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History of the Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of the four subspecies of Sennenhund, or the Swiss (Alpine) Mountain Dog. The attractive, good-natured beast makes people fall in love with it at first sight. This dog only needs half a word to understand the owner. It’s eager to always be nearby to offer help.
This breed originated from and was named after the Swiss capital canton of Bern. With their exact ancestors a wide guess, the famed universal-household-use Mastiffs of Ancient Rome are often referenced.
Big working dogs have long been popular in Alpine villages. They looked after herds of sheep and cows, guarded houses and pulled carts of milk and cheese. Farmers called their helpers Sennenhund (“pasture” + “dog” in German). Sennenhunds from various cantons (valleys) looked differently. Bernese hounds were the only long-haired Alpines.
The Bernese Mountain Dog Review: Friendly, Tranquil, Robust
The Bernese Mountain Dog entered canine shows in the early 1900s, with a Swiss standard established a couple of years later. The American Kennel Club recognized the new entry in 1937 as a “Working Dogs” group member. Some famous Berners have since been commemorated in books and films. The Alpine hovers within the TOP-20 most sold pups, meeting steady interest from rural and suburban buyers.
Designed for strenuous tasks in the open, the robust, powerful Mountain Dog is both remarkably handsome and of gentle, affectionate nature. Much to uneducated fanciers’ surprise, these calm canines are always ready for playful activities with their owners, striving to bring joy and satisfaction. Standing over 27 inches at the shoulder, the large, sturdy worker boasts a tricolored coat of jet black, clear white, and rust that is both thick and silky. The distinctive markings on the coat and face, coupled with the intelligent gleam in their dark eyes, contribute to the Bernese Mountain Dog's regal presence.
These hardy canines excel in cold weather, a testament to their ability to multitask on the farms and pastures of Switzerland. While Berners effortlessly integrate into the entire family dynamics and exhibit exceptional gentleness with children, they often form a particularly strong bond with one fortunate individual. Imposing yet not intimidating, Bernese Mountain Dogs maintain a dignified reserve with strangers, embodying an air of aloof nobility.
Everything Bernese Mountain Dog: Breed Characteristics in Brief
Berners are large dogs with a muscular body, a strong chest and a wide back. The extended tail is covered with long, sometimes curly hair. This dog is famed for its lush shiny coat of pure luxury. It may be straight or slightly wavy. Distinctively tri-colored, the coat is made up of: coal-black base (body and head), white chest (with a prominent “Swiss cross” if viewed from the front) and rust markings (above eyes, sides of the mouth, front of legs, and around the chest).
Berners are monoamorous and choose the only person to follow commands from, but treat all family members with respect and affection. If you dream of a big but ever friendly dog, take a closer look at this breed offered by major producers. A unique charming “smile” is what makes these dogs so extra special.
Other than that, the furry pride of the Alpes would show these distinctive features in appearance and behavior:
- Male Berners are 25-27.5 inches high and 80-115 pounds heavy, females are a notch shorter and lighter.
- The average life expectancy is 7-10 years, less than in other breeds of a similar size.
- Berners are tranquil and balanced. They will not ask for your attention all the time, bark for no reason and react aggressively to strangers. Both instincts and acquired skills tell them to keep calm at all times.
- These dogs enjoy being busy with something meaningful. They will happily give children a sled ride or carry your shopping bags. And will never leave the owner in distress without help.
- They get along well with other pets, including cats.
- BMDs love the company of children and will not lose their temper with innocuous pranks.
- A Bernese Mountain Dog will enjoy reasonably balanced run-play-walk spells outdoors. Anything in excess would be tolerated but not appreciated. Bernie baby puppies are cheerful, curious and very animated. Adult dogs prefer long energy-saving walks and short games with their owner. No activity whatsoever will result in speedy weight gain.
- These shepherds are intelligent and quick-witted. They try to please their owner in the best way they can. Berners are quick to pick up and follow new commands, and generally easy to train.
- Given their sheer sizes, a reasonably roomy accommodation should be chosen from all living arrangements where possible.
What Kind of Health a Bernese Mountain Dog Has
Bernese Mountain Dogs are mostly a healthy lot. Responsible breeders won’t shy away from the fact that along with other big canines, the Swiss are susceptible to bloat. They typically screen the breeding stock for blood disorders, certain types of cancer, hip and elbow dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy.
One dangerous genetic disease of note is malignant hyperthermia, which manifests as a rapid and uncontrolled increase in body temperature. This reaction is usually associated with external triggers, commonly mental stress (through rough interaction with other dogs), environmental factors (exhaustive activity or intense heat), and certain medications. Clinical symptoms may include muscle spasms, tachycardia, extreme hyperthermia, spikes in blood pressure. Cardiac arrest may arrive as well.
What Health Tests Are Recommended
The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America doesn’t appear to provide specific guidelines for health testing; kennels operate based on their knowledge of the breed and years of experience in the trade. Responsible breeders conduct extensive health testing on their mating stock to ensure the overall well-being of the dogs and to minimize the risk of genetic disorders. Some of the assessments typically ordered for Bernese Mountain Dogs would include:
- Hip dysplasia evaluation to assess the hip joint's health, vital for large breeds;
- Elbow dysplasia evaluation;
- Ophthalmologist evaluation for early detection of unwanted concerns such as progressive retinal atrophy;
- Cardiac evaluations, including auscultation and echocardiography, to check for heart issues;
- Blood tests: screening for certain disorders is essential to ensure the overall health of the breeding stock;
- Malignant hyperthermia, among the general package of genetic testing. The latter can help identify carriers of inherited ailments and reduce the risk of passing on these conditions to offspring.
It's crucial for prospective Bernese Mountain Dog owners to choose producers who prioritize health testing and follow responsible breeding practices. Additionally, regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care throughout the dog's life are important for maintaining overall health. Investing in quality care early would ease vet burden later on.
Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy Price
The price of Bernese Mountain Dog puppies would depend on: breeder's reputation, parents’ pedigree, puppy's lineage, and geography. Scarce supply near your place means abundance further inland in all likelihood, as this canine is widely reared coast to coast. Browse this platform for the exact valuation picture in your locality. Feeling like being ripped off? Examine Bernese Mountain Dog puppies for sale in the bordering states not to overpay on delivery (as shipping costs may be significant). It's advised to choose a breeder who prioritizes the well-being of the dogs. Health screenings results should be supported by documentation. Keep in mind that the initial cost of ordering a puppy is just one part of the overall expenses associated with pet ownership. Additional costs include veterinary care, grooming, food. This massive dog needs a lot to chew on!
Buy a Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy from a Breeder
Looking to buy a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy directly, without any intermediaries, unnecessary complications and costly add-ons? Dedicated breeders boast extensive expertise in raising top-quality, healthy BMD puppies. Many of these are featured on the All In Pets platform, offering a diverse array of choices for potential owners regarding age, coat coloration, pricing, and kennel ratings. You may also choose male or female pups.
Searching for a “Bernese Mountain Dog puppy for sale near me” with us ensures you won't come up empty-handed. Where the abundance of options seems overwhelming, turning to client feedback may provide valuable insights. Opting for a breeder with a high approval rating, even if it means a higher cost, is a wise decision compared to dealing with a nameless, one-time opportunistic seller. Buying a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy from a popular kennel comes with substantial health guarantees, including meticulous vet checks, timely medical procedures, vaccinations, and dewormings. Additionally, reputable breeders often offer ongoing advice on training, care, and breed-specific nutrition.
This marks the beginning of a bright and promising new chapter in life, with the assurance of a healthy, well-cared-for Bernese puppy and the follow-up support from knowledgeable producers.