Bernese Mountain Dog vs Otterhound
Breed Compatibility
74% Compatible
Energy Level
Bernese Mountain Dog: Energetic0.8
Otterhound: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Bernese Mountain Dog: Easy Training0.8
Otterhound: May be Stubborn0.2
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Bernese Mountain Dog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Otterhound: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Bernese Mountain Dog5/5
Otterhound3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Bernese Mountain Dog5/5
Otterhound3/5
Good with Strangers
Bernese Mountain Dog4/5
Otterhound4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Bernese Mountain Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development problem
Cancer: Higher than average risk
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clotting
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Otterhound
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint condition
Glaucoma: Eye pressure issue
CTP: Blood clotting disorder
Pros & Cons Comparison
Bernese Mountain Dog
Pros
Gentle and patient with children
Loyal family companion
Good working dog capabilities
Excellent guard dog instincts
Cons
Short lifespan
Heavy shedding
Heat sensitivity
Significant grooming needs
Otterhound
Pros
Excellent swimming ability
Friendly temperament
Good with families
Strong tracking abilities
Cons
High grooming needs
Requires lots of exercise
Can be stubborn
Rare and expensive
Bernese Mountain Dog Fun Fact
Despite their size, Bernese Mountain Dogs were historically known as 'cheese dogs' for helping transport dairy products.
Otterhound Fun Fact
Otterhounds have one of the strongest noses in the dog world, able to track scents underwater and up to 72 hours old.
Heritage & Purpose
Bernese Mountain Dog
Origin:
Swiss farmers in the canton of Bern relied on these dogs for drafting, droving cattle, and guarding property during the 1800s. Their versatile working abilities made them invaluable.
Otterhound
Origin:
Developed in medieval England during the 12th century, these robust hounds were bred specifically for hunting otters in rivers and streams, using their powerful swimming abilities and keen sense of smell.
Special Considerations
Bernese Mountain Dog
Regular brushing needed to manage heavy shedding. Exercise must be moderated in warm weather. Joint health supplements recommended throughout life.
Otterhound
Regular coat maintenance needed to prevent matting. Requires secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Health screening for genetic conditions essential before breeding.
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