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Rhodesian Bernard Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Rhodesian Bernard so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Designer Dogs
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OriginSwitzerland flagSwitzerland Italy flagItaly Zimbabwe flagZimbabwe
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Cross Breed Rhodesian Ridgeback and St. Bernard mix

Rhodesian Bernard Size and Weight

Size
Is a Rhodesian Bernard small, medium or large dog?

How big do Rhodesian Bernard get?

What is the average size of a Rhodesian Bernard?

LargeGiant
Weight
How much does the Rhodesian Bernard weigh? How much should a Rhodesian Bernard weight? What is the normal weight of a Rhodesian Bernard? How much does a full-grown Rhodesian Bernard weight?
110-200 pounds (50-91 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Rhodesian Bernard?
155 pounds (70.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Rhodesian Bernard? Rhodesian Bernard height:
Male: 25-27 inches (63-69 cm), Female: 24-26 inches (61-66 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Rhodesian Bernard?
Male: 26 inches (66 cm), Female: 25 inches (63.5 cm)

Rhodesian Bernard Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Rhodesian Bernard puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Rhodesian Bernard in the United States? How much money is a Rhodesian Bernard?

Where to buy a Rhodesian Bernard with a good pedigree?

$900-$1200
If you choose to purchase the Rhodesian Bernard, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Rhodesian Bernard for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Rhodesian Bernard gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Rhodesian Bernard? How many Rhodesian Bernard are there in the world?
Very frequent: The Rhodesian Bernard is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision.

Rhodesian Bernard Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Rhodesian Bernard? Is the Rhodesian Bernard breed dumb or smart?
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. They understand and remember new commands after an average of 25-40 repetitions.

The Rhodesian Bernard ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Trainability
Are Rhodesian Bernard dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Rhodesian Bernard?
Rhodesian Bernard dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Ability
Is Rhodesian Bernard good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Rhodesian Bernard dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Rhodesian Bernard dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Rhodesian Bernard dogs strongly protect their territory. This breed is a complete security guard, so you don't have to be afraid in case of danger.

Rhodesian Bernard Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Rhodesian Bernard have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
DignifiedIndependentHappySensitiveIntelligentFriendlyLoyalGentleGoingSocialStrongWilledQuietMischievous
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Rhodesian Bernard sensitivity:
Sensitive: Rhodesian Bernard dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.

This breed's emotional level reflects their owner's feelings and they don't handle punishments well.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Rhodesian Bernard a good family dog?
High: Rhodesian Bernard dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Rhodesian Bernard need? Rhodesian Bernard social needs:
Rhodesian Bernard dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Rhodesian Bernard to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Rhodesian Bernard roam?
Rhodesian Bernard dogs have average wanderlust potential. Sometimes they like to explore the world and they might escape once or twice, but usually, they prefer staying safely at home. Safer to teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Rhodesian Bernard have high prey drive?
Rhodesian Bernard dogs have an average prey drive, which means that they don't have a high impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals, but it might happen. Training can help to achieve good behavior.

Rhodesian Bernard Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
Average: Rhodesian Bernards, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Barking
Do Rhodesian Bernard dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Rhodesian Bernard bark?
Low to Average: The Rhodesian Bernard rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Rhodesian Bernard good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Rhodesian Bernard in an apartment?
It is not the best choice if you want to keep them indoors, however, with careful exercise and several walks a day, they will tolerate the indoor environment, so it is possible to keep Rhodesian Bernard indoors.

Rhodesian Bernard Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Rhodesian Bernard dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Rhodesian Bernard be left alone? How long can you leave a Rhodesian Bernard alone?
Rhodesian Bernard dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

Rhodesian Bernard Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Rhodesian Bernard has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Rhodesian Bernard? How much bite force does a Rhodesian Bernard have? How strong is a Rhodesian Bernard bite?

Above 400 PSI 🔼

Rhodesian Bernard bite force: The Strongest. The Rhodesian Bernard bite force is among the strongest in the canine world. The bite force Rhodesian Bernard measurements are typically quite high, which is a testament to their powerful and large stature. The bite force of Rhodesian Bernard dogs is impressive, and their Rhodesian Bernard bite PSI is reflective of their powerful nature.

The Rhodesian Bernard PSI bite should be respected, and appropriate precautions should be taken when interacting with these dogs. The PSI of a Rhodesian Bernard bite is high, making them one of the strongest breeds in terms of bite force.

They are very protective of themselves and their families, therefore a dog bite from them could be exceptionally dangerous with their PSI being above 400.

To ensure a well-behaved and controlled dog, it's important to learn how to train a Rhodesian Bernard puppy not to bite from an early age. It is important that they’re trained to be around others safely.

Biting Potential
Do Rhodesian Bernard bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Rhodesian Bernard? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Rhodesian Bernard? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Rhodesian Bernard has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Rhodesian Bernard do?
Rhodesian Bernard dogs have a lower than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Rhodesian Bernard dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Rhodesian Bernard Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Rhodesian Bernard dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Rhodesian Bernards are commonly healthy dogs. Vet costs aren't expensive with this breed.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Rhodesian Bernard breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Rhodesian Bernard breed? Most common health risks of Rhodesian Bernard:
Cataracts Hip Dysplasia AllergiesDermoid SinusBloatEpilepsyEntropionElbow DysplasiaDilated Cardiomyopathy
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Rhodesian Bernard breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Rhodesian Bernard see the vet?
Rare
The Rhodesian Bernard should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year). If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Rhodesian Bernard dogs live? How old can a Rhodesian Bernard be? What is the age limit of the Rhodesian Bernard? How many years can the oldest Rhodesian Bernard live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Rhodesian Bernard?

