Why Bernese Mountain Dogs Are Big, Fluffy Lovebugs

The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of the cutest teddy bears in the canine world. Looking at their thick, tricolor color, soulful eyes, and bear-like size, you cannot help but fall in love with them. These majestic dogs are more than just cuddly companions, they are loyal dogs. Their history dates back hundreds of years. Today, we will explore this Swiss-born breed and why they are rising up the ranks of the popularity list.

Brief History of the Bernese Mountain Dog

These dogs have a history rooted in the Swiss Alps. In Switzerland, this dog is known as The Berner. Bred to be a working farm dog that can pull carts, herd livestock, and guard over homesteads, the Berner quickly moved inside the household.

Their strength and calm demeanor made them a great partner for Swiss farmers. Yet, in the last several years, the Bernese Mountain dog has moved from outside to inside. They have traded carts for cozy couches, but they still carry that hard-working spirit and loyal nature.

Personality – Big Dog, Bigger Heart

We said before that these dogs are like life-size teddy bears. Incredibly gentle, even more with children, they are big fluffy companions that will steal your heart. Bernese Mountain dogs thrive on companionship. Here is a quick look at their personality.

• Affectionate dogs that love to be around their owners.
• Easygoing, they do not react to changes in routine and enjoy being part of the family
• Loyal, they will stick around like Velcro dogs.
• Gentle, and soft with children and other animals in the household.
• Alertness, while they are not aggressive, they are watchdogs and will alert you of incoming threats.
• Sensitive dogs that do not take harsh correction easily.

Bernese Mountain Dog Size and Appearance

Built to impress, these dogs can reach up to 28 inches in height at the shoulder, and weigh between 80 and 100 pounds. They have a thick, wavy double coat that is black, with rust and white markings. But their best trait is their expressive face. When they look at you, you slowly start to melt and fall in love with them. All in all, an almost teddy bear look.

Living Needs

These big dogs need space to move and roam. While they can adjust to apartment living, they are better suited for homes with big yards. They thrive when they have a large fenced yard where they can roam around and run freely. As for the climate, they are better suited to a cold retreat. They do not do well in hot climates. Their thick coat will make matters worse. If you live in a hot area, invest in quality air conditioning or a water source they can splash in.

Training and Socialization

Bred to be working dogs, Bernese Mountain dogs are eager to learn. They are sensitive, so harsh training methods do not work well on them. Gentle guidance and positive reinforcement will go a long way. Start early to prevent shyness or stubborn behavior.

Early on, use leash training because of their strong build. While they are loyal and will stand right to you, it is best to be sure. You do not want a fully-grown Berner to start pulling on the lead. You will be better off training them to walk politely when they are young.

Exercise Needs

Bernese Mountain Dogs might be working farm dogs, but they are not high-energy. Do not mistake them for working dogs like the German Shepherd or Belgian Malinois. Bernese dogs need between 30 and 60 minutes of moderate exercise per day.

The more important aspect is mental stimulation. They love playing training games and playing with puzzle toys. If you live in a colder area, hiking is a great activity. But in hot climates, hiking on a sunny day is not an ideal option.

Health and Care

Sadly, like most big dogs, Bernese Mountain dogs have a shorter lifespan. They live between six and eight years. Some of the health concerns include bloating, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and certain types of cancer.

Make sure to get your Bernese Mountain dog from a reputable breeder where they screen parents and children for health issues.

As for grooming, expect a lot of shedding. That beautiful coat needs brushing at least two times per week. During heavy shedding seasons, they need daily brushing to help them get rid of dead hair. But hey, grooming and brushing is a small price to pay for such a stunning dog.

Is the Bernese Mountain Dog Right For You?

Despite being such a great and popular dog breed, the Berner is not for everyone. These dogs thrive best in families or individuals who:

• Have time to dedicate to training, grooming, and socialization.
• Live in cooler climates.
• Have space for roaming.
• Understand that large breeds might be more prone to health issues.

If that is you, the Bernese Mountain Dog will reward you with a loving and loyal companion.