With its calm disposition, the Bernese Mountain Dog is nowadays a popular family and versatile working dog. It is used, for example, as a rescue and tracking dog. The Bernese Mountain Dog is also known under the outdated names Durrbachler, Schweizer, Gelbbackler, Vieraugler, Kaser-Hund or Bouvier bernois. It is a Swiss dog breed recognized by the FCI, assigned to the breed type Mountain Dogs. He belongs to FCI Group 2, Section 3, Standard No. 45.
Bernese Mountain Dog Breed Information
Size: Males: 64-70 cm, females: 58-66 cm
Weight: Males: 38-65 kg, females: 36-50 kg
FCI Group: 2: Pinscher and Schnauzer – Molosser – Swiss Mountain Dogs and other breeds
Section: 3: Swiss Mountain Dogs
Country of origin: Switzerland
Colors: tricolor (black, rust, white)
Life expectancy: 7-8 years
Suitable as: the family dog
Sports: draft dog sport, dog dancing
Character: affectionate, intelligent, loyal, good-natured, easy-going, self-confident
Outlet Needs: Medium
Drooling potential rather high
The thickness of hair high
Maintenance effort: medium
Coat Texture: Long, shiny, and plain or wavy
Child friendly: yes
Family dog: yes
Social: medium
Origin and breed history
The Bernese Mountain Dog originally came from the Swiss canton of Bern, where it was used in many different ways on farms. He served as a shepherd and cattle dog for the flock, as a guard dog for house and yard; worked as a draft dog in front of the milk wagons or carts of traveling merchants. In particular, in the small town of Dürrbach in the canton of Bern, the dogs were initially kept in the courtyard of the Dürrbach inn. This is where its former name “Dürrbächler” comes from.
In 1902, the big dogs were presented for the first time at a dog show, which was initiated by a coffee bar owner in Bern. More dog shows followed and the previously unknown Dürrbächler aroused more and more interest among dog lovers. With the founding of the Swiss Dürrbach Club in 1907, he has been bred purely since then. The Swiss geologist and cynologist, Prof. Dr. Albert Heim, who helped define the breed standards, suggested renaming the breed the Bernese Mountain Dog. Senn means shepherd. And as the original dog of the herdsmen, this name suits him. The pedigree dog has had its new name since 1908, which also emphasizes its relationship with the Swiss mountain dogs. This includes three other dog breeds: the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, the Appenzell Mountain Dog and the Entlebuch Mountain Dog.
Because of its attractiveness, its pleasant nature and its versatility, the Bernese Mountain Dog was quickly appreciated in countries other than Switzerland and spread there. In 1919 the first breeding took place in Germany, in Schleissheim near Munich. In 1923 the “Swiss Mountain Dog Association for Germany” was founded. In 1937 the first Bernese dairymen were exported to England and the USA. About ten years later, the first crossing of Newfoundland dogs into the Bernese Mountain Dog breed took place.
The ancestors of the Bernese Mountain Dog
One can only speculate as to where the ancient ancestors of the breed came from. Although there are various theories about the actual origin of the Bernese Mountain Dogs, none of them could ever be proven beyond a doubt. So it remains a secret for the time being, which has yet to be revealed.
For example, a very popular theory says that in the 1st century B.C. Chr. with the legions of the Romans very large dogs came to the area of today’s Switzerland. These molosser or mastiff type quadrupeds were crossed with the local dogs. The tasks of the Roman dogs were to guard and defend the camps and to work on the watchtowers. Even today, guarding and reporting intruders and visitors is still partly in the Bernese Mountain Dog’s blood. Although they are rather friendly towards strangers and by no means sharp guards.
However, this theory is countered by the fact that the remote rural regions were never under the influence of the Roman Empire and dogs existed in the area long before the legions appeared. However, there are various bone finds from the Bronze and Iron Ages in the Alps, which could definitely support the theory with the Molossians. During excavations, the skeletons of large dogs were found, which could be considered as putative ancestors. Another thesis assumes that the mountain dogs descended from the Tibetan mastiff. This could also never be clearly proven.
The Berner, a dog of farmers and shepherds
Even among the Celtic farmers who lived in the Alpine region at that time, dogs were important work animals. They guarded people and settlements and defended livestock. Guarding and driving was one of the main tasks and remained so for a long time. Although the dogs were supposed to be people-friendly, they were mainly bred for utility qualities. Only four-legged friends that could cope with the required tasks were kept. Useless dogs, on the other hand, were considered a luxury and unnecessary mouths to be fed. It was not uncommon for useless four-legged friends to be killed, and this continued until the middle of the last century.
Loyalty and obedience to its people were also important attributes required of the Berner. After all, the animals were an integral part of the hard life on the farms. They accompanied their people everywhere. On the fields, the alpine meadows, in the stable or through the village. Unlike many other working dog breeds, however, the dogs of the herdsman (senn = shepherd) were often allowed into the house, especially in winter. While it was actually common for guard dogs to spend day and night outside in the yard.
Even today, the Bernese Mountain Dog is very fixated on its people and needs its two-legged pack around it. He can very well distinguish who is a friend and who is a stranger. For example, a Berner did not attack members of the local community, but did attack people he did not know, intruders and anything that seemed suspicious to him. Thinking was also necessary during the hard work in the Alps, and even today far-sightedness is a distinctive trait of the breed.
Dog carts and cheese helped the Bernese Mountain Dog to its initial fame
Dog carts were not uncommon in the 19th century. Dogs were far cheaper to keep than horses and were quite capable of pulling smaller loads. This also applies to the farmers’ milk churns, which were taken to the nearest cheese dairy. Butchers and traders also knew how to appreciate strong and powerful dogs for this work.
A special reputation preceded the four-legged friends from the hamlet of Durrbach, and the “Durrbachler” dogs became increasingly well-known and appreciated. The hamlet actually only consisted of a farm and an inn. Since many traders passed Dürrbach on the way to Bern, they met in the shop and a brisk trade in the three-colored dogs began. However, there was no uniform name yet. Depending on their appearance, the farmers called them “Bari”, “Ringli” or “Vieraugli”. Over time, however, the terms Dürrbächler and Dürrbachhund prevailed.
