Facts & Origin
Origin and history
The Rhodesian Bernard, also known as the St. Bernard and Rhodesian Ridgeback mix, is a special breed of dog created by crossing a St. Bernard and a Rhodesian Ridgeback. This mix was created in an effort to create a dog that combined both the gentleness and generosity of the St. Bernard and the independence and confidence of the Rhodesian Ridgeback.
Suitability and attitude
Because of their characteristics, Rhodesian Bernards are particularly well-suited to families and provide an excellent blend of temperament and size. This produces a dog breed that is suitable for those who want a dog that is able to keep up with them, as well as those who are looking for a calm and gentle companion.
Ultimately, the Rhodesian Bernard is a loving, loyal and reliable companion that can enrich both active and quiet households. With proper training and care, this mixed breed is an excellent partner that would appeal to many dog enthusiasts.
| Alternate Name | - |
| Origin | Switzerland - South Africa |
| Life expectancy | 8 - 12 years |
| Care requirements | high-maintenance - low-maintenance |
| Activity level | average - average to high |
| FCI group | not recognised |
| AKC group | not recognised |
| KC group | not recognised |
More Rhodesian Ridgeback mixes
Attitude, character and temperament of the breed
Character and temperament
The Rhodesian Bernard is known for his friendly and calm nature. He exhibits the stoic calm and composure of the St. Bernard coupled with the alertness and vigilance of the Rhodesian Ridgeback. Although he is a large dog, he is great for families and is good with children. Thanks to his instinctive protective instincts, he makes an excellent guard dog.
This makes the Rhodesian Bernard a versatile and loving companion that will do well in both active and quiet families. His ability to adapt to different lifestyles, coupled with his friendliness and alertness, makes him a popular pet. However, potential owners should keep in mind that this breed wants to be challenged both physically and mentally.
Trainability and Activity
As a highly intelligent animal, the Rhodesian Bernard is easy to train. However, due to his Rhodesian Ridgeback genes, he requires consistent and patient training. His affinity for exercise should be incorporated into training to ensure his physical and mental health: the Rhodesian Bernard, like any dog, needs regular physical activity to stay healthy and balanced.
Usage
Health and breeding information
Care of the Rhodesian Bernard
Regular grooming is important for the Rhodesian Bernard. Thanks to its short, smooth coat, weekly brushing is often sufficient. However, during the shedding periods in spring and fall, the brushing frequency should be increased.
It is important to check his ears regularly for infections and brush his teeth at least a couple of times a week to prevent tartar buildup.
Diet and Health
The physically active Rhodesian Bernard requires a high-quality, nutrient-rich dry food for large breeds. Common health problems include hip dysplasia, bloat and heart problems. Therefore, owners should incorporate regular vet visits into their grooming routine to monitor the dog's overall well-being.
Breeding this mixed breed dog
Breeding mixed breed dogs like the Rhodesian Bernard requires a detailed knowledge of the health conditions and characteristics of both parent breeds. Prospective breeders should take care to select healthy and temperamental parents with good genetics. It is important to know that not all mixed breed litters are identical and some puppies may have more characteristics of one parent or the other.
What does this mongrel look like?
The Rhodesian Bernard is a large and powerful mixed breed dog. Its size varies depending on the genes of the parents, and its appearance is characterized by a strong build and a broad chest, which give an immediate impression of its physical strength.
The coat is short to medium length and, depending on the heredity, the color can vary between light brown, dark brown or brindle - basically within the limits of its parent breeds.
| Fur length | medium - short |
| Fur | flat coated - |
| Ear shape | Triangle |
| Tail | fanned out - lang |
| Anatomy | strong, muscular, strong |
| Size ♀ | 61 - 80 cm |
| Weight ♀ | 29 - 120 kg |
| Size ♂ | 63 - 90 cm |
| Weight ♂ | 36 - 120 kg |
| Suitable For | - |
Known Diseases
Epilepsy
Definition: Dog has epilepsy if, for example, at least two epileptic seizures occur more than 24 hours apart.
Cancer
May be common in older dogs.
Skeletal disorders
IPA, FPC and OCD occur in dogs at four to five months of age during the most severe growth spurt.
Hip dysplasia (HD)
Hip dysplasia (HD) is a genetic condition in dogs where the hip joint is not shaped properly. This leads to pain, stiffness and restricted movement.
Elbow dysplasia (ED)
Elbow joint dysplasia is a chronic disease complex of the elbow joint of fast growing dog breeds.
Ataxia
Ataxia (from Greek ἀταξία ataxia 'disorder' 'irregularity') is a generic term in medicine for various disorders of movement coordination. Ataxia can occur even when there is no paralysis (paresis), that is, when there is normal muscle strength.
FAQ
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Due to the nature of the parents, a Rhodesian Bernard is expected to be friendly, affectionate and very social.
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A Rhodesian Bernard will need a lot of exercise. At least one hour a day is ideal.
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Dogs should generally be fed a diet adapted to their activity level, size and age.
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No, this mongrel should not live outside every day. The Rhodesian Bernard is usually a pet.
