The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, powerful breed with a distinctive tri-color coat of black, rust, and white.

Males

Males

Thick, moderately long double coat.

Tri-color - jet black, clear white, and rust.

White markings typically include a blaze on the chest (Swiss cross), a muzzle band, and white on the paws and tip of the tail. Rust markings appear over the eyes, on the cheeks, on the sides of the chest, and under the tail.

Strong and balanced with a well-defined stop.

Dark brown and almond-shaped.

Medium-sized, triangular, and set high.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their gentle, affectionate, and good-natured temperament. They are typically confident, alert, and loyal to their families.

They form strong bonds with their families and are known to be good with children.

Despite their size, they are generally gentle and patient.

They are devoted companions and often protective of their loved ones.

They are smart and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train.

They make good watchdogs, being aware of their surroundings.

While they can be reserved with strangers, they are generally friendly with proper socialization.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are best suited for families or individuals who can provide them with ample space, moderate exercise, and plenty of love and attention.

Alert and make good watchdogs.

Can be sensitive to heat.

The ideal owner for a Bernese Mountain Dog is someone who can commit to their exercise, grooming, and healthcare needs, and who appreciates a gentle, loving giant in their home.

Bernese Mountain Dogs require regular grooming due to their thick double coat, a balanced diet, and a spacious living environment.

Brush their coat 2-3 times a week, and daily during shedding seasons (spring and fall). Bathe as needed.

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Monitor their weight to prevent obesity.

They thrive in homes with ample space, preferably with a securely fenced yard. They can adapt to cooler climates but are sensitive to heat.

Trim nails regularly, usually every few weeks, to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.

Check and clean their ears weekly to prevent infections.

Brush their teeth regularly to maintain good oral hygiene.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are moderately easy to train due to their intelligence and eagerness to please. They require moderate exercise to stay healthy and happy.

Bernese Mountain Dogs respond well to positive reinforcement methods, such as praise, treats, and play. Early socialization and puppy training classes are crucial to ensure they develop into well-adjusted adults. Consistency and patience are key, as they can be sensitive to harsh training methods.

Adult Bernese Mountain Dogs need at least 30 minutes to an hour of moderate exercise daily. This can include brisk walks, hiking, playing fetch, or engaging in dog sports like drafting or carting. Mental stimulation is equally important, so incorporate puzzle toys and training sessions into their routine. Due to their thick coat, avoid intense exercise during hot weather.

Expose them to various sights, sounds, people, and other animals from a young age.

Use positive methods to motivate and reward good behavior.

Establish clear rules and boundaries and stick to them.

Provide puzzle toys and activities to keep their minds engaged.

Avoid strenuous exercise on hard surfaces during puppyhood to protect developing joints.

Be mindful of overheating in warm weather.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions.

A hereditary condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis and pain.

Similar to hip dysplasia, but affecting the elbow joint.

A degenerative eye disorder that eventually leads to blindness.

A bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency in a clotting factor.

A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists and fills with gas.

Bernese Mountain Dogs have a higher than average incidence of certain cancers, including histiocytic sarcoma.

The Bernese Mountain Dog hails from the canton of Bern, Switzerland, where they were developed as all-purpose farm dogs. Their primary roles included drafting (pulling carts), driving livestock, and acting as watchdogs. The breed's numbers dwindled in the late 19th century, but a concerted effort by Professor Albert Heim and other enthusiasts helped revive them. The Swiss Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1907. The first Bernese Mountain Dogs were brought to the United States in 1926, and the American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized them in 1937.

Yes, when properly socialized, they are generally gentle and patient with children.

They need at least 30-60 minutes of moderate exercise daily.

Yes, they have a thick double coat and shed moderately year-round, and heavily during shedding seasons.

Yes, they are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement.

Their average lifespan is 7-10 years.

They are not excessive barkers but will bark to alert their owners to something unusual.

Yes, with proper socialization, they can get along well with other dogs and pets.

They are better suited to homes with yards due to their size and exercise needs, but can adapt to apartment living if their exercise requirements are met.

Yes, they are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, and certain cancers.

It's best to get a Bernese Mountain Dog from a reputable breeder who screens for health issues, or consider adopting from a Bernese Mountain Dog rescue organization.