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Bernese Mountain Dog Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Bernese Mountain Dog so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Working Dogs
Popularity Rank25
Reviews6
User Ratings
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Bernese Mountain Dog dog profile picture
OriginSwitzerland flagSwitzerland
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Bernese Mountain Dog known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
BernerBernese Cattle DogBerner Sennenhund
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Bernese Mountain Dog? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Purebred The Bernese Mountain Dog is considered a purebred dog breed, but many mixes and hybrids have been created from this breed. We have compiled a list of Bernese Mountain Dog Mixes.

Bernese Mountain Dog Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Bernese Mountain Dog? Learn how big the Bernese Mountain Dog breed typically grows.
Large
Weight Statistics
How much does a Bernese Mountain Dog weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Bernese Mountain Dog breed.
Male: 85-110 pounds (38–50 kg), Female: 80-105 pounds (36–48 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Bernese Mountain Dog?
Male: 97.5 pounds (38–50 kg), Female: 92.5 pounds (36–48 kg)
Height
How tall is the Bernese Mountain Dog? Bernese Mountain Dog height:
Male: 24-28 inches (61–71 cm), Female: 23-27 inches (58–69 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Bernese Mountain Dog?
Male: 26 inches (61–71 cm), Female: 25 inches (58–69 cm)

Bernese Mountain Dog Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Bernese Mountain Dog costs.
$800-$1000
If you choose to purchase the Bernese Mountain Dog, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Bernese Mountain Dog for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Bernese Mountain Dog gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Bernese Mountain Dog? How many Bernese Mountain Dog are there in the world?
Very frequent: The Bernese Mountain Dog is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision.

Bernese Mountain Dog Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Bernese Mountain Dog? Discover the Bernese Mountain Dog's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Very smart: Bernese Mountain Dog is an excellent dog breed. You can teach them many tricks and commands. The limit is your creativity. They understand and memorize new commands in 5-15 repetitions. This breed obeys the first command 85% of the time or better.

The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of the top breeds in the dog intelligence ranking.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Bernese Mountain Dog? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's trainability and response to training methods.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Bernese Mountain Dog as a watchdog? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's alertness and guarding instincts.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are one of the best watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're very consistent in their effort. The best vocal cords and sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're very territorial and protective about their property, so the Bernese Mountain Dog dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Territorial Protection
Is a Bernese Mountain Dog protective of its territory? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's guarding instincts and behavior.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Bernese Mountain Dog can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Bernese Mountain Dog will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Bernese Mountain Dog Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a Bernese Mountain Dog have? Learn about characteristic Bernese Mountain Dog temperament and behavior traits.
IntelligentAffectionateLoyalFaithful
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Bernese Mountain Dog sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Bernese Mountain Dog dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Bernese Mountain Dog a good family dog?
Average: Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are average dogs regarding their affection level. Some breeds are forthcoming and friendly, while others are independent and don't bond too closely with their owners.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Berner need? Bernese Mountain Dog social needs:
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Bernese Mountain Dog to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Bernese Mountain Dog roam?
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs have average wanderlust potential. Sometimes they like to explore the world and they might escape once or twice, but usually, they prefer staying safely at home. Safer to teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Bernese Mountain Dog have high prey drive?
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something. Cats or any other small animals are in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Bernese Mountain Dog Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a Bernese Mountain Dog bark a lot? Learn about typical Bernese Mountain Dog vocalization patterns and triggers.
Average: The Bernese Mountain Dog barks occasionally. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Bernese Mountain Dog? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Bernese Mountain Dog breed.
Average: Bernese Mountain Dogs, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Bernese Mountain Dog live in an apartment? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's suitability for apartment living.
It is not recommended to keep the Bernese Mountain Dog breed in the home. It does best in the garden, but if you do want to keep it indoors, it should be exercised thoroughly with long daily walks, so you can keep the Bernese Mountain Dog indoors by introducing daily routines.

Bernese Mountain Dog Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Bernese Mountain Dog to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's flexibility to new situations.
Average: Bernese Mountain Dog dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Bernese Mountain Dog be left alone? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's tolerance to solitude.
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Bernese Mountain Dog Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Bernese Mountain Dog biting potential? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's bite risk factors.

Low 🔽

The Bernese Mountain Dog has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Bernese Mountain Dog mouthy? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's tendency to use mouth during play.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Bernese Mountain Dog dogs need to be taught a good attitude. We have compiled a list of Mouthy Dog Breeds.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Bernese Mountain Dog bite? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Bernese Mountain Dog bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Bernese Mountain Dog measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Bernese Mountain Dog is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Bernese Mountain Dog bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Bernese Mountain Dog bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Bernese Mountain Dog, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Bernese Mountain Dog bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Bernese Mountain Dog can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Bernese Mountain Dog Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Bernese Mountain Dog live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Bernese Mountain Dog breed.
7-11 years
The average lifespan of Bernese Mountain Dog: 9 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Bernese Mountain Dog handle different weather? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's climate adaptability.
Prefers cold weather
The Bernese Mountain Dog can adapt well to harsh weather conditions, and also can be a good mountain dog. Dogs can suffer from frostbite and hypothermia in extremely cold weather, so it is important to take precautions to keep your dog safe and comfortable during the winter months.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Bernese Mountain Dog? Discover typical conditions affecting the Bernese Mountain Dog breed.
Very healthy dog breed. The Bernese Mountain Dog rarely meets with the veterinarian.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Bernese Mountain Dog need vet visits? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's veterinary care requirements.
Rare
The Bernese Mountain Dog should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year). If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Bernese Mountain Dog breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Bernese Mountain Dog breed? Most common health risks of Bernese Mountain Dog:
Hip Dysplasia CancerProgressive retinal atrophy (PRA)Von Willebrand's DiseaseBloatElbow DysplasiaPanosteitisPortosystemic Liver Shunt

Bernese Mountain Dog Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Bernese Mountain Dog? Understand daily activity needs of the Bernese Mountain Dog breed.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn't the perfect choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Bernese Mountain Dog need? How much exercise do Bernese Mountain Dog dogs require per day?

Do Bernese Mountain Dog dogs need a lot of exercises?

Bernese Mountain Dog dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Bernese Mountain Dog breed need?
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

Bernese Mountain Dog Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a Bernese Mountain Dog prone to weight gain? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's obesity risks.
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Bernese Mountain Dog's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Bernese Mountain Dog weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Bernese Mountain Dog need daily? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's feeding requirements.
6 to 8 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Bernese Mountain Dog Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Bernese Mountain Dog hypoallergenic? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's suitability for allergy sufferers.
No
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Bernese Mountain Dog come in? Discover all possible Bernese Mountain Dog color variations.
Black White
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Bernese Mountain Dog need? Learn about Bernese Mountain Dog coat maintenance requirements.
Average: The Bernese Mountain Dog requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Bernese Mountain Dog, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Drooling Tendency
Does a Bernese Mountain Dog drool a lot? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's drooling habits.
The Bernese Mountain Dog drools quite a lot, so if you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, you may want to choose another dog breed. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool more than others, just like the Bernese Mountain Dog.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Bernese Mountain Dog smell bad? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's natural odor levels.

Medium

The Bernese Mountain Dog has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Bernese Mountain Dog have? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's fur characteristics.
Dense
Bathing Needs
How often does a Bernese Mountain Dog need baths? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's bathing requirements.
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Shedding Level
How much do Bernese Mountain Dog dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Berner? Do Bernese Mountain Dog dogs shed a lot?
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs shed above average. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. The amount and frequency of hair loss mostly depend on their health status and breed type. If you don't like vacuum cleaning, you might have to reconsider your choice of having a puppy from the Bernese Mountain Dog breed.

Bernese Mountain Dog Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Bernese Mountain Dog good with children? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's behavior around kids of different ages.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Bernese Mountain Dog get along with other pets? Discover the Bernese Mountain Dog's compatibility with other animals.
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Bernese Mountain Dog temperament with other people:
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Cat Friendly
How well do Bernese Mountain Dog dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Bernese Mountain Dog breed live with a cat?
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Bernese Mountain Dog good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Bernese Mountain Dog dogs get along with other dogs?
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Bernese Mountain Dog breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Bernese Mountain Dog breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Bernese Mountain Dog dogs good office canines? Do Bernese Mountain Dog dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Bernese Mountain Dog is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Bernese Mountain Dog dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Berner temperament with senior people? Are Bernese Mountain Dog dogs good for elderly owners?
Bernese Mountain Dogs are usually recommended for elderly people.

Bernese Mountain Dog As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a Bernese Mountain Dog be a service dog? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's service work potential.

Yes

This breed makes good as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Bernese Mountain Dog breed is a good choice for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Bernese Mountain Dog good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Bernese Mountain Dog is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Bernese Mountain Dog good at detection work? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Bernese Mountain Dog is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Bernese Mountain Dog do search and rescue? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's SAR capabilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Bernese Mountain Dog is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Bernese Mountain Dog good on boats? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's maritime capabilities.

Not really

Bernese Mountain Dog breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Bernese Mountain Dog pull carts? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's drafting abilities.