St. Bernard as the toughest competitor of the Durrbachler
The powerful, large and uniformly marked St. Bernard began its triumphal march into the hearts of dog lovers at around the same time. He was considered gentle, willing to work, friendly and had a great protective instinct. His imposing appearance made the breed attractive and attracted a lot of attention. As a result, Dürrbächler took a back seat and interest in him waned. Not, however, in the remote mountain regions, where people had always relied on the faithful mountain dog and were dependent on him. It is thanks to them that the Dürrbächler was not completely forgotten or even died out.
The beginnings of Bernese Mountain Dog breeding
The Swiss Cynological Society (SKG) was founded in 1883 by ambitious dog lovers. This was followed by the first registrations of various dog breeds in their Swiss stud book. About 10 years after the founding, innkeeper Franz Schertenleib and Fritz Probst finally fanned the ebbed interest in the Dürrbächler again and began a targeted breeding of the farmer’s dogs. At the beginning of the 20th century more and more offshoots of the SKG followed and the first dog shows were held.
In 1902, Durrbach dogs and other shepherd dogs were represented at these shows for the first time. Her success at the International Dog Show in Bern in 1904 proved the breeders of the time right. 4 candidates were awarded and entered as “Dürrbacher Sennenhunde” in the Swiss dog registry. They were the dogs Ringgi, Prinz and Phylax and the bitch Belline, who is considered the ancestor of the Bernese Mountain Dogs. This marked the starting signal for the growing popularity and the beginning of pure breeding of the Dürrbach dogs. Because with the entry in the stud book, the Dürrbächler now had the status of a pedigree dog.
Foundation of the first breeding association
The aforementioned Franz Schertenleib, veterinarian Dr. In 1907, Scheidegger, breeder Gottfried Mumenthaler and other breeders and dog lovers jointly founded the “Swiss Dürrbach Club” based in Burgdorf. Another founding member was geologist and cynologist Prof. Dr. Albert Heim. He was also a judge at many dog shows and met the beautiful peasant dogs for the first time in Lucerne. He was informed in detail about the breed and published a report with the SKG. From then on he was a great supporter of the breed and had lost his heart to the Dürrbächler.
At the following exhibitions, he also examined the Dürrbächler, which were very important to him, with a keen eye. He recommended to the breeders to pay more attention to a good character and a uniform appearance in their animals. Although the coat markings of the Dürrbach dogs still differ in part, a certain long-haired type slowly emerged. Home also criticized the cleft nose.
With a view to the other mountain dog breeds (which Heim also helped to differentiate and classify), the cynologist finally suggested renaming the Dürrbachhund the Bernese Mountain Dog. However, this was initially met with little approval. It was not until 1913 that the company gave in and the name was changed. The club itself also got a different name and was henceforth called the Club for Bernese Mountain Dogs. In addition, the Bernese now differed more and more from the other three mountain dog breeds. Its characteristic appearance and various other attributes were defined as breed characteristics by the Durrbach Club.
Also popular beyond the Swiss border
By the end of the First World War, the club’s membership had declined significantly. The number of Bernese Mountain Dogs had also shrunk considerably. But the breed got back on its feet and in 1919 the first Bernese Mountain Dog breed started on German soil, in Schleißheim near Munich. Finally, in 1923, the “Swiss Mountain Dog Association for Germany” was founded.
In the 1930s, more and more breeders presented their Bernese Mountain Dogs at international exhibitions and made them known to a wider audience. With great success. As early as 1937, the first Bernese were exported to England and even the USA. About a decade later, a Newfoundland dog was crossed into the Bernese Mountain Dog breed, whose descendants had a significant impact on breeding.
After a lull in breeding during World War II, the popularity of the Bernese Mountain Dog rose rapidly in the 1960s. The former farm dogs found friends and fans all over the world. Above all, Germany, Sweden, France, Spain, Holland and the USA are increasingly demanding the gentle giants. See Breeders Worldwide While the triumphal procession of the three-colored Bernese could no longer be stopped, its breed standard was being refined further and health requirements were added, which are intended to improve the quality of the breed.
Bernese Mountain Dogs and their celebrity owners
Hilary Duff (singer/actress) – Dubois
Actor couple William H. Macy and Felicity Huffman – Walter
former Actor couple Courteney Cox Arquette and David Arquette – Ella
Kate Hudson (actress)- Nana
Jan Leyk (reality soap star) – Bruno
Sarah Michelle Gellar (actress) – Bella
Magdalena Neuner (ex-biathlete) – Rocky
Axel Stein (actor/comedy star) – NN
Christian Tramitz (actor) – NN
Ben Roethlisberger (American football player with Swiss roots) – Hercules
Andrea Berg (pop singer) – Elvis
Is a Bernese Mountain Dog a herding dog?
It has previously been used as a herding dog. His keen guarding instinct makes him take good care of his flock, even if it’s just the family. But he doesn’t exaggerate, so he wanted to constantly monitor her.
Nature and temperament of the Bernese Mountain Dog
Its good-natured, affectionate nature makes the Bernese Mountain Dog a popular family dog that is not easily ruffled. It is therefore also ideal for families with small children. He loves playing and cuddling with the children. The Bernese Mountain Dog is extremely loyal and faithful to its family. While extremely alert and fearless, they are by no means aggressive. The breed is self-assured and aloof with strangers, yet peaceful. This dog would never attack an intruder, but would rather greet it benevolently by wagging its tail. However, disputes can sometimes arise among male dogs who feel competition among their own kind in their territory.
