| The Bernese Mountain Dog is instantly recognized by its distinctive tri-color pattern: body, neck, legs, head and ears are solid black; the cheeks, stockings and thumbprints (or ghost eyes) are brown; the toes, chest, muzzle, tail tip and blaze between the eyes white. The pattern is rigid and varies only slightly in the amount of white. A perfectly-marked individual gives the impression of a white “Swiss cross” on the chest, when viewed from the front in sitting position. The eyes are an expressive dark brown and are almond shaped. |
| Height: |
23-28 inches |
| Weight: |
Male: 85-165 pounds; Female: 65-120 pounds |
| Color(s): |
Black with white chest and tan (or rust) colored markings above eyes, sides of mouth front of legs and a small amount around white chest |
| Coat: |
Moderately long and either straight or slightly wavy; in rare cases, can be slightly curly; slightly rough in outline, but not at all harsh in texture |
| Description: |
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a versatile breed of farm dog originating in the canton of Berne in Switzerland. Both male and female Bernese Mountain Dogs are extremely strong. |
| Temperament: |
The Bernese are affectionate, loyal, faithful, stable and intelligent. Bernese Mountain Dogs are quirky, loving dogs, craving love and affection. They love to lean against people, sit on their feet, or lie down under their legs while people sit. The breed is very sweet and good with children, despite their great size. The majority of Bernese are very friendly to other dogs, and they often get along well with other pets, such as cats and horses. |
| Training: |
Bernese are very trainable provided the owner is patient and consistent in training; Bernese need time to think things through. They do not respond well to harsh treatment, however Berners are very willing and eager to please their master. Bernese love to be encouraged with praise and treats. Bernese Mountain Dogs are slow to mature, and can display puppy-like tendencies up to 2½ years of age. |
| Care & Grooming: |
The Bernese coat is quite dirt and weather resistant . A good brushing every week or two is sufficient to keep it in fine shape, except when the undercoat is being shed. Then, daily combing or brushing is in order for the duration of the moult. Bernese are outdoor dogs at heart, though well-behaved in the house; they need activity and exercise, but do not have a great deal of endurance. They can move with amazing bursts of speed for their size when motivated. If they are sound (no problems with their hips, elbows, or other joints) they enjoy hiking and generally stick close to their people. The Bernese calm temperament makes them a natural for pulling small carts or wagons, a task they originally performed in Switzerland. Regional Bernese clubs often offer carting workshops. |
| Shedding: |
Bernese Mountain Dogs shed year-round, and drifts of fur are to be expected, yet the Bernese Mountain Dog tends to be one of the better hypo-allergenic dogs with a longer coat. |
| Health: |
Berners can suffer from musculoskeletal issues, such as arthritis (especially in shoulders and elbows), hip dysplasia, cruciate ligament rupture, and osteochondritis. And, the age at onset for musculoskeletal problems is unusually low. In short, prospective Berner owners should be prepared to cope with a large dog that may have mobility problems at a young age. Options to help mobility-impaired dogs may include ramps for car or house access. Comfortable bedding may help alleviate joint pain. Berners also have a much higher rate of fatal cancer than other breeds, covering a multitude of different types of cancer, including including malignant histiocytosis, mast cell tumor, lymphosarcoma, fibrosarcoma, and osteosarcoma. |
| Lifespan: |
7-12 years |
| Litter Size: |
4-8 puppies |
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