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Mini St. Bernard vs Bergamasco Shepherd Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Mini St Bernard or Bergermaschi?

Compare the Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Mini St Bernard or a Bergermaschi? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Other names

Mini St Bernard, Mini Saint Bernard
Cane da pastore Bergamasco, Bergamasco, Bergermaschi, Bergamasco Shepherd Dog

Weight

What is the average weight of Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd?
40.0 pounds ( 18 kg )
77.0 pounds ( 35 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd
17.5 inches ( 44.5 cm )
22.0 inches ( 55.9 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Mini St. Bernards or Bergamasco Shepherds hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

Unfortunately, the Mini St. Bernard 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, Bergamasco Shepherds are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd dogs?
Playful
Independent
Happy
Intelligent
Friendly
Affectionate
Gentle
Going
Social
Trainable
Quiet
Faithful

Determined
Patient
Quiet
Vigilant

Shedding Level

Do Mini St. Bernards shed more than Bergamasco Shepherds, or which breed sheds more, Mini St. Bernards or Bergamasco Shepherds?

Mini St. Bernards are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

Bergamasco Shepherds 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 Mini St. Bernard or Bergamasco Shepherd?

Mini St. Bernards are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Bergamasco Shepherds make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Origin

What is the origin of Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd dog breeds?
United States

Persia

Ancestry

What are the origins of Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd breeds?
Cocker Spaniel and Saint Bernard

sheepdogs, cattle dogs

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd?
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
United Kennel Club
American Canine Association, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd breeds first developed?
1990s

ancient times

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd dogs?
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd?
Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd breeds?
Black
Brown
Red
Cream
Fawn
Blue
Silver
White
Sable
Brindle

Black
Gray
Silver

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd breeds?

Mini St. Bernards have medium-length coats.

Bergamasco Shepherds are known for their coat length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd?
Straight

Corded

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd?

6-8 puppies per pregnancy

A Mini St. Bernard can have a litter of 6-8 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.

13-15 puppies per pregnancy

A Bergamasco Shepherd 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.

Adaptability

Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherds are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Mini St. Bernards typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

Bergamasco Shepherds are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd breeds?
Canine Hip Dysplasia (Chd)
Seborrhea
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat

Usually A Very Healthy Breed

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd?
Entropion
Ectropion
Skin-Fold Dermatitis
Retinal Dysplasia
Exposure Keratopathy Syndrome

Hip And Elbow Dysplasia

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd breeds?
Cardiac
Eye Examination
Skin Evaluation
Ultrasound
Internal Imaging (x-ray, CT scan, MRI, etc.)
Blood And Urine Analysis

X-Rays
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Mini St. Bernards and Bergamasco Shepherds compare?

Mini St. Bernards are a good choice for a low-key lifestyle due to their low energy levels.

Bergamasco Shepherds' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Social Needs

Mini St. Bernard vs Bergamasco Shepherd social needs comparison

Mini St. Bernard has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Bergamasco Shepherd has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Mini St. Bernard vs Bergamasco Shepherd exercise need comparison.

The Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd breeds need significant physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are well-suited for those who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy activities such as running, hiking, or other outdoor pursuits.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Mini St. Bernard or Bergamasco Shepherd?

Mini St. Bernards have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Bergamasco Shepherds sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Tendency to Bark

Do Mini St. Bernards or Bergamasco Shepherds bark more/less frequently?

Compared to most other breeds, Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd tend to be less vocal and bark less frequently. They typically only bark when necessary, such as to communicate or alert their owner, and do not bark excessively, especially when left alone.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Mini St. Bernard vs Bergamasco Shepherd?

Roaming urge

Mini St. Bernard vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Mini St. Bernard or Bergamasco Shepherd - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Mini St. Bernards or Bergamasco Shepherds?

Medium

Both Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Mini St. Bernard or Bergamasco Shepherd walk each week?

8 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Mini St. Bernard, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

5 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Bergamasco Shepherd, it's at least 5 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Mini St. Bernards or Bergamasco Shepherds require more exercise?

45 minutes

In general most Mini St. Bernards usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

30 minutes

In general most Bergamasco Shepherds usually need at least 30 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, Mini St. Bernards or Bergamasco Shepherds?

The Mini St. Bernard requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

The Bergamasco Shepherd has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd dogs?

Daily

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

Monthly

In general Bergamasco Shepherd should be brushed at least once a month. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes, especially if they enjoyed it

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Mini St. Bernards and Bergamasco Shepherds?
Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Scissors
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Mini St. Bernard or Bergamasco Shepherd in cups?

2.5 cups

For an average 20-60 pound (9 - 27 kg) Mini St. Bernard 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.

3 cups

For an average 70-84 pound (32 - 38 kg) Bergamasco Shepherd 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.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Mini St. Bernard or Bergamasco Shepherd?

$2.20 - $3.40 / day

The average cost of a Mini St. Bernard is somewhere $2.20 - $3.40 per day.

$2.10 - $2.70 / day

The average cost of a Bergamasco Shepherd is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Mini St. Bernard or Bergamasco Shepherd?

$67 - $101 / month

The average per month expenses of a Mini St. Bernard is between $67 - $101. This makes an average of $804 - $1212 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.

$55 - $73 / month

The average per month expenses of a Bergamasco Shepherd is between $55 - $73. This makes an average of $660 - $876 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: Mini St. Bernards vs Bergamasco Shepherds

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

Bergamasco Shepherd has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How do Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd compare in sensitivity?

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

Bergamasco Shepherds are adaptable and resilient, making them ideal for those seeking a less sensitive pet.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Mini St. Bernard vs Bergamasco Shepherd?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Mini St. Bernard or Bergamasco Shepherd?

The Mini St. Bernard is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

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

Child Friendly

Do Mini St. Bernards or Bergamasco Shepherds have a friendlier temperament towards children?

The typical characteristics of Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes them family pets. Their gentle and protective nature and calm mentality make them gel along quickly with the younger humans.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Mini St. Bernard or Bergamasco Shepherd?

Cat Friendly

Do Mini St. Bernard or Bergamasco Shepherd breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Mini St. Bernards are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Bergamasco Shepherds are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Mini St. Bernard or Bergamasco Shepherd?

Mini St. Bernards are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

Bergamasco Shepherds are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Pet friendly

How do Mini St. Bernard or Bergamasco Shepherd dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Mini St. Bernard or Bergamasco Shepherd?

Mini St. Bernards are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Bergamasco Shepherds are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd?

Mini St. Bernard and Bergamasco Shepherd 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 Mini St. Bernards and Bergamasco Shepherds compare?

Mini St. Bernards are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

Bergamasco Shepherds may require more time and patience to learn commands, but with consistency, they can be trained.

Common match-ups