All About Saint Bernese Mountain Dog Puppies: History to Care

The Saint Bernese Mountain Dog is one of the most recognizable breeds out there, with its distinctive tri-colored coat and adorable wrinkles.

Their ancestors date back to the 17th century, when they were bred to be rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps.

Originating from the canton of Bern in Switzerland, these dogs were tasked with finding and saving travelers stranded in the snowy mountains.

The Saint Bernese Mountain Dog's thick coat and sturdy build made them the perfect breed for this job.

They're known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, which made them a favorite among travelers and locals alike.

These dogs are naturally gentle and even-tempered, making them a great fit for families with children.

The Bernese Mountain Dog breed has a rich history that spans thousands of years. Developed in the Swiss Alps, the breed can trace its roots to the Molossian mastiff-type dogs that followed the Roman legions throughout the continent during the 1st century.

These early dogs interbred with farm dogs in the mountainous area and became known as Sennenhunds, or "alpine field dogs." Over the next 2,000 years, they were further refined into four distinct mountain dog breeds.

The Bernese Mountain Dog proved integral to the agrarian life in the mountains due to their versatility. They would act as livestock herders, guardians, companions, and were excellent carting dogs.

In the late 1800s, Bernese Mountain Dogs were at risk of going extinct. But thanks to the efforts of Swiss dog fanciers, the breed was saved and began to gain popularity.

The first Bernese Mountain Dogs were exported to Holland and the United States after World War I. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1937 as a member of the Working Class.

The breed was used as an all-purpose farm dog for guarding property and driving dairy cattle long distances from the farm to the alpine pastures. They were known by the locals as "Cheese Dogs" due to their role in transporting milk and cheese.

The breed was first exhibited at shows in Berne in the early 1900s, and by 1910, there were already 107 registered members of the breed.

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The Bernese mountain dog is a sturdy breed, slightly longer than it is tall.

Their head is flat on top with a moderate stop, and the ears are medium-sized, triangular, and set high.

The Bernese mountain dog has a strong, wide back, and their legs are straight and strong, with round, arched toes.

Their teeth have a scissors bite, and the dewclaws of the Bernese are often removed.

Their bushy tail is carried low, and their coat is thick and tricolored with white, black, and brown colors, with black being the predominant color on the body.

Black can be seen all over the body, with white on the face and brown around the legs and above the eyes, nose, and mouth.

The thickness of the tricolored coat enables them to withstand harsh, cold climates.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for being calm and affectionate family dogs. They're good-natured and eager to please their humans.

These dogs are perfect for families with children because they're gentle and patient. They take well to kids climbing over them, making them a great addition to any family.

As a breed, Bernese Mountain Dogs are often reserved with strangers, but they bond strongly with their family. They tend to stick close to their people and enjoy activities together.

One of the best things about Bernese Mountain Dogs is their love of cuddling. They're happy to snuggle up with their humans and make great companions for anyone looking for a large, fluffy friend.

Bernese Mountain Dogs do well with other pets and are generally easy-going, making them a great addition to any family with multiple animals.

The Saint Bernese Mountain Dog puppy is a wonderful companion, but like all breeds, it's not immune to certain health issues. They have a high frequency of neoplasia, with 55% of deaths attributable to cancer.

One of the most significant concerns for this breed is elbow dysplasia, with a prevalence ranging from 13.91% to 26%. This can lead to arthritis and mobility issues.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are also prone to hip dysplasia, which is a genetic condition that can cause pain and mobility issues. It's essential to discuss the prevalence of hip dysplasia in the line with the breeder and have your puppy screened for it.

The breed has a high risk of developing high-grade mastocytoma, with an Austrian study finding Bernese Mountain Dogs three times as likely to have the condition than the general population.

In addition to these genetic conditions, Bernese Mountain Dogs are also susceptible to heatstroke due to their thick black coat. It's crucial to limit exercise in warmer temperatures and provide plenty of breaks and water.

Here are some common health issues to be aware of:

Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and proper veterinary care can help prevent or manage many of these conditions. With proper care, your Saint Bernese Mountain Dog puppy can live a happy and healthy life.

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Grooming a Saint Bernese Mountain Dog is a must, especially with their thick double coat that sheds year-round. This means regular brushing to keep shedding manageable and prevent tangles in their coat.

The Bernese Mountain Dog needs regular brushing to keep shedding manageable and prevent tangles in their coat. Brushing helps to evenly distribute the natural oils from the skin, keeping their skin and coat healthy.

A pin comb and slicker brush are great tools for the job, and it's essential to introduce your puppy to brushing at a young age with positive rewards. This will make lifelong grooming a breeze.

The thickness of their coat, and black color, may make Saint Bernese Mountain Dogs more susceptible to heatstroke in hot or more humid climates. Be aware of this and take necessary precautions to keep them cool.

Regular ear cleanings are also crucial, especially since the ears can trap bacteria, dirt, and liquid. Use a veterinarian-recommended cleanser and clean their ears weekly to prevent ear infections.

