All You Need to Know About the Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog has a long, thick tri-colored coat that is black, brown, and white. It is a big, strong breed. They are wonderful family pets because of their kind and friendly disposition.

They are sometimes referred to as "Berners," as they were developed in the Swiss Alps in the canton of Bern, where they were trained to pull carts, herd cattle, and defend their family from harm. Although they are still in demand as working dogs today, they are also becoming more and more popular as household pets.

Prioritizing adoption from rescue groups or shelters when thinking about Bernese Mountain Dogs is advised in order to provide a dog in need of a loving home. But if you do decide to buy, it's important to pick a trustworthy breeder. Make sure the breeder adheres to ethical standards and places a high priority on the welfare of their dogs by doing extensive research. Reputable Bernese Mountain Dog breeders place a high priority on the health and temperament of their dogs, carry out appropriate health examinations, and provide the pups with a loving environment. With this proactive strategy, unethical breeding techniques are discouraged and you are guaranteed to take home a healthy, content puppy.

Quick Facts

• Origin: Bernese Mountain Dogs were bred to pull carts, herd livestock, and protect property in the Swiss Alps.
• Size: Berners need a lot of space because they are a big, robust breed.
• Breed Type: Working
• Life expectancy: 8–10 years.
• Coat: Double, thick coat that has to be brushed and groomed often. Twice a year, they shed a lot of skin.
• Characteristics: Loyal, kind, and friendly. They get along well with kids and other animals.
• Exercise requirements: Because they are energetic, Bernese Mountain Dogs require at least 30 minutes of exercise each day. They like to hike, play fetch, and take walks.
• Dogs that are intelligent and simple to teach. They have a desire to please others and take encouragement well.
• Health: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and bloat are among the health issues that Berners are more likely to have. To identify any health issues early, it's critical to get your Berner evaluated by a veterinarian on a regular basis.
• They belong to the Sennenhund, or Swiss Mountain Dog, breed family. The Entlebucher Mountain Dog, Appenzeller Mountain Dog, and Greater Swiss Mountain Dog are the others.
• Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger visited his native Switzerland and brought back Hercules, a Bernese Mountain Dog.
• For their 2018 Christmas Card shot, Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell posed with their Bernese mountain dogs.

Pictures of Bernese Mountain Dogs

With their colorful, multicolored coat and white "Swiss cross" on the chest, Bernese Mountain Dogs, also known as Berners or Berner Sennenhunds in their native Switzerland, are easily recognized. Despite having a lovely coat, the dog is strong and well-suited for laborious activity. These lovely, kind canines have long served as draft dogs and herders in Switzerland.

The Berner was formerly an essential component of agricultural life, driving cattle, guarding families, and pulling carts filled with products for sale in adjacent communities. Despite being polite and diligent employees, they nearly went extinct in the early 20th century when farmers had access to alternative modes of conveyance. Thankfully, a small number of fanciers worked to protect the breed.

The Berner is not only gorgeous but also has a lovely disposition. They are renowned for being clever, devoted, loving, and loyal. If you give them enough time to consider what you want them to accomplish, they are simple to train. Most importantly, they approach life with a positive outlook.

The Berner is a quiet yet social breed that can occasionally get silly while playing with relatives. They get along well with both kids and adults of all ages, but they aren't a good fit for individuals who live in apartments or don't have a big, fenced-in yard for them to play in. Instead of being confined to an outside kennel, the Berner deserves to live with its family. 

Because they were developed as working dogs, Berners are intelligent and simple to teach. Early obedience training and socializing are advised because of their size when mature, which is typically around 100 pounds. The Berner breed is slow to physically and intellectually develop; prospective owners should be aware that they can stay puppyish for a while. The Berner is also recognized for having a "soft" demeanor; they are sensitive and don't take well to severe criticism.

Berners frequently have short lifespans despite their attractiveness and superb temperament—or possibly because of these traits. The breed's limited gene pool has led to several inbreeding-related health issues. 

Highlights of Bernese Mountain Dogs

• They are a huge breed, reaching between 25 and 27 inches tall and weighing between 70 and 110 pounds. 

• They are renowned for their amiable, kind, and devoted personalities. They get along well with kids and other animals.
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• They should be regularly groomed, which includes brushing and washing.
• They are energetic dogs who require at least 30 minutes of exercise each day.
• They normally have a lifespan of 8 to 10 years.
• Health: They are susceptible to conditions including bloat, hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia.
• Overall, Bernese Mountain Dogs are devoted, caring, and wonderful family pets. They are a big breed, though, and need frequent grooming and exercise.

