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Origins
Bernese Mountain Dogs ("Berners") are one of the 150 breeds
currently recognized by the American Kennel Club. They are working
dogs with origins in the farm areas of Switzerland and named for
the Canton of Bern. Historically, Berners were used as general
purpose farm dogs for their large, hardy frames and their
calm-natured, people-oriented temperaments made them ideal for
driving cattle, pulling carts to market, watching the farm and
being farmers' companions. While Bernese Mountain Dogs are
wonderful creatures with along list of attributes, not all dogs
exemplify the best the breed has to offer. This is not a breed for
everyone and every dog possesses individual strengths and
weaknesses. Before you decide to make a Berner part of your family
thoroughly research the breed, talk to reputable breeders and
knowledgeable owners, and get to know some of the dogs
themselves.
Appearance
and Size
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a striking, tri-colored, large dog.
They are intelligent, strong and agile enough to do the draft and
droving work for which they were used. Measured at the withers,
dogs are 25 to 27½ inches; bitches are 23 to 26 inches. In terms of
weight, dogs and bitches generally range from 80-115 and 70-95
pounds respectively.
Temperament
By nature, Berners are alert and affectionate dogs. With training
essential for ownership of a large working breed, Berners are
generally gentle, easygoing and tolerant. They are also usually
excellent with children. They are not prone to excessive barking
unless left unattended for too long. Any large dog, even a Berner,
should never be left alone unsupervised with small children or
children unknown to the dog. They do not do well when isolated from
people or activity.
Behavior problems are likely to develop when deprived of
considerable interaction with people. The breed is protective but
should not be aggressive unless provoked or threatened and may be
aloof to strangers. While Berners should not be shy, this tendency
does run in the breed. Due to temperament concerns, it is very
important to expose Bernese to a wide variety of people, places and
other animals, especially in their first year of life.
Living
Environment
Berners need to live where you are and should be inside with the
family. They do not do well as kennel dogs and should never be tied
outside and left. Bernese are farm dogs by heritage and as such
need exercise to stay fit mentally and physically. Small fenced
yards should be viewed as a place of convenience and safety but not
as a place for adequate exercise for this moderately active breed.
A minimum of 30 minutes of moderately vigorous exercise daily plus
several trips outside daily are adequate for some Bernese. To
remain fit and pleasant to live with others require three times
that amount of exercise.
As you would expect with their heavy coat and rugged appearance,
Bernese love the cold and snow. But both their size and heavy black
coats make these dogs susceptible to heat stroke. Berners do best
in a climate-controlled environment during hot weather especially
if not acclimated to warm temperatures. Activities during the
hotter months should be confined to the coolest times of day. With
respect to fencing, generally Berners are not jumpers or climbers
but do require a sturdy four or five foot fence to keep them safely
on your premises. Be advised that many breeders will not place a
dog in a home that does not have suitable fencing. And, yes,
Berners do like to dig!
Versatility
Berners are a highly versatile breed. Dogs and their human
companions enjoy competing in conformation, obedience, agility,
tracking, herding and carting. Berners also make wonderful therapy
dogs bringing cheer to others. Individual dogs will be serviceable
for these various activities depending on their aptitude,
structure, character and temperament. Not every Berner will perform
well in every event.
Grooming
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a double-coated breed. Shedding is
considerable. Berners cast off their coats seasonally with the
exception of intact females that cast coat in conjunction with heat
cycles. If hair in the home is a problem this breed is not for you.
A Berner's coat is relatively easy to maintain. A periodic bath and
frequent brushing will maintain a neat appearance.
Training
Basic training is a necessity for all dogs and especially large
breeds such as the Bernese. It is recommended that youngsters
attend a puppy kindergarten/socialization class between four and
six months of age. This should be followed by a first level
obedience program before the dog reaches one. All training should
utilize positive techniques. A well-mannered dog is a pleasure and
the owner's responsibility.
Longevity
and Health Issues
Sadly, every breed has its health issues and Bernese are no
different. The average life of a Berner is slightly more than seven
years although some individuals are still going strong at ten and
beyond. And while most Bernese breeders are working hard to improve
the health and longevity of the breed, it is important for buyers
to be aware of the potential problems and heartbreaks for they have
both financial and emotional implications. Health issues impacting
the breed include hip and elbow dysplasia, cancer, bloat,
sub-aorticstenosis, autoimmune diseases, skin and coat problems,
thyroiddisorders and eye disorders (PRA, cataracts, ectropian
andentropion).
Cost
When determining whether a Berner fits within your budget you must
consider both the purchase price and the costs associated with
maintaining the dog. While purchase prices will vary, companion
(pet) puppies generally cost $800 or more. Show or breeding
potential Berners are in the range of $1,200 and up. Ongoing
maintenance costs include routine vet care, food, training,
crate, toys, grooming tools and supplies and more. If a dog becomes
critically ill or requires surgery, expenses for treatment and
hospitalization can be substantial many times the purchase price of
the dog. Pet health insurance is available and should be
considered. Additionally, home or yard improvements may be required
such as a fence. All of these factors must be taken into
consideration when evaluating the economic suitability of this
breed.
Locating A Bernese Mountain Dog
While not rare, Berners tend to be scarce. With their short life
span, limited time to produce and soaring popularity, the current
demand for Berners exceeds their supply. Like what has happened to
other breeds, the puppy mills and brokers are now trying to exploit
the Bernese Mountain Dog. |
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