The Bernese Mountain Dog is a beloved breed in Spain, known for its distinctive tri-colored coat and gentle nature. They originated in the Swiss Alps, where they were bred to pull carts and herd cattle.
One of the standout characteristics of the Bernese Mountain Dog is its intelligence. According to the breed's history, they were highly valued for their problem-solving skills and ability to learn quickly.
These intelligent dogs are also known for their loyalty and affection towards their family. In fact, they thrive on human interaction and are often described as "velcro dogs" because of their tendency to stick close by.
Their thick coats require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling, but it's worth the effort for the beautiful, luscious fur they produce.
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Interesting Facts
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a majestic breed that's full of surprises. They can weigh between 70 and 116 pounds at maturity and stand between 23 and 28 inches tall.
These dogs are originally from the Swiss region of Bern and are referred to as Sennenhunds in Europe, which translates to "alpine field or pasture dog." Their name comes from the German words Senne and Hund.
One of the reasons Bernese Mountain Dogs are so lovable is that they tend to keep their puppy brains longer than other breeds. This means they remain jovial and playful well into their adolescent phase.
Here's a quick comparison of the four native breeds to the Swiss mountains:
- Berner (Bernese Mountain Dog) - weighs between 70-116 pounds, has a long coat
- Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - largest of the group
- Appenzeller - smaller than the Berner
- Entlebucher - smallest of the group
Fun Facts and Trivia
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a majestic breed, and there's so much to love about them. They can weigh between 70 and 116 pounds at maturity and stand between 23 and 28 inches tall.
One of the things that sets Bernese Mountain Dogs apart is their unique name. In Europe, they're referred to as Sennenhunds, which comes from the German words for "alpine field or pasture" and "dog/hound."
You might hear people refer to them simply as the "Berner" or just Bernese, which is a bit shorter and easier to say.
The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of four native breeds to the Swiss mountains, and all of them have the same tri-color coat but are different sizes.
Here's a quick rundown of the four breeds:
Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for keeping their puppy brains a little longer than other breeds, which means they can be quite playful and jovial well into their adolescent phase.
History
The Bernese Mountain Dog has a rich history that spans centuries. Developed in the Swiss Alps, they originated from Molossian mastiff-type dogs that followed the Roman legions throughout the continent during the 1st century.
These dogs interbred with farm dogs in the mountainous area and became known as Sennenhunds, or "alpine field dogs." They were further refined into four distinct mountain dog breeds over the next 2,000 years.
The Bernese Mountain Dog was an integral part of agrarian life in the mountains, serving as livestock herders, guardians, companions, and carting dogs. Their strong back legs and sturdy frame made them excellent at pulling carts.
As the Industrial Revolution spread, the need for working farm dogs diminished, and the breed was at risk of extinction in the late 1800s. Swiss dog fanciers worked to save their native mountain breeds, introducing a Swiss shepherd dog class in 1904.
The first Bernese Mountain Dogs were exported to Holland and the United States after World War I, and the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1937 as a member of the Working Class. They slowly gained popularity, and the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America was formed in 1968.
The breed was originally used on farms in Bern, Switzerland, driving cattle, pulling carts, and guarding fields and farms on mountains and in valleys. They were brought to Switzerland by the Romans.
A European dog lover named Professor Albert Heim formed a breeding club in 1907 to popularize the breed, and the dogs returned to favor on farms as well as with families.
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Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a breed that originated in the Swiss Alps, developed from Molossian mastiff-type dogs that followed the Roman legions throughout the continent during the 1st century.
These dogs interbred with farm dogs in the mountainous area and became known as Sennenhunds, or "alpine field dogs." They were further refined into four distinct mountain dog breeds over the next 2,000 years.
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a versatile breed that was integral to the agrarian life in the mountains, acting as livestock herders, guardians, companions, and carting dogs.
Their strong back legs and sturdy frame made them excellent carting dogs, but as the Industrial Revolution spread, the need for working farm dogs diminished, and they were at risk of going extinct.
In the late 1800s, Bernese Mountain Dogs were at risk of going extinct, but Swiss dog fanciers worked to save their native mountain breeds, and the breed's comeback began in 1904 with the introduction of a Swiss shepherd dog class.
Broaden your view: Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Bernese Mix
The first Bernese Mountain Dogs were exported to Holland and the United States after World War I, and the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1937 as a member of the Working Class.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are dependable and sturdy dogs that enjoy work and pleasing their owners, making them fast learners in training.
However, they can be on the shy side with new people, making socialization as a puppy and positive reinforcement training methods a must.
Their large size means training should start early to help them learn physical boundaries and polite manners, so they don't accidentally overwhelm others.
Regular exercise every day is crucial for Bernese Mountain Dogs, as they risk becoming overweight and experiencing health problems without it.
