Below is a description and practical advice for taking a Bernese Mountain Dog into your home. It was provided by the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America.
Darla
Origin:
Bernese Mountain Dogs (“Berners”) are named for the Canton of Bern in Switzerland. They are working dogs with origins in the farm areas of Switzerland. Historically, Berners were general purpose farm dogs. Their large, hardy frames and calm-natured, people-oriented temperaments made them ideal companions and watchdogs for the farmer. They were also used to pull carts and to accompany cows for short distances to pasture.
Description & traits:
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a striking, tri-colored, large dog. They are intelligent, strong and agile enough to do the draft and droving work for which they were bred.
Males usually weigh 80-115lbs and females weigh 70-95 lbs. By nature Berners are alert and affectionate dogs. With the training essential for ownership of a large working breed, Berners are generally gentle, easygoing and tolerant.
They also are usually excellent with children. They are not prone to excessive barking unless left unattended for too long. They do not do well when isolated from people or activity. Behavior problems are likely to develop when they are deprived of considerable interaction with people. Berners need to live where you are and should be inside with the family. They do not do well as kennel dogs and should never be tied outside and left.
As you would expect with their heavy coat and rugged appearance, Bernese love the cold and snow. But both their size and heavy black coats make these dogs susceptible to heat stroke.
Berners do best in a climate-controlled environment during hot weather, especially if not acclimated to warm temperatures. Activities during the hotter months should be confined to the coolest times of day.
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a double-coated breed. Shedding is considerable. However, a Berner’s coat is relatively easy to maintain.
A periodic bath and frequent brushing will maintain a neat appearance.
A welcome addition to any home!
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