Dog breed Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese mountain dog, originating from Switzerland, is a substantial working breed that has found a place in the hearts of adults, children, and other pets as loyal and affectionate companions in modern times.

These tricolored Berners are both playful and energetic, although not overly exhausting. Their imposing size is tempered by their cheerful expressions and generally affable dispositions.

While Bernese mountain dogs are undeniably charming, they may not be the right fit for everyone due to their propensity for barking and their thick coats that require regular grooming.

Characteristics of the Bernese Mountain Dog

Typically sporting a good-natured disposition, Bernese mountain dogs are known for their gentle and eager-to-please nature, making them wonderful household pets. Given proper socialization, they are open to meeting new people and exhibit great affection for their families. As effective watchdogs, some may bark more than desired.

Berners are intelligent and trainable dogs, although thorough obedience training during their puppyhood is crucial. Their playful and exuberant nature, coupled with their size, necessitates care to avoid accidental knocking over of children or adults during enthusiastic greetings or play.

Due to their sociable and loyal nature, Berners prefer not to be left alone for extended periods. This breed is not suited for individuals with long working hours who expect their dog to be content when left alone at home.

History of the Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese mountain dog was bred in the region of Berne, Switzerland, and is distinguished by its longer and silkier coat when compared to other Swiss mountain dog varieties. These dogs have a history of driving livestock, guarding farms, and pulling heavy loads in the 1800s. They were also cherished companions to families. As machinery began replacing their work towards the end of the 19th century, the breed’s popularity waned, prompting the formation of a Swiss club dedicated to its preservation and revival.

In the early 1900s, Bernese mountain dogs were introduced to the United States, with official recognition from the American Kennel Club occurring in 1937. Today, they rank as one of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S., holding the 22nd position in the 2022 list of the country’s most favored breeds.

Bernese Mountain Dog Care

To ensure the happiness and health of Bernese mountain dogs, they require a moderate amount of exercise, consistent training, and socialization. Their grooming demands are relatively straightforward, albeit with substantial shedding and the potential for drool.

Exercise

While Berners have a moderate energy level, their large size necessitates space for movement and play. A yard is typically required.

Providing a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every day is advisable, which can include walks, hikes, games of fetch, or visits to a dog park. Being quite athletic, Bernese mountain dogs can excel in canine sports such as obedience, agility, tracking, and carting, providing both mental and physical challenges for them.

In situations where a yard is not available, or if you live in an apartment, ensuring your Berner has daily outdoor time or alternative activities, such as doggy daycare, is particularly important. Social playdates with other dogs of similar size and strength can be quite enjoyable for them.

Grooming

The Bernese mountain dog possesses a double coat, consisting of a shorter undercoat and a longer outer coat that repels dirt and insulates them from cold weather. This breed tends to shed considerably, especially during seasonal transitions. Regular weekly brushing, and more frequent sessions during peak shedding periods, are necessary to remove loose fur, prevent matting, and manage tangles.

Initiating brushing habits when your Berner is a puppy can help them become accustomed to regular grooming, possibly even looking forward to these sessions. Monthly baths are generally sufficient, depending on their dirt level, and monthly nail trimming is advisable. Additionally, weekly ear checks for dirt, redness, swelling, or odor are essential, as Berners with floppy ears can be more susceptible to ear infections.

Drooling tendencies can vary among Bernese mountain dogs, with some exhibiting more slobber due to their loose jowls. To manage this, keeping a cleaning cloth on hand to prevent drool from clinging to their fur is prudent. Just as with any dog, brushing your Berner’s teeth regularly is essential to prevent tartar buildup, which can lead to gum disease.

Training

Bernese mountain dogs are known for their intelligence and willingness to please, making training relatively straightforward. Starting with basic obedience and socialization during their puppy stage is essential, teaching them commands like sit, stay, and lie down. This is particularly important as these powerful dogs can be difficult to manage if their manners are not established. Exposure to different people, animals, and situations can boost their confidence and comfort.

Berners respond well to positive reinforcement training methods, such as clicker training. As they take longer to reach both physical and mental maturity, patience during training sessions is vital, with multiple short sessions being more effective than extended ones.

Common Health Problems

Like other large breeds, Bernese mountain dogs have relatively short lifespans, typically between seven to ten years, an important consideration before bringing one into your home. They are susceptible to certain health conditions, including hip and elbow dysplasia, blood disorders like Von Willebrand’s disease, cancer, progressive retinal atrophy, and bloat, a potentially life-threatening condition in which the stomach bloats and may twist.

Diet and Nutrition

A nutritious, well-balanced diet is essential for your Bernese mountain dog. Ensure they have constant access to fresh water and select a high quality canine diet. For Berner puppies, opt for large breed-specific diets that encourage slow and steady growth to prevent joint issues and other complications associated with rapid growth. Most owners feed their dogs twice a day, but it’s essential to discuss the diet and portion size with your veterinarian to ensure your dog’s dietary needs are met and to prevent weight gain. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for these large dogs, as excess weight can place considerable stress on their joints and lead to other health problems.