The Berner Sennen is characterized by a high level of self-confidence and independent thinking. In the past, he had to think along with the hard work with the farmers. Therefore, he can sometimes refuse an order if he questions its usefulness. With a loving, consistent upbringing from puppyhood and a few rewards, however, he can be motivated and trained without any problems. His independent actions coupled with his balanced, peaceful nature make him an ideal therapy, tracking, or rescue dog. He has no interest in hunting and can therefore be taken anywhere effortlessly, well trained and socialized, of course, even without a leash.
The appearance of the Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a powerful, large breed of dog. Males have a shoulder height of 64 to 70 cm and should not weigh more than 55 kg. Bitches have a shoulder height of 58 to 66 cm and should not weigh more than 45 kg.
Bernese Mountaineers have a long, shiny, soft coat that is plain and smooth, with a maximum of slightly wavy. Their thick coat of fur keeps them warm in the cold. They therefore love winter with snow and ice. In summer, on the other hand, they suffer from the heat due to their thick fur. Therefore, they should rather stay in the shade and refrain from exertion in the heat.
Their coat color is tricolor – black tri. The main color black runs like a cloak over the trunk, neck, head and tail. White begins on the forehead as a symmetrical blaze and widens towards the muzzle, at most to the corners of the lips. Other typical signs of this breed are the white cross on the chest, the white paws and often the white tip of the tail. The tail is bushy and reaches at least to the hocks. Equally striking are the brown-red cheeks, which earned him the name “Gelbäckler” among other things. Brown-red markings can also be seen on the side of the white chest hair and on the legs. The brown-red spots over the dark brown, almost almond-shaped eyes gave him the name “four-eyes”. The more symmetrically the three colors are applied, the more harmonious the appearance appears. His gait is just as impressive as his weight and appearance – powerful, even and sublime. All in all, this four-legged friend is a beautiful and very appealing dog.
Education and keeping of the Bernese Mountain Dog – this is important to note
The spirited puppy needs a loving and consistent upbringing like all puppies. He is docile and intelligent, making him easy to socialize and train with the help of rewards. Therefore it is also suitable for dog beginners. From an early age you should get him used to grooming and examining all possible parts of his body such as ears, teeth, claws and eyes. Then the visit to the vet will be easier.
The large, space-loving four-legged friend should by no means be kept in a small apartment. Ideally, there is a garden or yard so that he can spend a lot of time outdoors. Stairs are also unsuitable for the Swiss pedigree dog. As a puppy, he is not allowed to walk up the stairs in the first year because his joints are still growing. And in old age he can no longer walk them due to age. A ground level entrance would be ideal.
Bernese Mountain Dog temperament
What is the temperament of the Bernese Mountain Dog?
Good-natured and obedient – the Bernese Mountain Dog was once a working dog for farmers
As a typical working dog, the good-natured Bernese Mountain Dog is rarely found today. Its original use was guarding the house and yard, driving cattle and of course pulling carts, which it used to help the farmers transport goods and other loads to the surrounding villages. Although modernity has made this superfluous today, many Bernese Mountain Dog friends and their four-legged friends successfully and fun train dog sport, for which the pretty four-legged friend is almost predestined.
Thanks to his farsighted thinking and good-natured character, the Bernese are still suitable for tasks that require initiative and thinking along with them. Among other things, he is used as a rescue and protection dog and his good nose helps him with tracking.
Although some representatives of the breed can be a bit stubborn and downright stubborn, their intelligence and docility make them usually easy to train. They are very affectionate, loyal and obedient, especially with their human pack.
With strangers, on the other hand, the Bernese Mountain Dog gives a wary voice and announces them, but never becomes aggressive towards them, but always remains friendly.
The great Bernese Mountain Dog and family – is that possible?
And yes. Its suitability as a family dog has even made a decisive contribution to its great popularity and even made dog lovers sit up and take notice outside of Europe. The Bernese Mountain Dog loves its family, is affectionate and at times even an oversized lap dog that seems unaware of its own proportions. Due to the very affectionate nature of the Berner, it is therefore in no way suitable for isolated keeping in the kennel or on the farm. He absolutely needs family connection, but has nothing against a nice property with a garden that he can guard and where he can romp. After all, guarding is in his blood and the mountain dog also likes plenty of exercise.
However, families with newborns or very young children are advised not to purchase a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy. The desire to see the two grow up together is understandable, however, Bernese Mountain Dogs are late developers and need the full attention of their owners for the first 18-24 months to be successfully raised and trained.
Especially in the boorish phase and puberty, his people have to show consistency and assertiveness when the Berner explores his limits. With small children in the house, however, the dog can unintentionally be neglected in its upbringing, which of course can have unwanted consequences later.
What do I have to consider when combining Bernese Mountain Dogs and children?
Even if the Bernese Mountain Dog character is patient and child-friendly in its basic traits, it must not be forgotten that it is still an animal that cannot always be fully assessed and is strongly influenced by its experiences. Therefore, early socialization and training of the dog, and particularly teaching them basic commands, is essential.
He should also get to know children and people of all ages as early as possible and of course also fellow animals and other animals. As with any breed, socialization and training are the be-all and end-all when it comes to suitability as a family dog. While the Bernese Mountain Dog has had many positive experiences with small two-legged friends, it is often very tolerant of them and will immediately protect them if they are in danger.
In addition, it is of course important to teach your own offspring to treat the Bernese Mountain Dog with respect. Children should not disturb the dog, climb on it or pull its ears. Taboo zones should be set up where the four-legged friend is not disturbed, such as his sleeping place. Older children can and should be involved in the upbringing and training of the Bernese Mountain Dog. But as a rule, they are enthusiastic when it comes to teaching the furry friend tricks or romping and playing with him.
Since the Bernese Mountain Dog is a large and strong contemporary, it is also extremely important to teach it early on not to jump at anyone for joy. And if there’s one thing the Bernese are happy about, it’s his family. However, this welcome jump can blow a seasoned adult away. A small child has absolutely no chance in front of the tokens of love from the four-legged friend. The situation is similar with the leash handling. Up to 50 kg enthusiastically tugging at the leash is exhausting and even dangerous. A child is simply being dragged along by a pulling dog and is untenable when it really pushes itself.
Big plus points for its suitability as a family dog are of course its high stimulus threshold, the rather medium temperament, the calm nature of the Bernese Mountain Dog, the very weak hunting instinct and the fact that the breed has no tendency to aggression. With a dog and children in the same home, strong bonds are often forged and the offspring gain a friend for life. Since the Bernese like to pull carts, the offspring would certainly find it exciting if the four-legged friend takes them to kindergarten in a handcart or if they go on an excursion in this “carriage”. This gives the dog a meaningful activity and the kids have fun on top of that.
Is a Bernese Mountain Dog suitable as a therapy dog?
The Bernese Mountain Dog brings many characteristics that are important for a therapy dog. He is docile, affectionate, friendly, non-aggressive and has very little to no hunting instinct. His peaceful, calm and well-balanced nature are other suitable attributes of the tall Swiss. He is not afraid of strangers and is curious and open.
The best conditions for the strenuous and responsible job as a therapy dog. However, there is more to it:
- Close relationship and absolute trust in the owner or trainer
- Early embossing required (depending on the area of application, e.g. on wheelchairs, people with disabilities, and the like)
- Courses and training are compulsory for dog and owner
- Very people-oriented, open-minded, and friendly
- Absolute obedience
- Firm and good-natured
- Remain calm, even with fast, hectic movements, loud noises, or awkward touches
- Resilient with a high stimulus threshold and stress tolerance
If the Bernese Mountain Dog is to be trained as a therapy dog, make yourself aware that this means work (even if it is “only” done on a voluntary basis) and this is exhausting for dog and owner. In areas such as old people’s homes, hospices or hospitals, the Bernese need their full concentration, have to think along and always be attentive. In his free time, a casual contrast to everyday work should be created.
Of course, the Berner’s handsome appearance comes in handy when working with the sick, disabled or children. Despite his stately size, he still seems friendly and the wonderfully long and shiny coat makes him wonderfully cuddly. Any shyness is quickly forgotten and the small and large patients like to open up to the dog.
Which is better, Bernese Mountain Dog, male or female?
Anyone who believes that their Bernese Mountain Dog will have certain characteristics and traits just because they choose a specific gender when buying a puppy is definitely wrong. Character differences are much more caused by character, upbringing and socialization, although certain basic traits, such as self-confidence and friendliness, certainly occur in all Bernese. Nevertheless, if trained incorrectly, even your favorite dog can develop potential for aggression or a hunting instinct.
It is popularly said that bitches are easier to train and males tend to be more attached to their humans or more aggressive towards other males. This may be true for some breed representatives, but not all. Anyone who has ever seen how seriously and doggedly the bitches fight will only wearily smile at the supposedly bad fights of the males. This showdown is usually much more harmless.
Which character traits are consolidated in the Bernese Mountain Dog and how its nature develops beyond puberty depends on various components, such as:
Are the puppies from a good breeder? Has this already started with socialization and imprinting?
Did the Berner already have family connections and contact with other dogs in the kennel as a puppy?
Was the puppy allowed to experience many impressions and adventures in its first few weeks (city, forest, meadow, household, various noises, animals, car, etc.)?
How dog-experienced are its new owners?
What education does he enjoy (dog school)?
Are his keepers consistent, strict, punishing him, or using positive reinforcement?
The extent to which the character of the Bernese Mountain Dog is consolidated and developed is primarily up to the breeder and his owners. When visiting the puppy crate, therefore, make decisions based on gut feeling or get advice from the breeder. He can usually give you very precise information about his protégés and knows who is the boss in the pack, who is more reserved or cautious and who likes to be the class clown in the litter.
Does my Bernese Mountain Dog change my behavior during heat?
The only really striking difference between male and female dogs is the heat, which usually occurs twice a year with the Bernese Mountain female dog. During this time, owners should be particularly careful to avoid unwanted mating. The bitch should therefore be kept on a leash when going for walks and other dog owners should be made aware of the circumstances if necessary. Especially when their males run around unleashed.
In the household, on the other hand, there are some hygiene measures to be taken. If you have a tiled floor, you can wipe away small droplets of blood quickly and easily. A special panty for the bitch prevents this if desired. The sleeping place should be washable or covered with towels, which can be put in the laundry if necessary. However, some female dogs groom themselves so much during this time that you will hardly find any traces.
Of course, behavior can also change during this phase. Some female dogs become withdrawn, sleep a lot, or become very, very clingy. Others, on the other hand, develop a nesting instinct and suddenly become vehemently protective of toys or other objects. Some even become pseudopregnant and produce milk. However, a false pregnancy is nothing to worry about and is completely natural.
As far as the Bernese Mountain Dog males are concerned, some cavaliers go a bit crazy at this time and become mad for love. They follow in the footsteps of the bitch in heat, which can be tiring, especially when walking the dog. At home, some whine for their loved ones or even try to escape at a favorable moment. One more reason why your garden should be dog-proof and fenced in high enough. You wouldn’t believe how motivating a bitch in heat can be, even if your Berner is one of the more relaxed types.
Does castration make sense?
Limited. For male dogs, for example, there is actually no medical indication for this procedure. Undesirable behavior can only be curbed partially or not at all. A male that is already fully grown and fully sexually mature and has experience with bitches in heat can still show urges and pursue the bitch even after castration.
If, on the other hand, the male undergoes surgery before reaching sexual maturity, he will often be neutral towards the female later on. However, keep in mind that castration is a surgical procedure and is therefore always associated with risks.
However, castration makes more sense for the Bernese Mountain bitch. If performed before or after the very first heat, the operation has been shown to protect against mammary tumors, uterine infections, and other diseases.
Of course, a castrated bitch will no longer come into heat and will therefore no longer lose any blood. However, it would be wrong to consider the procedure purely for convenience.
Prejudices against the Bernese Mountain Dog
1. The Bernese Mountain Dog does not live long
A prejudice that is not, because unfortunately it is true. Despite intensive breeding efforts, the Bernese Mountain Dogs currently only live an average of 7-9 years. Their lifespan is often drastically shortened by various types of cancer. Closely meshed health checks, genetic tests and breeding values should help to improve the longevity of the Bernese Mountain Dog in the future.
2. The breed is lethargic
This may well be the case in the warm summer months, because the dog from the foothills of the Alps really doesn’t like the heat. If your specimen already has a rather easygoing nature, it can actually become a bit sluggish in the hot season and prefer to lie around lazily instead of being enthusiastically busy with you. On the other hand, anyone who has ever seen a Bernese in action during the cold winter months will be surprised at how active the Swiss dog actually is. However, it should also be mentioned that the long-haired Berner is not physically suitable for sports that require a certain degree of agility and speed. If you still want to do dog sports with your mountain dog, you should choose quieter disciplines, such as obedience.
3. The Bernese Mountain Dog barks a lot
Depends on. Of course, the dog will make noise when it discovers something unusual or when strangers are approaching. It is in the nature of the Bernese Mountain Dog to be alert. His voice is deep and less intrusive than that of many smaller breeds. Excessive barking also depends on the dog’s upbringing. Reporting an intruder is one thing, not stopping the barking is another. This is where mistress and master have to intervene and make him understand that they are in charge and will take over and handle the situation.
4. Caring for the Bernese Mountain Dog is very time-consuming
The Berner’s beautiful head of hair is one of his trademarks. However, it can also become a burden for the animal. Namely whenever its owners neglect grooming and don’t take care of their protégé regularly. Unfortunately, fur and undercoat tend to become matted, which results in restricted air circulation to the skin.
However, this is absolutely necessary so that the dog does not overheat in summer and the body temperature can also be adequately regulated in winter. What’s more, it can lead to various skin diseases such as dandruff, fungus or eczema. Care and regular brushing should therefore not be underestimated. The more often the Bernese Mountain Dog is combed, the less effort is required. On the other hand, if you only pull out a brush and comb once a week, don’t be surprised if it takes ages to remove all tangles and tangles.
Bernese Mountain Dog Life Expectancy: How Long Does a Bernese Mountain Dog Live?
The Bernese is one of the large and heavy dog breeds. The life expectancy of these is well below the average of smaller relatives such as Chihuahuas, Pugs and Co. They suffer more often from joint diseases, which should definitely be taken into account in puppies and young dogs.
Wild romping, climbing stairs, jumping in the car and other stressful activities must be avoided or reduced to a minimum. Cancer also plays an important role in the lower life expectancy of the Bernese Mountain Dog. Dogs from the age of 4 suffer and die from this insidious disease. It is not exactly known why tumorous diseases occur more frequently in this breed.
Unfortunately, kidney diseases are also on the rise. Breeders have therefore made it their goal to extend the lifespan of the Bernese Mountain Dog through targeted selection and evaluation.
What does a Bernese Mountain Dog look like? – Short FCI Breed Standard
General Appearance:
– tricolor
– long-haired
– strong and stocky
Behave:
– watchful and fearless
– affectionate and good-natured
– confident but peaceful with strangers
– medium temperament
– good leadership
Head:
– powerful
– little protruding
– clear stop
– black nose
– black lips
– Scissor bite (pincer bite is tolerated)
– dark brown eyes
Body:
– horizontal back line
– broad and deep chest
– Belly line slightly rising
– bushy tail
– Strong bone structure
coat of hair:
– long
– shiny
– smooth or slightly wavy
– Black base color
– brown-red burn (cheeks, legs, eyes, chest)
– white markings (paws, tip of tail, chest, blaze)
How big does a Bernese Mountain Dog get?
Males are usually a bit larger and heavier than Bernese Mountain bitches. Their height at the withers is 64-70 centimetres. Whereas the ladies only get around 58-66 centimeters.
Still an impressive size though. Ideally, the height at the height and the depth of the chest should be in a ratio of 2:1. Whereas the ratio of height to length should be about 9:10. The Berner is more of a compact dog and not elongated.
How heavy does a Bernese Mountain Dog get?
The weight of a Bernese Mountain Dog is between 36 – 50 kilograms. Bitches are often a bit slimmer and smaller. With the weight and the corresponding size, it goes without saying that the dog should be trained early in basic obedience and walking on the leash.
In addition, a watchful eye should be placed on the diet of the Bernese Mountain Dog, because with too little exercise and wrong feeding, the Swiss tend to be overweight. This in turn is bad for the joints and the rest of the musculoskeletal system.
How big do Bernese Mountain Dogs get?
Bernese Mountain Dogs are strong, large dogs. Males have a shoulder height of 64 to 70 cm, bitches have a shoulder height of 58 to 66 cm.
Diet of the Bernese Mountain Dog
After picking up the Bernese Mountain Dog from the breeder of your choice, you should definitely continue to feed it with the breeder’s usual food for a while. The breeder has specially adapted this to the nutrient requirements of the little fur noses. Puppies need a balanced, above all nutrient-rich food with lots of protein, i.e. a high meat content, for healthy development, the building of muscles and bones. In addition, fruits, vegetables, calcium and phosphorus are also important. If you later want to switch a puppy to a different food than the breeder’s, you should definitely do it slowly and gradually. In this way, the dog’s stomach and intestines can get used to it without side effects such as flatulence or diarrhea.
Generally, dry and wet food as well as BARF are suitable as food. When choosing food, care should be taken to ensure that it is of high quality. It should not contain any preservatives, colorings or flavor enhancers. These can cause health problems such as allergies. Well-intentioned treats from the table, which the gluttonous Swiss pedigree dog is only too happy to accept, are absolutely taboo. Healthy dog food not only keeps the Bernese Mountain Dog active and fit for a long time, but also increases their performance and well-being. Young and old dogs later have different food needs. Young animals can be switched to junior food at around 18 months.
The feeding amount depends on many different factors. For example, age, gender, physical activity, neutered or not, and state of health. If the Bernese Mountain Dog is used, for example, as a draft dog or tracker, its energy requirement is certainly higher than that of a “normal” family dog. The more sporty and active the four-legged friend is on the go, the higher the carbohydrate content of his food. Seniors are less active than young dogs and therefore have lower energy requirements. Therefore, you should adjust their feed accordingly. Since the sense of taste and smell often decreases with age, it is better to switch to a taste-intensive food. A general amount for orientation when feeding is given on the package or can. If you are unsure, breeders and veterinarians will be happy to advise you. In any case, the Bernese Mountain Dog should be weighed regularly, above all to avoid becoming overweight.
What do Bernese Mountain Dogs eat?
Bernese Mountain Dogs can eat dry and wet food. Barf is also possible. Since they are very voracious, care must be taken to ensure that they are fed as required while adhering to the maximum amount. This breed is also prone to obesity.
Health – life expectancy & common diseases
As family dogs, the Bernese Mountain Shepherds tend to be overweight as a result of not having enough exercise and poor nutrition. This is accompanied by obesity, joint problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia and other diseases. Kidney problems, gastric torsion and canker sores are among the most common ailments of this breed. Dog owners should therefore make sure they get enough exercise and an appropriate diet.
Life expectancy is not very high at seven to ten years. In order to get a largely healthy puppy, you should only buy from reputable breeders. A good breeder is usually registered in a club. He convinces with his love of dogs and his interest in a good, suitable new home for his four-legged friends. His puppies live with him in a clean, well-groomed family environment. The puppies have also received vaccinations, deworming and all recommended health checks from him.
How old do Bernese Mountain Dogs get?
They live to be around 7 to 10 years old. Unfortunately, life expectancy is not very high.
Grooming the Bernese Mountain Dog
The fur is very dense and requires intensive care. If the dog is not brushed regularly and extensively, the fur quickly becomes matted and an unpleasant body odor can develop. It is best to brush it thoroughly after every walk, as dirt, burrs, small twigs, leaves or the like easily get caught in its long fur. Two to three brushings per week is the absolute minimum. Since the Bernese Mountain Dog sheds all year round, regular brushing is advisable anyway. This removes the undercoat from the fur and keeps shedding in moderation. A well-brushed dog looks much more beautiful and well-groomed. Ears, eyes, claws, skin and teeth should also be checked daily and cleaned if necessary. In this way, changes, ulcers or the like can be detected at an early stage and thus treated in good time.
Bernese Mountain Dog Activities and Training
The docile four-legged friend has a lot of fun with intelligence toys or challenging sports such as draft dog sports or tracking. It is ideally suited for training as a rescue or therapy dog. Due to his weight and his certain sluggishness, fast, agile, strenuous sports such as agility or dog dancing are unsuitable for him. The active Swiss breed loves going for walks, especially in the cold season. When there is snow, he can hardly be stopped with enthusiasm. Owners of these dogs should therefore not be reluctant to exercise, should not be afraid of bad weather and should also have enough time.
Good to know: Peculiarities of the Bernese Mountain Dog
There are some celebrities who own a Bernese Mountain Dog: These include actors Kate Hudson and Axel Stein, singer Andrea Berg and ex-biathlete Magdalena Neuer.
The dog breed is also represented on television: Biscuit is the name of the TV Bernese Mountain Dog, popular with preschool children, who lives with his owner Fritz Fuchs in a blue construction trailer in Bärstadt in the show “Löwenzahn”. The Bernese Mountain Dog goes on a tour of discovery without its master and experiences many an adventure. Biscuit has already been played by four different Bernese Mountain Dogs.
How much does a Bernese Mountain Dog cost?
A Bernese Mountain Dog costs between $1000 and $2000 with papers. The high price is quite reasonable for reputable breeders. Medical check-ups, vaccinations, deworming, time to socialize the puppy and food come at a price.
Disadvantages of the Bernese Mountain Dog
Disadvantages of this Swiss breed are the tendency to drool and the shedding all year round. It should also be noted that the four-legged friend can develop fears if he is not connected to the family and is alone too often. As a pack animals, dogs need a lot of contact with their human pack. The Bernese Mountain Dog is not a dog for permanently hot areas, as it suffers from the heat due to its thick coat.
Unfortunately, he only has a short life expectancy because he is prone to hereditary diseases due to breeding. Only a quarter of the Bernese herders live to be ten years old and animals often die before they are four years old. But all the strengths of character that define him and his beautiful looks make you forget all that.
Bernese Mountain Dog Life Expectancy, Lifespan
Bernese Mountain Dog Life Expectancy – How Old Does a Bernese Mountain Dog Get?
The Bernese Mountain Dog has an average life expectancy of 7-9 years. The SSV also speaks of a life expectancy of 7.4 years (as of 2/2015). Data has been collected on this for many years due to the obligation to report people alive and reports of death.
A far too short time for its fans and owners. Nevertheless, the comparatively short lifespan did not detract from its popularity.
However, the beautiful Swiss definitely makes up for the fact that it does not reach an age of at least 10 years or more like other breeds with its great character, friendliness, and attachment.
Also, as always, exceptions prove the rule. When the little mixed breed lady Chanel died in New York at the age of 21 in 2009, and until then was considered the oldest dog in the world, this made Mistress Verena Wulf from Eastern Allgau sit up and take notice. After all, her Bernese mountain dog Penny was already 25 years old. A truly biblical age for such a big dog. When the bitch came to her in 1985, the vet estimated her to be 1.5 years old. So it’s quite possible that Penny was even a little older.
What role does size play in life expectancy?
In fact, smaller dog breeds often live longer than the heavier and larger four-legged friends of their kind. However, the relationship between size and weight should always be considered.
Slender breeds, such as the Dalmatian or the Doberman, manage a lifespan of 13 years and even longer, despite their impressive shoulder height. Unfortunately, the compact and massive Bernese Mountain Dog is not one of them.
The Berner, who tends to be overweight, only lives an average of 6-8 years. In order to prevent early signs of wear and tear on the musculoskeletal system, strict attention should be paid in the first 1-2 years to ensure that puppies and young dogs do not jump into the car or off the sofa, do not climb stairs and even play too wildly with other dogs should be prevented as far as possible.
The walks can also be a little shorter in the first few months of life in order to keep the stress low.
After all, the Bernese Mountain Dog grows extremely quickly in its first year of life and puts on a lot of weight. There is a high risk that joints will be affected. Small breeds, on the other hand, reach their final size faster and only grow a little. They therefore have a decisive advantage.
The life expectancy of the Bernese Mountain Dog compared to other dog breeds
Small dog breeds
Pug: 12-15 years
Shih Tzu: 10-16 years
Dachshund: 14-17 years
Chihuahua: 15-18 years
West Highland Terriers: 12-16 years
Medium sized dog breeds
Australian Shepherd: 13-15 years
German Pinscher: 12-14 years
Border Collie: 13-16 years
Beagles: 12-15 years
Australian Cattle Dog: 13-15 years
Large dog breeds
Rottweilers: 8-10 years
Great Dane: 6-8 years
Bernese Mountain Dog: 6-8 years
Doberman: 10-13 years
Newfoundland: 8-10 years
How can I influence the life expectancy of my Bernese Mountain Dog?
You can offer your Bernese a beautiful and species-appropriate life. This contributes a lot to his well-being and health. However, whether it actually increases life expectancy cannot be 100% guaranteed.
Genetic diseases can still occur, for example, no matter how well you pay attention to everything. But even if your Bernese doesn’t become a Methuselah like Penny, you can still be sure that you’ve done everything for a wonderful dog’s life if you follow the tips below.
Tip 1: Only buy puppies from reputable breeders
Good breeders of Bernese Mountain Dogs strive to constantly improve the breeding and, above all, to health and longevity. In addition, the puppies are raised there for the first few weeks with a lot of love and, above all, expertise and get the best possible start in life.
On the other hand, anyone who flirts with the cheap puppies of multipliers should be warned. Without any knowledge of genetics and breed selection, dogs are simply mated with each other there in order to produce as many puppies as possible and to bring in profit.
You don’t even need to ask such dealers about health certificates, family tree, socialization or basic immunization. So if you don’t want to be a permanent guest at the vet’s, you’d better keep your hands off these alleged bargains, even if it’s hard to see these poor puppies. Only when there is no more demand will the suffering of the animals come to an end.
Tip 2: A species-appropriate and safe home
The Bernese Mountain Dog definitely needs a family connection. In a kennel, however, the affectionate and friendly dog would wither away. He likes to have his people around him and sometimes acts like an oversized lap dog. A warm, loving and safe home is therefore absolutely essential for the long-haired cuddly bear.
However, the four-legged friend has nothing against a piece of land to roam, guard and play. On the contrary. A garden would be great! A small city apartment, on the other hand, is absolutely not suitable for the stately Bernese. Especially not if it is a flat without a lift.
Anyone wishing to welcome a Bernese Mountain Dog into their home should also make it dog-proof. Electrical cables should be hidden, the garden should be fenced in to make it escape-proof and poisonous plants should also be disposed of. I also understand that sleeping places, feeding bowls and the like should always be clean and well-kept.
Tip 3: Security on the go
A dog that cannot be called safely should always be kept on a leash when out and about. This is especially true in heavy traffic and other dangerous areas. If you want to take the Bernese Mountain Dog with you in the car, you should of course have a correspondingly large model in the garage.
The four-legged friend is best kept in the car in a safe transport box that is installed in the trunk. Since many dog owners find this impractical because nothing else fits in except the box (e.g. shopping), in many places the Bernese Mountain Dog simply drives in the trunk, which is then provided with a protective grille for separation and increased safety.
A dog ramp is also recommended to all Bernese Mountain Dog owners. In old age, the four-legged friend sometimes finds it difficult to hop into the trunk himself. And lifting the heavy Berner in every time should also quickly become too strenuous for the master or mistress. A ramp is also suitable for young dogs whose joints still need to be protected.
Tip 4: castration
From a medical point of view, the operation is not necessary. It interferes with the hormone balance of the animals and makes them infertile. However, if the male and female live together and the owners do not want to breed, it is obviously better to castrate one of the animals.
But there is even more to be said for this now rather small operation. In bitches, it can protect against mammary tumors, inflammation of the ovaries and uterine diseases. However, the risk of cancer is only significantly reduced if the Bernese Mountain bitch is castrated before or after her first heat. Castration at a later point in time only makes sense if the bitch suffers greatly from repeated false heats.
Many dog owners also hope that the operation will result in a change in the behavior of their animals. Especially with males, castration is often used to make them calmer, less dominant towards other dogs or to eliminate other bad habits. But it is not that easy. For the majority of animals, there is no change in behavior. Therefore, it is better to control such undesirable behaviors with training and good education.
What speaks against castration?
Neutering can also have many negative consequences:
Incontinence: Many bitches suffer from urinary incontinence after spaying. Holders are at a loss and will (have to) ask for medical help.
Obesity: Many bitches tend to be obese after spaying. Owners are challenged and overwhelmed when it comes to questions about nutrition. They are often encouraged to reach for expensive food and not adequately trained. Many things that the bitch was allowed and wanted to enjoy in the run-up are now gone.
Hypothyroidism: Veterinarians usually only observe hypothyroidism in castrated dogs.
Coat: After castration, the coat often changes. You can observe the so-called baby fur – typical, but not exclusively in dogs with long fur. This modified fur is also called wool fur.
Increased aggression: It is often the excess testosterone that can sometimes make bitches more aggressive. They also often appear more masculine, somehow more rude.
Risk of cruciate ligament rupture: There is a 90% increased risk of cruciate ligament ruptures, which lose so-called elasticity due to the loss of hormones.
Tip 5: Medical care and prevention
With a bit of luck, you only have to take your Bernese Mountain Dog to the veterinary practice for vaccinations or if he needs worming. On these occasions, you can ask the veterinarian to check the general condition of the Berner as well. Teeth and mouth in particular should be free of inflammation and tartar. The annoying surface is still underestimated by many owners. In addition to pain when chewing and a lack of appetite, it can also lead to organ damage. See also: care
Since the Bernese Mountain Dog breed can also be affected by some genetic diseases and cancer is unfortunately a bit more common, it also makes sense to bring your four-legged friend to the practice for regular check-ups (e.g. once a year). Many veterinarians offer separate consultation hours for seniors, during which they also look specifically for diseases typical of the breed.
Tip 6: Grooming from head to paw
Grooming the Bernese Mountain Dog not only ensures a pretty appearance, but also makes an important contribution to its quality of life. Matted fur, long claws, cracked pads, inflamed ears or painful tartar affect the dog and make it really ill in the long run. Therefore, attention should not only be paid to the wonderful three-colored coat. During daily care, also check your darling for changes that require treatment. Parasites, dandruff, watery eyes, hair loss or nodules under the skin? Off to the vet! The quicker a potential problem is identified, the quicker it can be resolved.
Tip 7: Balanced and healthy nutrition
Anyone who is overweight, eats a lot of unhealthy food and devours a lot of sweets in between can not be healthy. This applies to humans as well as to the Bernese Mountain Dog. Therefore, pay attention to high-quality feed, without many fillers, but with a high meat content and lots of delicious vegetables and fruit.
Also, keep in mind that puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs and seniors. The old Bernese Mountain Dog can have a little more dietary fiber in their food, which should ideally be slightly reduced in calories. After all, many Bernese still eat heartily, but exercise significantly less as they get older.
Tip 8: Sufficient exercise and intellectual activity
Bernese Mountain Dogs like to be out and about with their people and love long walks. They were made for the hard work of the farmers and were once bred as working dogs. See: origin and history
Even today, the long-haired Berner has nothing against a job and guards the house and garden, pulls a handcart or gets enthusiastic about various dog sports in which he has to think along.
Mental activity is also important so that the dog not only stays physically but also mentally fit for a long time. Aging dogs, on the other hand, are sometimes a bit sluggish and not so easy to motivate.
It is extremely important to lure him out of his basket and stay on the ball so that the four-legged friend remains agile and mobile. Simply adjust the duration and pace of the activities a little to the changed needs of the dog and no longer ask so much of him.
How can I tell if my Bernese Mountain Dog is aging?
Despite good care, the coat becomes a little dull and lackluster
The Berner turns a little grey. Often starting on the face
Naps are extended and the four-legged friend now rests longer
He is less active and playful
Exhaustion occurs more quickly and the dog has to recover from exertion longer
Stiffness and other joint problems can now occur more frequently. A dog ramp for the car can make it easier to get in.
Hearing and vision can decrease
Some dogs become incontinent as they age and cannot hold as long as they used to
Age-related diseases are now increasing
The Bernese Mountain Dog crosses the Rainbow Bridge – My Bernese Mountain Dog dies – saying goodbye
Unfortunately, owners of Bernese Mountain Dogs sometimes have to say goodbye to their beloved four-legged friends earlier than other dog owners. Since very few dogs (regardless of breed) simply die of old age at home, but unfortunately have to be put to sleep, all dog lovers should know about the possible options for saying goodbye.
In an emergency, a well-considered decision can be made as to what should happen to the four-legged friend when the time comes. What’s more: If you make this decision when your beloved Bernese Mountain Dog is young and doing well, you don’t have to worry about it much later.
Of course, neither veterinarians nor owners choose euthanasia lightly. This decision is often preceded by a long path of suffering and everything has been tried to maintain the dog’s quality of life. At some point, however, there often comes a point at which the suffering of the animal predominates and the master or mistress should not be selfish. When a dog stops eating, drinking, is sedated by pain, and no longer wants to participate in activities, careful consideration needs to be given to whether the Rainbow Bridge would not be the way to go for the Bernese Mountain Dog.
Since the dog is part of the family for most people, the last walk is of course particularly difficult. However, many owners want to be by their four-legged friend’s side when it’s time to say goodbye. This gives the dog security and he will not be afraid when his “pack” is with him.
The first time without the four-legged friend is then particularly hard. The water bowl is still at home, the leash is hanging on the cloakroom and the basket is empty in the living room. A sad sight. Even if these things gradually disappear, the loyal Bernese will be sorely missed. In order to make saying goodbye easier, there are now many options for lovingly commemorating the dog inside and outside of your own home.
Is the Bernese Mountain Dog right for me?
The Bernese Mountain Dog is the ideal family dog thanks to its good-natured, well-balanced nature. He is also not upset by children’s screams and fuss. He loves playing and cuddling with the whole family. He is very docile and easy to train, making him a good fit for owners who welcome him as their first dog. The four-legged friend is particularly suitable for dog lovers who like to take him for a walk in the fresh air and want to spend time with him. You should offer him a spacious home, preferably a house with a garden or yard, where he has plenty of space as a fairly large, heavy breed.
An elderly Bernese Mountain Dog that has enjoyed good socialization and training is also a dog for sprightly pensioners. Maybe a poor soul from the shelter will find a fit senior. Seniors have a lot of time with a dog and usually enjoy walking them. In addition, the elderly Bernese Mountain Dogs are not very demanding and are very loyal, grateful companions. Since they are very teachable, they can perhaps even be of assistance to older ladies and gentlemen. It is not for nothing that they are trained to be companion dogs.
The Bernese Mountain Dog is less suitable for sports fanatics who need a dog as a fitness partner for jogging or cycling. Due to its weight and cosiness, it is not suitable for this. Extensive hikes at a leisurely pace, on the other hand, are no problem.
