The Bernese Mountain Dog: Everything You Need To Know

Introduction

The Bernese mountain dog is a large breed originally bred to work on farms in the Alpine regions of Switzerland. They have a distinctive tri-colored coat and gentle, loyal nature that makes them a popular family pets across the world.�

History and Origins

Bernese mountain dogs were first bred in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland in the 19th century. They were developed as working dogs to haul carts of goods to local markets and assist farmers with herding cattle and pulling smaller plows. Their sturdy build and thick double coat made them well-suited to the cold, wet climate of the Swiss Alps.

The breed nearly went extinct in the early 20th century due to crossbreeding but was revived through dedicated breeding programs between dedicated breeders and enthusiasts. They were recognized as a distinct breed by the Swiss Kennel Club in 1902. Bernese mountain dogs were introduced to other parts of Europe and North America in the following decades, growing steadily in popularity as family pets.

Physical Appearance

As their name suggests, Bernese mountain dogs are a large breed. Males stand 58-70cm (23-28in) tall at the shoulder and weigh 50-60kg (110-130lbs), while females are 56-65cm (22-26in) tall and 45-55kg (100-120lbs). They have a thick distinctive coat that comes in black with rust and white markings.

Key physical traits include:

• Dense double coat: The outer coat is straight and coarse, and the undercoat is soft and dense. Hair is medium in length.
• Tri-colored: black hair with rust-brown and white markings primarily on the face, chest, legs, and tail.
• Powerful build: Broad chest, strong muscular legs, and well-boned structure.
• Large paws: Feet are well-furred and large, suitable for traversing varied terrain.
• Heavy coat: Overall, the coat is weather-resistant and thick to insulate the dog. Shedding is heavy twice a year.
• Expressive eyes: Dark eyes are set wide apart and convey emotion. The face has wrinkles when the dog is happy.
• Docked tail: Traditionally, tails were docked short, but natural tails are also seen.

Temperament and Intelligence

As a breed, Bernese mountain dogs are gentle giants. They are calm, patient, and loyal companions with a friendly, predictable temperament that is well-suited to family life. Some key qualities of their behavior and trainability include:

• Affectionate: Bernese mountain dogs attach strongly to their family and enjoy human companionship.
• Good-natured: Even-tempered and naturally good with children if socialized. Very rarely show aggression.
• Intelligent: Although not high-energy, they learn commands quickly if motivated by praise and play. Housetraining can take patience.
• Calm indoors: Quiet and sedate nature makes them suitable for apartment living if exercised adequately.
• Loyal guardians: Will bark to alert family but do not typically behave aggressively towards strangers unless feeling strongly threatened.
• Not overly active: Low-key playfulness and prefer leisurely walks over high-impact exercise. Best suited to more sedentary homes.

Overall, the Bernese mountain dog temperament is highly suitable as a house pet for families seeking a calm, well-behaved companion. Consistency in training is still important, and early socialization helps this typically gentle breed remain confident.

Health and Medical Considerations

Like many large breeds, Bernese mountain dogs are at risk of specific hereditary health issues that potential owners should be aware of:

• Bloat (gastric dilation-volvulus): Life-threatening torsion of the stomach. More likely in deep-chested dogs and can occur suddenly.
• Elbow and hip dysplasia: Degenerative skeletal issues seen in dogs with looser joints. It may cause lameness. Screening of parent dogs can help lower risk.
• Cancer: Bernese are prone to various cancers such as bone cancers. Regular vet checks for lumps are important.
• Eye diseases: Cataracts and retinal dysplasia can affect vision. Check parents’ eyes when sourcing a puppy.
• Von Willebrand’s disease: A bleeding disorder seen in some lines. Responsible breeders screen dogs.
• Allergies: Skin and food allergies occur as they do in other breeds. Itchy skin needs veterinary treatment.

The average Bernese mountain dog’s lifespan is 6-8 years when kept in good health and free from ailments. Regular preventive healthcare, including dental checks, teeth brushing, and life-stage vaccinations, help keep them fit into old age.

Is a Bernese Mountain Dog a Good Family Dog?

Yes, Bernese mountain dogs generally make excellent family pets due to their affectionate nature and gentle, patient temperament around children. However, they are a large breed that requires close supervision with small kids due to their size and strength, as well as training to avoid jumping up. With socialization from a young age, Berners thrive in homes with other dogs, cats, and kids of any age—though their tendency to knock over small children means toddlers or older are preferable. Their calm nature and loyalty also make them suitable for first-time owners seeking a good-natured family companion

What are Bernese Mountain Dogs Known For?

