Bernese Mountain Dog

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Bernese Mountain Dog

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Size: Large to Extra-Large
Other Names: Berner Sennenhund,, Bouvier Bernois, Bovaro Bernese, Dürrbächler, Berner
Country of Origin: Switzerland
Accreditation:
American Kennel Club (AKC): Working
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): Working
United Kennel Club (UKC): Guardian Dog
Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC): Utility
The Kennel Club (KC): Working Dogs
Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA): Working Dogs
National Kennel Club (NKC): Recognized
New Zealand Kennel Club (NZKC): Utility

The Bernese Mountain Dog is instantly recognized by its distinctive tri-color pattern: body, neck, legs, head and ears are solid black; the cheeks, stockings and thumbprints (or ghost eyes) are brown; the toes, chest, muzzle, tail tip and blaze between the eyes white. The pattern is rigid and varies only slightly in the amount of white. A perfectly-marked individual gives the impression of a white "Swiss cross" on the chest, when viewed from the front in sitting position. The eyes are an expressive dark brown and are almond shaped.

A large farm companion with a heavy shedding coat and a generally quiet house manner; he needs space and cool weather, not a hot apartment.

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a versatile breed of farm dog originating in the canton of Berne in Switzerland. Both male and female Bernese Mountain Dogs are extremely strong.

Height: 23-28 inches
Weight: Male: 85-165 pounds; Female: 65-120 pounds
Color: Black with white chest and tan (or rust) colored markings above eyes, sides of mouth front of legs and a small amount around white chest
Coat: Moderately long and either straight or slightly wavy; in rare cases, can be slightly curly; slightly rough in outline, but not at all harsh in texture
Lifespan: 7–10 years
Litter size: 5–8 puppies

Temperament

The Bernese are affectionate, loyal, faithful, stable and intelligent. Bernese Mountain Dogs are quirky, loving dogs, craving love and affection. They love to lean against people, sit on their feet, or lie down under their legs while people sit. The breed is very sweet and good with children, despite their great size. The majority of Bernese are very friendly to other dogs, and they often get along well with other pets, such as cats and horses.

Training

Bernese are very trainable provided the owner is patient and consistent in training; Bernese need time to think things through. They do not respond well to harsh treatment, however Berners are very willing and eager to please their master. Bernese love to be encouraged with praise and treats. Bernese Mountain Dogs are slow to mature, and can display puppy-like tendencies up to 2½ years of age.

Care and grooming

The Bernese coat is quite dirt and weather resistant . A good brushing every week or two is sufficient to keep it in fine shape, except when the undercoat is being shed. Then, daily combing or brushing is in order for the duration of the moult. Bernese are outdoor dogs at heart, though well-behaved in the house; they need activity and exercise, but do not have a great deal of endurance. They can move with amazing bursts of speed for their size when motivated. If they are sound (no problems with their hips, elbows, or other joints) they enjoy hiking and generally stick close to their people. The Bernese calm temperament makes them a natural for pulling small carts or wagons, a task they originally performed in Switzerland. Regional Bernese clubs often offer carting workshops.

Shedding

Moderate to heavy; the long tricolor coat sheds more in spring and fall.

Health

Bernese Mountain Dogs have a high rate of cancer, including histiocytic sarcoma. Hip and elbow dysplasia and bloat are also common; keep the dog lean and avoid hard exercise right after meals.

Crosses that include the Bernese Mountain Dog

These hybrid pages list this breed as a parent. Open a name to see the other contributing breed.

Euro Mountain Sheparnese

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