Bernese Mountain Dog

Sociable herding dog.

Bernese mountain dogs are a breed of large dogs in the Swiss mountain and cattle dogs croup. Dogs of this breed have an excellent memory and stunning intellectual potential.

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Country of origin:

 Switzerland
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FCI group:

 Group II, section 3, Swiss mountain dogs;
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Temperament:

 Affectionate, Loyal, Intelligent, Trusting
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Colors:

 Burnt Black
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Weight:

 Male: 38–50 kg, Female: 36–48 kg
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Height:

 Male: 64–70 cm, Female: 58–66 cm
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Life expectancy:

 From 6 to 8 years

Bernese mountain dog puppies

Bernese mountain dog is a breed of intelligent and willing to work dogs. Bernese mountain dog puppies are full of energy and do not enjoy stagnation, so they will gladly take part in any type of activity you can think of. Dogs of this breed are usually quick learners but some dose of consistency is required when training with Bernese mountain dog puppies. Don't forget about a suitable motivation during training - tasty dog treats can be a great way to encourage your dog to work and are also an amazing reward. Remember that your puppy needs proper socialisation, so he can learn how to behave around other people and animals. Bernese mountain dogs are a large dog breed, so from the beginning, you can give your dog a diet with glucosamine and chondroitin that will support your dog's joints. Valp Maxi is a great dry puppy food that will provide your puppy with all the necessary nutrients.

Bernese mountain dog nutrition

Bernese mountain dog is a breed of large and active dogs. That's why these dogs require a suitable diet. Dogs or large breeds need food that will provide them with all nutrients as well as an adequate level of energy. A diet that will support the health of your dog's joints is extremely important when it comes to dogs of large breeds. Bernese mountain dogs are somewhat prone to hip dysplasia, so choosing a diet enriched with glucosamine and chondroitin can be a great choice. Bernese mountain dogs are known for their huge appetite. Failing to control your dog's portions can lead to overweight or obesity. Pay attention to how many snacks and treats you’re giving your dog throughout the day.

Recommended for German Shepherd adults:

Detailed description of Bernese mountain dog

Bernese mountain dog is a large dog breed that for many years has been working as a guard gods and herding dogs across Switzerland. Dogs of this breed can get stringy attached to their owners and separated from humans can become a bit on edge.

Genesis

The progenitors of Bernese mountain dogs are believed to have been brought to Switzerland by Roman legions. Although archaeological findings from the second decade of the 20th-century point to Bernese mountain dogs being present in Switzerland even before the Romans. Dogs of this breed were commonly used as herding dogs. With the expansion of the cheese industry in Switzerland, Bernese mountain dogs were often used to pull heavy carts loaded with dairy. As the St. Bernard dogs became more popular the population of Bernese mountain dogs dwindled. The first breeders of Bernese mountain dogs appeared sometime between the 19th and 20th century. In 1902 the breed has been presented during a show for the first time. Five years later the first breed standard has been created.

Appearance

Bernese mountain dogs are rather muscular and solid in build dog. Dogs of this breed are massive, but not sluggish. Bernese mountain dogs have a long and shiny coat, sometimes slightly wavy. Dogs of this breed have big and strong heads with a big muzzle that forms an almost perfect 90 degrees angle where it meets with the skull. They have ears that are set high on the head, triangular in shape and laying flat against the head. Bernese mountain dogs have strong, muscular legs, their tail and back of the hind legs are covered in thick, luscious hairs.

Behaviour

Bernese mountain dogs are well-behaved and friendly canines. Younger dogs of this breed can be a bit more impulsive, but with age, they become very calm and collected companions. They tend to get strongly attached to their owners and do not like to be left alone for too long. Dogs of this breed are very intelligent, learn quickly and are always ready to work. Bernese Mountain dogs are patient and understanding and they make for great companions for kids of any age. They do require a fair bit of physical activity. Too much energy in Bernese mountain dogs can lead to destructive behaviour around the house.

Requirements

Young Bernese mountain dogs can try to pull the leash on walks. Get your dog a sturdy collar and a leash. Try to avoid bright coloured fabric collars, as they can stain the coat on your dog's neck. Bernese mountain dogs need durable and properly sized toys - avoid smaller objects, as your dog can easily swallow or choke on them.

Daily care

A long coat of Bernese mountain dogs does require weekly brushing. During shedding season you can even switch to daily brushing. Whole brushing focus on the longer coat on your dog's legs, tail and ears, which tangles much easier than the rest of the coat. Give your Bernese a bath once you can see or smell that he's dirty. Since Bernese mountain dogs love physical activity, don't forget to apply a moisturizing balm to your dog's toe pads.

dr Anna Plummervet and blogger

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