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The Bernese Mountain Dog is a striking, tri-colored, large dog who thrives in cold weather. Because of their heavy coat they do not do well in very hot or humid climates. Sweet character in nature Bernese Mountain Dogs are an outgoing, affectionate canines who loves children and are very loyal to their family. They are one-owner dogs and may find it difficult to adjust to a new owner if introduced after 18 months of age.
Other Names: Berner Sennenhund, Bernese Cattle Dog
Height: 23 - 27.5 inches
Weight: 87 - 90 lbs.
Colors: Jet black with rich, reddish brown markings on cheeks, over eyes on legs and chest; some white markings on heat, chest, tip of tail and feet are permissible.
Coat: Thick, moderately long, and straight or slightly wavy, with a bright, natural sheen.
Temperament: Bernese Mountain Dogs are active, friendly
With Children: Yes, but may knock down smaller children by accident.
With Pets: Yes, friendly, some male-male aggression with other dogs, good with cats and other small pets.
Special Skills: In the past, it was a cattle-driver, watchdog, and tracking dog. Today, it is a watchdog and family pet.
Watch-dog: High
Guard-dog: Medium - High
Care and Exercise: Bernese Mountain Dogs need daily brushing of their long silky coat. Extra care should be taken when the Bernese Mountain Dog is shedding. Bathe or dry shampoo only when necessary. Regular nail and teeth care. Bernese Mountain Dogs requires regular daily exercise but it needs to be noted that until they are fully grown they should not be taken on long tiring walks.
Training: A quick learner they requires a consistent and loving approach to training.
Learning Rate: Very High, Obedience - High, Problem Solving - High.
Activity: High. Needs exercise, but enjoys lounging with owner.
Living Environment: A home with a back yard is essential. Their natural territorial instinct will keep them close to home.
Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, gastric torsions, hereditary eye diseases.
Life Span: 8 - 10 years
Litter Size: 4 - 10
Country of Origin: Switzerland
History: They can trace their ancestry to the Roman invasion of Switzerland over 2,000 years ago. The Mastiffs of Rome were crossed with the native flock-guarding dogs, this produced a breed that was able to withstand the severe weather. In the 1800's the breed almost became extinct if it was not for Herr Franz Schertenleib and Albert Heim who worked with the breed. Their name is taken from the canton of Bern in the central farmlands of Switzerland. Today the Bernese Mountain Dogs popularity is increasing.
First Registered by the AKC: 1937
AKC Group: Working
Class: Working
Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 2), KC (GB), UKC
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