The Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog is a unique hybrid dog that is recently gaining traction in the pet world. Unsurprisingly, anyone will take a liking to this mixed-breed pooch.
As a gentle and energetic giant, this mix is a genetic wonder — you cannot predict what you are going to get. Thus, you should know its parent breeds well.
If you are looking to get your hand on an Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix, then you’re on the right page. This article will inform you of its origin, health issues, temperament, and more.
Breed Overview
| Height: | 18 – 25 inches |
| Weight: | 50 – 115 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 12 – 16 years |
| Coat Colors: | Tri-color or bi-color, with combinations of colors, such as white, black, gray, blue, red, merle, blue merle |
| Temperament: | Loyal, intelligent, energetic, protective |
| Suitable for: | Active owners and families with big homes |
What Is an Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix?
The Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix is the cross of an Australian Shepherd and a Bernese Mountain Dog. Also known as the Aussie Bernese or Bernese Aussie. This hybrid pooch combines two large breeds that were raised for farm work, which explains this mix’s large stature and work drive.
Appearance-wise, this breed may look more or less like the Australian Shepherd or Bernese Mountain Dog, depending on how genetics play out.
When it comes to temperament, this mix will most likely have the cuddly and gentle disposition of a big soft furry friend. After all, Australian Shepherds and Bernese Mountain Dogs exhibit this trait.
However, as there are many polar differences between the two breeds, Aussie Bernese dogs may differ in appearance and traits from one another.
Fortunately, this is nothing to worry about since most Aussie Bernese mixes turn out to be excellent dogs. More often than not, this hybrid dog grows up to be a well-rounded pet that will suit most households.
As with most mixed-breed dogs, however, the Aussie Bernese Mountain Dog is not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). Luckily, this does not take away from their worthiness as household companions.
Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix Origin and History
The process of crossbreeding dogs is often undocumented. Unfortunately, the Bernese Aussie mix is not an exception to this. That said, there is no concrete evidence that links this hybrid to its origin.
As with other mixed-breed dogs, they are believed to have come from accidental or intentional breeding. Aside from this, there is not much to unravel about the origin of the mix.
Luckily, we can take a look at the history of its parent breeds to get a hint of why and how this crossbreed came to be.
For starters, Australian Shepherds are originally known as “Spanish Shepherds.” Contrary to popular belief, this dog was not bred and raised in Australia but, rather, in Spain.
Aussie Shepherds were used as herding dogs but slowly became household companions as years went by. To this day, some Aussie Shepherds are still used on farms.
On the other hand, Bernese Mountain Dogs were also raised for farm work — herding and guarding. Originating from Switzerland, Berners were originally bred for pulling milk carts and providing security over a territory.
Given the similar history and purpose of its parent breeds, Bernese Mountain Dog Aussie mixes are likely bred to be cuddly, working dogs and well-rounded household pets.
Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix Appearance
In general, Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd mixes are elegant dogs with quite a diverse feature set. As expected, this hybrid may take more traits from either one of its two parents.
If it is closer to its Australian Shepherd parent, you can expect its muzzle to be pointier and more defined. Meanwhile, the snout will be rounder and a bit stubby if it inherits its facial features from a Bernese Mountain Dog.
As both parents have floppy and hairy ears, this hybrid dog is almost always guaranteed to sport the same set of ears.
Furthermore, Aussie Bernese mixes usually sport medium-length tails, but some may also inherit the bobbed tail from the Australian Shepherd.
Out of all the physical features of this hybrid, its coat is the trickiest to predict. For starters, it can have a tri-color coat of black, white, and rust or tan.
Meanwhile, it may also take on the black, red, red merle, or blue merle from its Australian Shepherd parent. This mixed-breed dog may also inherit the coat quality of either parent.
Watch this video to have a glimpse of what an Aussie Bernese puppy looks like:
Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix Size and Weight
The Aussie Bernese mix usually grows to a height of 18 to 25 inches and a weight ranging from 50 to 100 pounds. These height and weight ranges will depend greatly on an individual dog’s genetics as well as on gender.
Female Aussie Berner mixes 18 to 23 inches tall and weighs 50 to 65 pounds. Meanwhile, most male Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dogs weigh 70 to 115 pounds and measure 20 to 25 inches in height.
Usually, a smaller stature is an indication that your Aussie Berner takes more from its Australian Shepherd lineage, while a larger size inherits more from the Bernese Mountain Dog.
Given the size of this hybrid dog, you can expect that it needs ample space to run around. This means your pooch can benefit from a spacious backyard to play around in or on regular trips to the park.
Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix Temperament and Personality
Australian Mountain Dogs are loyal, intelligent, energetic, and protective. Although this is generally true for this hybrid, you should not expect all of these traits from every Aussie Berner mix you encounter.
As always, environment, training, and past experiences need to be considered when determining the temperament and personality of a dog.
That said, one thing is for sure: most Aussie Berner mixes are very active. This trait is due to the functional role of their parents. Being born from working dogs, being high energy is ingrained in this mix.
Because of this, you should expect your dog to have a high work drive and lots of energy. If this energy is not properly regulated through work and play, this hybrid dog will likely be destructive.
