by Tamerea Fritz

Created on: October 13, 2007

History

Originating in Switzerland, the standardisation of the Bernese Mountain dog was due to a number of Swiss dog lovers not wanting the qualities of these dogs lost. Dogs were brought in from selected isolated areas in the highlands and valleys in their home area of Canton of Bern and promoted them to generate interest in their local dogs.

The type was originally created to guard and herd. Those instincts are still strong in them today. Being that they loved to please they would often be found pulling carts to market and being farmers companions. With their size and dependability there were first class heard protectors.

Features

They are a very attractive tri-colour dog with a thick undercoat and a silky top coat that is soft to the touch with slight curls. They are mainly black with Tan and white markings. Dogs will reach a height of about 64-70 cm and bitches to a height of around 58-66 cm to the shoulder.

Grooming

The BMG females shed there thick coats with their heat cycles and the males shed seasonally, so tufts of hair are common. They are however an easy dog to groom. Loving attention, a good brushing twice a week is all that they need to keep the coat looking healthy and shiny. When the malt is in effect and then daily brushing is needed to keep the coat free of tangles. They do have a rather dense undercoat which keeps them cool in hot weather. The BMD is not a breed for those whom suffer from allergies or don't like hair all over the inside of their house.

Temperament

They are known for being loyal, loving, intelligent and alert. They are a large dog, and do require daily exercise, although they do not have a lot of endurance. Most BMD get along with other dogs and animals. They are exceptionally patient with children. However when they are puppies supervision is warranted during the BMD teething' phase not because of aggression, but because of size. When their herd or family is threatened they can and will come to your defence.

Health

BMD do not have a very long life expectancy for being such a large dog. 7-8 years is normal. Like a lot of other large breeds you need to be vigilant when choosing a puppy making sure that the parents have good hip and eye scores.

BMD can also suffer from the more common canine forms of cancer. Regular vet checks and keeping your dogs active and healthy as he gets older will help to identify if your dog is suffering any ill health.

Arthritis is also an issue at an early age if the dog was not cared for properly as a young dog.

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