Bernese Rottie

75-130 lbs
24-28"
Unknown
Bernese Mountain Dog
Rottweiler
Bernweiler

The Bernese Rottie, also known as the Bernweiler, is a large hybrid breed that was recently developed from the crossbreeding of a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Rottweiler. These dogs will be loyal, playful and affectionate family pets but will require proper socialization. They will be prone to a few health conditions as well as obesity, and will,  therefore, require between 30 and 60 minutes of exercise every day. These beautiful dogs will have an appearance of somewhere between that of the Rottweiler and the Bernese Mountain Dog. They will have large heads and compact but athletic bodies. Today, this designer breed is used as a guard dog and a working dog, but is also a great companion pet.

purpose Purpose
Working, Guarding, Companion
history Date of Origin
Unknown
ancestry Ancestry
Bernese Mountain Dog, Rottweiler

Bernese Rottie Health

Average Size
Male Bernese Rottie size stats
Height: 24-28 inches Weight: 75-130 lbs
Female Bernese Rottie size stats
Height: 24-28 inches Weight: 75-130 lbs
Major Concerns
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Osteochondritis Dissecans
Minor Concerns
  • Elbow Dysplasia
Occasional Tests
  • Hip
  • Elbow
  • Skeletal
  • X-Rays
  • Physical Examination

Bernese Rottie Breed History

This designer breed was originally bred as working dogs to be used by the herdsmen in the Swiss Alps. They are big and powerful and make great guard dogs. Not much else is known of their past, but we do know the history of the parents. The Bernese Mountain Dog is from Switzerland and was originally bred to be a watchdog, a carting dog and to be on the farms. One task that they were known to do was to be the source of transport of small produce, like milk and cheese, for some farmers who were unable to own draft horses. This breed was almost forgotten up until the 19th century when a Swiss innkeeper and a college professor began searching for dogs of this breed. In 1892 they began re-stabilizing the breed’s numbers. The Rottweiler’s history is not known for sure, but it is thought that they were descended from drover dogs. Many centuries ago, those dogs were owned by the Romans and used to move livestock. They eventually evolved from moving livestock to being guard dogs for the soldiers, stock, and flocks of the Romans on the move. In 700 A.D., the ancient Roman baths were replaced by a Christian church by the orders of a local ruler. While the excavation was taking place, they discovered red tiles that were from the Roman villas. The site was then named Das Rote Wil, which means The Red Tile, and is now called Rottweil. Cattlemen and bucher men settled around that area after it was turned into a cultural hub center, and these men needed dogs to aid them in their trades. Until the 19th century, these dogs were used to drive the cattle into the market. They were then called the Rottweiler Metzgerhund, or the Butcher’s dog. Their numbers descended during the industrial revolution of the mid-1800s, but regained popularity during the 20th century when they were used as police dogs. During the first World War, these dogs were used in the German army.

Bernese Rottie Breed Appearance

The Bernese Rottie is a modern and mostly unknown breed. It is hard to determine exactly how these dogs will look, as they can take on characteristics from both parents. Bernese Mountain Dogs are compact with deep and wide chests, with a furrow that goes down the middle of their broad heads. Their ears are triangularly shaped and pendant, and their eyes are dark. These dogs hold their long and bushy tails low, unless they are excited. Rottweilers are athletic dogs that have muscular bodies and very large and broad heads. They are not quite as tall as they are long and have level toplines. They also have pendant and triangular ears, with wide noses that are black, like their lips and the inside of their mouths. The almond shaped eyes will be dark brown and deep set, and the Rottweiler’s teeth will meet in a scissors bite.

