Scottish Terrier vs Bernese Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison

Scottish Terrier vs Bernese Mountain Dog - Breed ComparisonBernese Mountain Dog is originated from Switzerland but Scottish Terrier is originated from United Kingdom. Bernese Mountain Dog may grow 45 cm / 18 inches higher than Scottish Terrier. Bernese Mountain Dog may weigh 45 kg / 100 pounds more than Scottish Terrier. Bernese Mountain Dog may live 5 years less than Scottish Terrier. Bernese Mountain Dog may have more litter size than Scottish Terrier. Both Bernese Mountain Dog and Scottish Terrier requires Moderate Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Terrier dog
undefined
Switzerland
United Kingdom
Height Male:
61 - 71 cm
24 - 28 inches
23 - 26 cm
9 - 11 inches
Height Female:
58 - 66 cm
22 - 26 inches
23 - 26 cm
9 - 11 inches
Weight Male:
35 - 55 kg
77 - 122 pounds
8 - 10 kg
17 - 23 pounds
Weight Female:
30 - 50 kg
66 - 111 pounds
8 - 10 kg
17 - 23 pounds
Life Span:
6 - 8 Years
11 - 13 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 15
2 - 8
Size:
Giant
Small
Other Names:
Berner Sennenhund Bernese Cattle Dog - Berner, Bernese
Scottie, Aberdeen Terrier
Colors Available:
Tri-Black,Rust,White
black-grey, Black, brindle, wheaten
Coat:
double, long, thick
wiry, medium length
Shedding:
Seasonal
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Docile, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Playful, Quiet, Social, Stubborn, Sweet
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

History

bernese mountain dogThe Bernese Mountain Dog comes from the Swiss Alps and is one of four separate breeds called Sennenhund or “Alpine pasture dog”. The Name Bernese Mountain Dog indicates the area of Switzerland that the dogs come from – the canton of Bern. These groups of dogs accompanied the dairymen and herders and they were farm dogs. They pulled carts, delivered goods from village to village. The Bernese Mountain Dog was part of this group along with: Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, Appenzeller,Entlebucher Mountain Dog and the Bernese Mountain Dog. It is probably true that the Bernese Mountain Dog has been a part of farm life in the Alps for over 2000 years.

In some regions of the Alps, these dogs were called Durrbachhund after a small town named Durrbah and are said to be rooted in the Molosser breeds. Tin 1902 the Swiss Kennel Club recognized the Bernese Mountain Dog as a separate breed and the first breed club was founded in 1907 in the region of Burgdorf. The first standard for the breed was written and separated the 4 dogs into their own breeds. The Molosser is an ancient breed whose versatility and travels made it expressly influential in the developing of Mastiff dogs like St. Bernards, Great Pyranees, Mastiffs and Swiss Mountain Dogs like the Bernese.

However at the end of the 19th century famers and shepherds began to import other breeds of working dogs, while at the same time automated modes of transportation began to replace the farm dogs. Under these circumstances the number of Bernese Mountain Dog began to decline and the breed faced potential extinction. A group of people were gathered together to save the Berner, including Franz Schertenleib and Albert Heim. Still today the Bernese are in short supply and because of the need and desire to increase the numbers, some breeding practices have not been as good as they should have been. However, today’s Berner is a great family dog and he still loves to work. He is good at carting, herding, search and rescue, watch dog, tracking, and competitive obedience.

The Bernese Mountain Dog came to the US after World War I and was imported to Britain in the 1930’s. The AKC accepted the Berner as a new Working-Class breed in 1937. It was not until 1968 that the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America was formed. In 1981, the AKC accepted the club as a member and in 1990 they (AKC) adopted the standard used today to judge the Bernese Mountain Dog.

scottish terrierThe Scottish Terrier is also known as the Aberdeen Terrier but people who love and know him refer to him fondly as the Scottie.

These little dogs were originally bred to hunt vermin on farms and their actual origin is ancient. It is believed that the first descriptions of these dogs date way back to 1436 with there being 2 varieties - a rough-haired Scotch Terrier and a smooth-haired English Terrier.

