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History
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.
Description
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.
Talents
Tracking, herding, watchdog, guarding, search & rescue, carting, and competitive obedience.
Personality
Gentle, quiet and very devoted. Loyal and affectionate. Very trainable and willing. Sensitive—should be trained gently. A good watchdog, but not overly aggressive. Self-confident, alert and good-natured. Never sharp or shy. Good with children. These dogs may be 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. A friend for life. Like any dog, the Bernese Mountain Dog should be well socialized as a puppy.
Behavior
Children: Excellent with children.
Friendliness: Fairly friendly with strangers.
Trainability: Easy to train.
Independence: Needs people a lot.
Dominance: Low.
Other Pets: Generally good with other pets.
Combativeness: Friendly with other dogs.
Noise: Not a barker.
Notes
Don't over feed. This breed needs a lot of exercise so he does best in the suburbs or rural areas. Best with a large fenced yard. The thick coat makes the Bernese uncomfortable in warm weather. Generally very hardy, but beware of hip and elbow dysplasia. Buy only from OFA certified stock. Also prone to cancer, bloat and eyelid problems.
Grooming
Grooming: Regular grooming needed.
Trimming & Stripping: No trimming or stripping needed.
Coat: Medium long coat.
Shedding: Seasonally heavy shedder.
Exercise: Vigorous daily exercise needed.
Jogging: A good jogging companion.
Indoors: Relatively inactive indoors.
Apartments: Not recommended for apartments.
Outdoor Space: Best with a large yard.
Climate: Prefers cool climates.
Owner: Good for novice owners.
Longevity: Short (under 10 years).
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