Bernese mountain dogs are known for their gentle nature and stunning appearance, and they hold a special place in the hearts of many dog lovers.
They stand out from the rest in their herding skills and sociability, making them wonderful family pets. And their abilities go beyond home life; they play important roles as service dogs too. With their size and strength, they can help those with limited mobility maintain balance and stability, and their affectionate nature provides comfort to those dealing with mental health challenges.
When these remarkable Bernese mountain dog traits mix with characteristics from other breeds, it can result in some amazing and unique pups! We’ll share some of our favorite Berner mixes below!
All About Bernese Mountain Dogs!
Before we introduce you to some of the sweetest Bernese mountain dog mixes, let’s make sure you understand Berners first! We’ll tell you a bit about the Bernese mountain dog below.
Bernese Mountain Dog Origin
The Bernese mountain dog, or Berner, originally comes from Switzerland. This large and eye-catching breed is believed to be a cross between farm dogs from the Swiss Alps and mastiffs. They were utilized as general farm dogs and draft animals, pulling carts in the canton of Bern.
The breed officially gained recognition in 1912. After World War I, these dogs found their way to Holland and eventually, to the United States.
The Bernese Mountain Dog’s Appearance
These big furry pals have a distinctive look, thanks to their long, thick, shaggy double coat that’s downright woolly. The Berner’s coat showcases a stunning tri-color palette, blending deep black, pure white, and rich rust hues, with a touch of white between the eyes and at the tip of the tail.
Berners are also big doggos, standing 24 to 28 inches at the withers, and weighing 70 to 120 pounds. The combination of their large size and eye-catching coat make them quite visually captivating
The Bernese Mountain Dog’s Personality
These dogs work hard, but they’re also quite playful. Berners love doing activities with their families, and they’re exceptional adventure buddies.
They’re also smart, watchful, and always ready to play protector for their loved ones, though they might be shy with strangers.
Berners are often slow to mature and might act puppyish for longer than some other breeds, but their intelligence and athleticism shine through, making them excellent for obedience, herding, and tracking activities (their willingness to please doesn’t hurt either!).
Just remember, while they aren’t a super high-energy breed, they’re not apartment-sized pups. They need a big space to roam, but for the most part, they like to be close to their family.
Health Concerns of Bernese Mountain Dogs
While Berners are awesome companions, it’s essential to be aware of a few health conditions they’re susceptible to.
With their warm double coats, Bernese mountain dogs are prone to heatstroke in warm weather, so be sure to keep them cool and comfortable on sunny days. You may even want to consider scheduling their walks for early in the morning or later in the day to avoid the sun at its peak.
Some inherited conditions that some Berners face include two blood diseases (Von Willebrand’s Disease and Histiocytosis), hip dysplasia, and patellar luxation.
Eye conditions, such as progressive retinal atrophy, are also fairly common for the breed, and can ultimately affect their vision.
Grooming a Bernese Mountain Dog
The Berner’s luxurious coat needs some TLC.
Regular brushing is the key to keeping tangles at bay, so aim for several sessions each week. When it comes to bath time, these pups aren’t demanding. One bath every few weeks is all they need to keep their hair in top-notch condition. So, break out the brush, queue up your dog-approved playlist, and get ready for some quality spa sessions with your pooch.
Berners – like all dogs — will also need regular nail trims, so try to get your pooch accustomed to this paw procedure from a young age. Regular tooth brushing is also important to keep those pearly whites gleaming.
23 Brilliant Bernese Mountain Dog Mixes!
What do you get when you mix a friendly, laid-back Bernese mountain dog with a clever, poodle? What about a goofy Lab?
Well, you’re about to find out. We’ll tell you a bit about these and other mixed-breed pups below and show you some of their adorable pics.
1. Labranese (Bernese Mountain Dog x Labrador Retriever)
The Labranese is a paw-sitively delightful and popular mixed breed. Combining the intelligence and gentle nature of the Bernese mountain dog with the focused and outgoing personality of the Labrador retriever, these dogs win hearts wherever they go.
Known for their loyal and loving personalities, they’re perfect for both families who want a true “Velcro dog.” Their sweetness and sociability are sure to win over anyone who crosses their path.
2. Mountain Mastiff (Bernese Mountain Dog x English Mastiff)
The Mountain Mastiff is typically super gentle, making him an ideal companion for kids and families. Their affectionate nature and love for attention make them expert snugglers, but this also means they don’t fancy being left alone for too long.