Bernese Rottie Breed Maintenance

The Bernese Rottie will have different maintenance levels depending on which parent they are more like. The Bernese Mountain Dog sheds all year round but heaviest during the changes in season. Therefore, you should brush them weekly, and more often during the fall and spring. They only need to have baths every few months, unless they like to play around in the dirt. The Rottweiler as well will need weekly brushing, more often twice a year when their shedding increases. Bathe them only when needed. Besides grooming, all dogs, including the Bernese Rottie should have their ears cleaned and checked at least once every month to prevent the development of infections. Teeth brushing is also a must, and should be done daily if possible. Two or three times a week should be minimum. Trim your dog’s nails as needed, which will be once or twice a month, unless they wear down on their own, in which case it can be done less often.

Bernese Rottie Temperament

The Bernese Rottie is a smart and talented dog that will excel at a variety of jobs, such as police work, carting, guarding, pulling weights and herding. They are protective of their family and will alert you and attack any intruders. Aside from these characteristics, you can expect that this hybrid breed will adopt some personality traits from its parents. Bernese Mountain Dogs are true people pets and they enjoy nothing more than to spend time with their family. Sweet and affectionate dogs, they will be calm and patient around children. These dogs get along with other pets as well, and are polite with new people but can sometimes be shy, which is why it is important to properly socialize them. They can spend all day playing but will also enjoy spending some time relaxing. They are docile but can be slow to train. Make sure to be patient and show lots of positive encouragement. Unfortunately, Rottweilers have developed the reputation to be vicious. However, this is not their natural behavior, and they will only be aggressive if they were trained this way. They are very loyal and protective towards their family, which makes them great watchdogs. They will be playful and affectionate as long as they are socialized well. With strangers, these dogs will be reserved until they decide that the person is worthy of their time and affection. They need experienced owners, as they can be hard to train. You must be kind but harsh and confident when dealing with this breed.

Bernese Rottie Activity Requirements

The Bernese Mountain Dog has a lot of energy and will require regular exercise, but will also love to relax and take naps. With their long and thick coats, this breed is more suited to the winter temperatures and should not be exercised too much when it is hot. Rottweilers can become bored and destructive if not exercised enough. Be aware that the Bernese Rottie may have the same behavior.

