Bichonpoo vs Bernese Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison

Bichonpoo vs Bernese Mountain Dog - Breed ComparisonBernese Mountain Dog is originated from Switzerland but Bichonpoo is originated from Australia. Bernese Mountain Dog may grow 36 cm / 15 inches higher than Bichonpoo. Bernese Mountain Dog may weigh 47 kg / 104 pounds more than Bichonpoo. Bernese Mountain Dog may live 7 years less than Bichonpoo. Bernese Mountain Dog may have more litter size than Bichonpoo. Bernese Mountain Dog requires Moderate Maintenance. But Bichonpoo requires High Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Companion dog
undefined
Switzerland
Australia
Height Male:
61 - 71 cm
24 - 28 inches
23 - 35 cm
9 - 14 inches
Height Female:
58 - 66 cm
22 - 26 inches
20 - 32 cm
7 - 13 inches
Weight Male:
35 - 55 kg
77 - 122 pounds
3 - 8 kg
6 - 18 pounds
Weight Female:
30 - 50 kg
66 - 111 pounds
2 - 8 kg
4 - 18 pounds
Life Span:
6 - 8 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 15
3 - 5
Size:
Giant
Toy
Other Names:
Berner Sennenhund Bernese Cattle Dog - Berner, Bernese
Poochon • Bichpoo • Bichdoodle • Bichoodle • Bichonpoo • Bichon-Poo • Bichondoodle
Colors Available:
Tri-Black,Rust,White
black, cream, apricot, and blue
Coat:
double, long, thick
soft and curly
Shedding:
Seasonal
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Docile, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Playful, Quiet, Social, Stubborn, Sweet
Affectionate, Alert, Energetic, Friendly, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Outgoing, Playful
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
High Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
Yes
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

History

bernese mountain dogThe Bernese Mountain Dog comes from the Swiss Alps and is one of four separate breeds called Sennenhund or “Alpine pasture dog”. The Name Bernese Mountain Dog indicates the area of Switzerland that the dogs come from – the canton of Bern. These groups of dogs accompanied the dairymen and herders and they were farm dogs. They pulled carts, delivered goods from village to village. The Bernese Mountain Dog was part of this group along with: Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, Appenzeller,Entlebucher Mountain Dog and the Bernese Mountain Dog. It is probably true that the Bernese Mountain Dog has been a part of farm life in the Alps for over 2000 years.

In some regions of the Alps, these dogs were called Durrbachhund after a small town named Durrbah and are said to be rooted in the Molosser breeds. Tin 1902 the Swiss Kennel Club recognized the Bernese Mountain Dog as a separate breed and the first breed club was founded in 1907 in the region of Burgdorf. The first standard for the breed was written and separated the 4 dogs into their own breeds. The Molosser is an ancient breed whose versatility and travels made it expressly influential in the developing of Mastiff dogs like St. Bernards, Great Pyranees, Mastiffs and Swiss Mountain Dogs like the Bernese.

However at the end of the 19th century famers and shepherds began to import other breeds of working dogs, while at the same time automated modes of transportation began to replace the farm dogs. Under these circumstances the number of Bernese Mountain Dog began to decline and the breed faced potential extinction. A group of people were gathered together to save the Berner, including Franz Schertenleib and Albert Heim. Still today the Bernese are in short supply and because of the need and desire to increase the numbers, some breeding practices have not been as good as they should have been. However, today’s Berner is a great family dog and he still loves to work. He is good at carting, herding, search and rescue, watch dog, tracking, and competitive obedience.