Bernese mountain dogs are primarily renowned for their:

• Iconic black and rust coat: Their striking colors and thick fur make them easily identifiable and beloved.
• Gentle disposition: Despite their size, Berners are known for being calm, even-tempered, and friendly towards people of all ages.
• Loyal, patient nature: They form very strong bonds with their families and patiently tolerate handling from children.
• Working heritage: Though not extensively used for farmwork today, Bernese are descended from sturdy Swiss draft dogs.
• Affectionate temperament: They crave human companionship and attention, making fantastic family pets for owners seeking a calm, cuddly canine.

So, in summary, the Berner’s beautiful tricolor coat, easygoing personality, and loyal affection towards their people have cemented their popularity amongst pet owners worldwide, seeking a gentle giant.

Can a Bernese Mountain Dog Be a House Dog?

Yes, Bernese mountain dogs can certainly live happily as house pets, provided their exercise needs are met. With their moderate activity level and calm disposition, they are well-suited to living in an apartment or household, even without a backyard. Berners adapt readily to indoor life as long as owners commit to:

• Daily walks: Bernese enjoy leisurely 30-60 minute walks to satisfy their need for exercise and mental stimulation.
• Yard time when possible: Playing fetch or retrieving toys in a yard is enrichment they appreciate, but it is not essential if a dog park is visited.
• Interactive play indoors: Short sessions of tug, chasing toys, or brushing help offset the lack of yard access.
• Sufficient mental games: Learning tricks, scent work, or puzzle toys stave off boredom between activities.
• Early crate training: Puppies adjust well to a crate for rest and house training.

With attentive ownership to keep them engaged and exercise their bodies and minds, Bernese mountain dogs can thrive in apartment homes, and their calm nature makes them suitable for living in proximity to other residents. Advanced planning regarding activities fits them best for an indoor domestic pet.

Are Bernese Mountain Dogs High Maintenance?

While Bernese mountain dogs require some extra care compared to smaller breeds, they are generally not considered high-maintenance dogs. Areas of maintenance include:

• Coat care: Brushing 2-3 times per week reduces shedding and keeps their thick coats untangled. Professional grooming every four months helps too.
• Exercise needs: 30-60 minutes of walking or play daily, plus play sessions inside. They are not high-energy dogs but thrive with regular activity.
• Medical issues: As a large breed, screening for orthopedic issues and managing allergies/ seasonal skin conditions. More prone to bloat.
• Feed quantity: Food intake needs monitoring as pet obesity risks their joints.
• Training consistency: Housetraining and manners education requires patience and follow through.
• Children supervision: Very young kids cannot be left alone due to Berner’s size and playfulness.

Provided their coat, activity needs, and general healthcare are tended to, Bernese are not especially high maintenance compared to low-dander dogs. Apart from brushing and walking commitments, much of their attention revolves around managing typical large-breed risks appropriately. With consistent ownership, Berners prove themselves dedicated but reasonable family pets.

Bernese Mountain Dog Price

The purchase price of a Bernese mountain dog puppy from a reputable breeder typically ranges between $1500-$3000 AUD. Key factors influencing cost include:

• Parent breeding lines: Puppies from established lineages may cost more.
• Health testing: Breeders who screen parent dogs for genetic issues provide more assurance at a higher price point.
• Show/pet quality: Puppies aimed for confirmation shows cost extra over companion-only puppies.
• Age and vaccinations: Older puppies at the point of sale will be more expensive than those younger at 8-10 weeks old before the full vaccination course.
• Regional demand and availability: Puppies in high-demand cities may be priced higher by limited breeders. Rural areas offer better value.

Occasionally, quality adults or adolescents become available from owners rehoming at around $1000-$2000, depending on the individual dog’s training and personality, which is suitable for different lifestyles. Well-bred puppies from responsible breeders provide the best chance of a healthy lifelong companion. Always thoroughly research any breeder before purchase.

Bernese Mountain Dog Lifespan

The average Bernese mountain dog lifespan is 6-8 years, which is fairly typical for a very large breed dog. With good preventative healthcare routines that address their inherent health risks, some Berners may live to 10 or even 12 years old, but succumbing before age eight is sadly not unusual. Genetics and lifestyle factors do influence individual lifespans:

• Proper nutrition: Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced adult dog food extends their years.
• Medical screening: Puppies from lineage-tested parents avoid hereditary diseases affecting longevity.
• Healthcare routines: Yearly vet checks, dental care, and screening tests like eye exams to catch issues early.
• Low stress: Minimizing anxiety helps their overall well-being. Berners cope poorly with isolation or neglect.
• Exercise moderation: Too much high-impact workout risks orthopedic problems shortening lives.

Whilst their average lifespan is shorter than that of smaller breeds, responsible ownership focused on preventative care and addressing typical health issues gives Bernese mountain dogs the best chance to enjoy fulfilling senior years with their people. Heartfelt tributes online showcase how much these noble, gentle giants are valued by loving owners worldwide.