On the other hand, Aussie Berner mixes excel when it comes to socialization and attitude toward people. These dogs are warm and loving and will do anything to please their owners.
In some instances, this hybrid pooch may also be shy and reserved, making them aloof at times. Exposing them to interactions early in their life will help them be more engaged in interactions.
If you have other pets or kids at home, you’d be pleased to know that the Aussie Shepherd Berner mix will do well with them. This is especially true if they are raised together.
Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix Lifespan and Health Issues
The average lifespan of an Aussie Bernese mix is 12 to 16 years. Meanwhile, its parent breeds, the Australian Shepherds and Bernese Mountain Dogs, live from 12 to 15 years and 7 to 10 years, respectively.
Despite its long lifespan, Aussie Berners can be prone to a handful of health conditions, such as the following:
- Bloat: Also known as gastric dilation volvulus, this condition happens when air is trapped inside your pet’s stomach, preventing the blood from returning to the heart. This condition is a medical emergency and must be rectified immediately.
- Hip and elbow dysplasia: Dysplasia, in general, is a physical condition characterized by misfitting joints that cause severe pain and immobility. Breeds that are prone to this issue are usually provided with glucosamine supplements.
- Von Willebrand’s disease (vWD): Von Willebrand’s disease is an inherited disease characterized by an insufficient amount of protein needed for platelets to clot. Unfortunately, this is quite common in Berner Aussie mixes.
Screening tests and regular vet trips are two things you should do to keep your Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix healthy.
Regular physical activity and a healthy diet will give your dog a greater chance of staying away from these life-altering conditions.
How to Take Care of Your Bernese Aussie Mix
Taking care of your Aussie Bernese mix can be challenging, especially if it’s your first time owning an active, working dog. In this section, we will go through some helpful pointers on how to take care of your Bernese Aussie mix.
Food and Diet
Generally, an Aussie Bernese mix will require a diet that is suitable for its weight and life stage. In general, this dog needs to eat calorie-dense puppy food during puppyhood and appropriate adult dog food once it reaches maturity.
Some owners of this hybrid swear by feeding raw food or a homemade diet, which include chicken, fish, and other vegetables. If you wish to explore this option, it is highly recommended to consult a licensed vet first.
Because large dogs can be prone to joint and bone problems, you may also add fish oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin supplements to your Aussie Bernese Mountain Dog’s diet.
Aside from food, you must also pay attention to your dog’s hydration. Keep their water bowls filled at all times. If possible, it is also recommended to stick to healthy dog treats and dental chews.
Cleaning and Grooming
Australian Shepherds and Bernese Mountain Dogs are hairy pups with thick coats. Thus, the hybrid of these tends to have a high-maintenance fur.
You can expect your Aussie Bernese mix to have a medium to long coat. To keep your dog’s coat healthy, it is suggested to brush them every day to avoid matting.
Although dirt on their coats is barely noticeable, it is better to bathe these dogs regularly. This will keep them clean and tidy and prevent matting and bacteria build-up.
If you can shell out a bit more, having your pet groomed at a professional dog salon will greatly help. This is a good way to thoroughly wash your dog and have their nails clipped, ears cleaned, and teeth brushed.
Training and Exercise
The Aussie Bernese mix is an active crossbreed that is easy to train but has demanding exercise needs. This dog is a charm during training but will definitely take a toll on you when it comes to working out.
The first thing to do after bringing home your Aussie Berner is to engage it in socialization training. Do this alongside potty training and crate training.
Alongside these training methods, you must take your pooch on regular runs, hikes, and strolls to nearby parks and playgrounds.
This will keep them mentally and physically engaged while getting accustomed to common, day-to-day sounds and scents.
Once full-grown, you should keep engaging your pooch in regular exercise. Preferably, the amount of exercise it needs must be 1 to 2 hours long, depending on intensity.
How Much Does an Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses
Buying an Aussie Bernese mix puppy from a reputable breeder can set you back between $500 and $2,000. If its parents are from a champion line or a renowned pedigree, you can expect this price to be higher.
Demand, location, and coat color also affect the price of this hybrid. For comparison, Australian Shepherds cost $600 to $3,000, while Bernese Mountain Dogs cost $1,200 to $3,000.
If you are tight on budget, you may choose to adopt an Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix from shelters for about $150 to $500.
Aside from the cost of the dog itself, here are some initial expenses you may want to consider before getting an Australian Bernese Mountain Dog mix:
| Type of Expense | Cost |
| Food and Treats | $80 – $150 |
| Bowls | $15 – $40 |
| Toys | $30 – $100 |
| Beds | $50 – $300 |
| Collars and Leashes | $15 – $50 |
| Crates and Carriers | $60 – $500 |
| Grooming Essentials | $50 – $250 |
| Initial Vet Visits | $100 – $500 |
| Initial Vaccine Shots | $50 – $300 |
| Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications | $40 – $300 |
| Neutering or Spaying | $50 – $500 |
| Microchipping | $40 – $60 |
| Dog License | $10 – $20 |
| Other Essentials | $30 – $80 |
| Total Initial Cost | $620 – $3,150 |
Some of the above-mentioned costs are one-time expenses, while others are recurring. Some recurring expenses include food, health care, and other essentials.
