The Bernese Mountain Dog
The Berner
Origins
The Bernese Mountain Dog (also named Bouvier Bernois, Dürrbächler, Bovaro Bernese, Berner Sennenhund), is a dog breed that originates in the regions of Switzerland, more precise, the Berne canton. They were used as farm dogs, cattle herders. They are used also to pull small wagons and carts.
Appearance
The Berner belongs to the big/giant dog breeds, weighting 38-52 kg (males) and 33-42 kg (females), with a height of 62-71 cm. They display a solid and well built body, with moderately thick (long or straight) coat. The coat color ranges from jet black to black with markings in the face, feet, face, eye areas. The coat will mostly be tricolored: the legs, body and neck can be black in color; the thumbprints, the cheeks and the stockings would be brown; the tail tip, the muzzle, the toes, the chest, the blaze between the eyes would be white. The eyes are almond shaped and dark brown in color.
Grooming
The rough outlined Berner coat isn’t harsh at all. The Berner isn’t a heavy shedder. But during the shedding seasons, the coat requires twice a week maintainance: combing and brushing away the dead hair. The rest of the time, regular brushing once a week and clipping away the pads air.
Health Facts
The Berner has a lifespan of about 8-12 years. They are more susceptible to cancer than other dog breeds, ranging from mast cell tumor, lymphosarcoma, fibrosarcoma, malignant histiocystosis. They also can suffer from various musculoskeletal diseases like hip dysplasia, arthritis, cruciate ligament ruptures, osteochondritis.
Temperament and Lifestyle
The Bouvier Bernois loves the outdoor environment, needing exercise and plenty of activity. They can be trained very well, but this dog training process needs alot of consistence and patience. They respond well to treats and praising. The behave really well amongst other pets and children. They are calm in attitude and need love and affection.
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