Siberian Huskys have long been a desirable breed for their gorgeous, unique looks and their playful, boisterous personalities. In this day and age, Husky mixes of any kind are among the most popular pets in America. You have probably already heard of the Pomsky, the Rottsky, or even the hilarious Pimsky. But have you heard of the latest and greatest Husky creation? Let us present: The Bernsky.
The Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mix, also known as the Bernsky, is a newly popular designer breed. In recent years, they have become increasingly sought after by families who are looking for an active, playful, and unique family pet.
But what kind of dog is the Bernsky? How hard are they to care for, and do the playful (and sometimes chaotic) personalities of the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Siberian Husky blend well?
We have created this guide to give you a deep understanding of the Bernsky, helping you decide whether or not this is the breed for you.
The Origins Of The Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mix
Most designer breeds have an ambiguous history. The Bernese Mountain Dog Husky mix is no different. Pinning down an exact innovation date for this designer breed is nearly impossible. However, what we do know is that they are a relatively new addition to the mixed breed family.
Luckily, both parent breeds (the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Husky) have a more easily attainable (and documented) history. The history of these two parent breeds is the best place to start when you want to understand the Bernsky.
The Bernese Mountain Dog has been a popular breed for centuries. Originating in Switzerland, this breed was the farmers’ dog of choice. Perfectly designed with superior strength and bravery, the Berner was, and still is, the ultimate protector. Swiss farmers would often choose the Bernese Mountain Dog to herd farm and pasture animals in frigid weather. Today, the Bernese Mountain Dog has become a popular family pet and is regularly seen in show competition circles.
On the other hand, the Siberian Husky was initially bred to be a sledding dog, working in packs to transport their handlers across vast, frozen plains. Huskys have long been regarded as hardworking and devoted workers. Nowadays, Huskys are still using their powerful cores to pull large loads via sled.
They can also be found participating in agility and obedience competitions and the show circuit. Siberian Huskys are built to be incredibly athletic. Their small, slender bodies are surprisingly strong and they have been bred to run for hours on end without becoming tiresome.
While the Bernsky has minimal recorded history as its own unique breed, you can already see they are bound to be a rather special mix based on their exciting parent history.
What Does The Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mix Look Like?
The appealing and captivating appearance of Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mixes is one of the main reasons for their gaining popularity. Like all mix-breeds, they get their looks and other characteristics from their ever-loving parent breeds, the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Siberian Husky.
Overall Appearance
Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mixes have a robust square body with a fluffy coat and tail. The features of their head and face are generally more Husky-like with a narrow face and pointer muzzle that sports a jet-black nose. Their beautiful bright blue eyes are to die for, also a “hat-tip” to their Husky parent traits.
Their small, pointy ears rise in a standing position when they are excited or alert. Lastly, they have strong, medium-sized furry legs and paws built to carry the body’s weight.
Coat and Color
Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mixes are fluffy pups having dense double coats: an undercoat and a luscious outer coat. Depending on the traits they receive from their parent breeds, these litters can have diversified colors and patterns.
The Huskies are well known for their short but thick coat in variable colors and patterns. The most common color is pure black or a charming mix of black and white. However, there may also sport colors of solid white, grey, silver, copper, red, and sable shades.
Similarly, the Bernese Mountain Dogs have long coats with typical tri-color markings in black, white, and brown. So, the different colors and patterns of the Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mix depend largely on the genetics of both their Siberian Husky parent, combined with typical Bernese Mountain Dog markings.
The coats are usually medium in length (a perfect in-between of the Bernese Mountain Dog and Husky). They can also have long coats, albeit it is less common. Although these canines thrive well in winters, their coat will effectively protect them from the summer heat.
Size and Height
Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mixes are considered large breed dogs. The Bernese Mountain Dog has a bigger size when compared to the Husky, in regards to height and weight. In this regard, Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mixes have their heights closer to their Husky parent (shorter than a Berner, but still large pups).
A male adult Bernsky mix can reach the height of 25 inches and a female adult at 23 inches. Their weight is around 50 to 100 pounds. However, it all depends on their parent breeds’ overall health and genetics.
Considering their size and lively nature, they don’t belong in small homes and apartments. Instead, they require big spaces to explore and thrive.
