by Angie Pollock

Created on: December 01, 2009

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large breed of dog named for the canton of Berne located in Switzerland. To properly care for a Bernese Mountain Dog, an owner will need to know some of its history and unique features. Although the Bernese is typically used as a working dog, it is known for its docile and affectionate personality which also makes this breed sought after as a loyal companion.

Short History of the Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese is believed to have arrived in Switzerland alongside Caesar's army where other bloodlines were added to the breed. The features of this breed have mastiff-like characteristics. According to her book "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds," Joan Palmer writes "The breed is believed to descend from the Molossus dog of ancient Greece and Rome, with some Rottweiler, Saint Bernard, and Newfoundland blood discernible in its ancestry."

Whatever the lineage of the Bernese is or is not, there is no denying that this is a large breed of dog. In the Swiss mountains, Bernese Mountain Dogs are used to pull milk carts. It has taken some time but this breed is slowly becoming more popular in both the US and Great Britain.

Characteristics of the Bernese Mountain Dog

The average withers height of the Bernese is 23 to 27 1/2 inches with males typically being taller than females. These dogs can reach an astronomical weight of 85+ pounds with many reaching in excess of 100 pounds. The body is compact but it's the coat of the Bernese that is truly remarkable. The body coat is thick which can either be straight or have a slight wave. The color is black and has a vibrant sheen when properly cared for. The Bernese has brownish-red markings on the face, legs, and chest. The coat may also show some white on the head, chest, feet, and possibly the tip of the tail.

Care for the Bernese Mountain Dog

It should never be forgotten that the Bernese is a working dog which means this dog breed needs ample exercise. They will require either an open yard to release their energy or plenty of walking time. This is not a dog breed to take outside for potty breaks and then think it will be content lounging on the floor in front of a cozy fire.

The luxurious coat on the Bernese will need regular grooming. Daily grooming may be required during its seasonal shedding period. But during most of the year, once or twice a week should be adequate. Because of their thick coat which protects them in the Swiss mountains, the Bernese is susceptible to hot conditions. During the hot-summer months, it is recommended they be kept indoors and only exercised in the early mornings or evenings.

Like all dog breeds, the Bernese Mountain Dog should be fed a high-quality diet. They are prone to bloat so steps should be taken to help prevent the disorder when eating. They can quickly become overweight and should only be fed the recommended amount twice daily.

A peculiarity with the Bernese Mountain Dog is its tendency to die young from cancer or more specifically, histiocytosis. These ulcerated lesions can be fatal but some are highly treatable. The case rate in this breed is still being studied as to why this breed has such high occurrences and if it is hereditary - which most breeders believe is true. At the first sign of any lumps on your Bernese, seek expert veterinary care.

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