Bernese Mountain Dog vs Silky Terrier Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Berner or Sydney Silky?

Compare the Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Berner or a Sydney Silky? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

Berner Sennenhund, Berner, Bernese Cattle Dog

Sydney Silky, Australian Silky Terrier

Weight

What is the average weight of Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier?

97.5 pounds ( 44 kg )

9.5 pounds ( 4 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier

23.0 inches ( 58.4 cm )

9.5 inches ( 24.1 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Bernese Mountain Dog or Silky Terrier?

Bernese Mountain Dog has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.

Silky Terrier has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are Bernese Mountain Dogs or Silky Terriers hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, the Bernese Mountain Dog is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Yes

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Silky Terriers are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier dogs?

Affectionate
Intelligent
Faithful
Loyal

Alert
Inquisitive
Quick
Intelligent
Friendly
Joyful
Responsive

Shedding Level

Do Bernese Mountain Dogs shed more than Silky Terriers, or which breed sheds more, Bernese Mountain Dogs or Silky Terriers?

Bernese Mountain Dogs are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

Silky Terriers shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Bernese Mountain Dog or Silky Terrier?

Choose a Bernese Mountain Dog if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.

Silky Terriers are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Origin

What is the origin of Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier dog breeds?

Switzerland

Australia

Ancestry

What are the origins of Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier breeds?

Molosser, Mastiff-type

Terriers

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Canadian Canine Registry

Date of Birth

When were Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier breeds first developed?

Ancient Times

1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier?

Working (AKC:1937)
Guardian Dogs (UKC)

Toy (AKC:1959)
Terriers (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier dogs?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier breeds?

Black
Brown
White

Brindle
Sable
Silver
Blue
Fawn
Gray
Black

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier breeds?

Bernese Mountain Dogs have medium-length coats.

Silky Terriers are known for their coat length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier?

Wavy

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier?

7-10 puppies per pregnancy

A Bernese Mountain Dog can have a litter of 7-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

A Silky Terrier can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier dogs generally have an average level of adaptability when it comes to adjusting to changes in lifestyle and different living environments compared to other breeds.

Health Issues

Between Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier, which breed is more prone to health problems?

The Bernese Mountain Dog breed is generally very healthy, requiring minimal vet visits. Still, it's important to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

While the Silky Terrier breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier breeds?

Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
Bloat
Histicytosis
Dental Disease
Meningitis
Obesity

Urolithiasis
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Spongiform Leukodystrophy

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier?

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Allergies
Epilepsy
Cerebellar Abiotrophy
Kidney Problems
Color Dilution Alopecia

Patellar Luxation
Tracheal Collapse
Eye Disease
Diabetes

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier breeds?

Eye
Hip
Elbow
Blood And Urine Protein Screens
Up:Uc Ratio For Kidney Function
CT Scan
Dental Examination
Allergy Tests

Hip
Knee
Blood Test
Blood And Urine Protein Screens
Skeletal
X-Rays

Energy

How do the energy levels of Bernese Mountain Dogs and Silky Terriers compare?

Bernese Mountain Dogs' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Silky Terriers are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

Bernese Mountain Dog vs Silky Terrier social needs comparison

Bernese Mountain Dog has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Silky Terrier has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Bernese Mountain Dog vs Silky Terrier exercise need comparison.

The Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier breeds require a moderate amount of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are ideal for people who have a moderate amount of time to devote to their pets and enjoy regular physical activity themselves. They also make great family pets as they have the energy to keep up with children and the temperament to be great companions.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Bernese Mountain Dog or Silky Terrier?

Bernese Mountain Dogs sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Silky Terriers have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Bernese Mountain Dog or Silky Terrier?

Bernese Mountain Dog drools quite a bit, consider a different breed if drool is unappealing.

Silky Terrier minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Bernese Mountain Dogs or Silky Terriers bark more/less frequently?

Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terriers tend to bark moderately, they bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or to communicate something. They may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Territorial

Is the Bernese Mountain Dog or Silky Terrier a better guard dog?

These breeds are known for being extremely protective and make excellent guard dogs. They possess a strong instinct to defend their territory and owners and have a high level of vigilance and alertness.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Bernese Mountain Dog vs Silky Terrier?

Roaming urge

Bernese Mountain Dog vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Bernese Mountain Dog or Silky Terrier - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier entertained?

Walking, Petting, Sniffing, Exploring, Playing, Fetching, Smelling, Greeting, Jumping, Running, Cuddling, Rolling around, Sunbathing, Sniffing grass, Rolling, Walk, Bark, Play, Run, Pet, Lick, Chase, Fetch, Kiss, Shake, Eating Snacks, Nap, Soccer, Road trip, Tug-of-war

Napping, Cuddling, Play, Run

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Bernese Mountain Dogs or Silky Terriers?

Medium

Bernese Mountain Dogs are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

High

Silky Terriers are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Bernese Mountain Dog or Silky Terrier walk each week?

6 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Bernese Mountain Dog, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

11 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Silky Terrier, it's at least 11 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Bernese Mountain Dogs or Silky Terriers require more exercise?

60 minutes

In general most Bernese Mountain Dogs usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

90 minutes

In general most Silky Terriers usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Bernese Mountain Dogs or Silky Terriers?

The Bernese Mountain Dog requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Silky Terriers require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier dogs?

Weekly

Bernese Mountain Dog should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Daily

Ideally, Silky Terrier should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Bernese Mountain Dogs and Silky Terriers?

Pin Brush
Comb
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Bernese Mountain Dog or Silky Terrier in cups?

2.5 cups

For an average 90-120 pound (41 - 54 kg) Bernese Mountain Dog feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

1 cups

For an average 8-11 pound (4 - 5 kg) Silky Terrier feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Bernese Mountain Dog or Silky Terrier?

$2.50 - $3.20 / day

The average cost of a Bernese Mountain Dog is somewhere $2.50 - $3.20 per day.

$1.10 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a Silky Terrier is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Bernese Mountain Dog or Silky Terrier?

$74 - $95 / month

The average per month expenses of a Bernese Mountain Dog is between $74 - $95. This makes an average of $888 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$28 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a Silky Terrier is between $28 - $42. This makes an average of $336 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Bernese Mountain Dogs vs Silky Terriers

The Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier breeds are considered very intelligent and easy to train.

Sensitivity Level

How do Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier compare in sensitivity?

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Bernese Mountain Dog vs Silky Terrier?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Bernese Mountain Dog or Silky Terrier?

Bernese Mountain Dogs can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

Silky Terriers make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Child Friendly

Do Bernese Mountain Dogs or Silky Terriers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Bernese Mountain Dog or Silky Terrier?

Cat Friendly

Do Bernese Mountain Dog or Silky Terrier breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Bernese Mountain Dogs and Silky Terriers are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Bernese Mountain Dog or Silky Terrier?

Bernese Mountain Dogs are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Silky Terriers are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Pet friendly

How do Bernese Mountain Dog or Silky Terrier dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Bernese Mountain Dog or Silky Terrier?

Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish, so early socialization is key to ensure they are comfortable around new people.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier?

Bernese Mountain Dogs have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Silky Terriers are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Bernese Mountain Dogs and Silky Terriers compare?

Bernese Mountain Dog and Silky Terrier dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.