus, their high energy level needs to be stabilized through training and exercises to inhibit the display of destructive behavior.
Aussie Bernese mixes are naturally intelligent, so it would be quick for them to learn basic commands and obedient training exercises. They respond well to positive reinforcements and just the right amount of treats.
Additionally, this mixed breed dog can develop extreme clinginess to its owners that can cause separation anxiety. That’s why it’s best to start crate training at a young age so that they can be independent.
A Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd mix only needs an hour of physical activity daily. Generally, they like to play fetch, take long walks, and hike.
How Much Does an Aussie Bernese Mountain Dog Mix Cost? Puppy Prices and Expenses
An Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix may cost around $500 to $2,000 from a reputable breeder. This price tag is expected due to its parent breeds. Lineage, coat color, and location may contribute to the price.
Purebred Australian Shepherds cost around $400 to $1,000, while Bernese Mountains Dogs can cost around $800 to $2,000.
If you’re a bit low on budget, you can also adopt one from rescue organizations and shelters. Adoption fees can cost between $150 to $500, depending on the shelter. Aside from saving money, you could also save a life.
Moreover, it is crucial to stay away from puppy mills and backyard breeders, for they have unethical breeding practices and treat dogs as money-making machines.
For an overview, a list of initial expenses for an Aussie Bernese mix is presented in the table below:
As you can see, being a responsible owner doesn’t only mean buying dog food. Like other dogs, they need to visit the vet regularly to ensure proper maintenance of their health and well-being.
As dog owners, knowing their needs can help us prepare our budget for both the initial and long-term repetitive expenses and weigh our capabilities of giving them the life they deserve.
Places to Find Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix Puppies for Sale and Adoption
Photo by @daisysprinkles2021 (IG)
Since this hybrid dog is new, you may find it challenging to find one. Currently, there are no breeders dedicated to producing them.
However, some kennels may have an Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix you might want to check out.
The following kennels and places may offer Aussie Berner mix puppies:
Fetchem Puppies – You may find an Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix listed here. However, you may need to check their site from time to time since they are a rare find. Once a puppy is sold, there is a long waiting time for the next one to be available.
Lancaster Puppies – There are a handful of Aussie Bernese mixes on this site. Additionally, they only allow approved and reputable breeders to post their puppies because they advocate against unethical breeding and puppy mills.
Greenfield Puppies – This puppy advertising site has provided pets to loving families for years now. You can easily search for your next furry companion as they provide a list of available Aussie Berners you can purchase.
You may also want to check our articles on reputable breeders for Australian Shepherds and Bernese Mountain Dogs.
Aside from the suggestions above, you may want to read our article for more tips on how to purchase a puppy online.
Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd mixes are not common rescue dogs. However, there are a lot of shelters in different states. With a bit of patience and luck, your next furry friend might be waiting for you.
Here are some rescue organizations you can inquire about if you want to adopt an Aussie Berner mix:
Heart of Michigan Bernese Mountain Dog Rescue – This rescue organization is dedicated to Bernese Mountain Dogs. However, they have been rehoming mixes too. You might want to check them out for an Aussie Bernese mix.
Australian Shepherds Furever – This non-profit organization has been working daily to save Australian Shepherds and give them a second chance at life. Try to inquire and go through their adoption application, as you might find Aussie mixes there too.
NorCal Aussie Rescue – Though dedicated to Australian Shepherds, you may want to test your luck in adopting an Australian Shepherd mix here. You may need a lot of patience since this hybrid is tough to find, but all is worth it.
Here’s an article that features places where you can find Australian Shepherds rescues. There are also plenty of rescue groups that are open to a Bernese Mountain Dog mix as well.
Furthermore, if you want to know more about adopting your next furry companion, check out our ultimate dog adoption guide.
Pros and Cons of Owning an Aussie Bernese Mountain Dog Mix
When crossing two purebred dogs, there are always advantages and disadvantages. That’s why there are a lot of controversies surrounding them. However, they still deserve a loving family and a home.
We’ve listed down the pros and cons of a Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd mix for aspiring owners to make everything fair.
Listed below are some pros of owning a Bernese Aussie mix:
Stunning appearance: Aside from its large size, the looks of an Aussie Bernese Mountain Dog mix can attract anyone’s attention. They have unique color combinations and eye-catching markings that dog lovers admire. Furthermore, there are only a few of them worldwide, making them rare gems.
Long lifespan: As pet owners, we want a furry companion who stays with us through breakthroughs and milestones in life. Despite their size, they have long life expectancies, so you will have plenty of time to make memories with them.
Highly Intelligent: Like their parents, a Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd mix is a natural fast learner. You won’t have trouble training them because they can swiftly pick up commands and cues.
Excellent family pets: This dog breed has the perfect blend of loyalty and affection when it comes to companionship. They have the personality traits that pet owners will surely love. They generally have a calm demeanor, making them great family pets.
On the other hand, here are a few cons of having an Aussie Bernese in your home:
Needs an active owner: This mixed breed has high energy levels. That’s why they need an active owner to match their energies. Without physical activities, your puppy can be bored and may resort to chewing, nipping, and destroying things just to shed off unused energies.
High-maintenance: When it comes to maintaining this dog, you will need to double the effort. A dedicated owner is suitable for them when it comes to cleaning and grooming since they shed a lot and drool.
Not suitable for tiny homes: This mix is surely a large dog. However, we can only estimate how big they can get until they reach adulthood since they came from two dog breeds. They will need a spacious area with a wide yard to call their home.
Tendency to be too attached to their owners: Since they are great family pets, Bernese Aussie mixes often get attached to the one they spend time with the most. Without training them to be independent, they may develop separation anxiety.
These are essential pieces of information to know before deciding to purchase or adopt a Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd mix.
Weighing their pros and cons can help you avoid regret that leads to neglect and abandonment issues in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photo by @daisysprinkles2021 (IG)
Are Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mixes Aggressive?
Although their parent breeds have a history of being great guard dogs, Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mixes do not exhibit aggression towards people and other animals.
They are very calm and affectionate creatures. However, they can still benefit from early socialization and training.
Since they’re working dogs, they may be a little bit high on energy, but their destructive behavior can be diminished with proper exercise.
Do Aussie Bernese Mountain Dog Mixes Shed a Lot?
Unfortunately, Aussie Bernese Mountain Dog mixes shed a lot, especially during the shedding season. However, this can be minimized with regular brushing during normal days. Regular grooming and trimming are also advised.
Are Aussie Bernese Mountain Dog Mixes Hypoallergenic?
Unfortunately, an Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix is not hypoallergenic since they came from two non-hypoallergenic breeds.
Due to this, it’s best to consult your doctor first if you have asthma and are sensitive to fur and dander. Having them in your home may trigger your allergies and result in non-stop sneezing.
Final Thoughts: Is an Aussie Bernese the Right Dog for You?
Like other pups, a Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd mix can be a handful. However, they have features that are indeed stunning despite not being purebred dogs.
Moreover, this dog breed can be an excellent companion for all ages due to its amazing personality and wits. They are also great working dogs with the tendency to guard and herd.
After going through all the factors of owning a Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd mix, I hope you can reach a conclusive decision. Let us know in the comments below if you’re ready for this new family member.
Comments