The Bernese mountain dog is a big working dog breed from Switzerland with a tricolor and moderate-length coat and a soft expression.
Also known as the Berner dogs they are loyal and affectionate pets and are great with kids and other pets.
They can be quite amusing and energetic but they aren’t exhausted and are protective but they aren’t aggressive.
Bernese Mountain Dog Care Tips, History, and Helpful Information
Strong, large, and built for hard work, the Bernese Mountain Dog is beautiful as well as blessed with a sweet and affectionate nature.
Berners are usually placid however they are always ready for a romp with their owner to whom they are devoted.
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a massive, strong dog that can reach a height of 27 inches at the shoulder.
The silky, thick, as well as moderately lengthy coat, has three colors: clear white, jet black, and rust.
The distinct markings of the face and coat are distinctive. coat, as well as the face, is the hallmark of breeds and, when paired with the shrewd gleam in the eyes dark and a regal face, gives Berners an aura of regal elegance.
A tough dog who thrives in the cold winter months, Berner’s brain and muscles helped him perform multiple tasks in the pastures and farms of Switzerland.
Berners are a good fit for all family members and are especially gentle with children. However, they do usually be more attached to one person who is lucky enough to be theirs.
Berners are intimidating but not intimidating and retain their aloof dignity with strangers.
Bernese mountain dogs can carry 1,000 pounds. The muscular, broad dogs were utilized to transport goods on Swiss farms.
Breed Overview
ORIGIN: Switzerland
Bernese Mountain Dog Size (HEIGHT): 23 to 26 inches (female), 25 to 27.5 inches (male)
Bernese Mountain Dog WEIGHT: 70 to 95 pounds (female), 80 to 115 pounds (male)
Bernese Mountain Dog LIFE SPAN: 7 to 10 years
GROUP: Working
COAT: The coat is a thick medium-length double coat
COAT COLOR: Black white, and rust or black or white, tan, or black
TEMPERAMENT: Kind kind, balanced Loyal
HYPOALLERGENIC: No
Characteristics of the Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese mountain dogs generally possess a sociable and calming personality. The hallmarks of their temperament are their gentle nature and desire to be loved.
If they are socialized properly They are willing to meet strangers and are affectionate with their families.
| Affection Level | High |
| Friendliness | High |
| Kid-Friendly | High |
| Pet-Friendly | High |
| Exercise Needs | Medium |
| Playfulness | Medium |
| Energy Level | Medium |
| Trainability | High |
| Intelligence | Medium |
| Tendency to Bark | Medium |
| Amount of Shedding | High |
Recognition
- ACA = American Canine Association Inc
- UKC = United Kennel Club.
- AKC = American Kennel Club
- ACR = American Canine Registry
- NKC = National Kennel Club
- ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club
- APRI = American Pet Registry, Inc.
- CCR = Canadian Canine Registry
- CKC = Canadian Kennel Club
- CKC = Continental Kennel Club
- DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
- KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain
- NAPR = North American Purebred Registry, Inc
- NZKC = New Zealand Kennel Club
- FCI = Federation Cynologique Internationale
The Breed Standard
Breed Standard Description of the best dog in every recognized breed, which will serve as a benchmark against which breeds are judged in shows. It was originally formulated by a parent breed club and accepted informally by national or international organizations.
History of the Bernese Mountain Dog
It is believed that the Bernese mountain dog was born in Switzerland in the vicinity of Berne where it’s named. The ancestors of the breed came to the region a long time back and descended from Roman mastiffs and other dogs.
The Berner is among four types of Swiss mountain dogs, which is set apart by its lengthier and silky coat.
The three other types include three: the Greater Swiss mountain dog, the Entlebucher mountain dog, and the Appenzeller mountain dog.
In the 1800s In the 1800s, dogs were employed to pull livestock, guard farms, and even pull massive loads.
They have also devoted pets to their families. The breed’s popularity declined towards the close of the 1800s because of the advent of machines that replaced them in a large portion of their jobs.
But, it spurred clubs to form to keep the breed alive and revive its popularity.
Berners came to the U.S. in the early 1900s. The American Kennel Club first recognized the breed in 1937. They’re today among the most sought-after dog breeds in the country.
Bernese Mountain Dog Care
The ownership of a dog isn’t just a luxury, it’s an obligation. They rely on us to provide, at a minimum, food, and shelter, and they are entitled to plenty more.
