Group

Mastiff, Working Dogs

Origin

The Bernese Mountain Dog was introduced to Switzerland by Roman soldiers 2000 years ago, originally known as the Berner Sennehund. The breed was named after the Berne canton of Switzerland where the breed is popular. They were mainly used for herding cattle and guarding farms. The Bernese was also used as a draught dog, to pull small carts, to transport woven goods or dairy products from village to village.

Many foreign dogs were being imported to Switzerland by the end of the 19th century and the native breeds were almost lost. Professor Albert Heim, Franz Schertenleib and others preserved the breed by finding remaining specimens and stabilized the Berner Sennenhund (Bernese Alpine Herdsman's dog) as a separate breed.

Description

The Bernese is a strong sturdy dog, compact in build. Its height can vary from 24-28 inches (61-71cm.) for a dog and 23-27 inches (58-69cm.) for a bitch and Its weight can be from 85-110 pounds (38-50kg.) for a dog and 80-105 pounds (36-48kg.) for a bitch.

The strong skull and black colouring with rich, reddish-brown on the cheeks, over the eyes and on all four legs and the chest, with a long, quite wavy coat and natural sheen, makes the Bernese a really impressive dog. The Bernese has almond shaped dark eyes, triangular high set ears hanging to the side of the head. His tail is long and bushy, carried low when in repose, raising when running (a slight upward curve can be seen when the dog is alert). The jaws are strong with a complete scissor bite.

Temperament

They are a very handsome dog, lovely cheerful natures, self-confident, alert and very gentle. They are very loyal to their families and love children. They are very intelligent dog and easy to train, although, these dogs are sensitive and should be trained gently. They are natural watchdogs, but are not overly aggressive. They are very loyal and if they are not socialized with other people they may have trouble adjusting to a new owner after they are 18 months old. It is advisable to socialize them as a puppy, in case they have to be re-homed; it would help them to be able to adjust to a new owner.

They are fairly friendly with strangers, and provided they have been introduced to cats and other household animals when young, they will always accept them. Some of them can be dominant with other dogs. Never sharp or shy. They are quite slow to mature and remain puppy-like for at least 2 years. The Bernese needs to be with people and not left alone in the backyard or kennel.

Living conditions

The Bernese is not recommended for apartment life as they are relatively inactive indoors and they need at least a large, fenced-in garden. They can get uncomfortable in warm weather because of their thick coat and a cool climate is preferable.

Exercise

As adults they need regular exercise, about 60 to 80 minutes per day.

To allow the bones and joints to form properly when they are puppies, exercise should be restricted to the garden for at least 4 to 5 months. After the age of 6 months, progress to controlled walking on a collar and lead. After they are 1 year old, they can be allowed off the lead for free-running exercise.

Health Problems

A good diet is very important to keep these dogs healhy.

This breed is generally healthy but some can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat and also hereditary eye disease and cancer.

Grooming

Daily to weekly brushing of the long thick coat is a must to keep them tangle-free and to reduce the amount of shedding. Bathe or dry shampoo when necessary. This breed is a seasonal, heavy shedder. Take extra care when moulding.

The hair between the pads should be trimmed regularly.

Average Litter Size: 8 (Litter sizes can vary from 1 to 14 puppies!)

Life expectancy

8-10 years. Bernese Mountain Dogs, can have relatively short lifespans of about 7 years, although, many of them do live 10 years or longer.