Berger Blanc Suisse
The Berger Blanc Suisse (White Swiss Shepherd Dog) is a pure white shepherd breed developed from white-coated German Shepherd Dogs — a colour that was historically bred out of German Shepherd lines in Germany but preserved by breeders in Switzerland and North America.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Origin
Switzerland
Lifespan
12–14 years
Weight
25–40 kg (55–88 lbs)
Height
55–66 cm (22–26 in)
Diet
Omnivore — high-quality large breed food.
Taxonomic Hierarchy
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
The Story
The Berger Blanc Suisse (White Swiss Shepherd Dog) is a pure white shepherd breed developed from white-coated German Shepherd Dogs — a colour that was historically bred out of German Shepherd lines in Germany but preserved by breeders in Switzerland and North America. Officially recognised as a separate breed by the FCI in 2011, the White Swiss Shepherd has the same intelligence, trainability, and athleticism as the German Shepherd but with a slightly gentler, less intense temperament that makes it an excellent family dog. The brilliant white coat makes it visually striking.
Also Known As
Quick Facts
Discover which pets match your lifestyle
Physical Profile
Source: wikimedia
Identical in structure to the German Shepherd — strong, well-muscled, slightly elongated body, erect ears, and a flowing gait. The coat is pure white, medium-length, double-layered, and dense. No other colours are permitted. The eyes are dark. Overall impression is of an elegant, capable, ghostly-white shepherd.
Grooming
High
Shedding
Very High
Coat Colors
Recognized By
Source: wikimedia
Temperament & Personality
Intelligent, loyal, and gentle — the BBS has the German Shepherd's working ability with a slightly softer edge. Less reactive than German Shepherds. Good with families, children, and other dogs when socialised. Sensitive to harsh training methods — positive reinforcement works best.
Living Profile
Care & Wellness
Professional Care Protocol
- •1.5–2 hours exercise daily. The white double coat requires brushing 3–4 times weekly and daily during heavy seasonal shedding. Thrives in dog sports — agility, tracking, herding, obedience. Mental stimulation as important as physical.
Vaccination Schedule
Vaccination Schedule
Health Overview
Hip and elbow dysplasia — screen breeding stock. Degenerative myelopathy (DNA test available). Bloat (GDV). Skin conditions including allergies and hot spots. Generally healthier than the German Shepherd due to less intensive selection pressure.
Common Conditions
Fun Facts
White German Shepherd puppies were disqualified from showing and breeding in Germany from 1933 — the white coat was considered a fault and associated with albinism (incorrectly). Swiss breeders preserved the colour by continuing to breed white-coated individuals, eventually developing them into a separate breed.
The Berger Blanc Suisse is used in several European countries for police work, search and rescue, and service dog roles — proving the white coat is no barrier to working ability.
