All About Bernese Mountain Dogs
“The Bernese Mountain Dog is an extremely versatile working dog from the farmlands of Switzerland. They were developed to herd cattle, pull carts, and be watchdogs and loyal companions. They’re one of four types of Swiss Mountain Dogs, and the only one with long hair.
The Bernese Mountain Dog comes from the canton of Bern, hence their name. They’re a large and sturdy dog breed, with a friendly and calm disposition, and they’re also well-suited to conformation, obedience, tracking, herding, and carting competitions.
A novice dog parent might be attracted to this breed’s friendly disposition, intelligence, and highly trainable nature. However, first-timers should beware. The Bernese Mountain Dog’s size and high energy can make handling difficult. Thus, they don’t appreciate being cooped up in apartments all day. They shed a lot, and they tend to need the drool wiped from their faces every once in a while.
Dogs of this breed are great watchdogs, but that also means they have a tendency to bark — loudly. They may want to chase smaller animals and play roughly, even though they are quite gentle when fully mature and trained properly.
Although, for an experienced pet parent who can match the Bernese’s energy, provide open space, keep up with grooming, and dedicate time and effort to training, this breed will show unconditional love and loyalty. A well-trained Bernese makes an excellent companion that will adore the whole family. They love kids and will even greet newcomers to the home warmly, so long as they’ve had adequate socialization training.
The Bernese Mountain Dog, affectionately called the Berner (and known as the Berner Sennenhund in their Swiss homeland), is instantly recognizable with their flashy, tricolor coat and white "Swiss cross" on the chest. Underneath that beautiful coat is a sturdy dog well suited for heavy work: These beautiful, gentle dogs have been traditionally used in Switzerland as herders and draft dogs.
The Berner was originally a vital part of farm life, serving to drive cattle, protect family, and pull carts loaded with goods to sell at nearby villages. Although they're good-mannered, hard workers, they nearly became extinct in the early 20th century, when other means of transportation became accessible to farmers. Fortunately, a handful of fanciers sought to preserve the breed.
In addition to being strikingly good-looking, the Berner has a wonderful temperament. They're known for being loyal, affectionate, eager to please, and intelligent. They're easy to train, if you allow them time to analyze what you want them to do. Most of all, they have a happy-go-lucky attitude about life.
There aren’t many breeds with a greater predisposition for friendliness. Therefore, if you’re ready for the challenge, you’ll never regret adopting a Bernese Mountain Dog.”
- DogTime.com
For more information about Bernese Mountain Dogs, we suggest checking out the non-profit site Bernese Mountain Dog Info. They have lots of useful information about breed-specific care, handling and standards.