In 1881 the Scottish Terrier Club of England was founded with the Scottish Terrier Club of Scotland being founded in 1888. Scotties were introduced to America in the early 1890s.

Description

bernese mountain dog puppy - descriptionThe Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, lovable clown. He has a heavy build with a tri color- mostly black – coat. He should have a white chest and rust coloring on the front of his legs, the sides of his mouth, and above his eyes. His eyes should be dark and blue eyes are a disqualification. His coat is silky, thick and long. He has medium sized triangle shaped ears and a scissors bite. He has round toes and strong, straight legs, He is well suited to cold weather. His skull is broad and flat, his muzzle is straight and strong, his nose must be black, and he does not usually drool.

He is an imposing sight, but he is also as non-aggressive as any breed. He is strong, intelligent, and agile. He should have his dew claws removed. This breed should be self-assured, yet good natured and calm. He is welcoming to strangers and loyal to his people. He needs his people.

scottish terrier puppy - descriptionThe Scottish Terrier is a small dog, fairly robustly built but with short legs. He has a wiry, weather-resistant coat and a soft undercoat. The coat is essentially black but there are other colors too such as a wheaten shade, grey-black and brindle too.

The ears are erect, the eyes small and bright. The tail isn’t docked but is of medium length and is nearly always held up, without curling over the back.

Height at withers for both males and females should be roughly 23 to 26cm and weight in the region of 8 – 10 kg.

Temperament:

The Scottie is a an independent, robust breed. He is playful as a puppy, but as he matures he becomes more dignified and dour. He is stubborn, but being a terrier he is alert and makes a good watchdog. For a small dog he has a powerful bark.

He is smart too. Have him trained and socialized if you want him to be obedient.

Brave, loving and loyal, he can fit into life in the city or the countryside so long has he has his human family close by. He doesn’t take kindly to strangers and he he slightly aggressive with other dogs he doesn’t know. He makes a great playmate for children but he certainly doesn’t like being prodded, sat on and poked by small children.

Characteristics

bernese mountain dog dog - characteristicsWhen reading the AKC standard for the Bernese Mountain Dog you will find that the breed is good natured and self-assured. They are not aggressive, shy or anxious. These are gentle, loving dogs. At the same time, they should be socialized to all kinds of animals, people and children when they are puppies. They are happy outside but need to live in the house with their people. They need exercise and play, and because they are so large, they need this outside. But when it comes to cuddling and sleeping they need to be indoors.

They love children though you should be careful with small children because of the Berner’s size and their not being aware of their size at times. They are extremely loyal to their people and want to be with people. They are intelligent, and they want to please their people. At the same time, they are sensitive. They do not respond well to punishment or harshness. They are imposing but they are lovers at heart.

scottish terrier dog - characteristicsThe Scottie is strong willed and independent, and training and socialization is important if you don’t want your Scottie believing he has the final say.

These dogs are stubborn and dominant and will need a strong, firm but kind owner. They’re aggressive with other dogs, but get on well with their human family.

When you bring one of these distinctive looking dogs into your home, he’ll be a loving, loyal friend.

Health Problems

bernese mountain dog puppies - health problemsEven though it is well known that cancer is the leading cause of dog deaths across the globe, the Bernese Mountain Dog is particularly prone to die of cancer. Half of all Berners compared with 27% of all dogs, die from cancer. The Berner’s life span is also shorter than most dogs his size. IT is also not just one cancer that attacks the Bernese Mountain Dog but rather at least 6 or more including mast cell, osteosarcoma, malignant histiocytosis, fibrosarcoma, and lymphosarcoma. They can also suffer from PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), hypoadrenocorticism, cataracts and histiocytic sarcoma. Another issue that plaques the Berner more than other breeds is musculoskeletal issues that cause mortality. This can include issues such as cruciate ligament rupture, arthritis and hip dysplasia. These types of aliments cause death in 6% of the breed while they are usually the cause of mortality in only 2% of all other dogs.

scottish terrier puppies - health problemsYour Scottie is looked upon as being a generally healthy dog breed, but as with any other healthy dogs, he can succumb to some of the conditions and diseases that dogs get -

Von Willebrand's Disease:

This is an inherited blood disorder where the blood doesn’t clot properly. The dog will bleed excessively after an injury. Fortunately, while there isn’t a cure, dogs can lead normal lives.