Bernese Mountain Dog History

The Molosser, an ancient breed, is notable for being one of the most adaptable, well-traveled, and important in the development of a range of Mastiff-type dogs, including Berners. The four Swiss Sennenhund breeds—Appenzeller Sennenhund, Entlebucher Sennenhund, Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, and Berner Sennenhund—are believed to have originated from crosses between Swiss Alpine farm dogs and the Molosser or Mastiff-like dogs that the Romans brought with them when they conquered the Alps in the first century B.C.

The Berner has probably been employed on Swiss farms for almost 2,000 years, discreetly hidden away on modest estates in the Alps, where they have been pulling carts, escorting animals, keeping watch, and offering their owners devoted companionship. By 1888, just 36% of Swiss citizens were employed in agriculture, and as a result, there was less demand for a powerful dog that could herd cattle and draw a cart loaded with merchandise.

However, the Swiss developed a passion for protecting their indigenous breeds and established the Berna dog club in 1899. Breeders of various purebred dogs were among the members. The Swiss Dog Club hosted an exhibition at Ostermundigen in 1902 that highlighted the Swiss mountain breeds.

Two years later, a number of things happened that helped the breeds advance significantly: The Swiss dog club sponsored a class for Swiss "shepherd dogs," which included the Mountain dogs, at an international dog show held in Bern. Additionally, this was the first year that these dogs were given the name "Bernese." The Bernese Mountain Dog was also recognized as a breed by the Swiss Kennel Club in the same year.

Breeding and dog exhibitions were put on hold during World War I in favor of fighting the enemy. Although the American Kennel Club had not yet recognized the breed, the first Bernese Mountain Dogs were shipped after the war, first to Holland and later to the United States.

The first litter of Berner puppies was born in England in 1936 as a result of the importation of Berners by two British breeders. The Glen Shadow kennel in Louisiana brought a male and a female Berner from Switzerland in 1936 as well. The Bernese Mountain Dog had been recognized as a new breed in the Working Class by the time the AKC wrote to Glen Shadow in the early months of 1937.

The development of the breed outside of its home country was once more halted by World War II, but following 1945, importation and registration in the United States began. With 62 members and 43 registered Berners, the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America was established in 1968. The group has more than 100 members three years later.

In the meanwhile, the breed was reintroduced to Great Britain after dying out in England during World War II. In 1981, the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America joined the AKC. The AKC's current Bernese Mountain Dog standard was established in 1990.

Behavior of Bernese Mountain Dogs

The Berner is a kind, wise, and watchful dog. They are also tolerant, quiet, and gentle. They enjoy spending time with family and do well when they participate in family activities. One of his most distinguishing characteristics is his size, and early training is, therefore, crucial to educate them on how to act appropriately around people and in the home.

They take a long time to grow and mature physically before they mature mentally. Though they aren't often violent, Berners are fiercely loyal to their families. Exposing the Berner puppy to a variety of people, animals, and circumstances is crucial since they can be reserved around strangers and are often a little shy. 

In order to guarantee that your Berner puppy develops into a well-rounded dog, socialization is important. It's a good idea to enroll them in a kindergarten class for puppies. Regularly hosting guests and taking your dog to crowded parks, dog-friendly shops, and leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help your dog's social abilities advance.

Bernese Mountain Dog Care

The living in an apartment or condominium is not for Berners. The greatest option is a house with a sizable yard that is completely fenced in. The Berner is a working dog, thus they are quite energetic. They require at least 30 minutes of vigorous exercise each day in addition to yard play; three times that much keeps this strong dog in peak shape.

The Berner is a perfect choice for chilly areas because of its thick, attractive coat. They like having snowball fights. On the other hand, because of his huge size and black coat, they are vulnerable to heat stroke.

Limit their exercise to the mornings or evenings, when it's cooler, rather than during the hottest part of the day. Keep them cool during the hottest part of the day by placing them in the shade or using fans or air conditioning indoors.

If you're rearing a Berner puppy, you'll need to exercise extra caution. Berners develop quickly between the ages of four and seven months, like many large-breed dogs, which makes them prone to bone problems and damage. They thrive on a high-quality, low-calorie diet that slows down their rapid growth.

Additionally, until the Berner puppy is at least two years old and its joints are completely developed, avoid letting it run and play on hard surfaces (like pavement), leap excessively, or drag heavy objects. It's acceptable to play in the grass normally, and puppy agility lessons with their one-inch leaps are also fine.

Bernese Mountain Dog Health

Occasionally, Berners experience health problems as a result of negligent breeding. It's vital to be aware of these diseases if you're thinking about getting a Berner, even though not all Berners will contract any or all of them.

