Hybrid dogs are becoming increasingly popular, offering the best traits of two popular breeds wrapped up into one canine companion. One of the most intriguing mixed breeds on the rise is the Bernese Mountain Dog crossed with the Siberian Husky: the Bernese Mountain Dog Husky mix. Sometimes called the Bernsky or Berner Husky, this crossbreed combines the mild-mannered loyalty of the Bernese with the energetic enthusiasm of the Husky.
For experienced owners looking for a friendly, intelligent, and strikingly beautiful dog, the Bernese Husky presents the perfect blend of parent breeds. But bringing these two dogs together results in some unique considerations around personality, health, and care requirements. Read on to learn if the Bernese Mountain Dog and Husky mix could be the right pet for your family.
History and Origin
To understand what goes into a Bernese Husky, let’s take a closer look at each contributing breed.
The Bernese Mountain Dog
With roots as a Swiss farm dog, the Bernese Mountain Dog was bred to be a hardy, strong working dog. Their heritage stems from the Roman Mastiffs brought to Switzerland by invading Roman legions. Over the centuries, these Mastiffs mixed with local flock guarding dogs to become the foundation of the Bernese Mountain Dog we know today. The name comes from the area where the breed was refined and standardized: Bern, Switzerland.
Some key attributes and facts about the Bernese Mountain Dog:
- Large, muscular build with incredible strength and endurance. Historically used to pull carts and drive cattle long distances.
- Known for its loyal, affectionate nature with family but slightly wary of strangers. Devoted protectors.
- Thick, moderately long tri-colored coat of black, white, and rust. Requires frequent brushing.
- Height ranges from 23-27.5 inches (58–70 cm), weight between 70–115 lbs (32–52 kg).
The Siberian Husky
In contrast to the Bernese Mountain Dog, the Siberian Husky was bred as a endurance sled dog for the harsh Arctic climate. Huskies helped ancient Chukchi tribes in Siberia travel and transport goods across frozen landscapes. Some key notes on this energetic breed:
- Medium-sized but very athletic, compact build designed for speed and agility. High energy for running and working all day.
- Outgoing, friendly personality. Loves being around people and other dogs. Not typically used for protection.
- Thick, weather-proof double coat that comes in a variety of colors like black, white, grey, copper, or red. Heavy seasonal shedding.
- Height is 20-23.5 inches (51–60 cm) and weight 35-60 lbs (16–27 kg).
The Hybrid
With the rising popularity of designer dogs over purebreds, intentional crossing of the Bernese Mountain Dog and Siberian Husky likely began a few decades ago in North America. Breeders quickly realized that combining the handsome looks and loyal temperament of the Bernese with the energetic exuberance of the Husky resulted in a unique and appealing hybrid.
The mix also likely occurred accidentally, as these two pure breeds gained traction as family pets. Wherever the Berner Husky originated, fans love this hybrid for its stunning appearance and endearing personality.
Physical Characteristics
When envisioning this crossbreed, the Bernese Mountain Dog father contributes the larger size and sturdy frame while the Husky mother lends athleticism and color variety.
Size and Build
The Bernese Mountain Dog Husky mix is considered a medium to large breed, typically ranging from 45-80 lbs (20-36 kg) once fully grown. Height at the shoulder is around 20-25 inches (51-63 cm).
The build tends to be solid but agile – slightly smaller than a Bernese but more substantial than the willowy Husky. You can expect a moderately long, muscular body on a sturdy frame that’s equipped for activity. Their necks and muzzles are typically longer than a purebred Bernese.
Coat and Coloring
When it comes to the coat, this crossbreed inherits the thick, lush double coats of both parent breeds. Expect a medium-long outer layer with a wooly undercoat. Bernese Husky coats require frequent brushing to control shedding and tangling.
An intriguing aspect of this hybrid dog is the variety of potential coat colors, thanks to the Siberian Husky’s diverse palette. While some Bernese Huskies sport the signature black, white and rust of the Bernese Mountain Dog, others exhibit grey, brown, copper, or cream in different patterns. Red and white or tri-color coats are also common in puppies.
Facial Features
The face of the Bernese Mountain Dog mixed with Husky reflects aspects of both parental breeds. Almond shaped eyes can be blue, green, or brown. Ears are somewhat large and triangular. The muzzle tends to be longer than a purebred Bernese but not as pointed as a typical Husky.
