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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
Other Names
What other names does the Bernese Mountain Dog have?
BernerBernese Cattle DogBerner Sennenhund
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
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
Is a Bernese Mountain Dog small, medium or large dog?

How big do Bernese Mountain Dog get?

What is the average size of a Bernese Mountain Dog?

Large
Weight
How much does the Bernese Mountain Dog weigh? How much should a Bernese Mountain Dog weight? What is the normal weight of a Bernese Mountain Dog? How much does a full-grown Bernese Mountain Dog weight?
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
How much does the Bernese Mountain Dog puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Bernese Mountain Dog in the United States? How much money is a Bernese Mountain Dog?

Where to buy a Bernese Mountain Dog with a good pedigree?

$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

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Bernese Mountain Dog? Is the Bernese Mountain Dog breed dumb or smart?
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.

Trainability
Are Bernese Mountain Dog dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Bernese Mountain Dog?
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly.
Watchdog Ability
Is Bernese Mountain Dog good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
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.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Bernese Mountain Dog dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
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

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Bernese Mountain Dog have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
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

Playfulness
How playful is this 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.
Barking
Do Bernese Mountain Dog dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Berner bark?
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.

Apartment Friendly
Is Bernese Mountain Dog good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Bernese Mountain Dog in an apartment?
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

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Average: Bernese Mountain Dog dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Bernese Mountain Dog be left alone? How long can you leave a Bernese Mountain Dog alone?
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 Force PSI
Does the Bernese Mountain Dog has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Bernese Mountain Dog? How much bite force does a Bernese Mountain Dog have? How strong is a Bernese Mountain Dog bite?

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.

Biting Potential
Do Bernese Mountain Dog bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Berner? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Bernese Mountain Dog? Why do dog bites happen?

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.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Bernese Mountain Dog do?
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.

Bernese Mountain Dog Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Bernese Mountain Dog dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Very healthy dog breed. The Bernese Mountain Dog rarely meets with the 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
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Bernese Mountain Dog breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Bernese Mountain Dog see the vet?
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.
Life Expectancy
How long do Bernese Mountain Dog dogs live? How old can a Bernese Mountain Dog be? What is the age limit of the Bernese Mountain Dog? How many years can the oldest Bernese Mountain Dog live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Bernese Mountain Dog?

How long is the lifespan of a Bernese Mountain Dog?

7-11 years
The average lifespan of Bernese Mountain Dog: 9 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
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.

Bernese Mountain Dog Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Bernese Mountain Dog have? What is the activity level of the Bernese Mountain Dog?
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

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Bernese Mountain Dog need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Bernese Mountain Dog breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Bernese Mountain Dog? How much food should I feed my Bernese Mountain Dog?
6 to 8 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Bernese Mountain Dog risk for obesity:
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.

Bernese Mountain Dog Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Bernese Mountain Dog have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
Dense
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Bernese Mountain Dog coats?
Black White
Grooming
How to groom the Bernese Mountain Dog and how often? How often should I take my Bernese Mountain Dog to the groomer?
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.

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.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Bernese Mountain Dog need a bath? How often should you give a Bernese Mountain Dog a bath? Can I bathe my Bernese Mountain Dog every day?
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.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Bernese Mountain Dog breed hypoallergenic?
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.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

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.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Bernese Mountain Dog drool?
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.

Bernese Mountain Dog Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Bernese Mountain Dog dogs get along with other pets? Are Bernese Mountain Dog dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
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.
Child Friendly
Are Bernese Mountain Dog dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Bernese Mountain Dog temperament with children:
Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
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
Are they good as service dogs? Can Bernese Mountain Dog be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

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 Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Bernese Mountain Dog be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Bernese Mountain Dog be an emotional support animal?

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.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Bernese Mountain Dog be a sniffer dog?

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 and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Bernese Mountain Dog be a search and rescue dog?

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.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Bernese Mountain Dog be a boat dog?

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.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Bernese Mountain Dog be a drafting dog?

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.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Bernese Mountain Dog dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

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

Bernese Mountain Dog Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Bernese Mountain Dog pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Bernese Mountain Dog breed is pregnant?

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.

Litter Frequency

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.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Bernese Mountain Dog have in a litter? How many puppies can the Bernese Mountain Dog breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Bernese Mountain Dog have? How many puppies can a Bernese Mountain Dog give birth to?
1-14 puppies, average 8

Bernese Mountain Dog Recognition

AKC Group
Is Bernese Mountain Dog recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1937 as a Working breed.
FCI Group
Is Bernese Mountain Dog recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Pinscher and Schnauzer - Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattledogs group, in the Swiss Mountain- and Cattledogs section.
Breed Recognition
What kennel clubs and organizations recognize or register the Bernese Mountain Dog breed?
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
  • Intelligent Rank: Very smart: Bernese Mountain Dog is an excellent dog breed.
  • Trainability: Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are easy to train.
  • Health Issues: Very healthy dog breed.
  • Watchdog Ability: Bernese Mountain Dog dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Child Friendly: 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: This breed makes good as a service dog.
  • Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog: A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: Bernese Mountain Dog dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Friendly: 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.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Bernese Mountain Dog's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Mouthiness: 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