Note: Extra care must be taken to avoid heatstroke in this large breed.
Major concerns: CHD, elbow dysplasia, histicytosis, OCD
Suggested tests: Hip, elbow, eye
Average Size of Male: Height: 25 – 27.5 inches, Weight: 90 – 120 pounds
Occasionally seen: Hypomyelination
Minor concerns: Fragmented coronoid process, gastric torsion, PRA
Life span: 7 – 9 years
Average Size of Female: Height: 23 – 26 inches, Weight: 70 – 100 pounds
Brief History on Bernese Mountain Dog Origin
The Bernese Mountain Dog is thought to have been developed sometime during the Roman invasion of Switzerland. Some experts note that at the time Roman mastiffs were bred with flock-guarding dogs found in Switzerland. The result of that created a breed that was able to tolerate the incredibly chilly Alpine climate and also work as a guard, herder and draft dog. Even though this strong and resilient breed was considered to be quite useful, not many people continued to breed them. Unfortunately by the late 19th century, the Bernese mountain dog was close to being practically extinct. Thankfully, Professor Albert Heim began to study dog breeds originating in Switzerland. He is credited with claiming the existence of the Bernese Mountain dog of one of those types. It was Heim, Franz Schertenlieb, and a few others that can be credited with promoting this breed throughout Switzerland and the rest of Europe. The group located remaining individual dogs, and successfully stabilized the Bernese mountain dog as its own distinct breed. It is thought that the name “Bernese Mountain Dog” came from the Berne canton of Switzerland, a place where the breed is widely recognized. Majority of the best examples of this breed were found in the Durrbach area, which at one time gave the breed a different name: Durr Bachler. But as the dog became more widely recognized across the map, the breed name was officially changed to Bernese Mountain Dog. It was in 1926 that the first Bernese arrived in the United States, and the AKC recognized the breed in 1937.
Bernese Mountain Dog Breed Appearance
Slightly longer than it is tall, the Bernese Mountain Dog appears to have a somewhat square overall shape. The well-muscled shoulders and straight, strong legs make up the forequarters of the dog. The rounded front feet are compact with well-arched toes. The strong thighs of the hindquarters are broad and strong, and the back feet are quite compact like the front. An intelligent, loving expression can be found in the dark brown, oval-shaped eyes of the Bernese. The ears are medium in size, triangular in shape and gently rounded at the tip. The straight muzzle features a black nose, and the teeth should meet in a scissors bite. The muscular neck is of medium length, and it blends smoothly into the back. The bushy tail of this breed is hung low when the dog is at rest, and carried with an upward curl when the dog is alert or excited. The gait of this breed is best described as a slow trot, but this working dog is capable of both agility and speed. The thick coat of the Bernese mountain dog is quite long, and it is usually either straight or slightly wavy. This breed has a tri-color coat that features a bright, natural sheen. The base color is jet black, and the markings are rusty brown/orange and snow white.
Bernese Mountain Dog Breed Temperament
The Bernese is definitely an easy-going family dog, and would be the perfect addition to any home. This breed is known for its sensitivity, loyalty, and devotion. It is normally very tolerant with younger children, as it tends to be a gentle & loving dog at heart. Although it can be quite reserved with strangers. It will generally get along well with other family pets, including other dogs. To be sure, socialize them at an early age with non-canine animals, other dogs, strangers etc. While the Bernese can be somewhat slow to mature, once it grows past the adolescent stage it has a much calmer demeanor. Many times this breed will attach itself to one family member in particular, the one it feels closest to or feels it has bonded most with. The Bernese is an intelligent breed, and is therefore quite easy to train compared to other dogs. While it is considered to be a natural watchdog and alert you when someone strange is approaching, it is not known to be overly aggressive or attack. Because of its loyalty and devotion, this breed may have a difficult time if it has to adjust to a new owner after 18 months of age. So please note that you should be sure you have the means and current living situation to take care of and keep a bernese for the long run. Since the Bernese loves to be with it’s family, this dog shouldn’t be left outside all the time.
Bernese Mountain Dog Breed Maintenance
A good brushing of the long, thick coat is suggested a couple of times a week. Even more so during those periods of heavy shedding, AKA, the warmer months. This breed is considered to be a seasonally heavy shedder, so keep this in mind if you are considering owning one. Bathing them should be done as often as it is necessary, and the use of dry shampoo is also recommended to keep their coats looking nice. It is important to maintain teeth and nail care on a regular basis. Daily exercise is required. Including but no limited to: hiking, long walks on a leash, and playing interactive games in a safe, fenced-in yard or park. The Bernese enjoys being outside in cold weather, so feel free to let them go outside every once and awhile when it is Winter time. This breed can become rather uncomfortable in warm climates. So be sure to try to go through the steps of keeping them comfortable all year round. This is not a good breed for apartment building, as it requires plenty of indoor space and a substantial yard to play in.
via Whisker Therapy