If you decide to take the plunge of having a pet in your home you must be aware of the commitment dog ownership is.
Bernese mountain breeds require a moderate amount of exercise, as well as constant socialization and training, to ensure that they are healthy and happy dogs. Their grooming is easy but you need to be prepared for a lot of loose furs.
Exercise
Berners have a moderate level of energy and require space for their huge bodies to move around and play.
Make sure you do at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each day, including strenuous walks, hikes, and games of the game fetch.
Berners are extremely athletic dogs that can be competitive in dog sports like agility, obedience carting, tracking, and obedience. This can help challenge them physically and mentally.
Nutrition
A Bernese Mountain Dog should do very well on high-quality dog foods either commercially made or homemade with your vet’s guidance and permission.
The food you feed your dog should be appropriate according to your pet’s size (Mini Bernese Mountain Dog or Puppy Adult, senior, or senior).
Certain breeds are susceptible to becoming overweight, so be aware of your dog’s consumption of calories and weight. Treats are a great aid in training, however excessive treats can lead to weight gain.
Find out which foods for humans are suitable for pets and which ones aren’t.
Consult your veterinarian If you have concerns regarding your dog’s weight or diet.
Water that is clean and fresh should be readily available throughout the day.
Grooming
The Berner features the benefit of a double coat (a shorter undercoat coupled with a more extended outer coat) and keeps debris and dirt out. However, the coat sheds a lot.
Cleanse thoroughly every week to get rid of loose fur and avoid mats and tangles.
Additionally, shedding is usually higher when the weather shifts in autumn and spring. frequent brushing may be required to manage all the fur that is shed.
It is recommended to bathe your dog every month, based on how dirty. Also, check to see if it requires the nail trim every month as well.
Also, look at your dog’s ears every week to determine if they require cleaning. Examine for dirt, as well as swelling, redness, or odor in the ears.
In the end, many Bernese mountain dog breeds drool only a little, however, the ones with loose jowls may drool quite a little.
The slobber could end up on the dog, within the home, and even on you. If you’re a drooler be sure to keep a cleaning cloth handy to keep the drool from forming a slick into the fur of your dog.
Training
Bernese mountain dog breeds are lively with a desire to please which makes training simple.
Beginning with basic obedience and socialization while your dog is just a puppy. This is particularly important when you have an enormous breed like the Berner as they are strong and therefore difficult to manage If they’ve not learned their behavior.
Try for your pet to be exposed to various individuals, animals, and different situations to increase the dog’s comfort and confidence.
Berners respond well to regular positive and positive techniques for training like clicker training. The animals are sensitive to sharp corrections and could stop responding to these training methods.
Common Health Issues
Bernese mountain dogs live relatively shorter lifespans when compared to other breeds. It is something you should consider before deciding whether or not to adopt one.
They are typically healthy dogs and responsible breeders can test the breeding line for signs of health problems like hip and elbow dysplasia, blood disorders, certain cancers as well as progressive retinal atrophy.
All large breeds are prone to bloat which is a sudden life-threatening stomach condition.
Berner owners must be aware of the warning signs to watch out for, and what they should do in the event of a problem.
Like all breeds, Berners’ ears need to be checked frequently for signs of infection and teeth must be cleaned regularly, with a special toothpaste specifically for dogs.
As with many breeds that are bred, the Berner is predisposed to certain hereditary disorders which include:
- Cancer: Many types of cancer affect the majority of Bernese Mountain Dogs and can cause death before the age of. Signs of cancer include unusual swelling of a bump or sore or sore that doesn’t heal bleeding from any opening on the body and breathing difficulties or elimination. Treatment options for cancer include chemotherapy or surgery, as well as medicines.
- Hip Dysplasia: This is an inheritable condition that causes it is condition that occurs when the thigh bone doesn’t fit snugly into the hip joint. Some dogs experience discomfort and lameness in the rear legs of one or both however, other dogs don’t show any visible indications of discomfort. (X-ray examination is the only reliable method to identify the issue.) In either case, arthritis may occur as a dog gets older. Dogs suffering from hip dysplasia should not be crossed with other breeds.
- Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia. It’s an additional degenerative disease common to large-breed dogs. It’s thought to be the result of abnormal growth and development that causes an unformed and weak joint. The severity of the condition varies and the dog may suffer from arthritis or might become debilitated. Treatments include surgery, weight as well as medical management. anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): It is one kind of eye disease that causes the gradual degeneration of the retina. At the beginning of the disease, the affected dog becomes night-blind and they lose vision throughout the daytime as the condition advances. A lot of affected dogs adjust well to the loss or limitation of their vision as long they remain the same.
- Portosystemic Shunt (PSS): It is a congenital abnormality in which blood vessels permit blood to flow through the liver. In the process, the blood isn’t cleaned by the liver in the way it is expected to. The symptoms, typically manifest in the first two years of age and can range from but aren’t restricted to neurobehavioral disorders, loss of hunger, hypoglycemia (low levels of blood sugar), intermittent gastrointestinal issues as well as urinary tract problems. drug intolerance, and stunted growth. Surgery is typically the best choice.
- Von Willebrand’s Disease: Found in both humans and dogs it is an illness of the blood that can affect the process of clotting. A dog with the condition will exhibit symptoms like nosebleeds, bleeding gums, continuous bleeding after surgery, continuous blood loss during the heat cycle, or after birth, and sometimes stool blood. The condition is typically diagnosed between the ages of three and five years of age. Sadly, it isn’t curable. However, it is controlled with treatments such as cauterizing and suturing injuries, transfusions before surgery, and the avoidance of specific drugs.
- Panosteitis: It is commonly referred to as pano, the condition causes self-limiting lameness. When the dog is between five to 12 months old, the dog can start limping first on one leg and then on another, and eventually end. The majority of dogs do not experience lasting effects. Restriction of activity and rest might be required when your dog is experiencing discomfort. The best thing you can do to help the health of your Berner is to feed him high-quality dog food that does not contain excessive calcium or high a proportion of protein, which many believe could trigger pano. Consult your veterinarian for advice.
- Gastric Torsion: Also called bloat This is a life-threatening disease that can affect big, deep-chested dogs, like Bernese Mountain Dogs. This is particularly true when they are fed a big meal per day and eat quickly drink large amounts of water following meals and then exercise hard after eating. Bloat is more frequent in older dogs. It is caused when the stomach becomes bloated with air or gas and then turns (torsion). The dog is unable to belch or vomit to expel the air that is trapped in the stomach. Consequently, the normal flow of blood back to the heart is hindered. Blood pressure falls and the dog is in shock. If medical treatment is not given immediately the dog could end up dying. It is possible to suspect bloat in your dog if it has abdominal distension and is constantly salivating and retching without vomiting. Also, they may be restless, depressed tired, and weak, with a high heart rate. It is crucial to take your dog to a vet promptly in the event you observe these symptoms.
Recommended Health Tests:
These Tests are Recommended By Our House Veterinarian:
- Hip Evaluation
- Elbow Evaluation
- Cardiac Exam
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
- Von Willebrand’s Disease DNA Test
9 Fun Facts About the Bernese Mountain Dog
Alongside cheese and chocolate, the Swiss Canton Bern is most well-known as the home to 4 breeds of mountain dogs including the Bernese Mountain Dog.
Gorgeous, powerful, placid, and affectionate There’s plenty to be awed by about this breed.
1. The Term Most Commonly Used to Define the Dog Breed is “Versatile”
Born in an agricultural area within Switzerland, Berners are all-around farm dogs that are adept in driving, drafting shepherding, protecting the farmyard as well as being great family members.
2. Bernese Mountains Dogs are Handsome, They are Even Majestic
The large, powerful dog is beautiful with a soft tri-color coat of black, white, and rust with distinct patterns. Their eyes are dark and radiate their intelligence.
3. They are Cold-Weather Dogs
Of course, he’s required to be able to stay inside with his family He is however a lover of winter outdoor activities and is always willing to be with you for treks, camping trips, hiking, and even a nice romp through the winter snow.
4. A Bernese Mountain Dog will be Your Children’s Favorite Pet
The breed is renowned for its gentle nature as well as affectionate towards children. He may take on the role of looking over the children of the family, and they’re not rambunctious with children. Given how big he is, he could be too large for young children.
5. When We Talk About ‘Versatile’, Bernese Mountain Dogs Perform Well in Dog Sports
This breed of the Working Group competes in a range of different activities. They are very adept at carting and drafting however, they also have themselves in the arena of agility as well as obedience, herding, and conformation.
