Description

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a sturdy, heavy dog, with a beautiful weather-resistant tri-color double coat of black with symmetrical markings of rust and white. The dog should have a white blaze on the chest, white on the head and toes, and rust markings over each eye, on the cheeks, sides of the chest, under the tail and on each leg. The coat is moderately long and either straight or slightly wavy. The broad head has a slight furrow down the middle. The medium-sized triangular ears are pendant. The dark eyes have a gentle expression and the nose is black. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite. The body is compact with a wide, deep chest. The brisket should reach down to the elbow at least. The tail is long and bushy, carried low when in repose (a slight upward curve is permissible when the dog is alert). Dewclaws should be removed.

Origin

Although the exact origins of the Bernese Mountain Dog are unclear, this breed probably began as a farm dog in the Swiss mountains. Paintings from the end of the 18th century show the Bernese type. By the end of the 19th century, however, many foreign dogs were being imported to Switzerland and there was a danger that the native breeds would be lost. Professor Albert Heim, Franz Schertenleib and others led the effort to preserve native Swiss breeds by finding remaining specimens and stabilizing the Berner Sennenhund (Bernese Alpine Herdsman's dog) as a distinct breed. The Bernese Mountain Dog was named after the Berne canton of Switzerland where the breed is widely known. The sturdy Bernese has been used for driving livestock, for draft work and as a farm guardian. Because of his gentle, happy temperament, the Bernese Mountain Dog makes a fine family companion. Its talents are tracking, herding, watchdogging, guarding, search & rescue, carting, and competitive obedience.

Temperament

These gentle, cheerful dogs love children. They are very intelligent, easy to train and are natural watchdogs, but not overly aggressive. A friend for life. They are very loyal and may have trouble adjusting to a new owner after they are 18 months old. Self-confident, alert and good-natured. They are fairly friendly with strangers, and are generally good with other pets and dogs. Never sharp or shy. These dogs may by slow to mature, remaining boisterous and puppy-like for quite awhile. The Bernese needs to be with people and not relegated to the backyard or kennel run. Like any dog, the Bernese Mountain Dog should be well socialized as a puppy. These dogs are sensitive and should be trained gently.

Height

Height: Dogs 24-28 inches (61-71cm.) Bitches 23-27 inches (58-69cm.)

Weight

Weight: Dogs 85-110 pounds (38-50kg.) Bitches 80-105 pounds (36-48kg.)

Known Health Problems

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a very hardy breed, but beware of hip and elbow dysplasia. Also prone to cancer, bloat and eyelid problems.

Conditions for Living

Bernese Mountain Dog are not recommended for apartment life. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least a large, fenced-in yard. Prefers cool climates because the thick coat makes the Bernese uncomfortable in warm weather.

Exercise Requirments

Large active dogs such as these need regular exercise, which include a

Life Expectancy

About 6-8 years. The average lifespan of the Bernese has decreased in recent years from 10-12 yrs to 6-8 yrs. The BMD Club of America did a health survey in 2000 with 1,322 dogs. The average age of death was and many Berners die young. One source states "I know of several that died of cancer at 3-4 yrs old and one that died two days before his 2nd birthday. The BMD Club of America is aggressively researching this cancer issue! We must see if we can end this sad situation." Litter Size Varies from 1 - 14 puppies - Average 8

Grooming

Daily to weekly brushing of the long thick coat is important, with extra care needed when the coat is shedding. Bathe or dry shampoo as necessary. This breed is a seasonal, heavy shedder.

Group

Mastiff, AKC Working