McNab vs Bernese Mountain Dog Comparison. Which dog is better for you: McNab Sheepdog or Berner?

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

Differences only

Other names

McNab Border Collie, McNab Sheepdog, McNab Herding Dog

Berner Sennenhund, Berner, Bernese Cattle Dog

Weight

What is the average weight of McNab and Bernese Mountain Dog?

57.5 pounds ( 26 kg )

97.5 pounds ( 44 kg )

Height

What is the average height of McNab and Bernese Mountain Dog

22.5 inches ( 57.2 cm )

23.0 inches ( 58.4 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: McNab or Bernese Mountain Dog?

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

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

Hypoallergenic

Are McNabs or Bernese Mountain Dogs hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither McNab nor Bernese Mountain Dog are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of McNab and Bernese Mountain Dog dogs?

Friendly
Obedient
Sociable
Hard
Working
Protective
Mannered

Affectionate
Intelligent
Faithful
Loyal

Shedding Level

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

McNabs are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

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

Watchdog Ability

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

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

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.

Origin

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

United States

Switzerland

Ancestry

What are the origins of McNab and Bernese Mountain Dog breeds?

Scottish Collies, Nomadic Basque Sheepdogs

Molosser, Mastiff-type

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register McNab and Bernese Mountain Dog?

Dog Registry of America Inc.

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 McNab and Bernese Mountain Dog breeds first developed?

19th Century

Ancient Times

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of McNab and Bernese Mountain Dog?

Herding

Working (AKC:1937)
Guardian Dogs (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

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

Hazel
Brown
Amber

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

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

Black
Brown

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

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

Black
Red
Pied

Black
Brown
White

Coat Length

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

The coat of McNab and Bernese Mountain Dog dogs falls in the medium-length category.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of McNab and Bernese Mountain Dog?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of McNab and Bernese Mountain Dog?

Straight

Wavy

Litter Size

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

13-15 puppies per pregnancy

A McNab can have a litter of 13-15 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.

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.

Adaptability

McNab and Bernese Mountain Dog 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 McNab and Bernese Mountain Dog, which breed is more prone to health problems?

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

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.

Major Concerns

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

None Known

Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
Bloat
Histicytosis
Dental Disease
Meningitis
Obesity

Minor Concerns

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

Ear Infections
Multi-Drug Resistance Gene (MDR1)

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

Occasional Tests

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

Ear Examination
Eye examination
Ophthalmic And Ear Exam
Regular Full Physical Examination By Veterinarian

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

Energy

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

McNab and Bernese Mountain Dog breeds are known for their high energy levels, so if you're looking for a more low-key dog, these breeds may not be the best choice.

Social Needs

McNab vs Bernese Mountain Dog social needs comparison

McNab and Bernese Mountain Dog have average social needs compared to other breeds. They are known to be less active and independent than other breeds, and they are content with spending time alone and with their human family.

Exercise Needed

McNab vs Bernese Mountain Dog exercise need comparison.

McNabs require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Bernese Mountain Dogs need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Sleeping Need

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

McNab and Bernese Mountain Dog dogs tend to sleep less than some other breeds, but it's still important for them to get adequate sleep in order to maintain good health.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, McNab or Bernese Mountain Dog?

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

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

Tendency to Bark

Do McNabs or Bernese Mountain Dogs bark more/less frequently?

McNab dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

Bernese Mountain Dogs bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Territorial

Is the McNab or Bernese Mountain Dog a better guard dog?

McNab dogs have a strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They are highly vigilant and will fiercely defend their home and family.

Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: McNab vs Bernese Mountain Dog?

Roaming urge

McNab vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

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

Past times

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

Dog Parks, River

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

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, McNabs or Bernese Mountain Dogs?

High

McNabs 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.

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.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

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

18 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For McNab, it's at least 18 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

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.

Activity per Day

Do McNabs or Bernese Mountain Dogs require more exercise?

90 minutes

In general most McNabs 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.

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.

Grooming

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

McNab and Bernese Mountain Dog are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

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

Weekly

McNab and 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.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for McNabs and Bernese Mountain Dogs?

Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Cups

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

3 cups

For an average 35-65 pound (16 - 29 kg) McNab feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

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.

Daily Cost

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

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

The average cost of a McNab is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

$2.50 - $3.20 / day

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

Monthly Cost

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

$48 - $63 / month

The average per month expenses of a McNab is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 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.

$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.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: McNabs vs Bernese Mountain Dogs

McNabs are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Bernese Mountain Dog is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Sensitivity Level

How do McNab and Bernese Mountain Dog compare in sensitivity?

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

Affection Dependance

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

Apartment Friendly

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

McNabs are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

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

Child Friendly

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

McNab and Bernese Mountain Dog 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 - McNab or Bernese Mountain Dog?

Cat Friendly

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

McNabs and Bernese Mountain Dogs 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: McNab or Bernese Mountain Dog?

{McNabs and Bernese Mountain Dogs are average friendly towards other dogs. If they are raised with other dogs, they are likely to get along with them. And, if they are socialized properly from a young age, they will usually be great with other dogs.

Pet friendly

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

Stranger Friendly

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

McNab and Bernese Mountain Dog 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 McNab and Bernese Mountain Dog?

McNab and Bernese Mountain Dog have an average level of playfulness. Like other dogs, they enjoy playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.

Trainability

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

McNabs are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.