BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG Breed Standards
No one can say for certain how the Bernese Mountain Dog came about, though it has certainly exited in Switzerland for a very long time. The leading theory is that the Bernese Mountain Dog is the result of crossbreeding between Roman war mastiffs and herding dogs native to Switzerland. This combination created a large dog that was well suited to living in the frosty Alps, and that could serve as both a draft animal and herder. The Bernese is one of four different Swiss Mountain Dogs, and is distinctive for being the only one with a long coat; the other three are the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, the Entlebucher Sennenhund, and the Appenzeller Sennenhund.
Lack of interest in breeding the Bernese Mountain Dog led to its near extinction toward the end of the 19th century, but the breed was saved by the efforts of Professor Albert Heim and Swiss dog fancier Franz Schertenleib. The Bernese Mountain Dog first reached the United States in 1926, and received American Kennel Club recognition in 1937. The Bernese Mountain Dog is still used to herd livestock, but these days you’re more likely to see it as a house pet.
SKILLS: The Bernese Mountain Dog is a sturdy, heavy dog, with a beautiful weather-resistant tri-color double coat of black with symmetrical markings of rust and white.
SIZE: Height: Dogs 24-28 inches (61-71cm.) Bitches 23-27 inches (58-69cm.) Weight: Dogs 85-110 pounds (38-50kg.) Bitches 80-105 pounds (36-48kg.
COAT: The dog should have a white blaze on the chest, white on the head and toes, and rust markings over each eye, on the cheeks, sides of the chest, under the tail and on each leg. The coat is moderately long and either straight or slightly wavy. The broad head has a slight furrow down the middle. The medium-sized triangular ears are pendant. The dark eyes have a gentle expression and the nose is black.
CARE REQUIRED: Daily to weekly brushing of the long thick coat is important, with extra care needed when the coat is shedding. Bathe or dry shampoo as necessary. This breed is a seasonal, heavy shedder.
CHARACTER: These gentle, cheerful dogs love children. They are very intelligent, easy to train and are natural watchdogs, but not overly aggressive. A friend for life. They are very loyal and may have trouble adjusting to a new owner after they are 18 months old. Self-confident, alert and good-natured. They are fairly friendly with strangers, and are generally good with other pets and dogs. Never sharp or shy. These dogs may by slow to mature, remaining boisterous and puppy-like for quite awhile. The Bernese needs to be with people and not relegated to the backyard or kennel run. Like any dog, the Bernese Mountain Dog should be well socialized as a puppy. These dogs are sensitive and should be trained gently.
TRAINING: Large active dogs such as these need regular exercise.
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: Bernese Mountain Dog are not recommended for apartment life. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least a large, fenced-in yard. Prefers cool climates because the thick coat makes the Bernese uncomfortable in warm weather.
EXERCISE: Dog makes a fine family companion. Its talents are tracking, herding, watchdogging, guarding, search & rescue, carting, and competitive obedience.