Temperament and Personality
A breed’s temperament and personality are shaped both by genetics and early life experiences. While each individual dog is unique, Bernese Mountain Dog Husky mixes generally exhibit some predictable traits inherited from their parent breeds.
Energy Level
Since Huskies were born to run and Bernese Mountain Dogs could work all day, it’s no surprise that the Bernese Husky mix is an energetic breed. Expect high activity levels that demand regular vigorous exercise. Without sufficient outdoor time and activity, these hybrids may become bored and destructive.
The Bernese side balances some of the Husky’s intense drive, but Berner Huskies still need active homes willing to provide daily exercise. Mental stimulation through training and interactive toys is also important.
Trainability and Intelligence
From the Bernese Mountain Dog comes a devotion to people and eagerness to please. Husky mixes are often receptive to positive training methods using rewards and praise. But the independent Siberian Husky lineage may sometimes lead to mild stubbornness or difficulty focusing.
Consistent, patient training is key to nurturing this hybrid’s intelligence and bringing out their best behavior. The Bernese parentage also contributes a loyal protectiveness that helps reinforce socialization to prevent over-guarding tendencies.
Sociability
Few breeds enjoy being around people and making new friends as much as the Siberian Husky. So it’s no surprise that the Bernese Mountain Dog and Husky mix is often outgoing, social, and excels in family environments. Proper socialization prevents any wariness towards strangers inherited from the Bernese Mountain Dog side.
With early exposure to different places, people, and stimuli, the Bernese Husky becomes a confident, adaptable companion animal. They get along well with children and thrive when included in family activities and adventures.
Protective Instincts
The loyalty and gentle protectiveness characteristic of the Bernese Mountain Dog combines with the affable friendliness of Huskies in this crossbreed. Most Berner-Huskies bond deeply with their family and aim to please pack leaders. They alert bark when they sense something amiss but are rarely aggressive when properly socialized.
Health and Longevity
All dogs, including mixes like the Bernese Mountain Dog crossed with Husky, may be prone to certain health conditions based on their genetics. Reputable breeders screen parent dogs for major issues seen in both founding breeds. Adopters should also watch for these potential concerns.
Bernese Mountain Dog Health Issues
- Hip and elbow dysplasia – malformation of these joints. Can cause arthritis and lameness over time.
- Cancer – leukemia, mast cell tumors. Berneses have higher cancer rates than other breeds.
- Bloat – life-threatening twisting of the stomach. Requires emergency surgery if symptoms appear. Avoid exercising before and after eating.
Siberian Husky Health Issues
- Eye problems – cataracts, glaucoma, corneal dystrophy. Should have eyes examined annually by a vet.
- Thyroid disorder – hypothyroidism. Causes lethargy, weight gain, hair loss. Managed with daily medication.
- Allergies – both food and environmental. Causing itchy skin or chronic ear infections.
Lifespan
The average lifespan for most husky bernese mountain dog mix dogs falls between 10 to 14 years. Providing excellent nutrition, regular vet checks, and proper preventative care helps ensure a long, healthy life.
Importance of Health Screening
Work only with responsible breeders who screen for issues present in both parental breeds. Once adopted, be diligent about annual vet exams and be proactive about early health screening. Tests for hips, elbows, eyes, and thyroid can help catch problems before they progress.
Care and Maintenance
While their charming good looks appeal to many, the Bernese Mountain Dog crossed with Husky does have some care requirements to consider. Their exercise needs, grooming demands, and training challenges are not for novice pet owners.
Exercise Requirements
The Bernese Mountain Dog mix with Husky thrives on vigorous daily activity. Expect to provide a minimum of 30-60 minutes of exercise split into at least two sessions. These high-energy hybrids enjoy having a job or task involving both physical and mental engagement.
Ideas for exercise include hiking, jogging, swimming, or pulling carts and sleds. Interactive games will also stimulate their mind and prevent boredom. Have sturdy leashes and fences as their strength may challenge your control.
Grooming Needs
With a thick double-coat from both parent breeds, expect year-round shedding and seasonally heavy “blowing” of the undercoat. Bernese Husky dogs require regular brushing 2-3 times per week as well as monthly baths to control loose hair and keep their coat clean.