The Bernese Mountain Dog came to the US after World War I and was imported to Britain in the 1930’s. The AKC accepted the Berner as a new Working-Class breed in 1937. It was not until 1968 that the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America was formed. In 1981, the AKC accepted the club as a member and in 1990 they (AKC) adopted the standard used today to judge the Bernese Mountain Dog.

bichonpooThis popular little dog was developed by crossing the Poodle with the Bichon Frise to create the Bichonpoo. They are also called the Poochon and sometimes called the Birchpoo. They are a soft, curly breed and they are extremely cute – a very cuddly breed. They are not recognized by the AKC, CKC or the UKC. Some other kennel clubs do accept them and welcome them into obedience and agility trials. The breed was originally developed in Australia as a household pet for those who want a “curly lap dog” that was hypoallergenic, did not shed and had a great temperament for life in families with children. They were first developed in the latter part of the 20th century.

Description

bernese mountain dog puppy - descriptionThe Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, lovable clown. He has a heavy build with a tri color- mostly black – coat. He should have a white chest and rust coloring on the front of his legs, the sides of his mouth, and above his eyes. His eyes should be dark and blue eyes are a disqualification. His coat is silky, thick and long. He has medium sized triangle shaped ears and a scissors bite. He has round toes and strong, straight legs, He is well suited to cold weather. His skull is broad and flat, his muzzle is straight and strong, his nose must be black, and he does not usually drool.

He is an imposing sight, but he is also as non-aggressive as any breed. He is strong, intelligent, and agile. He should have his dew claws removed. This breed should be self-assured, yet good natured and calm. He is welcoming to strangers and loyal to his people. He needs his people.

bichonpoo puppy - descriptionThis Bichon Frise-Poodle cross is a small dog with big personality. The original hybrid is 50% Poodle and 50% Bichon Frise. This is considered a first-generation hybrid. The second-generation hybrid is 50% Bichonpoo and 50% purebred Bichon Frise or Poodle. Then third generation hybrids are a cross between two second generation dogs. There is no fourth generation and most breeders do not offer even a third generation. The original hybrid can be healthier than the parents, but any flaws tend to show up in 2nd generation hybrids and it gets worse with third generation. This dog should be hardy, well-proportioned and robust. They are small, sweet and sturdy. Because there are three different sizes of Poodles, there can be three different sizes of the Bichon Poo – Standard, Mini and Toy.

Characteristics

bernese mountain dog dog - characteristicsWhen reading the AKC standard for the Bernese Mountain Dog you will find that the breed is good natured and self-assured. They are not aggressive, shy or anxious. These are gentle, loving dogs. At the same time, they should be socialized to all kinds of animals, people and children when they are puppies. They are happy outside but need to live in the house with their people. They need exercise and play, and because they are so large, they need this outside. But when it comes to cuddling and sleeping they need to be indoors.

They love children though you should be careful with small children because of the Berner’s size and their not being aware of their size at times. They are extremely loyal to their people and want to be with people. They are intelligent, and they want to please their people. At the same time, they are sensitive. They do not respond well to punishment or harshness. They are imposing but they are lovers at heart.

bichonpoo dog - characteristicsThe Bichonpoo is affectionate, intelligent and active just as you might expect from a Poodle/Bichon Frise cross. He loves people and lives well with other animals. He is particularly fond of children and loves to play with gentle older children. However, the temperament and characteristics of the hybrid are not as predictable as their parents. The characteristics of the Bichonpoo depends upon its lineage – if it is first generation, second generation or third generation. With each successive generation there is less predictability in the characteristics of the individual dog. Regardless of generation, the Bichonpoo will need exercise and mental stimulation. They are loving, good-natured and accommodating to their environment. They want to be with their owner and can get very attached.

Depending on their parents they can be anxious and high strung like the Poodle or nippiness and ‘small dog syndrome’ of the Bichon Frise. Separation anxiety can be a major issue with this breed. Do not let your Bichonpoo become dominate in your home or they will assume the alpha position and become very bossy, especially with children. He is easy to train and a good watchdog as well.