If you're considering adopting a Bernese Mountain Dog, be prepared to provide daily exercise and training to keep them happy and healthy.
The breed ranked as the 22nd most popular dog breed in the United States in 2018, and their popularity continues to grow.
For your interest: Bernese Mountain Dog Exercise
Health and Wellness
Bernese Mountain Dogs are a loving and loyal breed, but like any dog, they require proper care and attention to stay healthy.
Their lifespan is generally seven to 10 years, which is relatively short compared to other breeds.
Regular exercise is crucial to keep your Bernese Mountain Dog at a healthy weight and prevent unwanted behaviors. Aim for at least 30 minutes of daily exercise, including walks and playtime.
They can make excellent jogging or hiking partners once they're fully grown, but be cautious of heatstroke, especially in warmer temperatures or humid weather.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to hip dysplasia, a condition that can cause pain and mobility issues. Discuss the prevalence of hip dysplasia with your breeder and have your puppy screened for it.
Their thick black coat can make them more susceptible to heatstroke, so monitor them closely for symptoms like rapid panting, drooling, and trouble breathing.
Feeding your Bernese Mountain Dog smaller, more frequent meals during the day can help reduce the risk of gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) complex, or bloat, a life-threatening condition that requires emergency surgery.
Worth a look: Bernese Mountain Dog Hip Dysplasia
Temperament and Personality
The Bernese mountain dog's temperament and personality are truly charming. They are smart, quick learners, and exceptionally faithful dogs.
Their trainability and eagerness to please have made them a favorite among owners. They are low-energy dogs that enjoy plenty of downtime with their people, whether it's playing in the yard or lazing on the couch.
Bernese mountain dogs do not like to be alone, so they need to be part of the family. They are patient, calm, affectionate, and great pets for families.
However, they can be somewhat aloof with strangers. If properly socialized when young, Berners get along well with cats and other dogs.
Here are some key aspects to consider when evaluating a Bernese mountain dog's personality:
- Energy level: Some Bernese mountain dogs are more active and require regular exercise, while others may be more content with less physical activity.
- Temperament: Assess whether the dog's temperament aligns with your lifestyle and preferences. Some Bernese mountain dogs are known to be outgoing and friendly, while others may be a bit more reserved or independent.
- Affectionate nature: Bernese mountain dogs are often described as gentle giants and are known for their loving and loyal personalities.
- Socialization: Consider how the dog interacts with other animals and people. It's essential to consider whether the dog is comfortable and well socialized, as this can impact their behavior in various situations.
- Trainability: Consider the dog's trainability, especially if you're looking for a dog that can learn commands and follow instructions easily. Some Bernese mountain dogs are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them easier to train.
Overall, Bernese mountain dogs are dependable and sturdy dogs that enjoy work and pleasing their owners.
Living with a Bernese Mountain Dog
Living with a Bernese Mountain Dog is a unique experience, and one that requires some special considerations. They thrive in colder climates, where they can enjoy the winter weather and even lie in the snow with glee.
A fenced-in yard is a must-have for a Bernese Mountain Dog, as they love to explore and need space to run around. Regular walks are also essential, with at least a half hour of brisk walking or running every day recommended.
Bernese Mountain Dogs make excellent companions for outdoor activities like hiking and camping, and they're even happy to pull kids around in carts. They also excel in activities such as tracking, agility, and herding.
Their thick coats mean they shed a lot, so be prepared for a lot of grooming and vacuuming. Expect to brush their coat every couple of days and groom them every four to eight weeks.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are sensitive dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement, so it's essential to start training and socialization early. They don't do well when left alone for too long, so make sure to spend plenty of time with them.
Feeding your Bernese Mountain Dog high-quality dog food is crucial, as they can eat a lot. Monitoring their food and exercise is key, and a visit to the vet can help you determine how much and how often to feed them.
Frequently Asked Questions
¿Por qué el Boyero de Berna vive tan poco?
El Boyero de Berna tiene una esperanza de vida corta debido a su predisposición al cáncer, lo que puede hacer que su vida sea menor a 5 años
¿Cuánto cuesta un Bernese Mountain?
Un Bernese Mountain puede costar alrededor de 30,000 pesos mexicanos. El precio puede variar dependiendo del criadero y las prestaciones que ofrece.
Sources
- https://www.trupanion.com/pet-blog/article/bernese-mountain-dog
- https://www.dailypaws.com/dogs-puppies/dog-breeds/bernese-mountain-dog
- https://showsightmagazine.com/bernese-mountain-dog-history/
- https://blog.tryfi.com/bernese-mountain-dog-names/
- https://www.linguee.com/english-spanish/translation/bernese+mountain+dog.html
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