Bernese Mountain Dog for Sale

Reputable breeders and rescue shelters are the recommended avenues for finding a Bernese mountain dog for sale. Private rehoming or classified listings carry several risks:

Breeders:

• Likely to health test parent dogs and provide puppy package/guarantee
• Often have long waitlists, assess potential owners carefully
• Puppies $1500-$3000 depending on quality, location, etc.

Rescue Organizations:

• Rehome adult Berners needing new families
• Thoroughly assess adopters’ suitability and home environment
• Adoption fee of $500-$1000 covers vet checks, vaccines, desexing
• May have breed-specific rescue groups nationwide

Classifieds/Private:

• Unethical breeders, genetic health unpredictable
• No support if issues arise often sold too young
• “Bargains” may be due to problems not disclosed

Always thoroughly research the background of any Bernese being considered to maximize your chances of a healthy, well-adjusted lifelong companion. Patience is often needed to find the right dog through reputable avenues.

Bernese Mountain Dog Size

As previously mentioned, Bernese mountain dogs are defined as a large breed. The breed standard size ranges are:

• Males: 23-28 inches (58-70cm) tall at the shoulder
• Females: 22-26 inches (56-65cm) tall
• Males: 110-130 pounds (50-60kg)
• Females: 100-120 pounds (45-55kg)

Puppies grow rapidly up until 12-18 months of age, sometimes appearing gangly before filling out. Early neutering can impact size, so responsible breeders refrain from this practice.

Whilst sizeable, well-bred Bernese have an athletic proportionate build that enables them to carry their weight nimbly. They don’t appear cumbersome thanks to dense muscle mass rather than slack fleshiness often seen in overweight pet lineages.

Be aware that very large males, particularly, will require housing with adequate space to move freely. Their size also means leash walking requires control alongside patience training, especially when young and boisterous. Overall, Berners fit sensibly into suburban family homes with sufficient outdoor access for exercise.

Bernese Mountain Dog Puppies Near Me

The most effective way to find Bernese mountain dog puppies for sale near you is by contacting local accredited breeders. Reputable sources aim to properly socialize and health-check litters before adopting pups to new homes at the ideal 8-10 week age range.

Some Australian breed clubs and organizations listing responsible members include:

• Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC)
• Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Australia
• Individual state kennel councils

Breeders exhibiting at dog shows are transparent about their practices. Council membership ensures adherence to strict ethical guidelines regarding welfare standards and health testing. Well-bred puppies may need to be placed on waitlists in advance.

Whilst classified ads occasionally list Berner litters, serious adopters are advised to thoroughly vet any non-reputable breeder’s protocol given the risks previously addressed. Meeting both parents and the litter environment aids assessment. Consider expanding search regions if needed. With patience, suitable puppies from reputable sources can be secured.

Bernese Mountain Dog Pros and Cons

As with any breed, the benefits and challenges of owning a Bernese mountain dog require reflection. Here are some key advantages and disadvantages adopters should seriously consider:

Pros:

• Affectionate, loyal companionship
• Calm, gentle temperament ideal for families
• Beautiful lush coats that shed seasonally
• Enjoy leisure outdoor activities
• Adaptable to homes with space

Cons:

• Shorter average lifespan of 6-8 years
• High risk of orthopedic issues/cancer
• Daily grooming needs for thick coats
• Destructive if excessively bored/not exercised
• Very large size needs accommodating
• High prey drive may not suit small pet homes

Their attributes make Berner’s fantastic pets if commitments aligning with their needs are made. However, unsuitable homes or curtailed support systems can cause health/behavioral issues. Serious reflection helps ensure the right outcome for dogs and owners alike, given breed traits.

Bernese Mountain Dog Adoption

For those searching specifically for Bernese mountain dog adoption rather than buying from breeders, several Australian rescue organizations help rehome adult Berners:

• Saved Sirens Animal Rescue (QLD)
• Canine Carers (VIC)
• South Australian Gundog Rescue
• Tassie Dog Rescue (TAS)

Dogs often become available due to allergies, owner relocations, or when homes cannot commit to their exercise/grooming needs as they mature.

Rescue assessment processes seek adopters who are able to address any uncertainties regarding behaviors like leash walking skills, house training history, or medical requirements like hip treatments. Adopters must meet housing suitability and ownership experience, plus pass affordability checks to cover potential costs.

Adoption fees of $500-1000 go towards preparing the dog with initial vet care, desexing, or training to ready them for settled homes. Patience may be required to find the right adult match. However, rescuing second chance Berners provides dedicated pet owners an avenue for enriching canine companionship through a very deserving breed.