How long is the lifespan of a Rhodesian Bernard?

10-12 years
The average lifespan of Rhodesian Bernard: 11 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.

Rhodesian Bernard Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Rhodesian Bernard have? What is the activity level of the Rhodesian Bernard?
Rhodesian Bernard dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Rhodesian Bernard need? How much exercise do Rhodesian Bernard dogs require per day?

Do Rhodesian Bernard dogs need a lot of exercises?

Rhodesian Bernard dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Rhodesian Bernard breed need?
Rhodesian Bernard dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.

Rhodesian Bernard Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Rhodesian Bernard need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Rhodesian Bernard breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Rhodesian Bernard? How much food should I feed my Rhodesian Bernard?
6 to 8 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Rhodesian Bernard risk for obesity:
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Rhodesian Bernard's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Rhodesian Bernard weight regularly.

Rhodesian Bernard Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Rhodesian Bernard have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
DenseRoughSmooth
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Rhodesian Bernard coats?
BlackGray Red White Brown Brindle Golden Tricolor Wheaten
Grooming
How to groom the Rhodesian Bernard and how often? How often should I take my Rhodesian Bernard to the groomer?
Easy to groom: The Rhodesian Bernard doesn't require a lot of grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Rhodesian Bernard is a good choice if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Recommended for beginners.
Shedding Level
How much do Rhodesian Bernard dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Rhodesian Bernard? Do Rhodesian Bernard dogs shed a lot?
Rhodesian Bernard dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Rhodesian Bernard need a bath? How often should you give a Rhodesian Bernard a bath? Can I bathe my Rhodesian Bernard every day?
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Rhodesian Bernard breed hypoallergenic?
No
Rhodesian Bernard dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The Rhodesian Bernard has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Rhodesian Bernard drool?
The Rhodesian Bernard is an average drooler. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Rhodesian Bernard Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Rhodesian Bernard dogs get along with other pets? Are Rhodesian Bernard dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Rhodesian Bernard dogs are usually friendly towards other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Rhodesian Bernard temperament with other people:
Rhodesian Bernard dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Child Friendly
Are Rhodesian Bernard dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Rhodesian Bernard temperament with children:
Rhodesian Bernard dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Rhodesian Bernard dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Rhodesian Bernard breed live with a cat?
Rhodesian Bernard dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Rhodesian Bernard good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Rhodesian Bernard dogs get along with other dogs?
Rhodesian Bernard dogs are dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Rhodesian Bernard can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Rhodesian Bernard breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Rhodesian Bernard breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Rhodesian Bernard dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Rhodesian Bernard dogs good office canines? Do Rhodesian Bernard dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Rhodesian Bernard is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Rhodesian Bernard dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Rhodesian Bernard temperament with senior people? Are Rhodesian Bernard dogs good for elderly owners?
Rhodesian Bernards are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

Rhodesian Bernard As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Rhodesian Bernard be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Rhodesian Bernard is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Rhodesian Bernard be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Rhodesian Bernard be an emotional support animal?

Yes

This breed makes a perfect therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Rhodesian Bernard breed is a good choice for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Rhodesian Bernard be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Rhodesian Bernard is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Rhodesian Bernard be a search and rescue dog?

Yes

This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and in locating missing people.

The Rhodesian Bernard breed is a good choice for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Rhodesian Bernard be a boat dog?

Not really

Rhodesian Bernard breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Rhodesian Bernard be a drafting dog?

Yes

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Rhodesian Bernard breed is a good choice for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Rhodesian Bernard dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Rhodesian Bernard Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Rhodesian Bernard pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Rhodesian Bernard breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Rhodesian Bernard: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Rhodesian Bernard have in a litter? How many puppies can the Rhodesian Bernard breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Rhodesian Bernard have? How many puppies can a Rhodesian Bernard give birth to?
6-8 puppies

Rhodesian Bernard Recognition

AKC Group
Is Rhodesian Bernard recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Rhodesian Bernard recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Not recognized by FCI.

Rhodesian Bernard Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Health Issues: Rhodesian Bernards are commonly healthy dogs.
  • Grooming: Easy to groom: The Rhodesian Bernard doesn't require a lot of grooming.
  • Mouthiness: Rhodesian Bernard dogs have a lower than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Adaptability: Rhodesian Bernard dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
  • Child Friendly: Rhodesian Bernard dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
  • Cat Friendly: Rhodesian Bernard dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Rhodesian Bernard dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Rhodesian Bernards are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Rhodesian Bernard dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Therapy Dog: This breed makes a perfect therapy dog.
  • Search and Rescue Dog (SAR): This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog.
  • Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog: A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: Rhodesian Bernard dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Rhodesian Bernard's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: Rhodesian Bernard dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
  • Office Friendly: Rhodesian Bernard is not the best dog breed for office environment.

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