A big dog with a reserved disposition, the German Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog mix is the perfect choice for families looking to adopt a large-sized, active guard dog. Although it is the product of both a GSD and Bernese Mountain Dog, the Sheparnese is recognized by most kennel clubs all over the world. Read on to educate yourself on how to care for and look after this large-size dog hybrid.
What is a Sheparnese?
A “Sheparnese” or a “Euro Mountain Sheparnese” is a designer dog hybrid offspring of GSD and Bernese Mountain Dog parents. This dog breed is usually a large-sized dog breed, although medium-large sized Sheparnese dogs have also been recorded. Common recognizable physical marks include a medium-length, thick, double coat, noticeably lighter colored fur just below the neck and near the feet (white or tan), and a long muzzle with medium-sized eyes.
A Bernese Shepherd mix can weigh between 75 – 110 lbs (34 – 50 kg) and stand as tall as 2.3 ft (0.7 m).
A Sheparnese’s eye color is usually dark brown. This breed’s coat is colored cream, brown, gray, black, or sable. Usually, the coat is a combination of 2 or 3 of these colors.
What are some basic facts about Sheparnese dogs?
The following information details some basic physical information regarding Euro Mountain Sheparnese dogs.
Life span
A Sheparnese can live to be about 11 years old.
Price
You can expect to pay between US$400 – $1000 for German Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog puppies.
Commonly-occurring known health issues
Take note of the following health issues known to affect Sheparnese dogs.
Joint problems
Hip and elbow dysplasia are the most common Sheparnese health problems you can expect. These joint problems commonly affect large-sized dogs. Insufficient exercise and a poor diet may worsen the joint issues, which can ultimately decrease your Sheparnese’s life expectancy.
Symptoms include weakness in the hind or front leg areas, your Sheparnese avoiding exercise, and displays of aggressive behavior from your Sheparnese when touching the affected joints.
Digestive problems
Bloat and endocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) are digestive issues that are known to affect Sheparnese dogs. Bloat happens when your dog’s stomach twists on both ends and causes discomfort, indigestion and may lead to premature death if left untreated. EPI occurs when your dog does not produce or produces insufficient digestive enzymes to properly process its food. This can also lead to malnutrition and a shorter life expectancy if left untreated.
Symptoms include frothy saliva, excessive salivation, a noticeable bulge in your Sheparnese’s abdomen, coughing, fatigue, and a lack of energy during exercise or play.
Meningitis
A genetically-inherited health problem that originates from both breeds, aseptic meningitis is an inflammation of a protective layer of the spinal cord and the brain called the “meninges”. This can lead to seizures, paralysis, or death in extreme cases. It is not uncommon for German Shepherd Bernese Mountain Dog puppies 2 years old or younger to be diagnosed with aseptic meningitis.
Common symptoms for aseptic meningitis in Sheparnese dogs include muscle spasms in the back, neck, and leg areas, a noticeable tilt forward in your Sheparnese head, and neck stiffness.
How can I take care of my Sheparnese?
The large Sheparnese requires a specific set of care and grooming routines to be followed. Read on and educate yourself on what these routines are.
Coat
Sheparnese have double coats that shed regularly every day. Because of this, it is highly recommended to have a slicker brush, pin brush, and undercoat rake to groom your dog. Use a vacuum cleaner afterward to sweep up any loose or dead fur. Having your Sheparnese take a bath once a month is enough.
It is highly recommended to groom your Sheparnese once every day to avoid tangling and matting.
Exercise
A Sheparnese needs regular, daily exercise. In spite of its size, this is a highly active dog breed that requires some effort to maintain its lifestyle.
On average, it is best to walk or run with your Sheparnese for about 2 miles every day or a total of 14 miles in a week. Regular exercise also helps prevent the joint and digestive health issues mentioned earlier from occurring. About 2 ½ hours of exercise a day is enough.
Nails
A Sheparnese’s nails tend to grow out very quickly and will need to be regularly maintained.
You can expect to clip its nails twice a month to prevent infections, nail tearing, splitting, or other kinds of harm to your Sheparnese paws. Usually, if you can hear your Sheparnese nails tapping on the floor, you will want to consider getting them clipped soon.
What is a Sheparnese dog’s personality like?
The Sheparnese is a hybrid that is known for the following two personality traits.
Intelligence
This personality trait is commonly found in both GSDs and Bernese Mountain Dogs. Sheparnese dogs are easily trainable, can capably follow commands, and are a good choice for any guard duty or protection detail.
However, inexperienced dog owners need to be careful as Sheparnese are clever breeds that tend to get bored very easily and may soon find ways to subvert or rebel against their handlers’ commands if not kept on a regular training schedule.
High-energy
A Sheparnese is a deceptively high-energy dog that takes its energy reserves and fortitude from both parents. This means that this hybrid requires a lot of effort from its handlers to prioritize exercise and should engage in outdoor activities or play with their Sheparnese every day. However, this also means that training and playing with your Sheparnese can be a physically beneficial experience as these dogs can play for hours without tiring.
Not doing so may result in destructive behavior stemming from your Sheparnese’s boredom. In extreme situations, your Sheparnese may become rebellious and non-compliant towards commands or disciplinary actions.