Protective by nature, these pups are likely to form a strong bond with their families and can be quite vigilant, making them wonderful guardians of the household.
Grooming needs to be a personalized experience for each pup because it’s tough to say which coat they’ll inherit. But since they’re so keen to make you happy, grooming sessions can be an enjoyable experience. While their love for family is unmatched, it’s best to be cautious around other pets and strangers, as their protective instincts may take center stage.
Love mastiffs?
Check out some photos of and info about 16 marvelous mastiff mixes!
3. Cavamountain (Bernese Mountain Dog x Cavalier King Charles Spaniel)
These dogs are known for their exceptionally friendly natures. While some pups of this mix may have an affinity for barking, others might be more quiet and reserved. Separation anxiety is common, so these dogs are happiest when they can spend most of their time being showered with attention by their loved ones.
Their loving disposition and desire to please make them highly trainable, and praise goes a long way when learning new tricks. Cavamountians have a lover-not-a-fighter mentality, so they’re not the best guard dogs, but when it comes to curling up on the couch for heartwarming cuddle sessions, they take first prize.
4. Golden Bernese (Bernese Mountain Dog x Golden Retriever)
The Golden Bernese, also called the Golden Mountain Dog, is a delightful mix, known for his stunning good looks and affectionate nature. These dogs typically inherit the loyalty and affinity for cuddles from both parent breeds, while showing the striking appearance of the Bernese mountain dog, and the friendly, sociable demeanor of the golden retriever.
As they grow, their size may pose a challenge for those living in small spaces, especially if they have the high energy of the retriever parent. But if you have the space and he can get the physical exercise he needs, you’ll have a happy doggo on your hands.
Want more golden retriever mixes?
We’ve got ’em! Check out some of our favorite golden retriever mixes and get ready to “awwww!”
5. Alaskan Bernese (Bernese Mountain Dog x Alaskan Malamute)
The Bernese mountain dog is famed for its soft-hearted temperament, while Alaskan Malamutes are known for their strength and independence. And fortunately, the Alaskan Bernese typically inherits loyalty and playfulness of both parent breeds. These doggos are also devoted to their families and great with children, possessing a calm and easy-going nature.
Before welcoming this delightful crossbreed into your home, be prepared for shedding, as both parent breeds will leave plenty of furry tumbleweed around your home.
6. Dobernese (Bernese Mountain Dog x Doberman)
The Dobernese is a charismatic crossbreed, known for its bold but gentle personality. He exhibits an awesome combination of friendliness, affection, intelligence, and loyalty, while also being alert and quick-witted.
With the Dobernmese, you can expect a furry friend who loves to be part of the family, providing both warm cuddles and a vigilant watch over your home. Whether you have an active lifestyle or prefer cozy nights at home, the Dobernese is likely to adapt and become your loyal and playful companion.
Think Dobies are adorable?
Then you’ll definitely want to check out some of the world’s cutest Doberman mixes!
7. Boxnese (Bernese Mountain Dog x Boxer)
With the Bernese mountain dog’s gentle nature and the boxer’s high-energy level and intelligence, Boxnese are loyal, active, and sharp, making them an excellent fit for many households (and they’re especially good dogs with young kiddos).
The Boxnese typically has black, brown, and white coloring with short hairs that don’t tend to shed as much as a purebred Bernese does. Regular grooming, including nail cutting, bathing, and teeth brushing, is important for maintaining his shiny and neat coat.
8. St. Bernese (Bernese Mountain Dog x St. Bernard)
The St. Bernese combines the Bernese mountain dog’s calming nature with the St. Bernard’s legacy as one of the world’s heaviest dogs. And the results are huge – these dogs can potentially reach weights of 200 pounds.
With a mix of playfulness, charm, and inquisitiveness, the St. Bernese offers a friendly and affectionate temperament and lands pretty much in the middle of the energy spectrum.
9. Chownese (Bernese Mountain Dog x Chow Chow)
Most Chowneses tend to inherit the Bernese mountain dog’s friendly attitude, but others seem to favor the chow side more, leaving them slightly aloof. This kind of demeanor can make them excellent guard dogs, but early socialization is the key to making them feel comfortable around unfamiliar people and other animals.
These dogs are known to be intelligent but training might be a bit tricky if chow’s independent side takes hold. Makin training a positive experience with a consistent routine and lots of positive reinforcement can help to build trust and encourage cooperation for a well-rounded and balanced temperament in this unique mixed breed.
