Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dog

(Swiss Mountain Dog, Berner Sennenhund, Bouvier Bernois)

Of the four varieties of the Swiss Mountain Dog, the Bernese Mountain Dog is the only long-haired one. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is, as its name suggests, the largest variety; the Appenzell is curly-tailed and the Entlebuch is the smallest variety. The Bernese Mountain Dog may often be seen pulling small wagons in Switzerland.

History:

All the four varieties of the Swiss Mountain Dog most probably descended from the Mastiff. The Mastiffs came from Asia and were later imported into the European region by the Phoenicians and Greeks. When the Roman Legions invaded Gaul, the Mastiffs were brought with them to guard the flocks of sheep. The Swiss Mountain Dog was then selectively bred to suit the local conditions.

Physical characteristics:

The Bernese Mountain Dog is very solidly built and moves with a powerful gait. Height: 24.5 - 27.5 in (62 - 70 cm) for the dog and 22.75 - 26 in (58 - 66 cm) for the bitch under Canadian standards; elsewhere 25 - 27 in (64 - 70 cm) for the dog and 23 - 26 in (58 - 66 cm) for the bitch. Weight: 88 lb (40 kg) under FCI standards, elsewhere proportionate to height. The dark brown almond-shaped eyes are well-set in a broad flat head with a slight furrow. The medium-size triangular-shaped ears hang flat at rest and are lifted slightly when alert. The neck is of medium length, whereas the body is compact and broad-chested. The tail is bushy with a slight curve. The coat is colored black with brownish-red markings above the eyes, on the cheeks, at the side of the chest, and on the legs. There should be white markings on the face, chest, and the tips of the paws.

Behavior:

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, usually placid and confident animal. This dog's alert nature makes it a good watch-dog. Its large size provides a wonderful deterrent to would-be intruders and so the Bernese Mountain Dog is excellent in its role as a guard dog. When it has been given the opportunity to socialize with others as a puppy, the Bernese Mountain Dog will get along very well with other dogs as an adult.

Although the Bernese Mountain Dog has a rather cute appearance, owners should be aware that this animal used to be a working dog. This dog can sometimes become extremely dominant with members of its human family. It is wise to start off with assertive dominance training and regularly remind the Bernese Mountain Dog of its junior position in the family. Children should not be left unsupervised with this dog, and tug-o-war and chasing games should not be played. If well-controlled and regularly exercised, this truly magnificent dog can become a wonderful companion.

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