BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG BREED INFORMATION : HISTORY, SIZE, AND PERSONALITY

The Bernese mountain dog is a perfect working dog from the farmlands of Switzerland, where they are originally bred to herd cattle, pull carts, and as a watchdog. It's the only type of Swiss Mountain Dogs with long hair. Their name is associated with the Canton of Ben, where they come from. This large and sturdy dog breed is suited for conformation, obedience, tracking, herding, and carting competitions. Many dog lovers are attracted to their friendly disposition, intelligence, and highly trainable nature. Sometimes it isn't easy to handle this special dog due to its size and high energy.

But if you are living in apartments, beware of them before buying. They don't love to be cooped up in apartments all day. Make sure to drool wiped their faces every once in a while as they shed a lot. These types of big dogs are great watchdogs and tend to bark loudly. Even though they are quiet and gentle, but love to chase the smaller animals and play. A well-trained Bernese mountain dog is a perfect companion, which can entertain all the family.  Adequate socializing training can make them a welcoming dog to the kids and newcomers as well. Let's know more about this special dog breed.

History

It's one of the most ancient dog breeds developed as crosses farm dogs from the Swiss Alps and the Molosser or Mastiff-type dogs. During World War I, the dog shows and breeding took a backseat to war efforts. But after that, the dogs were first exported to Holland and then to the United States. At that time, the breed was not yet recognized by the American Kennel Club. In 1936, the British breeders firstly started importing the Berners in England. The Glen Shadow Kennel was known for firstly importing the Bernese mountain dog male and female from Switzerland. After one year in 1937, the American Kennel Club send a letter to Glen Shadow Kennel about the acceptance of Bernese mountain dog as a new breed in the working class.

But the World War II again interrupted the progress of this breed outside of its native land. Fortunately, in 1945 their importation and registration resumed in the United States. After the successful importation of two decades, the Bernese Mountain Dog Club was founded in 1968 with 62 members and 43 registered Berners. In 1981 this club became a member of the American Kennel Club, and the current Bernese mountain dog is regarded as the standard dog.

Size

Bernese mountain dogs are originally working dogs of greater size. But the females are usually smaller than the males, like many other dog breeds. A male Bernese mountain dog can reach up to 25 to 28 inches tall at the shoulders with 80 to 115 pounds weight. In contrast, the females are 23 to 26 inches tall with 70 to 95 pounds weight. But each individual can vary depending upon different factors.

Personality

Bernese mountain dog is affectionate, intelligent, and alert with gentle, calm, and tolerant nature. They love to thrive in family activities. But their early training is very important depending upon their large size to behave properly with the people. Training becomes more important for this special dog breed as they reach adult size before reaching maturity. They are usually not aggressive, aloof with strangers, and a bit shy. So, make sure to expose them to people, animals, and different situations as early as possible. 

Their temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training, and socialization. The nice temperament Bernese mountain puppies are curious and playful.

Always try to take some time to spend with your adorable Bernese mountain dog. It's helpful to prevent them from separation anxiety. You can invite the visitors regularly or take your dog to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, or on leisurely strolls.

Health

Sometimes Bernese mountain dogs have health issues due to irresponsible breeding practices. Not all breeders are involved in these types of practices, but it's good to be aware of their health issues. 

You should check your Bernese mountain dog to the veterinarian for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and Von Willebrand's disease. 

The other health issues of the Bernese mountain dog include cancer, progressive Rental Atrophy, Portosystemic Shunt, Panosteitis, and Gastric Torsion.

Care

Bernese mountain dog is not suitable for the apartments and condo-like. You need to have a large home with a securely fenced yard to please the Bernese mountain dog. They have plenty of energy and love the daily walk and playing. Thirty minutes of daily exercise is necessary for the Bernese mountain dog, but the three times exercise to keep this sturdy dog in top condition. These are perfectly suitable for cold climates due to their thick coat and love to play in the snow. But make sure to limit their exercise during the hot weather as they are also prone to heat strokes. It's good to keep them under shade during the heat of the day with a fan or air conditioner. 

You need to take their special care during the age of four to seven months as they grow rapidly during this period. 

High-quality and low-calorie diets are good to keep them growing fast. Don't let your Bernese mountain dog play on hard surfaces during their early age as it can lead them to joint issues. Normal playing on grass is good to keep the puppy in top condition.

Feeding

Make sure to formulate their diet according to their size, energy, and exercise. It's perfect to consult with the veterinarian or professional nutritionist to correctly formulate your Bernese mountain dog food. 

You also need to change the diet plan depending upon their age, growth rate, and environment.

Coat Color and Grooming

Bernese mountain dogs are known for their thick double coat with a longer outer coat and a wooly undercoat. Normally, they are tri-colored dogs and covered with jet-black hairs of rich rust and bright white color. They usually have white markings on the chest, a white blaze between the eyes, and a white on the tip of the tail. But unfortunately, they are the strong shedders and shed all the years, especially in the spring and fall. You need to brush their coat regularly to prevent the tangles and keep it clean. You should also clean your dog teeth at least two or three times a week. But daily brushing is recommended to prevent gum disease and bad breath.

If you are looking to own a Bernese Mountain Dog, you can visit here to see some top Bernese Mountain dog breeders.



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