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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 Classification
What type of dog breed is a Rhodesian Bernard? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Cross Breed Rhodesian Ridgeback and St. Bernard mix

Rhodesian Bernard Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Rhodesian Bernard? Learn how big the Rhodesian Bernard breed typically grows.
LargeGiant
Weight Statistics
How much does a Rhodesian Bernard weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Rhodesian Bernard breed.
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 Range
How much does a Rhodesian Bernard puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Rhodesian Bernard costs.
$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

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Rhodesian Bernard? Discover the Rhodesian Bernard's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
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.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Rhodesian Bernard? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's trainability and response to training methods.
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 Rating
How good is a Rhodesian Bernard as a watchdog? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's alertness and guarding instincts.
Rhodesian Bernard dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Territorial Protection
Is a Rhodesian Bernard protective of its territory? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's guarding instincts and behavior.
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

Personality Traits
What personality does a Rhodesian Bernard have? Learn about characteristic Rhodesian Bernard temperament and behavior traits.
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

Barking Frequency
Does a Rhodesian Bernard bark a lot? Learn about typical Rhodesian Bernard vocalization patterns and triggers.
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.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Rhodesian Bernard? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Rhodesian Bernard 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.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Rhodesian Bernard live in an apartment? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's suitability for apartment living.
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

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Rhodesian Bernard to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's flexibility to new situations.
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.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Rhodesian Bernard be left alone? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's tolerance to solitude.
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 Risk Assessment
What is a Rhodesian Bernard biting potential? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's bite risk factors.

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.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Rhodesian Bernard mouthy? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's tendency to use mouth during play.
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.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Rhodesian Bernard bite? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's bite force measured in PSI.

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.

Rhodesian Bernard Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Rhodesian Bernard live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Rhodesian Bernard breed.
10-12 years
The average lifespan of Rhodesian Bernard: 11 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Rhodesian Bernard handle different weather? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's climate adaptability.
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.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Rhodesian Bernard? Discover typical conditions affecting the Rhodesian Bernard breed.
Rhodesian Bernards are commonly healthy dogs. Vet costs aren't expensive with this breed.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Rhodesian Bernard need vet visits? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's veterinary care requirements.
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.
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

Rhodesian Bernard Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Rhodesian Bernard? Understand daily activity needs of the Rhodesian Bernard breed.
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

Obesity Tendency
Is a Rhodesian Bernard prone to weight gain? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's obesity risks.
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.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Rhodesian Bernard need daily? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's feeding requirements.
6 to 8 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Rhodesian Bernard Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Rhodesian Bernard hypoallergenic? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's suitability for allergy sufferers.
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.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Rhodesian Bernard come in? Discover all possible Rhodesian Bernard color variations.
BlackGray Red White Brown Brindle Golden Tricolor Wheaten
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Rhodesian Bernard need? Learn about Rhodesian Bernard coat maintenance requirements.
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.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Rhodesian Bernard drool a lot? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's drooling habits.
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.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Rhodesian Bernard smell bad? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's natural odor levels.

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.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Rhodesian Bernard have? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's fur characteristics.
DenseRoughSmooth
Bathing Needs
How often does a Rhodesian Bernard need baths? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's bathing requirements.
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.

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.

Rhodesian Bernard Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Rhodesian Bernard good with children? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's behavior around kids of different ages.
Rhodesian Bernard dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Rhodesian Bernard get along with other pets? Discover the Rhodesian Bernard's compatibility with other animals.
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.
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 Capability
Can a Rhodesian Bernard be a service dog? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's service work potential.

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 Work Suitability
Is a Rhodesian Bernard good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's therapy work aptitude.

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.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Rhodesian Bernard good at detection work? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's scenting abilities.

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 & Rescue Potential
Can a Rhodesian Bernard do search and rescue? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's SAR capabilities.

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.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Rhodesian Bernard good on boats? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's maritime capabilities.

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.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Rhodesian Bernard pull carts? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's drafting abilities.

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.

Military Service Background
Was a Rhodesian Bernard used in military service? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's military history.

Not really

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

Rhodesian Bernard Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Rhodesian Bernard usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
6-8 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Rhodesian Bernard pregnant? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's gestation period.

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.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Rhodesian Bernard have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

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.

Rhodesian Bernard Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Rhodesian Bernard in? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's AKC classification.
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Rhodesian Bernard in? Learn about the Rhodesian Bernard's international classification.
Not recognized by FCI.

Rhodesian Bernard Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Health Concerns: Rhodesian Bernards are commonly healthy dogs.
  • Grooming Requirements: Easy to groom: The Rhodesian Bernard doesn't require a lot of grooming.
  • Mouthing Tendency: Rhodesian Bernard dogs have a lower than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Lifestyle Adaptability: Rhodesian Bernard dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
  • Child Compatibility: 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 Work Suitability: This breed makes a perfect therapy dog.
  • Search & Rescue Potential: This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog.
  • Draft Work Capability: A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
Cons
  • Allergy Friendliness: Rhodesian Bernard dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Obesity Tendency: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Rhodesian Bernard's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Alone Time Tolerance: 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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