Bernese Mountain Dog Husk Mix Personality
Bernese Mountain Dog Husk Mixes have such a lovely temperament and astute intelligence that you can’t help but fall in love with them. A huge “thank you” from the dog-lovers community to their parent breeds for passing on the very best of their own traits.
Bernese Mountain Dog Husk Mix are some of the most social, friendly, and people-oriented breeds. They get their warm, affectionate, and loyal traits from the Bernese Mountain Dogs. On the other hand, their energy, confidence, brilliance, and socialization come from Husky traits. They are also very high-spirited and playful, perfect for active families.
They know their masters and respect them. Moreover, they are gentle with kids and don’t hate other dogs either. Nonetheless, they have tendencies to be stubborn and aggressive if provoked.
Lastly, they have a habit of wandering around, like their Husky ancestors. Siberian Huskies were born to roam. That’s why you should keep a close eye on them and build boundaries. However, be mindful that these are intelligent pups, always coming up with new ways to get away and giving you a hard time. They can be the ultimate escape artists.
How To Care For Your Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mix
Like all pups, Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mixes require your constant care and time. Ignore them for a while, and be prepared to have a tough time. You need to invest your attention in grooming, feeding, exercising, and training these adorable munchkins. So, before getting yourself a new pet, learn how to take care of them.
Grooming
Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mixes are considered moderate to heavy shedders that depend on the season. They shed less in winters. However, be prepared to brace your vacuum cleaners in spring and fall because it’s the season they shed more.
The grooming sessions ensure that your pup is clean and healthy. You need to comb the coat with a wide-toothed comb once a week to keep the hair from matting.
You also need to comb your dog with metal flea for flea inspection. Don’t forget any area like the under-tail area or the belly. You can bathe your pup every one to two months with mild soap to keep them clean. However, don’t make these bathing sessions overly frequent to help build natural oils.
Don’t ignore their eyes, nose, ears, and teeth while grooming sessions, as it can lead to health concerns. Use a cotton ball soaked in vet-approved to clean their ears. Also, clip their nails every three to four weeks.
If you are unsure how to groom them, you can book an appointment with a professional groomer once every two or three months. This way, your pup will receive professional care, and you might learn a tip or two. However, professional grooming can cost a pretty penny.
Exercise
Thanks to the energy of both parent breeds, the Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mix is an active and highly spirited breed. Therefore, they need vigorous activity to meet their energy needs. It is also vital for your dog’s health and happiness.
You can take them hiking, jogging, or running with other dogs for 30 minutes to one hour. Except in hot weather, don’t shy away from the strenuous exercise with these gorgeous canines.
Feeding
Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mixes are not considered difficult to feed. They get their eating patterns from their Husky ancestors and are generally easy-to-please eaters with a ravenous appetite. It is important to monitor their food intake to avoid obesity and other comorbidities.
Their diet usually consists of 1.5 to 2 cups of dry or wet food. The young pups require three meals a day, whereas the adult pup takes two meals. Nonetheless, you need to provide high-quality and nutrient-rich food, perfectly chosen for their age, size, and activity level.
What Is The Best Dog To Breed With A Husky?
Huskies are friendly, loyal, companion dogs. To get the best out of these canines, you can breed them with other dogs. However, before finding a new companion for your Husky, you need to assess the various attributes of both breeds.
Some of the dogs with which you can breed your Husky are:
- Bernese Mountain Dog
- Golden Retriever
- Pitbull Terrier
- German Shepherd
- Malamutes
Although each dog has unique characteristics to share with a Husky, the best dog to breed with a Husky is the Bernese Mountain Dog. Together they create a highly affectionate, social, intelligent, and charming family pet that everyone can cherish and play with.
Are Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mixes Healthy?
Mix breed dogs are generally considered healthy dogs.. Bernese Mountain Dogs have a shorter lifespan of around 6 to 8 years. On the other hand, Huskies are comparatively healthy with an average life span of 11 to 14 years.
As mix-breed pups obtain their genes from both parents, Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mixes are considered healthy dogs with an average lifespan that is better than that of just a Berner by itself. The common health concerns they may suffer from are:
- Cataracts or other eye problems
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Various cancers as they age
Predicting their health conditions can be hard as it depends on the health of their parent breed. Therefore, before buying your pup, carry on proper research and inquire with the breeder about their parent’s medical history and obtain relevant certifications.
