Bernese Mountain Dog

Breed: Bernese Mountain Dog I Size: Large I Average lifespan : 7+ years I Training and education: Easy I Coat : Semi-long I Origin: Switzerland.

Giant and cuddly, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a mountain dog with a tender heart. Their calm, protective nature makes them ideal companions.

The origins of the Bernese Mountain Dog

A former mountain herder

The appearance of the Bernese Mountain Dog dates back to ancient times. Like many molosses, the breed’s development stems from its ancestor, the more massive and bushy Tibetan Mastiff. This dog originated in the Helvetian mountains, in Dürrbach, a village in the Swiss canton of Bern. For a long time, its name reflected that of its birthplace: Dürrbächler. Initially chosen by the Roman legions, Dürrbächlers were highly prized as guard dogs, before becoming useful herdsmen on mountain pastures and protecting flocks.

The recognition of the breed

Nicknamed the “poor man’s horse” because they were used to pull milk-can carts, the breed’s name changed in the early 20th century. The breed first came to prominence at the 1910 Burgdorf dog show, thanks to farmers who managed to present 107 dogs to the general public. From this event onwards, the Bernese Mountain Dog obtained its official name, classifying it as a large Swiss Mountain Dog.

Their role nowadays

Otherwise used as a guardian of the Helvetian mountains, today, these dogs are mostly trained for mountain rescues, civil protection and, of course, herd and building guarding. Their temperament and polyvalence also make them the perfect guide for visually impaired people. As the Bernese Mountain Dog is very gentle and kind, the breed is also a delightful family companion.

The character of the Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is like a large teddy bear and is calm and affectionate. Their loyalty is without failure towards their owner. Despite their large and imposing body, they are absolute balls of love and tenderness. In addition, these dogs are very protective of their family.

What are the qualities of the Bernese Mountain Dog?

While the breed is large, they are by no means aggressive. Moreover, they are not considered to be a dangerous breed by the government. While they are very protective, they act instead as a deterrent to intruders. These inquisitive dogs are very friendly, both to humans and to other pets in the same household. They have no predatory instinct. In addition, this breed barks very little and has a relatively calm temperament.

What are the downsides of having a Bernese Mountain Dog?

This is a very endearing dog that can actually become rather clingy. In addition, they constantly demand attention. Consequently, Bernese Mountain Dogs need owners that are available and able to spend time with them. Bernese Mountain Dogs are happiest in a home with a large garden where they can run around and get exercise. With that being said, it’s possible to have this breed if you live in an apartment. You just have to keep in mind that they need exercise and require long daily walks.

Similar to many other dogs, loneliness and boredom can lead this dog breed to destroy your belongings. In addition to being fearful, this breed matures quite late. This means that they will behave like a puppy until they are around two to three years old.

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The physical characteristics of the Bernese Mountain Dog

Physical aspect

Part of the molossoid group, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a giant-sized dog. They have the typical stature of mountain herding dogs. They are easily recognizable thanks to their tricolored black, white and red coat. A fun fact is that it’s the only Swiss mountain dog with a semi-long coat.

Head

The Bernese Mountain Dog’s head is short and large, which is a symbol of power for this majestic breed. From a profile angle, the skull is slightly domed. It has a well-defined stop and a faint frontal furrow. The lips of this dog breed are slightly developed and black. These dogs have dark-brown, almond-shaped eyes that give them a gentle, yet intelligent look. Their ears are triangular, rounded at the tip and droop a bit.

Body

Bernese Mountain Dogs look imposing because they have a powerful, harmonious and well-proportioned body. With that being said, their body is rather compact—longer than they are tall—with strong legs. Their legs are short, with tight, arched toes on their paws. This breed has a bushy tail that remains low and close to the ground when at rest.

Coat, color, and care

Coat

This dog only has one type of coat. It is glossy, smooth and slightly wavy. While the coat is soft, it’s not hypoallergenic.

Colors

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a remarkable mountain dog that is characterized by its tricolored coat (black, white and red). The whole coat is black, but the chest is white in the shape of a Swiss cross, a nod to the breed’s origins. The tips of their legs are also white. A line of the same white hair crosses their forehead between their eyes to their muzzle. Above the eyes are two red spots, called “pastilles”. Bernese Mountain Dogs also have red hair on their cheeks and legs.

Caring for a Bernese Mountain Dog

This breed has a self-cleaning coat, meaning that dirt dries and falls out of their coat naturally. Because of this, this breed doesn’t need to be bathed regularly—once or twice a year is more than enough to keep their coat clean and healthy. With that being said, Bernese Mountain Dogs undergo constant molting, which becomes more prevalent in spring and autumn. Consequently, this breed should be brushed regularly. Several times a week is ideal.

It’s also essential to care for his ears and trim his claws at least once a month. If necessary, depending on his breath, we recommend brushing his teeth quite often.

Did you know?

To celebrate Mother’s Day in 2015, actor-comedian Dany Boon gave his Swiss-born wife, Yaël Harris, two Bernese Mountain Dog puppies, who they named Luiggi and Luizia.