Berger Blanc Suisse Basics
Though the Berger Blanc Suisse (also known the White Swiss Shepherd Dog or Snowy Shepherd) looks remarkably similar to both the White Shepherd and the White German Shepherd, all three of these dogs are separate breeds. The Berger Blanc Suisse is recognized only by the Federation Cynologique Internationale. These dogs are intelligent, but they are also friendly by nature and loyal to their families. If you are looking for a unique breed of dog that makes an excellent family pet, consider the Berger Blanc Suisse.
These dogs are intelligent, but they are also friendly by nature and loyal to their families.
Origin
The Berger Blanc Suisse shares its origins with both the White Shepherd and the White German Shepherd. All three of these breeds were developed from the white-coat line of the German Shepherd Dog during the early 20th century. The first German Shepherds bred for their white coat were seen in Germany during the 1880s but it wasn’t until the early 20th century that a dedicated breeding program for white-coated German Shepherd Dogs appeared. The White Shepherd was officially recognized by the UKC in 1999 and the White German Shepherd Dog is recognized by the AKC. It wasn’t until 2001 that the Berger Blanc Suisse was accepted on a provisional basis by the Federation Cynologique Internationale and it was officially accepted in 2011.
Pedigree
The Berger Blanc Suisse was developed from the white-coat line of the German Shepherd Dog. Though it shares the same origins as the White Shepherd and the White German Shepherd, it was officially recognized as a separate breed by the Federation Cynologique Internationale in 2011.
Food/Diet
The Berger Blanc Suisse is a herding breed which means that it has a great deal of energy. This being the case, it is recommended that you feed your Berger Blanc Suisse a commercial dog food formulated especially for active breeds. This will ensure that your dog’s energy needs are met.
The Berger Blanc Suisse is an intelligent breed that typically responds well to training.
Training
The Berger Blanc Suisse is an intelligent breed that typically responds well to training. These dogs do not tend to be independent or strong-willed but it is recommended that you start training early. This breed can be trained for a variety of dog sports including agility, obedience, flyball, rack, and herding. These dogs have also been used for therapy and as assistance dogs. Early socialization is also recommended for this breed to prevent it from becoming shy or wary around strangers.
Weight
The average height for a mature female Berger Blanc Suisse is between 22 and 24 inches while a male may grow up to 2 inches taller. Female Berger Blanc Suisse dogs typically weigh 55 to 77 lbs. at maturity while males weigh up to 88 lbs.
Temperament/Behavior
The Berger Blanc Suisse is a friendly and gentle dog by nature. In addition to being loyal with family, these dogs are also patient and kind with children – this makes them great family pets. The Berger Blanc Suisse is protective of its family but they do not show any aggressive tendencies. These dogs are smart and love having a job to do – this is why they excel at dog sports.
Common Health Problems
The Berger Blanc is a healthy and hardy breed not known to be affected by any serious congenital conditions. Like all dogs, however, they are prone to developing certain minor health problems including elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, primary lens luxation, and von Willebrande disease.
Life Expectancy
The average lifespan of the Berger Blanc Suisse is about 12 years.
Exercise Requirements
The Berger Blanc was originally bred from the white-coat lines of the German Shepherd so it has strong herding tendencies. This being the case, the Berger Blanc has fairly high needs for exercise. In addition to a daily 30-minute walk, these dogs appreciate having plenty of outdoor space to run and play. Training this breed for various dog sports will also help to provide additional mental and physical stimulation.
The Berger Blanc Suisse is a friendly and gentle dog by nature.
AKC
The Berger Blanc Suisse shares its origins with both the White Shepherd and the White German Shepherd. As such, it is not recognized as a separate breed by the AKC but it is by the Federation Cynologique Internationale.
Coat
The Berger Blanc Suisse has a medium-length double coat of pure white hair. The undercoat is short and fine while the outer coat is dense and harsh. A slightly wavy outer coat is acceptable, but straight coats are most common. Because this dog has a thick double coat, regular brushing is recommended to help control shedding.
Puppies
The average litter size for the Berger Blanc Suisse is 8 puppies. Because the Berger Blanc Suisse breed is highly intelligent, it is recommended that you start training puppies as early as possible. Early socialization will also help to prevent this breed from becoming nervous or aloof around strangers. Photo credit: f8grapher/Bigstock.com; Life on White/Bigstock.com; Petr Jilek/Bigstock.com
