Read About Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a gentle giant. Extremely loving of children and highly intelligent, they make the perfect family dog. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Bernese Mountain Dog Summary:

1. Size:

   Large

2. Weight:

   51 -- 99 lbs

3. Coat:

   Long Coated

4. Shedding:

   Seasonal High Shedding

5. Temperament:

   Very Affectionate

6. Obedience:

   Good Obedience

7. Ease of Training:

   Moderately Easy

8. Way with Children:

   Excellent with Children

Bernese Mountain Dog - Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Working; 1937

2. Size & Weight:

   23 -- 28 inches tall and 80 -- 100 lbs

3. Coat:

   The Bernese has a very thick coat which is naturally very shiny.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   With a very large head and beautiful dark brown eyes, this breed carries an expression of intelligence and gentleness; their muzzle is strong and straight.

5. Body:

   A strong and muscular neck coupled with a deep chest, the Bernese is a bulky dog.

6. Colors:

   Although black is the predominate color of this breed, it is actually a tri-colored dog with black, rust and white in its coat.

7. Life Expectancy:

   6 -- 8 years

8. Popularity:

   This is a very popular breed due to its gentle and easygoing nature.

9. Habitat:

   Because of its size, this dog does not do well in an apartment. It is best suited with a large, fenced yard; its thick coat makes a cooler climate preferable.

Bernese Mountain Dog - Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   The exact country of origin is unknown, however, this breed is though to have originated in the Swiss Mountains.

2. Historical Information:

   In their native environment, the Bernese worked as drovers and draft dogs as well as watchdogs for farm yards.

Bernese Mountain Dog - Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Never sharp or shy, this breed is self-confident and good-natured. Although he will happily eat up attention from him master, he can act aloof to attention from strangers.

2. Behavior:

   This breed can be slow to mature and because of this, they will remain boisterous like a puppy for several years'. These dogs like to be with people and do not like to be left outside alone.

3. Habits:

   This dog loves to be a love bug!

Bernese Mountain Dog - Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Although a generally healthy breed, some are prong to hip and elbow dysplasia, cancer and eyelid problems.

2. Exercise Needs:

   Due to its size, this breed needs extensive exercise.

3. Grooming Needs:

   With such a thick coat, it is imperative that this breed is brushed on at least a weekly basis.

4. Travel Needs:

   With a breed this large, it is adviseable to belt them in to a dog seat when traveling by car.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   This happy pooch gets along with everyone.

Bernese Mountain Dog - How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Bright, clear eyes, smooth and shiny coat, friendly and playful disposition.

2. What you will Need for a New Puppy:

   Training collar and leash, new dishes, puppy crate and gates, and plenty of toys.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   As with any breed, it is a good idea to get down on your new companions level and check things out. If it is in your line of sight, you can be sure that your curious pup will find it. Remove all objects that can be easily ingested by you dog and make sure that all electrical cords and well hidden.