6. Berner Owners will Advise You to Purchase a Quality Vacuum Cleaner
The breed is covered in a double coat and sheds profusely. They also shed their coats cyclically or seasonally. If you or your family members have allergies, this might not be the dog that is right for you.
7. Berners Truly are Family-Oriented
One of the reasons they excel in a variety of jobs is their profound desire to please their owners. The Bernese Mountain Dog is meant to be with you and not to be kenneled or put out in the open. He’s looking to be wherever you are. With his laid-back, affectionate temperament, you’ll like to be there!
8. Bernese Mountain Dog For Rescue
- Nico (2015) Nico (2015), one of the Bernese mountain dogs became a hero after he helped two people who were taken to the ocean by the California tear current.
- Bella helped the owner Chris Larocque from a burning home by rescuing him. The owner was disabled because of the injuries suffered on him and claimed the house would have burned without Bella’s assistance.
- Oakley (2014) helped her family by laying on her owner’s back until he woke up after the Vermont ski condo caught fire throughout the night.
- Ben Ben, one of the Bernese Mountain Dog mixes with Border Collie, saved his family from a fire that began when they fell asleep. Ben alerted the babysitter to the fire and was able to bring the two children and Ben out of the way to safety.
9. They are Strong
The breed is extremely tough and can pull 10 times their weight which is almost 1,000 pounds!
Where to Buy or Adopt a Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy
Bernese mountain dog for sale Search local animal shelters as well as rescue groups that specialize in breeds to find the perfect Berner who needs an owner. The typical Bernese mountain dog price ranges from $2000 – $3000. If you’re searching for a breeder puppy, expect to be paying between $2,000 and $3000 on average, although it can differ based on bloodlines and other variables. To find out more information on how to find a Berner look up:
FAQs
Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Make Good Pets?
If properly trained and socialized, Bernese mountain dogs can be great pets for families. They are generally great with children, and can even be great with other pets.
Are Bernese Mountain Dogs Aggressive?
Bernese mountain dogs usually don’t display any aggression. They tend to be calm and even-tempered However, they may turn protective if they feel they are in a situation that warrants it.
Are Bernese Mountain Dogs Good Apartment Dogs?
Berners could be able to reside in an apartment with enough space to move about and play. They’re not excessive barkers and are typically comfortable around strangers with the right training. It’s important to take time out each day to exercise, especially if they live in a tiny home.
Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Bark a Lot?
The dogs of this breed are excellent watchdogs. However, that means that they tend to bark quite loudly. They might like to chase animals smaller than themselves and play rough even though they’re extremely gentle when they are fully mature and properly trained.
Can a Bernese Mountain Dog be Left Alone?
Berners are affectionate dogs who are bonded to their families. They like spending time with their loved ones However, provided they exercise enough and mental stimulation may be left in a home at any time for five to eight hours. They are prone to developing destructive behavior in the absence of others, which is why the need for crate training could be necessary.
What are the Pros of a Bernese Mountain Dog?
List of the Pros of Bernese Mountain Dogs:
1. Berners are patient and soft family companions.
2. This dog is very active around the house.
3. Berners are funny. humor.
4. This dog is among the most loyal companions you’ll ever come across.
What are the Cons of a Bernese Mountain Dog?
Reasons Why you shouldn’t get a Bernese Mountain Dog? (Cons of Bernese Mountain Dogs):
1. The Berners generally have shorter lives than other breeds of dogs. dog breeds.
2. This breed needs a responsible owner to regulate its behavior.
3. Berners need a lot of space due to their dimensions.
4. The breed is often affected by frequent and severe anxiety attacks.
5. Berners aren’t very successful in hot climates.
6. They shed lots of hair, particularly in the summertime.
7. Berners can be expensive to buy.
8. This breed isn’t sure of the size of its breed.
Why Do Berners Sit On Their Feet?
Your legs are barriers for your dog, and they are aware that you will be there to be there for them, particularly because Bernese Mountain Dogs tend to be timid. This can happen when they fear other dogs or people or are anxious about a social situation.
More Dog Breeds and Further Research
When you’re deciding on choosing a Bernese mountain dog make certain to conduct extensive research. Contact other Berner owners and vets, reliable breeders, and rescue organizations to get more information.
There’s an entire world of possibilities for dog breeds out there–with just a little bit of research, you’ll be able to choose the perfect one to take home!