Additionally, you can take your pooch for regular vet visits every six to twelve months to check their health. Remember, taking good measures in the care of your dogs, such as regular exercise and proper nutrition, is vital for their optimal health.
How Long Do Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mixes Live?
According to the American Kennel Club, the Bernsky is a generally healthy pup with an average lifespan of 12 years. However, if breeders and owners take proper care of them, their life expectancy can be upwards of 15 years.
How To Train Your Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mix
These smart, independent, and fast learners, Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mixes, are not to be taken easy. They love pleasing their owners all the time. However, don’t mistake their loyalty to mean that they will always follow your instructions.
These are sharp and intelligent dogs. Playing simple games like throw-and-fetch can easily bore them in no time. They want something exciting like mind-stimulating games or interactive toys. Bernsky owners should consider chew dog toys, treat dispensers, etc. Make it fun so that they can utilize their critical thinking!
Some bad habits that you might notice in your pup when they are bored are digging holes in the backyard, chewing at walls or furniture, jumping over fences, etc. If you want them to behave nicely, instill positive training by establishing yourself as a leader.
Training them might be challenging, but it is of the utmost importance. It requires patience and time. So, be prepared for some stubbornness and mood swings. However, be consistent and start from a young age.
Is The Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mix A Good Family Pet?
Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mixes are delightful and charming pups. They love socialization and cuddling with their loved ones. Another reason to love these munchkins is their high tolerance level for kids, making them the perfect family pet. Not to forget their high energy levels to keep up with daily family fun.
You can even leave these huge puppy bears with your kids as watchdogs; your dog will happily spend time with them. Moreover, they are also welcoming to other pets, so it’s a plus point if you have other pets in the house.
However, be mindful to train them early for socialization. Also, don’t leave your pup unattended with little children as they might not be aware of their huge size and could unintentionally cuddle-topple over them. Lastly, as they love mingling with people and crave their attention, leaving them alone for long hours can make them cranky.
However, if you have a full-time job or live in an apartment, this pup might not be for you. Bernskys require big spaces to explore and enjoy their adventurous sides.
Moreover, you also need to socialize your dog at an early age to make them comfortable with people and around other pets. Once they blend in, they are a breeze to deal with.
How Much Do Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mixes Cost?
Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mixes are quite expensive pooches that cost you around $1500 to $5000. Their high price is due to the breed’s lineage, gender, size, coat type, colors, and the breeder’s credibility.
A Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mix is not easy to get a hand on, as they belong to different locations. Therefore, breeders put in lots of effort to find and care for these canines. Moreover, they will provide you with vital documentation like generic testing, vaccination records, etc.
If you want to adopt a Bernsky on a more conservative budget, you can visit adoption centers to find one. You may find these gorgeous dogs, as adults, in dog pounds, and in breed-specific rescues. Searching those first will save you money and give you all the good feels for saving a beautiful dog from a life of homelessness. Many Bernskys are surrendered because their owners didn’t anticipate their energy levels for need for attention and exercise. Before looking at a puppy, it is vital to research this breed in great detail.
Why Do Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mixes Cost So Much?
One of the reasons these designer mix-breed dogs are so expensive is that they come from coveted parent dogs like Husky and Bernese Mountain Dog.
However, obtaining the best traits from desirable parent pups is not the only reason these dogs are pricey. Apart from the initial purchase, their maintenance, food, grooming, and vet visits also add to the expenses.
For instance, these friendly beasts have long, thick fur that sheds heavily. Therefore, you need to brush their coat daily to keep the shedding in control and their coat neat and tangle-free. These dogs also need constant ears, eyes, and dental care as they may develop infections. For these reasons, you might need to make grooming visits for your dog.
Moreover, a Bernsky requires high-quality nutrition formulated for large breeds. Therefore, you need to obtain a high protein diet without excessive sweeteners and fillers.
Last but not least, you need to take these beauties for regular vet checkups as they might inherit some diseases from their parents’ breeds. Not to forget the daily exercises to keep them fit and healthy. All these caring for your little champion make it an expensive investment.
Conclusion
When it comes to designer dogs, you can never go wrong with a Bernsky. This beautiful mixed breed is a fantastic choice for any active, fun-loving family. Their activity levels make them a great companion for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors. In addition, their fluffy, teddy bear-like