• Cancer: Many Bernese Mountain Dogs suffer from various cancers, which can result in an early death. A sore or bump that doesn't heal, abnormal swelling, bleeding from any bodily entrance, and trouble breathing or eliminating are among symptoms. Chemotherapy, surgery, and prescription drugs are all cancer treatments.
• Elbow Dysplasia: This degenerative condition, which is especially frequent in large-breed dogs, is similar to hip dysplasia. It is thought to be brought on by aberrant growth and development, which leads to a weak and deformed joint. The dog may only experience arthritis or he may become lame depending on the degree of the ailment. Surgery, weight loss, medical supervision, and anti-inflammatory drugs are among the forms of treatment.
• Hip Dysplasia: The thighbone does not fit securely into the hip joint due to this hereditary issue. Dogs can exhibit lameness and pain in one or both of their hind legs, although not all of them do. (X-ray screening is the most accurate method of issue diagnosis.) In any case, as the dog ages, arthritis might appear. Hip dysplasia in dogs should prevent breeding.
• Portosystemic Shunt (PSS): Due to a congenital anomaly, blood might flow around the liver through certain blood arteries. As a result, the liver does not properly filter the blood. Neurobehavioral disorders, lack of appetite, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), intermittent gastrointestinal difficulties, urinary tract problems, medication intolerance, and stunted development are among the symptoms, which often manifest before the age of two. Typically, surgery is your best bet.
• Panosteitis: This syndrome, also known as pano, results in self-limiting lameness. The dog may begin to limp between the ages of five and twelve months, at first on one leg, then on the other, until ceasing altogether. Typically, there are no long-term consequences. If the dog is in discomfort, rest and limited exercise may be required for a while. The greatest thing you can do for your Berner is to offer them premium dog food that doesn't include excessive amounts of calcium or protein, which some people think may contribute to pano. Ask your veterinarian for his advice.
• Von Willebrand’s Disease: This blood condition, which may occur in both people and canines, has an impact on the coagulation process. Symptoms of the condition include nosebleeds, bleeding gums, prolonged bleeding following surgery, prolonged bleeding during or after heat cycles, and occasionally blood in the stool. This condition cannot be treated and is often diagnosed between the ages of three and five. Treatment options include cauterizing or suturing wounds, giving blood transfusions before surgery, and avoiding certain drugs.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): This group of eye conditions causes the retina's progressive degeneration. Affected dogs initially develop night blindness; as the illness worsens, they begin to lose their daytime vision. Many afflicted dogs adjust to their diminished or lost vision well, as long as their environment doesn't change.
• Gastric Torsion: This illness, which is also known as bloat, can kill huge, deep-chested canines like Bernese Mountain canines. This is particularly true if they only eat one substantial meal per day, eat quickly, drink a lot of water thereafter, and engage in strenuous activity right afterward. Older dogs are more likely to get bloat. It happens when the stomach becomes bloated from gas or air and then twists. The regular flow of blood to the heart is hampered because the dog is unable to belch or vomit to get rid of the extra air in the stomach. The dog has a dip in blood pressure and shock. 

Bernese Mountain Dog Feeding

A Bernese Mountain Dog diet needs to be designed for a big breed with lots of energy and activity requirements. For guidance on what to feed your Bernese Mountain Dog and the proper quantity amounts, speak with your veterinarian or a licensed nutritionist. As they transition from puppyhood through adulthood and senior age, their nutritional demands will alter. Keep an eye on these dietary needs.

Bernese Mountain Dog Children And Other Pets

The Berner is a wonderful family pet, and they often get along well with kids who are considerate and careful around animals. Due to their size, they run the risk of accidentally tripping or falling extremely young or small children.

In order to prevent biting or ear or tail tugging on either party, you should always educate kids how to approach and touch dogs. You should also carefully supervise any interactions between young children and dogs. Teach your kids to never go near a dog that is eating or sleeping, or to try to take the dog's food from them.

Regardless of how nice they are, dogs and children should never be left alone. The Berner gets along well with other pets, but the bigger the size disparity, the more care and training are needed to ensure everyone's safety.

Bernese Mountain Dog Breed Organizations

One of the most crucial choices you'll make when getting a new dog is choosing a trustworthy breeder. Reputable breeders are dedicated to producing pups that are healthy, socialized, and make wonderful companions. They will check the health of their breeding stock, socialize the puppies from an early age, and offer you lifetime assistance.

However, backyard breeders are more concerned with turning a profit than they are with raising healthy, happy dogs. They might not adequately socialize their puppies or check the health of their breeding stock. Puppies from backyard breeders are therefore more prone to suffer behavioral and health problems.