Estrela Mountain Dog vs Bernese Mountain Dog
Breed Compatibility
85% Compatible
Energy Level
Estrela Mountain Dog: Calm0.4
Bernese Mountain Dog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Estrela Mountain Dog: N/A
Bernese Mountain Dog: Easy Training0.8
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Estrela Mountain Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Bernese Mountain Dog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Estrela Mountain Dog5/5
Bernese Mountain Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Estrela Mountain Dog3/5
Bernese Mountain Dog5/5
Good with Strangers
Estrela Mountain Dog2/5
Bernese Mountain Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Estrela Mountain Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint inflammation
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Joint Problems: Mobility issues
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
Pros & Cons Comparison
Estrela Mountain Dog
Pros
Excellent guardian instincts
Loyal to family
Weather-resistant coat
Independent nature
Good with livestock
Cons
Requires extensive space
Strong-willed personality
Heavy shedding
Not suitable for apartments
Needs experienced owner
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
Estrela Mountain Dog Fun Fact
These dogs traditionally wore spiked iron collars called 'carlancas' to protect their necks from wolf attacks.
Bernese Mountain Dog Fun Fact
Despite their size, Bernese Mountain Dogs were historically known as 'cheese dogs' for helping transport dairy products.
Heritage & Purpose
Estrela Mountain Dog
Origin:
Dating back to the Serra da Estrela mountains of Portugal, these dogs served as guardians of sheep flocks against wolves and other predators since the Middle Ages.
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.
Special Considerations
Estrela Mountain Dog
Needs regular brushing during shedding seasons, extensive early socialization, and secure fencing. Guardian instincts require proper management and training.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Regular brushing needed to manage heavy shedding. Exercise must be moderated in warm weather. Joint health supplements recommended throughout life.