Swedish Lapphund vs Bernese Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison

Swedish Lapphund vs Bernese Mountain Dog - Breed ComparisonBernese Mountain Dog is originated from Switzerland but Swedish Lapphund is originated from Sweden. Bernese Mountain Dog may grow 20 cm / 8 inches higher than Swedish Lapphund. Bernese Mountain Dog may weigh 34 kg / 75 pounds more than Swedish Lapphund. Bernese Mountain Dog may live 5 years less than Swedish Lapphund. Bernese Mountain Dog may have more litter size than Swedish Lapphund. Both Bernese Mountain Dog and Swedish Lapphund requires Moderate Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Herding dogs
undefined
Switzerland
Sweden
Height Male:
61 - 71 cm
24 - 28 inches
40 - 51 cm
15 - 21 inches
Height Female:
58 - 66 cm
22 - 26 inches
40 - 51 cm
15 - 21 inches
Weight Male:
35 - 55 kg
77 - 122 pounds
19 - 21 kg
41 - 47 pounds
Weight Female:
30 - 50 kg
66 - 111 pounds
19 - 21 kg
41 - 47 pounds
Life Span:
6 - 8 Years
10 - 13 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 15
3 - 8
Size:
Giant
Medium
Other Names:
Berner Sennenhund Bernese Cattle Dog - Berner, Bernese
Svensk Lapphund, Lappies
Colors Available:
Tri-Black,Rust,White
Brown, black - sometimes white markings
Coat:
double, long, thick
Fairly straight, silky hair that stands out from the body.
Shedding:
Seasonal
Moderate, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Docile, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Playful, Quiet, Social, Stubborn, Sweet
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
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.

swedish lapphundThis is a Spitz type of dog from Sweden. It is Sweden’s national dog.The dog has always been used for herding and guarding livestock such as reindeer for the Sami people.

The dog is much the same as the Finnish Lapphund, and some even believe that it might be one and the same. The American Kennel Club recognizes them as two separate breeds.

It is one of the oldest Swedish dog breeds and also one of 3 Lapphund breeds.The Swedish Kennel Club recognized the Lapphund as a distinct breed in 1903.

The Federation Cynologique Internationale recognized this dog in 1944, and the United Kennel Club in 2006.

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.

swedish lapphund puppy - descriptionThe Swedish Lapphund is a medium to large sized dog standing at between 40 to 51cm in height and weighing between 19 and 21kg.

The head is wedge shaped and the ears erect. He has a thick double coat with fairly straight, silky hair that stands out from the body. Colors can be brown or black and sometimes there can be white markings. He sheds quite a bit, with some heavier seasonal shedding.

Temperament:

When you get one of these Spitz type dogs as your pet, you can be sure that you’re going to have an excellent pet and companion.

They’re independent dogs with strong wills and like to do their own thing. Training and socialization can change that and make him easy, well mannered and obedient.

They’re lively dogs and intelligent too. He is versatile, loving to be outdoors and being energetic with the children but being able to enjoy some quiet time indoors too. He is simply an excellent family pet and watchdog.

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.

swedish lapphund dog - characteristicsThe Swedish Lapphund has always been a hardworking dog, herding reindeer for the Sami people.

Today the Lapphund is a people-loving dog and wants to be constantly with his human family. He is intelligent, strong, independent, loyal, bold and loving. If you’re looking for an excellent family companion, this is it.

Do him a favor and don’t leave him outside without human companionship as he will become run-down and possibly destructive through no fault of his own. Bring him into your family and make him part of it and then he’s happy.

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.

swedish lapphund puppies - health problemsThe Swedish Lapphud is a healthy dog breed, but even so he can get one of the many common dog illnesses there are.If you choose a puppy, make sure to get your pet from a reputable breeder to avoid more serious dog illnesses.

Diabetes Mellitus is a disease you might have to watch out for with this dog breed.

Diabetes Mellitus:

This is a disease of the pancreas. This organ has two groups of cells – one produces enzymes for proper digestion and the other produces the hormone insulin which regulates the level of glucose in the bloodstream.

Diabetes is when the pancreas fails to regulate blood sugar. Your dog will have increased thirst and urination, weight loss, and increased appetite.

Type I diabetes mellitus results from destruction of the insulin-producing beta cells, which is the most common type of diabetes in dogs. Dogs with this type of diabetes require insulin injections to stabilize blood sugar. Type II diabetes is more likely in older, obese dogs.

Dogs with diabetes mellitus will require insulin each day. If canine diabetes mellitus is properly regulated, prognosis for the dog is good.

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.

Diet:

swedish lapphund dogs - caring●The Swedish Lapphund is an active dog and will require a high quality dog food. If you buy commercially manufactured dog food it should be appropriate to your dog’s age and activity levels.

Home-made food like boiled chicken, brown rice, spinach and sweet potatoes will do your pet the world of good, and chopped up, it can be added a couple of times a week to the dog’s dry kibble.

Try and feed some raw met occasionally as well. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.

General Care:

●The Lapphund is an active dog and he is going to reguire daily exercise that will keep him mentally and physically fit. Having a dog like this requires you being active yourself, and your Lapphund is going to love going on long walks or hikes. He will never get enough games with the children – he just loves the rough and tumble.

● Have his vaccines attended to. There are training classes as well as boarding kennels that won’t accept your dog unless his vaccines are up to date.

● Have your dog spayed or neutered if you don’t want your dogs to have puppies.

● Provide your pet with a warm, dry, quiet sleeping place.

● Brush his coat twice a week. Check inside his ears and inside his mouth for redness and infection.

Comparison with other breeds

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