Bernese Mountain Dog
Description
It is thought that
the Bernese Mountain Dog began its origins as a farm dog in the Swiss
mountains as paintings from the end of the 18th century display this
type of dog. However, many foreign dogs by the end of the 19th century
were being imported to Switzerland and there was a danger that the
native breeds would be lost. Named after the Canton of Berne, Switzerland where the breed is widely known, this sturdy
dog has been
used for driving livestock, draft work and as a farm guardian. Because of
this dog’s gentle, happy temperament, the Bernese Mountain Dog makes a
great family companion.
Temperament
Alert and good
natured the Bernese Mountain Dog should have a friendly stable temperament,
and never be nervous, shy or aggressive. Even though this dog will give
a warning bark they are not a guard dog and if well socialized from
puppy should be easy to live with and quite social. These dogs are
fairly easy to train and get along with other pets if introduced early.
These
gentle, cheerful dogs are very intelligent, not overly dominant and just
love to be with their family especially the children.
Appearance
Height: 58-71cm (23-28in)
Weight: 36-50kg (80-110lb)
Group:
The striking and friendly 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. It wears a coat which is moderately long and either straight
or slightly wavy and have dark eyes which display a gentle expression.
The tail is long and bushy and carried low when in repose.
Grooming
Daily to weekly
brushing of the long thick coat is important and as this breed is a
seasonal heavy shedder, extra care will be required. Bathe or dry
shampoo as deemed necessary.
If you don't have the
time to bath or groom your dog, your local dog grooming
salon provides these services.
Life Expectancy
6-8 Years
Health Concerns
Even though the
Bernese Mountain Dog is a very hardy breed hip and elbow dysplasia can
be common. These dogs have also been known to be prone to cancer, bloat
and eyelid problems.
Suitability
The Bernese
Mountain Dog is not recommended for apartment life. They will do best with at least a large, fenced-in yard.
Because of their thick coat these dogs prefer the cooler climates as
they become quite uncomfortable in warm weather.
These large active dogs require daily walks for up to an hour for
adults with gentle exercise and no rough play until these dogs have
finished growing up at around 18 months or they can hurt their growing
bones.
Bernese Mountain Dog -
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