Bernese Rottie vs. Belgian Sheepdog: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Bernese Rotties or Belgian Sheepdogs hypoallergenic, or neither?

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

Temperament

What are the personalities of Bernese Rottie and Belgian Sheepdog dogs?

Independent
Protective
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Affectionate
Loyal
Fearless
Good-natured
Faithful

Active
Confident
Hard
Working
Stubborn
Intelligent
Alert
Friendly
Protective
Watchful

Shedding Level

Do Bernese Rotties shed more than Belgian Sheepdogs, or which breed sheds more, Bernese Rotties or Belgian Sheepdogs?

4 / 5

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

3 / 5

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

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Bernese Rottie or Belgian Sheepdog?

4 / 5

Bernese Rotties make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

5 / 5

Choose a Belgian Sheepdog 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.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Bernese Rottie and Belgian Sheepdog breeds?

Rottweiler, Bernese Mountain Dog

Shepherd Dog

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Bernese Rottie and Belgian Sheepdog?

DRA = 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

Date of Birth

When were Bernese Rottie and Belgian Sheepdog breeds first developed?

Unknown

1800s

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Bernese Rottie and Belgian Sheepdog?

A Bernese Rottie can have a litter of 1-14 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.

A Belgian Sheepdog can have a litter of 12-14 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

3 / 5

Bernese Rotties have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

5 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Bernese Rottie and Belgian Sheepdog, which breed is more prone to health problems?

4 / 5

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

3 / 5

While the Belgian Sheepdog 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 Rottie and Belgian Sheepdog breeds?

Hip Dysplasia
Osteochondritis Dissecans

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hip Dysplasia
Hypothyroidism
Cancer

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Bernese Rottie and Belgian Sheepdog?

Elbow Dysplasia

Cataracts
Epilepsy

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Bernese Rottie and Belgian Sheepdog breeds?

Hip
Elbow
Skeletal
X-Rays
Physical Examination

Blood Test
Hip X-Rays
Thyroid Tests
MRI
Eye Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Bernese Rotties and Belgian Sheepdogs compare?

4 / 5

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

5 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Social Needs

Bernese Rottie vs Belgian Sheepdog social needs comparison

4 / 5

Bernese Rottie and Belgian Sheepdog have above average social needs compared to other breeds. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Bernese Rottie vs Belgian Sheepdog exercise need comparison.

3 / 5

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

5 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Bernese Rottie or Belgian Sheepdog?

2 / 5

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

1 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Tendency to Bark

Do Bernese Rotties or Belgian Sheepdogs bark more/less frequently?

3 / 5

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

5 / 5

Belgian Sheepdog dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Bernese Rottie vs Belgian Sheepdog?

4 / 5

2 / 5

Roaming urge

Bernese Rottie vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

Prey Drive

Bernese Rottie or Belgian Sheepdog - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

5 / 5

1 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Bernese Rottie and Belgian Sheepdog entertained?

Walking, Tug of war, Cuddleing, Fetch

Playing Ball, Walk, Run, Keep away, Hike, Swim, Frizbee, Canoeing, Chase, Long walks, Hiking, Eating Snacks

Tolerance of being left alone

2 / 5

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Bernese Rotties or Belgian Sheepdogs?

2 / 5

The Bernese Rottie has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

3 / 5

The Belgian Sheepdog requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Bernese Rotties vs Belgian Sheepdogs

4 / 5

The Bernese Rottie and Belgian Sheepdog breeds are considered very intelligent and easy to train.

Sensitivity Level

How do Bernese Rottie and Belgian Sheepdog compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

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

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Bernese Rottie vs Belgian Sheepdog?

4 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Bernese Rottie or Belgian Sheepdog?

3 / 5

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

2 / 5

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

Child Friendly

Do Bernese Rotties or Belgian Sheepdogs have a friendlier temperament towards children?

3 / 5

Bernese Rotties have an average level of friendliness towards children.

4 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Bernese Rottie or Belgian Sheepdog?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Bernese Rottie or Belgian Sheepdog breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

3 / 5

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

5 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Bernese Rottie or Belgian Sheepdog?

2 / 5

Bernese Rotties are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

3 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Pet friendly

How do Bernese Rottie or Belgian Sheepdog dogs interact with other pets?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Bernese Rottie or Belgian Sheepdog?

2 / 5

Bernese Rotties are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

3 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Bernese Rottie and Belgian Sheepdog?

3 / 5

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

5 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Bernese Rotties and Belgian Sheepdogs compare?

4 / 5

Bernese Rottie and Belgian Sheepdog dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.