Their facial fur is prone to matting if not brushed. Use a pin brush and undercoat rake to reach the insulating undercoat. Schedule professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for a tidy finish. Daily coat upkeep prevents painful mats or skin irritations.
Dietary Needs
These energetic working breeds need high-quality dog food to fuel their activity and maintain lean muscle mass. Select an age-appropriate formula for large breed puppies or adults. Follow feeding guidelines based on your hybrid’s ideal weight.
Limit bif fillers like corn, wheat, soy, or by-products. Opt for meat-based proteins like chicken, lamb, or fish. Add in omega fatty acids for a shiny coat. Avoid overfeeding and divide daily portions into two or three smaller meals.
Training Requirements
Early socialization and consistent training helps any dog become a well-adjusted, obedient companion. The Bernese Mountain Dog and Husky mix is intelligent but can be independent thinkers. Positive reinforcement and firm patience works best.
Sign up for puppy kindergarten followed by obedience classes. Practice basic cues like sit, stay, come, down, heel. Teach not to pull or jump during leash walks. Maintain rules and boundaries while encouraging this hybrid’s exuberance and playfulness when appropriate.
Suitability as a Family Pet
Are you wondering if the Bernese Husky would fit into your home? Here are some considerations around their appropriateness as family companions.
Compatibility with Children and Pets
Thanks to the playfulness of Siberian Huskies, most Berner/Husky crosses are gentle and friendly with children – assuming early socialization occurred. Supervise young kids to prevent ear or tail pulling. Proper training also helps ensure good behavior around other household pets.
Space Requirements
While adaptable, these active dogs reach medium to large sizes exceeding 50 pounds. They perform best in homes with fenced backyards versus small apartments or condos. Access to outdoor play and exercise is ideal. If confined to smaller living spaces, commit to providing long daily walks.
Time Commitments
Bernese Mountain Dogs mixed with Huskies crave companionship and don’t do well left alone for long periods. Expect to provide substantial time for training, play, and interaction, especially when young. Adults may tolerate alone time but prefer having family nearby as much as possible.
Excessive Barking
The vocal tendencies of Huskies may emerge in this cross, so be prepared for potential “talking” and baying. Reduce problem barking by providing adequate exercise outlets and avoiding isolation.
Grooming Efforts
This mix sheds year-round and seasonally “blows” its thick undercoat. Without brushing several times per week, hair will cover your home. You must commit to regular grooming to keep their beautiful coat under control.
Tips for Prospective Owners
Deciding to add a Bernese Mountain Dog crossed with a Siberian Husky to your family is a big commitment. Here are some tips to help evaluate if this dog is the right fit.
- Research both parent breeds thoroughly to understand this hybrid’s potential traits and needs.
- Be ready to provide vigorous daily exercise plus access to a fenced yard. These are not low-energy apartment dogs.
- Prepare for year-round shedding and seasonal “blowing” of their thick coats. Regular brushing is a must.
- Invest time and consistency into early socialization and training to nurture the best possible temperament.
- Select a breeder carefully and ask about health screens performed on the parents.
- Get pet insurance and schedule annual vet checks to stay on top of potential health issues.
- Establish rules and boundaries but also encourage playtime and adventure. This mix needs structure but thrives when able to use their energy.
- Provide plenty of toys and activities to prevent boredom-based destruction. These are working dogs that need jobs.
Conclusion
The Bernese Mountain Dog and Siberian Husky mix offers the best of both worlds: a friendly loyal companion with tons of energy and character. Their stunning good looks and enthusiasm for life appeal to many. But these hybrids do require experience and preparation for a smooth human-canine partnership.
When raised in an active home by owners able to provide structure, exercise, training, and grooming, the Bernese Husky shines as an agreeable family dog. Their zest and eagerness to please make each day an adventure. For those up to the challenge, the payoff of owning this unique crossbreed is immense. The Bernese Husky will eagerly repay your efforts with unconditional love while never passing up opportunities to play.
Reader’s Interaction
Have you added a Bernese Mountain Dog crossed with Husky mix to your family? Share your experiences, tips, photos, or stories of life with this energetic hybrid in the comments below! Prospective owners would love to hear more about this breed from current Berner Husky owners.
What advice do you have around training, exercise needs, grooming, and health considerations? How did you manage their exuberance and activity levels? What words would you use to describe their personality? Let us know more about what makes this hybrid so special!