It is important to prepare yourself financially before adding a new dog to the family. Failing to do so might affect the quality of life of your dog as well as your financial well-being.
Places to Find Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mix Puppies for Sale and Adoption
It is rare to find a breeder that exclusively breeds and sells hybrid puppies. Often, reputable breeders focus on purebred dogs. Despite this, you may still find some trusted sources if you know where to look.
To get you started, here are some reputable sources where you may find an Australian Bernese Mountain Dog mix:
- Keystone Puppies – Keystone Puppies is an online platform where you can find ethical breeders. The organization running this website ensures that both owners and breeders are background-checked. Check out their listings from time to time to see if they have Aussie Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mixes available.
- Greenfield Puppies – Greenfield Puppies runs a background check on all the breeders advertising on their platform. They do this to ensure they do not tolerate backyard breeders and puppy mills. Visit their listings from time to time to see if an Aussie Berner is available.
- Lancaster Puppies – Lancaster Puppies is a website that puts emphasis on the safety of puppies. They thoroughly screen the breeders before they are allowed to post on their site. Constantly visit their site to check for available Aussie Bernese dogs.
Meanwhile, if you are more inclined to adopt a dog, consider the following sources on where you may find an adoptable Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd mix:
- Adopt-a-Pet – This website lists all kinds of pets that are up for adoption. They partner with thousands of shelters from all over the country to help potential pet owners find their next companions. Consider looking for a Bernese Aussie mix on this site. Use their filters to find the one that suits you best.
- Heart of Michigan Bernese Mountain Dog Rescue – While they are focused on Bernese Mountain Dogs, this rescue occasionally rehomes Berner mixes such as the Aussie Berner. Contact them and see if they have one up for adoption.
- Australian Shepherd Furever – This rescue organization rehabilitates and rehomes unwanted Aussie Shepherd dogs and Aussie Shepherd mixes. Reach out to them and ask if they have a Bernese Aussie mix under their care.
Alternatively, you can connect with breeders of Australian Shepherd and Bernese Mountain Dogs. On rare occasions, these reputable breeders also venture into raising and selling hybrids.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Bernese Aussie Mix
It is tricky to tell whether mixed breeds are better than their purebred counterparts. Nevertheless, all dogs should be loved and treated like precious companions. That said, all kinds of pets come with drawbacks.
If you plan on adding an Aussie Bernese mix to your family, here are some of the pros you should expect:
- Unique appearance. Because of the rich genetic diversity of its parents, the coat of an Aussie Bernese is one-of-a-kind. Their coats usually sport colors that give a unique charm.
- Intelligent and hardworking. Because this breed reigns from farming and herding lineages, you can expect an Aussie Bernese mix to be intelligent and hardworking. They are easy to train and quick to learn commands. If raised well, they can be great companions.
- Family and child-friendly. Aside from their intelligence, their loving temperaments make them perfect pets. Their loyalty and affection are like no other. They have everything you are looking for in a companion.
On the other hand, here are some cons you may want to consider before getting an Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix:
- High maintenance. Due to its thick coat, regular cleaning and grooming sessions are required to keep an Aussie Berner mix clean and sharp-looking. This can be time-consuming or expensive, depending on who grooms your dog.
- Highly active. Because of its parent breeds’ high work drive, the Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix needs plenty of physical activities. Hence, for busy people, this dog may be too challenging to keep up with.
- Needs to live in a spacious area. Due to its size and activity level, a Bernese Aussie mix will need a roomy space to live in. While they can thrive in small spaces, they will need regular access to a spacious backyard or park where they can use up their pent-up energy.
Before adopting an Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix, make sure that you fully understand the pros and cons mentioned above.
Owning a pet comes with many responsibilities. Hence, weighing the upsides and downsides of a particular breed is something that must not be overlooked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mixes Good Family Dogs?
Yes, Aussie Bernese dogs are excellent family dogs. These hybrid pooches rarely have behavioral problems unless raised horribly or mistreated.
However, do take note that training is still important in making sure your dog grows up well-behaved.
Do Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mixes Shed?
Yes, Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mixes shed. In fact, they shed quite heavily, similar to their parent breeds. This is especially true during shedding season when they lose the most amount of hair.
Are Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog Mixes Hypoallergenic?
No. As this mixed breed is quite a shedder, it is also not hypoallergenic. That said, if any members of your household suffer from allergies, you must think twice about getting a Bernese Mountain Dog Australian Shepherd mix.
Final Thoughts
Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mixes are adorable and loyal pets that are best suited for active families with large spaces.
This hybrid dog is brilliant, energetic, cuddly, and lovable. Overall, this pooch makes an enjoyable companion that is full of energy. Although they shed heavily, their loose fur can be managed through regular grooming.
Another thing to be prepared for when owning this breed is the relatively expensive cost of acquiring and maintaining one. This is in addition to its high demand for physical activities.
So, are you taking home this mixed-breed dog soon? Let us know your thoughts about the Australian Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog in the comments!
