The Bernese Mountain Dog: A Swiss Delight!

bernese mountain dog

Let’s take a look at the Bernese Mountain Dog, or “Berner,” by the numbers.

In general, this is a large category breed. The height of the male ranges from 24 to 28 inches or 61 to 71 cm. Their weight tends to range from 85 to 110 pounds or 38 to 50 kg. The female, on the other hand, typically measures between 23 and 27 inches or 58 to 69 cm, just slightly smaller than the male. Her weight ranges from 80 to 105 pounds or 36 to 48 kg. Again, just slightly smaller.

You can expect this breed to survive for approximately 6 to 8 years. However, there is some debate about this. Originally, life expectancy was 10 to 12 years, but due to health considerations, which we’ll get to later, the numbers were lowered. A relatively recent and credible study on the subject determined that the actual life expectancy of the Bernese Mountain Dog was 7.2 years.

The litter size is usually 8 pups, although this can vary significantly, reaching 14 pups.

It should come as no surprise that this breed can be traced back to the mountainous areas of Switzerland. In fact, its name is derived from the Canton or State of Switzerland called Bern. But it is speculated that its true origin dates back to the Roman occupation of the region, thousands of years ago. From what is known of the breed’s development, not much, if any, attention was paid to serious purebred breeding until the early 20th century. It wasn’t until the late 1930s that the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).

The coloration of the breed consists of basic black with brown/rust cheeks, part of the chest, on all legs and under the tail. In addition, it has white on its head, legs, chest, and tail.

As mentioned above, this is a large dog, but it can be very active and needs regular exercise. Due to his size and temperament, small housing is not recommended. Give them space.

Its original use was for shooting, hauling, tracking, and general labor, so the breed is conditioned to be useful. Mainly for this reason, the Bernese Mountain Dog needs to be with people without being left alone for long periods of time. It is also important, as with most dogs, that they get to know their owners as the alpha component of the relationship. They need a clearly defined framework of rules, passed down early in their training process, which in turn produces a happy and well-balanced companion. Their intelligence can make training easier and more effective as long as the owner is firm with the dog, without being overly domineering. This can also lead to a dog that is comfortable around small children and other animals. One precaution is that no child should be left alone with a dog or any animal that could harm him; just common sense.

The breed suffers from ailments associated with most larger dogs, including dysplasia in various parts of the body (particularly the hips), some arthritis, and allergies. Cancer seems to have become a particular problem for the breed, to the point of shortening their lifespans and sadly taking some quite early in their lives.

The Berner is a loose and seasonally heavy dog, so regular grooming is not only a great bonding exercise, it will also lessen the problem of shedding or at least make it easier to manage.

Regarding the bonding experience with the Bernese Mountain Dog, this breed has an optimistic personality that requires a firm but loving relationship with its owner. Positive reinforcement, within clear limits, plenty of space to run and play combined with long walks and regular grooming will ensure that he has a wonderful companion for many years to come.