Health Problems

bernese mountain dog puppies - health problemsEven though it is well known that cancer is the leading cause of dog deaths across the globe, the Bernese Mountain Dog is particularly prone to die of cancer. Half of all Berners compared with 27% of all dogs, die from cancer. The Berner’s life span is also shorter than most dogs his size. IT is also not just one cancer that attacks the Bernese Mountain Dog but rather at least 6 or more including mast cell, osteosarcoma, malignant histiocytosis, fibrosarcoma, and lymphosarcoma. They can also suffer from PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), hypoadrenocorticism, cataracts and histiocytic sarcoma. Another issue that plaques the Berner more than other breeds is musculoskeletal issues that cause mortality. This can include issues such as cruciate ligament rupture, arthritis and hip dysplasia. These types of aliments cause death in 6% of the breed while they are usually the cause of mortality in only 2% of all other dogs.

bichonpoo puppies - health problemsThe Bichonpoo is usually healthier than either the Poodle or the Bichon Frise. At the same time, they could inherit any of health concerns of either of their parents in the first generation Bichonpoo. They are however likely to develop ear infections and skin allergies. Cleaning and grooming is essential, especially the ears, but also to prevent matting which could lead to skin infections.

Caring The Pet

Feeding

bernese mountain dog dogs - caringAs with any large purebred dog, the Bernese Mountain Dog needs high quality food that will provide hi with nutrition and keep him from becoming overweight if fed properly. He is however a very large dog with a very large appetite. Watch his calorie intake. It’s ok to use treats if you fit them into the overall calorie intake for the day. Feed him smaller meals twice a day.

Health issues

As previously mentioned the breed has quite a few health challenges to deal with, cancer being the number one issue. The small genetic line is one of, if not the main, culprit in this high mortality rate and short life span of the Bernese Mountain Dog. In addition to the conditions mentioned above, they are also susceptible to bloat (stomach inversion). In addition, they face the conditions mentioned previously and should be tested for dysplasia of the hip and elbow, Von Willebrand’s Disease, Cardiac testing and an eye or ophthalmologist exam.

Exercise and games

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a gentle giant. They have a calm happy demeanor and they love to work. In fact, they need to work. They love children and will quickly give them cart rides. They compete in carting competitions and herding events sponsored by the AKC. They need exercise but not an extreme amount or intense type. A half-hour a day is enough for them. They love long walks or hiking. They are great companions for backpacking or camping. They are also good at tracking, rally, obedience, and agility.

Feeding

bichonpoo dogs - caringThe Bichonpoo is an energetic little dog and needs enough nutrition to keep up with his needs. Feed a Bichonpoo at least twice a day – small meals- and dry food because of dental issues. A high-quality food will help to prevent allegories.

Health issues

The Bichonpoo is the product of the poodle who is prone to bloat and Addison’s Disease and the Bichon Frise who is susceptible to Patella luxation, progressive retinal atrophy and liver shunts. The first generation Bichonpoo should be free of these health concerns. You should be aware that there is a possibility that the first-generation hybrid could contract any of its parents’ illnesses or deficiencies.

Exercise and games

This hybrid is a high energy dog and needs daily exercise in the form of walks and play. They have the intelligence and skill of the Poodle with the energetic desire to play of the Bichon Frise. They need toys and a person to play with. She will need to be both mentally and physically stimulated. If she gets bored she will become destructive and noisy with barks and whines.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Bernese Mountain Dog vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Bernese Mountain Dog vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Bernese Mountain Dog vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Bernese Mountain Dog vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Bernese Mountain Dog vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Bernese Mountain Dog vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Bichonpoo vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Bichonpoo vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Bichonpoo vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Bichonpoo vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Bichonpoo vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Bichonpoo vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Bichonpoo vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Bichonpoo vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Bichonpoo vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Bichonpoo vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Bichonpoo vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Bichonpoo vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Bichonpoo vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Bichonpoo vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Bichonpoo vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Bichonpoo vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Bichonpoo vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Bichonpoo vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Bichonpoo vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Bichonpoo vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Bichonpoo vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Bichonpoo vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Bichonpoo vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Bichonpoo vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Bichonpoo vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison