About the Breed
Origins
Bernese Mountain Dogs (“Berners”) are one of the 190+ breeds currently recognized by the American Kennel Club. Historically, Berners were general purpose farm dogs. Their large, sturdy frames and calm-natured, people-oriented temperaments made them ideal companions and watchdogs for the farmer. They were also used to pull carts and to accompany cows for short distances to pasture. This is not a breed for everyone, and every dog possesses individual strengths and weaknesses. Before you decide to make a Berner part of your family, thoroughly research the breed, talk to reputable breeders, and knowledgeable owners, and get to know some of the dogs themselves.
Appearance and Size
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a striking, tri-colored, large dog. They are intelligent, strong, and agile enough to do the draft and droving work for which they were bred. Weights of dogs generally range from 80-115 for males and 70-95 pounds for females, respectively.
Temperament
By nature Berners are self-confident, alert, and good-natured dogs. With the training essential for ownership of a large working breed, Berners are generally gentle, easygoing, and tolerant. They are not prone to excessive barking unless left unattended for too long. While usually excellent with children, any large dog, even a Berner, should never be left alone unsupervised with small children or children unknown to the dog. They do not do well when isolated from people or activity. Behavior problems are likely to develop when they are deprived of considerable interaction with people. The breed is protective but should not be aggressive unless provoked or threatened. While the Breed Standard specifies that they may be aloof to strangers, it also states that Berners should never be shy, although this tendency does run in the breed. Due to temperament concerns it is very important to expose Bernese to a wide variety of people, places, and other animals, especially in their first year of life.
Grooming
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a double-coated breed. Shedding is considerable. Berners cast off their coats seasonally with the exception of intact females, who cast coat in conjunction with heat cycles. If hair in the home is a problem this breed is not for you. A Berner’s coat is relatively easy to maintain. A periodic bath and frequent brushing will maintain a neat appearance.
Cost
When determining whether a Berner fits within your budget, you must consider both the purchase price and the costs associated with maintaining the dog. While purchase prices will vary, the cost of companion (pet) puppies and showor breeding-potential Berners generally range from $2,000 to $3,000 and up. Ongoing maintenance costs include routine vet care, food, training, crate, toys, grooming tools and supplies, and more. If a dog becomes critically ill or requires surgery, expenses for treatment and hospitalization can be substantial – many times the purchase price of the dog. Pet health insurance is available and might be considered. Additionally, home or yard improvements – such as a fence – may be required. All of these factors must be taken into consideration when evaluating the economic suitability of this breed.
Locating a Bernese Mountain Dog
With their short life span, limited time to produce, and soaring popularity, the current demand for Berners exceeds their supply. As has happened to other breeds, the puppy mills, pet stores, and online sales are now trying to exploit the Bernese Mountain Dog as are those who produce cross-breeds, such as “Bernerdoodles”. Never buy a purebred puppy from a pet store! Beware of those who sell so called “designer dogs” with claims that these mixes offer the best of both breeds. Do your homework and be an informed buyer.
To help protect the breed and ensure that you obtain a quality dog in terms of health, pedigree, and temperament, it is critical that you identify and work with a responsible breeder. Breeders and buyers alike have an obligation to ensure that a sound, healthy animal is placed in the right home. A responsible breeder will:
▪ help you determine whether the breed is a good choice for you
▪ make sure you understand the nature of the breed and the breed’s health issues
▪ seek to be a lifelong support system for you and your dog and endeavor to help you be a responsible Berner owner
▪ provide verification of health testing (e.g., hips, elbows, eyes)
▪ remain interested in the health and welfare of the dogs he/she produces throughout their lives
▪ before the purchase of a pup, provide you with a contract covering all purchase requirements including future requirements (showing, breeding, neutering, genetic screening, etc.)
▪ try to answer all of your questions – and no question is stupid