The Bernese Mountain Dog breed profile is sponsored by www.PetWearUSA.com visit PetWear to custom design your Berner's next designer dog collar, leash or more and then let PetWear hand make it and then ship for free!The Berner exudes a big, happy take on life. Affable, gregarious and mildly goofy at times, his appearance is one of such bearing that only his/her dearest friends realize just what a silly darling they can be. Much like its cousins, the Newfoundland and Saint Bernard, the Berner can boast a temperament that is both gentle and loving. An exceptional choice for a family that has the time and energy to devote to such an extraordinary companion.
Colors: distinctive symmetric tri color (black, rust and white)
Coat type: thick, moderately long, wavy or straight
Recognized Registries: NCA, FCI, UKC, AKC among others
Overall Appearance: Strong, large muscular dog well suited for the droving work for which it was developed. With a notable Mastiff influence, the Bernese Mountain Dog is dramatic with its lush tricolor coat over a substantial body.
Personaility - Behavior - Training
Energy Level: moderate to low
General Nature:
very genial, friendly and low key
with Children: very good
with other pets: very good
with dogs: very good
Socialization requirements: moderate as this large powerful dog is best when calm and assured; socialization provides the skills needed to deal with unusual circumstances
Ideal home characteristics: One that appreciates the grooming and exercise requirements needed to make this gentle giant relaxed and content
Temperament Notes: Sensitive, not particularly intense but very intelligent given suitable opportunity
Training requirement: socialization and basic manners
Trainer notes: Like most dogs, the potential of the Berner is generally not limited to the potential he/she inherently possesses but the talent and potential of the trainer to communicate. While the Berner will not likely impress with its agility or intensity it's calm and steadfast nature makes it an ideal training partner for a trainer that appreciates a dog that doesn't react (or overreact) to every detail. A well socialized Berner is relaxed in all environments and quite amenable to working, this becomes an excellent confidence builder for the trainer that gets sweaty palms before any planned exhibit or competition.
Background Information
Year range of first recognition: early 1900s but history, though undocumented dates back far longer
Country of Origin: Switzerland
Original Function: driving and all around farmers' dogs
History: Descended, very likely, from the Mastiff type dogs of the Romans, the Berner has likely been part of the Swiss Mountains and its farms for over 2000 years. Late 1800s brought recognition by some in the Bern area of a need to preserve these old type dogs.
Adoption Information
Deviations from Standard: heavy head, short legs, loose skin, entropion, poor dentition, excessively long coat
Health Notes: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia, OCD, eye problems, HOD, vWD, bloat (breed tendency not genetic per se)
