bernese mountain dogs

Built to pull carts and work hard in central Switzerland, the Bernese Mountain Dog is believed to be more than 2,000 years old. Bernese are incredibly loving, affectionate, and devoted family pets. Their calm nature and patience are ideal around children, and they are willing and quick learners. The distinctive black, white, and rust colors of the Bernese are uniform throughout the breed. Bernese Mountain Dogs thrive in larger living spaces, because of their size and moderate to high energy level.

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a powerful yet gentle giant that has the potential to reach over 100 pounds. As with many of the larger breeds, the Bernese do have a shorter-than-average life expectancy of 7-10 years. There are also certain health conditions the breed is predisposed to, and routine vet examinations are key to keeping them happy and healthy. It is important to know what they are and to contact a veterinarian when observing any physical or behavioral changes that are of concern. Your vet will most likely recommend running basic health screenings to diagnose or even rule out potential health risks associated with the Bernese.

Health Concerns
• Hip Dysplasia
• Elbow Dysplasia
• Obesity
• Bloat
• Dental Disease
• Cancer
• Degenerative Myelopathy (Bernese Mountain Dog Variant) (DM)

Minor Health Concerns
• Entropion
• Epilepsy
• Hypothyroidism
• Color Dilution Alopecia
• Allergies
• Von Willebrand Disease

Suggested Screenings
• Eye Exam
• Hip & Elbow X-ray
• Cardiac Exam
• DNA Test for DM
• Autoimmune Thyroiditis

Routine Care
• Neuter or Spay
• Regular Dental Exams
• Weight Management
• Eye Care
• Ear Care
• Controlled Exercise

Bernese is a large, muscular, and powerful breed. They were originally bred to be hard-working farm guardians and cattle dogs. They were also used to help their owners pull smart carts. While the Berenese is a working dog they are also faithful, intelligent, and affectionate.

The Berense does shed and require routine bathing and brushing to maintain their thick, soft coat. While they don't typically need to see a professional groomer sometimes it is beneficial to bring them in for a sanitary clip and trimming excess fur off the paws.

The Bernese only require a moderate amount of exercise and will eagerly join you for a swim or a walk down your favorite hiking path.