SDD McElprang "Mack" von Fetas Apollo Stokes
Ultra Bernese mountain dog & Australian Shepherd mix (Australian mountain dog) Stud
Australian Mountain Dog (74% Bernese Mountain Dog × 26% Australian Shepherd)
Predicted Adult Weight: ~87 lbs • Born July 31, 2024
Mack carries the substantial frame, calm confidence, and affectionate nature of the Bernese Mountain Dog while inheriting the athleticism and keen intelligence of the Australian Shepherd. This pairing creates a versatile companion with the steadiness families love in a Berner and the trainability and biddable spirit that comes from the Aussie side.
His lush coat will mature into a classic unfurnished, straight texture (RSPO2 II), making him an ideal sire for programs producing low-maintenance, non-Poodle-influenced doodles while preserving hybrid vigor and manageable grooming.
Mack is clear on all 273+ conditions Embark screens for, including breed-relevant concerns such as Degenerative Myelopathy (SOD1A), MDR1 drug sensitivity, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (prcd), and Von Willebrand Disease Type I
Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI): 12% — excellent for a large-breed hybrid, supporting longevity and robust immune function
MHC Class II diversity: High, providing a strong, varied immune profile.
This health foundation allows breeders to confidently build lines with a lower risk of inherited disease and better long-term soundness.
Coat Color Genetics & Production Potential
Furnishings: II (unfurnished)
Coat Texture: CC (straight)
Merle: mm (non-merle)
Brown/Chocolate: BB (no brown)
E Locus: EE (can produce black/red pigment)
K Locus: kk (patterned possible; does not override A locus)
A Locus: aa (black & tan pattern base)
White Spotting (S locus): SS (minimal)Mack-DNA
These results mean Mack reliably passes on an unfurnished coat and classic Bernese patterning (black & tan tri with white) but can also yield variation when paired with merle or brown-carrying mates. He’s a strong match for programs aiming to preserve the Australian Mountain Dog phenotype while exploring color diversity without sacrificing coat simplicity.
Temperament & Working Heritage
Mack shows the hallmark Berner steadiness and social warmth, with the Aussie’s intelligence and responsiveness layered in. His medium-drive, people-oriented personality makes him an excellent candidate for families, therapy-dog prospects, and balanced active homes. He’s expected to sire puppies with adaptable energy levels — calm in the house but capable of outdoor adventure.
Why Mack Matters to Our Program
As an unfurnished, genetically clear, high-diversity male, Mack plays a key role in advancing Stokeshire’s vision for healthy, low-maintenance Australian Mountain Dogs and Doodles. He allows us to:
Produce straight-coated, non-Poodle hybrids for families who want the temperament and look of a Berner-Aussie cross without heavy grooming.
Expand color and pattern options safely by pairing him with brown or merle carriers.
Maintain robust health and genetic diversity across future litters.
Mack with Rivalee
Sire - Apollo
Dam - Feta