Cancer:

Scottish Terriers are more prone to developing cancer than other dogs. Bladder cancer, lymphosarcoma and malignant melanoma are just some of the cancers they can get. Some cancers are treatable and there is a good success rate in dogs receiving chemotherapy.

When you brush your Scottie, look out for new, unusual lumps that could be indicative of cancer.

Scotty Cramp:

Scotty Cramp isn’t serious but uncomfortable for your pet. When your dog becomes worked up, you’ll see him arching his spine and he walks around for a few minutes with a stiff unnatural gait.

Obesity:

Obesity is regarded as a serious disease as it puts strain on the dogs joints and also creates back pain and digestive disorders.

Caring The Pet

Feeding

bernese mountain dog dogs - caringAs with any large purebred dog, the Bernese Mountain Dog needs high quality food that will provide hi with nutrition and keep him from becoming overweight if fed properly. He is however a very large dog with a very large appetite. Watch his calorie intake. It’s ok to use treats if you fit them into the overall calorie intake for the day. Feed him smaller meals twice a day.

Health issues

As previously mentioned the breed has quite a few health challenges to deal with, cancer being the number one issue. The small genetic line is one of, if not the main, culprit in this high mortality rate and short life span of the Bernese Mountain Dog. In addition to the conditions mentioned above, they are also susceptible to bloat (stomach inversion). In addition, they face the conditions mentioned previously and should be tested for dysplasia of the hip and elbow, Von Willebrand’s Disease, Cardiac testing and an eye or ophthalmologist exam.

Exercise and games

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a gentle giant. They have a calm happy demeanor and they love to work. In fact, they need to work. They love children and will quickly give them cart rides. They compete in carting competitions and herding events sponsored by the AKC. They need exercise but not an extreme amount or intense type. A half-hour a day is enough for them. They love long walks or hiking. They are great companions for backpacking or camping. They are also good at tracking, rally, obedience, and agility.

Exercise:

scottish terrier dogs - caringScotties were once bred as working dogs, and they will certainly require daily exercise and stimulation. He will love a walk but you can’t expect him to run with you as he has short legs.

Grooming:

The Scottie sheds, so he will need to be brushed at least twice weekly. He will require quite a bit of grooming in terms of having the coat professionally trimmed and clipped.

His eyes and ears will need to be checked as well as his teeth. He can’t tell you if he has terrible toothache and while brushing him, check the teeth. Trim his nails too.

Diet:

It is always recommended that you feed dogs according to size, age and activity levels. Dogs are individuals and they don’t all need the same food.

The quality of the dog food you provide makes a huge difference on your dog’s health. It always pays to go with the better quality kibble available to dogs. Your Scottish Terrier will be depending on your for quality kibble with the right blend of vitamins and minerals.

Dogs thrive on simplicity and consistency and you want to provide him with some home-made food too that gels well with his digestive system. A little bit of raw meat occasionally can also do him the world of good.

Make sure he always has cool, fresh water to drink.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Bernese Mountain Dog vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Bernese Mountain Dog vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Bernese Mountain Dog vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Bernese Mountain Dog vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Bernese Mountain Dog vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Bernese Mountain Dog vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Bernese Mountain Dog vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Scottish Terrier vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Scottish Terrier vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Scottish Terrier vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Scottish Terrier vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Scottish Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Scottish Terrier vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Scottish Terrier vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Scottish Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Scottish Terrier vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Scottish Terrier vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Scottish Terrier vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Scottish Terrier vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Scottish Terrier vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Scottish Terrier vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Scottish Terrier vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Scottish Terrier vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Scottish Terrier vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Scottish Terrier vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Scottish Terrier vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Scottish Terrier vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Scottish Terrier vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Scottish Terrier vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Scottish Terrier vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Scottish Terrier vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Scottish Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison