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Bernese Mountain Dog

Also known as: Berner Sennenhund

Nickname: Berner

Breed origin: Switzerland
Original purpose: Draft and droving work in mountainous regions.

AKC recognized: 1937
AKC group: Working

Size: Weight: males 80 to 115 lbs; females 70 to 95 lbs
Size: Height: males 25 to 27½ inches; females 23 to 26 inches
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Color: Tri-colored, with patches of jet black, rich rust, and clear white markings.

Life span: 6 to 10 years.

General characteristics/temperament: The Bernese Mountain Dog is self-confident, alert, intelligent, strong, agile, and good-natured. They may be aloof to strangers, but their gentle, easygoing manner and the need to be close to their people makes them a good family dog. They are protective but not typically aggressive unless provoked or threatened. A hardy dog that thrives in cold weather, Berners need a moderate amount of exercise as well as consistent obedience training. Behavior problems are likely to develop if isolated and deprived from considerable interaction with people. Given their heavy and black coats, they do not do well in hot weather and are susceptible to heat stroke. They are not usually jumpers or climbers but do still require a sturdy four or five foot fence because of their size and strength. Most reputable breeders will not place a puppy or dog in a home that does not have a suitably fenced yard.

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Good with children? Yes

Good with other dogs? Yes

Good with cats? Yes

Good watchdog? Yes

Protective? Yes

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Intelligent? Yes

Energy/Activity Level: Moderate

Suitable canine sports/activities: conformation, obedience, carting, agility, tracking, herding, therapy work

Exercise requirement: Regular walks and/or play sessions.

Grooming requirement: Frequent brushing and a periodic bath required. The thick double coat does tend to shed considerably.

Known health problems: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cancer, bloat, sub-aortic stenosis, autoimmune diseases, skin and coat problems, heat stroke, thyroid disorders, eye disorders.


Additional photos of Bernese Mountain Dog


Recommended books for further reading:


Bernese Mountain Dog (An Owner's Guide to a Happy Healthy Pet)
By Julia M. Crawford
Published in 2000
160 pages

Bernese Mountain Dogs (A Complete Pet Owner's Manual)
By Nikki Riggsbee
Published in 2007
96 pages

The Bernese Mountain Dog: A Dog of Destiny
By Bernd Guenter
Published in 2004
208 pages

The New Bernese Mountain Dog
By Sharon Chesnutt Smith
Published in 1995
272 pages


Show more books


Other websites for additional information:

American Kennel Club breed page
Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America
Wikipedia breed information page
Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America Rescue



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Page Last Updated: February 1, 2018

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