Yes

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Bernese Mountain Dog breed is a good choice for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a Bernese Mountain Dog used in military service? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's military history.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Bernese Mountain Dog Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Bernese Mountain Dog usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
1-14 puppies, average 8
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Bernese Mountain Dog pregnant? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Bernese Mountain Dog: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Bernese Mountain Dog have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Bernese Mountain Dog Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Bernese Mountain Dog in? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's AKC classification.
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1937 as a Working breed.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Bernese Mountain Dog in? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's international classification.
Recognized by FCI in the Pinscher and Schnauzer - Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattledogs group, in the Swiss Mountain- and Cattledogs section.
Kennel Club Recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize a Bernese Mountain Dog? Learn about the Bernese Mountain Dog's official recognition.
American Canine RegistryAmerican Kennel ClubAmerica's Pet RegistryCanadian Kennel ClubDog Registry of America Inc.Federation Cynologique InternationaleKennel Club of Great BritainNorth American Purebred Registry, Inc.American Canine Association, Inc.Australian National Kennel CouncilContinental Kennel ClubNational Kennel ClubNew Zealand Kennel ClubUnited Kennel ClubCanadian Canine Registry

Bernese Mountain Dog Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligence Rating: Very smart: Bernese Mountain Dog is an excellent dog breed.
  • Training Difficulty: Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are easy to train.
  • Health Concerns: Very healthy dog breed.
  • Watchdog Rating: Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Child Compatibility: Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Bernese Mountain Dogs are usually recommended for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Service Dog Capability: This breed makes good as a service dog.
  • Draft Work Capability: A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
Cons
  • Allergy Friendliness: Bernese Mountain Dog dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Adaptability: It is not recommended to keep the Bernese Mountain Dog breed in the home.
  • Shedding Level: Bernese Mountain Dog dogs shed above average.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Bernese Mountain Dog drools quite a lot, so if you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, you may want to choose another dog breed.
  • Obesity Tendency: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Bernese Mountain Dog's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Mouthing Tendency: Bernese Mountain Dog dogs have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people.
  • Office Friendly: Bernese Mountain Dog is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Bernese Mountain Dog History

The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of the four mountain dog breeds, who can trace its origins back to Switzerland, more precisely to Bern. It is thought that the ancient breed, the Molosser while spreading out in the entire world, it also got to the Swiss Alps and developed a variety of Mastiff-type of breeds, including the Bernese Mountain Dog.

During the first century, the dogs that the Romans brought to the area had been naturally cross-bred with the local dogs, creating the four mountain dog breeds. Right after its initial creation, the Bernese Mountain Dog served many purposes helping people, pulling carts, standing watch, guarding, accompanying livestock, and providing companionship to their fellow humans. Initially, the breed’s most appreciated ability was that the dog could pull many times their own weight, occasionally up to the mountains, as drafting dogs, thanks to their muscular and broad hindquarters generating immense strength. They were considered the ultimate all-around farm dog.

The need for strong dogs who could herd cattle and pull carts have dwindled because of the fact, that by the middle of the 1880s, only 36% of the Swiss population worked on farms, in the agricultural sector. It was feared that the Bernese Mountain Dog will suffer severe consequences like extinction due to neglect and lack of need. Thanks to a handful of enthusiasts and breeders, a painstaking effort has started with the intention of reviving the breed and saving it from extinction. In 1902, the Swiss dog club sponsored a show at Ostermundigen, which drew more attention to the mountain dog breeds, thus to the Bernese Mountain Dog too. Two years after that, the breed had a huge step forward at an international dog show in Bern, where the Bernese Mountain Dog was included in the mountain dog category. A club named “Berna” was even founded in 1907, for the different mountain dog breeders and for their purebred dogs. This club was formed under the leadership of Professor Albert Heim, probably the most renewed and respected canine scientist of his generation in Europe. After that, the Swiss Kennel Club recognized the breed first. During World War I, dog breeding fell out of the most important priorities, but after that, the Bernese Mountain Dog was exported firstly to the Netherlands then to the United States of America. The breed got the United Kingdom too, where the first litter was born in 1936. One year after that, in 1937, the AKC (American Kennel Club) gave the breed recognition and grouped them within their Working Class. But their full member club recognition came later, in 1981. Sadly, after the Second World War, the Bernese Mountain Dog population have faced another decrease, but fortunately, the American breeders quickly revived and restored their population numbers.

Nowadays, the Bernese Mountain Dog is mostly kept as a family companion and became a really popular choice for families with children, thanks to the fact that the breed has a really good nature with a reliable, stable, and trustworthy temperament. Today, the breed is considered to be a popular one, all around the world.

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Bernese Mountain Dog Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Luka Videos

    Mar 8, 2023, 7:56:54 AM:

    Judging but adorable

  • HORRIBLE!!!!!!!!

    Feb 19, 2022, 12:47:39 PM:

    Horrible! The information is so untrue!!!!!!

  • BERNESE LOVER

    Jan 11, 2022, 1:11:11 AM:

    I am very sad about the fact that this page says that BMDs affection level is average. They are one of the most affectionate dog breeds there is, and I believe that they deserve either 3 and a half stars or 4 stars. Thank you!

  • Doggy lover

    Jan 30, 2021, 12:32:20 PM:

    I just love bernese mounties they are so cute and amazing dogs as this page has proven!

  • very good

    Jan 13, 2021, 3:37:05 PM:

    good dog