Bernese Rottie Owner Experiences

Bo
10 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
swimming
Cuddling
Walking
BEST dog ever. I love him so much. As a puppy, had extreme separation anxiety and would destroy the house. He was fairly easy to train and is such a great dog. Loyal to a fault, scared of his own farts, will protect me if he needed to. Hates the heat, loves the snow, rain, and the cold. Sweet temperament, friendly to people he knows. Very head shy and needs time to warm up to NEW people. Does not do well with random strangers coming up to him without him getting their scent first. Bark is so loud and deep, but only barks when he's happy to see someone, sees another dog/cat, or to alert/warn of potential danger. Follows me everywhere, wants to be with me always. Was leash aggressive when younger, socialized him with other dogs and people weekly. Broke that leash aggression and any aggression towards dogs quickly. Loves to cuddle, but gets hot easily. Needs a bath 2-3 times, unless obviously dirty. Fur seems to be water repelling and hard to penetrate, so baths can break the back. Needs mental stimulation if not getting enough exercise or on a stormy day. Loves his naps and sleeping on a cold flooring or by an air vent. In great health. Chiropractic care is a MUST for this breed, well really all dogs. At 10 1/2 years old, he still jumps into an SUV with no problem and up and down a 4 ft high bed. But only thanks to adjustments from chiro. Preventive supplements is a must to prevent known ailments to this breed. Such as joint supplements, cbd oil, etc. Loves walks but doesn't like to run. Can only walk him in cooler weather, never when it's even over 78 degrees. Very communicative, especially with his brown eyebrows and just a loyal companion overall. Hair crimps in humidity around the ears, chest, tail, and back legs. (So cute) Loves his water and can overheat easily, so always should be noted! Seriously the best breed!
3 years, 3 months ago
Cornell
15 Weeks
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
have only had him for 2 weeks, likes his toys and treats on his blanket. Tries to play with the household cats. Wants to be outdoors only if I go with him in the yard and loves long walks along the river.
6 years, 10 months ago
Luna
24 Months
4 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I have had her since she was 6 weeks old. She's full of energy and very obedient. Enjoys playing with my 11 year old son outside and loves laying down on my bed.
6 years, 4 months ago
Ripley
11 Months
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
She is a very sweet girl, she does have separation anxiety so she does come with us pretty well all the time. She is very smart as we have set times to go to the off leash park to socialize with her canine friends. Great with all ages and size dogs. She can be stubborn, but a treat or two helps with that.
6 years ago
Ella
5 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
She is an absolute wonderful doggie and companion. She is kind of a scaredy-cat when it comes to noises. She’s not too keen on the water unless she can wall into. She goes everywhere with me! And she expects treats when I get back in the car regardless if I just stepped out or was gone 30 minutes. She loves the snow. She’s curious about other animals. She is very protective of me but is very friendly. She’s great with other dogs. She’s in really good health but we do keep an eye on her hips. She does get jealous of me showing attention to other whether it be animals or people. She’s the best dog in the world!
5 years, 7 months ago
Roxy
2 Years
3 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Best dog ever!! We got her when I was pregnant with our daughter, and we have had Roxy since she was 8 weeks old. She was pretty difficult to train, but once we were able to work through the chewing and destructiveness, she has been the best dog in the world. So kind and gentle with our daughter, and she’s all around just a giant cuddle bug. I can’t recommend this breed enough, although I would definitely say this is a breed for experienced dog owners. You definitely need a yard and the time to play with this breed too!
5 years, 6 months ago
Bear
11 Months
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
My favorite mixed breed yet, extremely intelligent yet stubborn in an adorable way. The are little antagonist at times as they seem to be looking to play an won't take no for an answer. All in all a incredible puppy. Since the day we got him he has greeted each of us ever morning, as we open our eyes he is always laying beside you patiently watching for you acknowledge him so he can proceed to clean your face with his tong lol you have to be ready because after a few minutes of affection he is up and at em and ready to go play in the backyard. I couldn't imagine waking up without him. Get one if you have good experience and patience they are the perfect large breed for every activity.
5 years, 2 months ago
Kobe
9 Weeks
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Playing with toys and napping
My dog is the sweetest little puppy. Potty training only took one day. By the third day we had him he had already learned two commands and was crate trained. He loves napping with us and cuddling. Great around other people and dogs. He does not bark and is play biting less and less everyday. He gets soooo excited when he sees us and loves being social. A dog barking at him doesnt even faze this little guy. He is our first dog and it has been a breeze training him. We only used one pee pad. He is the calmest, sweetest, happiest little puppy. I cannot reccomend this breed enough. His entire litter was so similar in looks and personality and are doing just as well as he is.
4 years, 4 months ago
Bailey
8 Months
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
Tug of war
Cuddleing
Fetch
Very friendly loyal energetic protective
4 years, 1 month ago
Jade
7 Months
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Running, tug of war, playing with a ropetoy
She is amazing!! Super affectionate, very friendly and good with strangers. She takes a lot of persistence with training but if your confident and a strong k-9 leader it's shouldn't be to bad and very rewarding. This is an amazing breed I would highly recommend it!!
3 years, 11 months ago
kobe
11 Months
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Kobe is the sweetest dog !!! He has such a friendly temperament and is always calm. He is a lot of self confidence and is quick to learn new things. He is 3/4 rottweiler so he looks like a fluffy Rottweiler and is often mistaken as a purebreed. He is the pride and joy of our family. His initial training of potty and crate training took less than a week and he loves keeping his dog house clean. He loves food and is always trying different dog approved foods. Kobe has graduated level one dog training and K9 training. He is extremely healthy and receives two to three hour walks daily.We have noticed a raw food diet has worked best for him. He has more energy, coat looks better, and less gas. Kobe is always smiling and has the prettiest brown eyes. We constantly get compliments on his personality and looks. I am so happy with my sweet Kobe!
3 years, 7 months ago
Book me a walkiee?
Pweeeze!
Sketch of smiling australian shepherd