Bathing should be done only when necessary, as it can strip the coat of its natural oils. A "Beach Clip" or partial trim can be a good option to neaten up their fluffy coats, but be sure to choose a groomer who knows how to avoid damaging the undercoat.

Related reading: Pembroke Welsh Corgi Grooming

At 6 months old, your Saint Bernese Mountain Dog puppy will likely weigh between 50 to 70 pounds (male) or 45 to 65 pounds (female), and stand around 19 to 23 inches tall.

Males tend to be on the taller end of the range. Both male and female puppies will continue to grow until they are about a year old.

To estimate how much bigger your Bernese Mountain Dog will get, you can consider their current age, paws, and genetics. If your puppy is less than a year old, they have a lot of growing left to do.

A good way to gauge their growth is to look at their paws - if they're oversized next to their body and legs, it's likely they're still growing. You can also reach out to the breeder for a more precise estimate based on their parents and past litters.

Here's a rough idea of what to expect at different ages:

Keep in mind that these are just estimates, and every puppy grows at their own rate. If your puppy is significantly behind or ahead of these numbers, consult with your veterinarian.

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a natural for pulling small carts or wagons, a task they originally performed in Switzerland.

They enjoy giving children rides in a cart or participating in a parade, such as the Conway, New Hampshire holiday parade. Regional Bernese clubs often offer carting workshops.

Carting competitions are held for the breed. The Bernese Mountain Dog became eligible to compete in AKC Herding Events on July 1, 2010.

They are energetic, attentive, and impetuous, but indisposed to biting. The Bernese tends to attach to one person and have an inherent suspicion of strangers.

They excel at herd guardianship, especially in the Holy Regions, and are untiring, often unruly, resistant to the coldest winters, and excellent defenders of stable or home.

They have been used by the police in Switzerland. The Bernese enjoys the outdoors, especially in cold weather.

This dog needs daily but moderate exercise, either a good hike or walk on leash. The coat needs brushing one or two times weekly, much more often when shedding.

As a Saint Bernese Mountain Dog owner, you'll want to be prepared for the costs of veterinary care. Preventive pet care can play a large part in minimizing the effects of genetic diseases on your pup's quality of life.

Genetic diseases are a concern for Bernese Mountain Dogs, and preventive care can help identify any potential issues early on. Routine veterinary visits provide your veterinarian with the chance to screen your puppy for signs of disease.

Pet insurance can be a lifesaver in case of unexpected injuries or illnesses, which can cost thousands of dollars. It provides a financial safety net by reimbursing you for a portion of the money you pay out-of-pocket on veterinary services for covered conditions.

Wellness plans can also help with the cost of preventive pet care, including flea/tick prevention, spay or neutering, and more. These plans can help you save money over the life of your pet.

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The Bernese Mountain Dog is a beloved breed, and for good reason. They can weigh between 70 and 116 pounds at maturity and typically stand between 23 and 28 inches tall.

These gentle giants were originally bred to work on farms in the Swiss region of Bern, where they were referred to as Sennenhunds, a name that translates to "alpine field or pasture dog." They're also one of four native breeds to the Swiss mountains.

Here are some fun facts about the Bernese Mountain Dog:

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a loyal companion, and with the right care, they can thrive in a variety of living situations.

These dogs are known for their incredible ability to rescue their owners in emergency situations.

In 2013, a female Berner named Bella rescued her owner from a house fire in Canada.

Their strong instincts and quick thinking allow them to react in times of crisis.

A male Berner named Nico rescued two people being pulled out to sea by rip currents in California in 2015.

Their bravery and loyalty are truly inspiring.

In 2017, a Berner named Izzy survived a deadly inferno from wildfires in the same state.

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a majestic breed, and here are some interesting facts about it. They can weigh between 70 and 116 pounds at maturity and stand between 23 and 28 inches tall.

One of the unique things about the Bernese Mountain Dog is its name, which comes from the Swiss region of Bern. In Europe, they're actually referred to as Sennenhunds, which translates to "alpine field or pasture" dog.

If you're like me, you might find the full breed name a bit of a mouthful - Bernese Mountain Dog. Many people refer to it simply as the "Berner" or just Bernese.

The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of four native breeds to the Swiss mountains. Here's a size comparison:

The Bernese Mountain Dog is known for keeping its puppy brains longer than other breeds, which means you can expect to see some playful antics well into its adolescent phase.

Pet insurance can be a lifesaver for unexpected vet visit costs, which can range from $50 to $1,000 or more per visit, depending on the type of care needed.

You can compare pet insurance plans by looking at factors such as coverage, deductible, and premium costs. Some plans may offer additional benefits like wellness care or coverage for alternative therapies.

Pet insurance can be worth it for many pet owners, especially those with older or health-compromised pets. On average, pet owners pay around $600 per year for pet insurance premiums.

Wellness plans, which cover routine care and preventatives like vaccinations and flea control, can be a good investment for many pet owners. These plans can cost anywhere from $20 to $50 per month, depending on the provider and services included.

A new puppy checklist should include items like vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and microchipping, which can cost around $500 to $1,000 in the first year alone.

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