Blog Detail

Group: Working

Size: 23 - 27.5 inches

Weight: 70 - 115 pounds

Hypoallergenic: No

Lifespan: 7 - 10 years

Behavior

The Bernese Mountain Dog demonstrates both gentle and affectionate behavior because of its friendly temperament and calm disposition. The massive Bernese Mountain Dogs remain exceptionally gentle dogs that become ideal family pets. They show exceptional behavior by young people and display protective and nurturing instincts. Early socialization helps bring out their naturally warm and trusting character. Our Pet Anal Gland Expression Services in Fairfax is excited to tell you more about these lovely furry companions!

They are thought to be intelligent and eager to please, so Bernese Mountain Dogs are not hard to train. Nevertheless, they are very sensitive to encouragement and a disciplined training program. These dogs are very sensitive, so harsh methods would discourage their cooperative spirit. The Bernese is not over-hyperactive, but energetic and enjoys outdoor activities, such as long walks and the playing romps in the yard. However, they like doing work that involves applying their mind and body because they have a strong work ethic. They are usually easy going but do have a periodic requirement for companionship, and if not kept busy they might inculcate separation anxiety.

History

Also called Berner Sennenhund, Bernese Mountain Dog is a breed of dog originating in the Swiss Alps, coming with farmers and herders as a working dog. The four Swiss mountain dog breeds comprise the Sennenhund group while this particular breed is a member of this classification scheme.

Dogs of this breed have origins reaching further than hundreds of years through generations of descendants from mastiff-type dogs who entered Switzerland during the Roman Legion expansions. These farm dogs received local breeds, making strong versatile breeds suitable for cattle herding, cart pulling, and farmstead security duties. Throughout many years, Bernese Mountain Dogs helped farmers in the Swiss territory known as the Canton of Bern their name became established.  

Swiss breeders and Professor Albert Heim restored interest in protecting the Bernese breed after its numbers decreased heavily due to industrialization at the beginning of the twentieth century. It received Swiss Kennel Club recognition in 1907 before establishing itself throughout the worldwide dog population. The American Kennel Club officially accepted the Bernese Mountain Dog into its records in 1937. These days Bernese Mountain Dogs gain admiration through canine companionship and serve as therapy dogs while working roles alongside their fame for being gentle intelligent loving animals.

Exercise

The large breed of working Bernese Mountain Dogs needs regular exercise for their wellness and contentment. Bernese Mountain Dogs require everyday exercise to preserve their physical and mental health despite their lower energy levels than other breeds. The right exercise plan for these dogs includes normal walks, active play sessions, and short hikes. The heavy double coat of Bernese Mountain Dogs makes them suitable for cold weather conditions and they should limit their strenuous workouts when temperatures rise. Regarding mental stimulation, Bernese Mountain Dogs need activities that match the importance of physical exercise. Obedience training and puzzle toys or pulling carts improve their mental engagement. 

Young Bernese Mountain Dogs' exercise and their puppy counterparts must be limited through purposeful joint protection. Experts suggest that Bernese Mountain Dogs should participate in brief play sessions to stay fit and healthy. Regular but moderate exercise with regular Pet Anal Gland Expression Services ensures that this affectionate and loyal breed remains fit, content, and well-balanced in a family setting.

Training

A Bernese Mountain Dog needs patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement training. Also, affectionate smart dogs are known to respond well to reward-based training methods including treats, praise and play. They must be socialized early to become well-behaved, confident adults. It helps avoid fearfulness and unwanted behaviors if exposed to different people, environments, and experiences.  

Early sit, stay, and recall types of training are recommended. Leash training is essential as they have a strong build and working heritage. The harsh corrections may be sensitive to them, so you should apply a gentle, encouraging approach. Bernese Mountain Dogs need mental and physical stimulation. Physically fit and mentally engaged, engaging them in agility or obedience trials, cart pulling, etc., is a good idea. They will also grow into a well-behaved companion if trained and socialized consistently, becoming an excellent family member with a loving and loyal nature.

Looks & Health

The Bernese Mountain Dog stands out through its massive size, double-layered tri-colored coat, kind features, and robust structure. These canines have two layers of coat consisting of dark primary black fur along with rich rust and white design elements. Their physical nature protects them throughout chilly seasons due to their long wavy fur. Their friendly and intelligent look comes from their broad head, dark almond-shaped eyes, and droopy ears. 

Bernese Mountain Dogs exhibit strong health overall yet they survive only 7 to 10 years before passing away. Bernese Mountain Dogs possess specific inherited disorders that affect their health by causing hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and certain categories of tumorous growth. Healthy Bernese Mountain Dogs can be maintained with a steady relationship between routine checkups with Express Anal Glands Services, proper nutrition, and measured physical activity. Bernese Mountain Dogs require cool temperatures because their thick coat makes them vulnerable to heat during warm seasons. Regular brushing practice helps control the amount of fur shedding and avoids coat matting.

Food and Nutrition

For optimal health of Large-sized Bernese Mountain Dogs, it is necessary to provide balanced nutrition according to their size. The dietary requirements of Bernese Mountain Dogs depend directly on their age group daily movement levels and their current medical condition. High-quality nutrition containing ample protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and essential minerals makes up their dietary needs. Omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids function as advantageous fats that promote coat shine and joint health since Bernese Mountain Dogs frequently suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia.

Active Bernese Mountain Dogs need carbs from digestible foods, including sweet potatoes, brown rice, and vegetables. Bernese Mountain Dogs naturally tend to gain weight so controlling feed portions and providing daily exercise is vital for their health. Feeding them twice a day instead of free feeding might help prevent becoming overweight. Offer fresh water and visit Express Anal Glands Services for professional dietary recommendations from a veterinarian. The most appropriate nutrition for this breed ensures a happy, energetic, and long life.

Conclusion

A Bernese Mountain Dog presents as both a dedicated worker and devoted companion which suits individual families equally well as single owners. These dogs get much love because they exhibit a gentle nature and a strong desire to obey commands whenever you give them sufficient exercise, training, and socialization opportunities. All the coats' bulk and additional grooming needs plus the size requirements for movement do not diminish this breed's numerous advantages. Bernese Mountain Dogs share a profound connection with their owners, making them ideal family pets. A Bernese Mountain Dog will thrive through life by receiving sufficient attention, veterinary care, and healthy nutrition. For more information or to avail of our Pet Anal Gland Expression Services in Fairfax, visit PawNanny.com!