A loveable big dog that’s eager to please
A Bernese Mountain Dog (often called Berners) are extremely affectionate and loves being part of a family.
This big dog breed makes an excellent companion for confident dog owners. Due to their size, they will need a good level of training.
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What does a Bernese Mountain dog look like?
This beautiful dog breed is well-known for its distinctive aura of nobility. Although they’ve enjoyed a long history as working dogs, you can easily imagine them dotted throughout history as royal companions.
Their bodies are big and powerful, contrasting starkly with their generally placid natures. You’ll typically find that adult Berners will reach a height of between 58 - 72cms. This big dog breed can often be found to weigh around 38 - 46kgs!
Did you know?
They are one of four types of Swiss Mountain Dogs. They are actually the only one of them with longer coat lengths.
Breed Standard Colours according to British Kennel Club
Unlike many other dog breeds, the British Kennel Club only recognises one breed standard colour.
You’ll only find tricoloured Berners. Typically they have a jet-black coat with inclusions of white and brown. They’ll have white paws, tail tips, muzzle and blaze. The deep chestnut or tan colour will then separate the black and white.
These distinctive markers are hallmarks of Berners. Along with their luxurious feeling coats, they’re pretty easy to recognise.
Grooming Berners
Bernese Mountain Dogs have a medium-length silky coats. As they’re double-coated, they’re built to thrive in colder temperatures.
However, this also means that you’ll be dealing with plenty of shedding. So if you’ve got an allergy sufferer in your home, you’re better off looking at other more hypoallergenic dog breeds.
But as long as you’ve got a good hoover and you’re happy to handle regular grooming (more than once a week), this breed would make a perfect family pet.
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Did you know?
They get their name from where they originated from. They came from the canton Bern region.
What’s the temperament of Berners?
This beautiful large dog breed is known for being slow to mature. So you’ll likely have a large puppy on your hands for longer than you might expect!
However, if you ask any owner of a Bernese Mountain dog they’ll soon tell you that it’s worth it. They make amazing companion dogs and are ultimately loving and devoted to their families.
Berners can be described as loyal, fearless, loving and friendly. You’ll find that although they love their whole family, they will bond deeply with one person.
Training a Bernese Mountain Dog
Generally, it’s recommended that only experienced or confident dog owners look at Berners. Although they’re friendly and calm, they present challenges due to their size.
It’s important that you use positive dog training as overly harsh training can make them withdraw. You’ll be dealing with a large puppy for some time, so try to use positive reinforcement and gentle puppy training methods.
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What homes does a Bernese Mountain dog suit?
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Good guard dog breed
Typically recommended for experienced owners, Berners are a perfect choice for those looking for a watchdog. This does however mean that you’ll need to be happy with a barking dog.
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Breed that is not suitable for house-proud owners
They are known for shedding and drooling, so if you’re not happy to deal with the associated mess it might be worth looking at another dog breed.
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Good family dogs
Berners are good with families. Surprisingly gentle, they are great pets for families with children. However, due to their size, they may knock small children over without meaning to.
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Dog breed for active owners
They need to be kept active, both physically and mentally. They enjoy getting involved in physical work and are often eager to please.
They will need plenty of exercise, so are suited to dog owners who are more than happy to provide that.
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Multiple pet households
In terms of introducing Berners to a multi-pet household, it’s a mixed bag. If they’re fully trained, thoroughly socialised and mature then they are more than happy to live in this type of home.
However, they are known to chase small animals. So if you’ve got multiple small dog breeds or other animals, then just be aware that this might happen.
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Did you know?
They are well-suited to dog competitions that include things like obedience, tracking and herding.
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