Great Bernese vs. Pitchow: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Great Berneses or Pitchows hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Great Bernese nor Pitchow are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Great Bernese and Pitchow dogs?

Intelligent
Confident
Affectionate
Patient
Loyal
Gentle
Strong
Willed
Fearless
Faithful

Stubborn
Aloof
Independent
Clownish
Protective
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Affectionate
Obedient
Loyal
Strong
Willed
Aggressive
Quiet
Detached

Shedding Level

Do Great Berneses shed more than Pitchows, or which breed sheds more, Great Berneses or Pitchows?

4 / 5

Great Bernese or Pitchow dogs are heavy shedders, they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Great Bernese or Pitchow. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Great Bernese and Pitchow breeds?

Great Bernese and Great Pyrenees

American Pit Bull Terrier, Chow Chow

Date of Birth

When were Great Bernese and Pitchow breeds first developed?

Mid 1900s

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Great Bernese and Pitchow dogs?

Brown

Hazel
Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Great Bernese and Pitchow?

Black

Blue
Black
Brown
Isabella

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Great Bernese and Pitchow breeds?

Black
White
Brown
Gray
Red

Black
White
Brindle
Fawn
Blue
Red
Gray
Brown
Cream

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Great Bernese and Pitchow breeds?

4 / 5

Great Berneses have longer coats compared to most dogs.

3 / 5

Pitchows have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Great Bernese and Pitchow?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Great Bernese and Pitchow?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Great Bernese and Pitchow?

A Great Bernese can have a litter of 6-9 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Pitchow can have a litter of 5-8 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

4 / 5

Great Berneses are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

3 / 5

Pitchows have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

Health Issues

Between Great Bernese and Pitchow, which breed is more prone to health problems?

5 / 5

The Great Bernese breed is generally very healthy, requiring minimal vet visits. Still, it's important to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

3 / 5

While the Pitchow breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Great Bernese and Pitchow breeds?

Bloat
Histicytosis
Addison's Disease
Meningitis
Joint conditions

Entropion
Hip Dysplasia
Gastric Dilation Volvulus

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Great Bernese and Pitchow?

Entropion
Cataracts
Epilepsy
Cerebellar Abiotrophy
Kidney Problems
Color Dilution Alopecia
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Ear Infections
Cataracts

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Great Bernese and Pitchow breeds?

Biopsy
Electrocardiogram
Spinal Tap
Internal Imaging (x-ray, CT scan, MRI, etc.)
Blood And Urine Analysis
Blood and Urine Tests
Neurological Testing
Orthopedic Exam
Ocular Exam
Skin and Hair Exams

X-Rays
Physical Examination
Radiographs
Urinalysis
Blood Electrolytes
ECG
Blood Gas Analysis
Complete Blood Work
Serum Chemistry
Optical Exam
Fluorescein Test
Schirmer Tear Test
Complete Blood Profile
Cultures
Complete Ophthalmologic Examination

Social Needs

Great Bernese vs Pitchow social needs comparison

4 / 5

Great Bernese has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

3 / 5

Pitchow has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Great Bernese or Pitchow?

2 / 5

Great Berneses sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

3 / 5

Pitchows have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Great Bernese vs Pitchow?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Roaming urge

Great Bernese vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Prey Drive

Great Bernese or Pitchow - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Great Bernese and Pitchow entertained?

Playfulness, Cuddling, Walking, Lounging, Fetch, Tug-of-war, Walks, Chase, Naps, Morning runs, Long walks, Going for walks, Swim, Walk, Snuggling, Play dates w bf, Car rides, Cuddles, Walking trails, Camping, Hiking, Swimming

Tug of war, Walks, Wrestling, Go to Park, Fetch, Tug-of-war, Running, Play, Walk, Cuddling, Cuddle, Run, Nap, Kong ball, Going to lowes, Going bye-bye, Eating icecream, Tricks, Eating Snacks, Car rides, Naps, Events, Hiking, Shopping, Dog park, Rope, Beach, Hikes, Swim, Dog Parks

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Great Berneses or Pitchows?

Both Great Bernese and Pitchow are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

2 / 5

3 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Great Bernese or Pitchow walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Great Bernese, it's at least 11 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Pitchow, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Great Berneses or Pitchows require more exercise?

In general most Great Berneses usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Pitchows usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Great Berneses or Pitchows?

3 / 5

Great Bernese and Pitchow are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Great Bernese and Pitchow dogs?

Ideally, Great Bernese should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Pitchow should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Great Berneses and Pitchows?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Dematter
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Great Bernese or Pitchow in cups?

For an average 85-115 pound (39 - 52 kg) Great Bernese feed 4 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 30-70 pound (14 - 32 kg) Pitchow feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Great Bernese or Pitchow?

The average cost of a Great Bernese is somewhere $3.90 - $4.20 per day.

The average cost of a Pitchow is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Great Bernese or Pitchow?

The average per month expenses of a Great Bernese is between $112 - $126. This makes an average of $1344 - $1512 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of a Pitchow is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Sensitivity Level

How do Great Bernese and Pitchow compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

3 / 5

Pitchows have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Great Bernese or Pitchow?

2 / 5

Great Berneses can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

3 / 5

Pitchows are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Child Friendly

Do Great Berneses or Pitchows have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Great Berneses are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

3 / 5

Pitchows have an average level of friendliness towards children.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Great Bernese or Pitchow?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Great Bernese or Pitchow breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

4 / 5

Great Berneses are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

2 / 5

Pitchows are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Great Bernese or Pitchow?

3 / 5

Great Berneses are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

1 / 5

Pitchows are not dog-friendly.

Pet friendly

How do Great Bernese or Pitchow dogs interact with other pets?

4 / 5

2 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Great Bernese or Pitchow?

3 / 5

Great Berneses are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

2 / 5

Pitchows are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Great Bernese and Pitchow?

3 / 5

Great Bernese and Pitchow have an average level of playfulness. Like other dogs, they enjoy playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Great Berneses and Pitchows compare?

4 / 5

Great Berneses are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

3 / 5

Pitchows are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.