10. Spaniel Bernese (Bernese Mountain Dog x Cocker Spaniel)
The Spaniel Bernese isn’t the most common mixed breed, but he may be one of the friendliest. Both parent breeds are best known for their sweetness and sociability, and it comes as no surprise that their pups follow suit.
You probably won’t find these dogs zipping around all day long; lounging around with the fam is more their speed. Scenic walks around the neighborhood coupled with some playtime in the yard is usually enough action to keep them happy.
Spaniel Berneses aren’t very rebellious and are usually happy if you’re happy. Their desire to please can help make training time a breeze!
Want more spaniel mixes?
Learn about some more of our favorite cocker spaniel mixes!
11. Great Pyreneese (Bernese Mountain Dog x Great Pyrenees)
Meet the Great Pyreneese, the majestic blend of Bernese charm and great Pyrenees poise. They’re the Gandalfs of the dog world — wise, patient, and with an impressive presence that turns heads.
Training them isn’t always easy, though, given the Pyr’s independent nature. Nevertheless, it is possible, if you use plenty of high-value treats and keep things positive and fun.
Do note that this particular Bernese mix is going to shed tons of hair, so he isn’t the best choice for neat freaks.
12. Bernweiler (Bernese Mountain Dog x Rottweiler)
Enter the Bernweiler…mixing the strength and loyalty of a Bernese with the protective instincts of a Rottweiler, these pups are like your personal bodyguards but with extra floof. They take their job seriously, but they’ve also got a goofy side that’s bound to crack you up.
Energy-wise, they’re a bit like a walking battery pack, and they’re always ready to rock. Just make sure you’ve got a lint roller handy; their short, sleek fur tends to leave a fashionable mark wherever they go.
13. Bernesky (Bernese Mountain Dog x Siberian Husky)
With the striking looks of a Siberian husky and the gentle temperament of a Bernese, the Bernesky is like a winter wonderland encapsulated in fur. Energy is their middle name, and they’re the marathon runners of the canine world, so be ready for a pup who’s always up for an adventure.
Training might require a bit of patience; they may have a bit of the independent husky spirit, but the payoff is a companion who’s as clever as he is affectionate. Do they shed a lot? You’d better believe it! But those captivating eyes and the playful antics make it all worth it.
Want more husky mixes?
We’ve assembled 27 of our favorite husky mixes with photos!
14. Berneranian (Bernese Mountain Dog x Pomeranian)
Berneranians are the fluffy fusion of elegance and sass. Picture a Bernese attending a royal ball but with a Pomeranian’s flair for the dramatic. These pocket-sized pups might not have the stature of their Bernese parent, but they’ve got the personality that fills the room. Training these pups can be a bit like working with a diva on set, but their charm and affection make up for the challenges they present.
Their luxurious coats demand a bit of pampering, so professional grooming is a must for some pet parents. Their energy might surprise you; it’s like having a perpetual motion machine of happiness.
15. Bergle (Bernese Mountain Dog x Beagle)
A Bergle is the ultimate sniffing companion, always on a hunt for something new and interesting to find. You can expect these dogs to have a ton of energy and always be up for some playtime in the yard. Training can be a mixed experience as the Beagle’s stubborn streak might make these pups selective about what they want to learn.
Grooming, on the other hand, is a walk in the park; their short coat keeps them looking clean and fresh without much fuss. Just be prepared for those curious eyes to follow every scent trail, turning your walks into delightful scavenger hunts.
16. French Bernese (Bernese Mountain Dog x French Bulldog)
The French Bernese is a sophisticated and charming mixed breed. They tend to inherit the French Bulldog’s independent spirit, which can sometimes create challenges during training, but their affectionate nature compensates for any stubbornness and can make you forget all about all your prior frustrations.
Grooming isn’t especially tricky with these dogs, as their short coat requires pretty minimal pampering. Weekly brushing and a bath every few weeks should do the trick. Get ready for a dog that struts with a French flair and cuddles with Bernese warmth.
17. Bernese Dane (Bernese Mountain Dog x Great Dane)
Combining the Bernese’s friendly demeanor with the Great Dane’s towering presence, the Bernese Dane is a dog that’s part teddy bear, part gentle giant. For their size, they’re surprisingly laid-back and enjoy leisurely strolls more than hardcore sprints.
With the great Dane’s eagerness to please, training is typically a smooth process. Grooming is fairly minimal as their coats don’t require special attention to look their best. These dogs bring both elegance and warmth to your home, making every day feel like a royal affair.
