Working Kelpie vs Bernese Mountain Dog
Breed Compatibility
88% Compatible
Energy Level
Working Kelpie: Energetic0.8
Bernese Mountain Dog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Working Kelpie: Independent0.4
Bernese Mountain Dog: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Working Kelpie: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Bernese Mountain Dog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Working Kelpie5/5
Bernese Mountain Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Working Kelpie3/5
Bernese Mountain Dog5/5
Good with Strangers
Working Kelpie5/5
Bernese Mountain Dog4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Working Kelpie
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal issues
Cerebellar Abiotrophy: Neurological concern
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defects
Cryptorchidism: Reproductive issue
Joint Problems: Working strain impact
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
Working Kelpie
Pros
Exceptional working ability
High intelligence
Strong endurance
Loyal companion
Low grooming needs
Cons
Extremely high exercise needs
Can be too intense for casual owners
Strong herding instincts
May be too energetic for small spaces
Requires constant mental stimulation
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
Working Kelpie Fun Fact
Working Kelpies can cover up to 50 kilometers in a day while working, showcasing their legendary endurance.
Bernese Mountain Dog Fun Fact
Despite their size, Bernese Mountain Dogs were historically known as 'cheese dogs' for helping transport dairy products.
Heritage & Purpose
Working Kelpie
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1870s for sheep herding in harsh outback conditions. These dogs revolutionized livestock management through their exceptional working abilities and stamina.
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
Working Kelpie
Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Regular grooming is minimal but necessary. Health monitoring should focus on eyes and joints due to working strain.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Regular brushing needed to manage heavy shedding. Exercise must be moderated in warm weather. Joint health supplements recommended throughout life.
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