Like massive mutts?
Check out some of our other favorite Great Dane mixes!
18. German Bernese (Bernese Mountain Dog x German Shepherd)
If you want a dog who’s a powerhouse of intelligence and loyalty, the German Bernese might be for you. These dogs strike a good balance in traits, embodying both a friendly attitude and a strong work ethic, for a dog who’s sociable but doesn’t lose focus on important tasks.
Training doesn’t get much easier than with these dogs, given their intelligence, eagerness to learn, and motivation to complete any task you give them. Since they have a double coat, they require regular baths and brushings to keep their hair sleek and healthy. These versatile pups excel in various roles, from family protector to your very own four-legged scholar.
19. Newfouneseland (Bernese Mountain Dog x Newfoundland)
The Newfouneseland is the ultimate water-loving cuddle bug (who may even have webbed feet). Imagine a dog that seamlessly transitions from making a splash in the water to cozying up for a nap on the couch. Their medium energy levels allow them to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Since they love to learn and are naturally cooperative, training is often a fun experience for everyone involved. Grooming is a commitment because of their thick double coat, which needs quite a bit of attention.
20. Bernese Collie (Bernese Mountain Dog x Border Collie)
The Bernese collie is known for his loyalty, intelligence, and problem-solving abilities.
They exhibit a ton of endurance, both mentally and physically, allowing them to thrive in overcoming challenges. They tend to function best when they are consistently engaged, so an active lifestyle with lots of enrichment opportunities is best for keeping their bodies and minds healthy.
Trainability is a notable trait inherited from their border collie parent. Bernese collies are quick learners, and they respond well to consistent training methods, making them adaptable and obedient. They have moderate grooming needs because of their medium-length coat. A brushing a few times a week and a bath once every few weeks should prevent matting and keep them looking nice.
21. Bernakita (Bernese Mountain Dog x Akita)
The Bernakita has an affectionate yet strong personality. They’re serene guardians, always ready to watch over their domain. Their luxurious double coat, though requiring regular grooming, is a small price to pay for the elegance they bring to your home.
Training these dogs might demand a touch of patience, thanks to their Akita independence. But it’s all a learning process that strengthens the bond between you and your Bernakita. These dogs are more than pets; they’re graceful protectors, turning your house into a haven of warmth and security.
Bernese Mountain Dog Mixes: FAQ
Still have some questions about Bernese mountain dog mixes? We’ll answer some of the most common ones below.
What is the best mix with Bernese mountain dog?
When choosing a Bernese mountain dog, it’s all about your personal preference. For those leaning towards playfulness and intelligence, consider the Bernedoodle. Want a dog with some sass? You may want to think about adding a Berneranian to your fam. And if you’re more of a laid-back individual, you might vibe with a St. Bernese.
It’s an important personal choice, so learn about some of your options and find out which mixed breed might be a good match.
Are Bernese mountain dogs non-shedding?
Bernese mountain dogs do shed. It’s part of the deal with their lush double coat. They’ll shed all year long, but it’s typically heaviest I in the spring and fall. To keep the fur situation in check and their coat on point, regular brushing two to three times a week is the way to go.
What are Bernese mountain dogs mixed with?
Bernese mountain dogs are mixed with lots of other breeds to create many different types of lovable mixes, each with a unique set of traits. Some common breeds that are crossed with Bernese mountain dogs include the Great Dane, chow chow, poodle, and Rottweiler.
The mixed breed puppies have a diverse range of sizes, colors, and personalities, making each mix unique. Whether it’s the playful energy from a poodle parent or the protective instincts inherited from a Rottweiler mom, each one offers a delightful blend of characteristics that cater to different preferences. And some traits that might come as a surprise.
What are the 4 types of Bernese mountain dogs?
There are no distinct types of Bernese mountain dogs, but their coat colors can vary. The standard coat colors are black, rust, and white. Black is usually the primary color, with rust-colored markings above the eyes, sides of the mouth, and front of the legs, and white around the chest.
What is the lifespan of a Bernese dog?
The lifespan of a Bernese mountain dog is typically between 6 and 10 years. Some key steps to keep your dog happy and healthy for as long as possible are making sure he’s eating high-quality food, getting the right amount of exercise, early training, and socialization, and going for regular trips to the vet.
Do you have one of the Bernese mountain dog mixes we featured? If so, how is your dog the same? Or different? Let us know in the comments!
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