Bernese Mountain Dog
Description
The Bernese Mountain Dog or Berner Sennenhund the origin of this wonderful dog is the Canton of Berne in Switzerland. Because of there large size weavers in Berne used the dogs as draft animals pulling carts, and as farm dogs. These dogs to are said to be descendant of the Roman Molosser breeds. The Bernese Mountain Dog was originally called the Durrbachler and named so for the village that seemed to have an abundance of them. Unfortunately through the 1800 their numbers started to dramatically dwindle, but in the early 1900’s they were on display at a dog show in Berne. The popularity of this handsome dog started to grow, and so did his numbers. Males stand between 24 and 28 in. tall and females are between 23 and 27 in. tall. Males weigh between 85 and 110 lbs and females weigh between 80 and 105 lbs. He has a wonderful double thick weather resistant coat that comes in black, white, and rust tri-color. With the body of the dog black and the rust and white markings being symmetrical throughout.
Temperament
These large, lovable dogs adore kids,get along well with other pets in the home, deal well enough with strangers. They are confident, and make wonderful protection without the issue of who is more dominant. They will do best with a gentle hand at training, but training none the less. You still must be their pack leader. They need to be with their families and not kept outside.
Grooming/Exercise
Daily brushing is need to keep this dogs coat health. Bathe when necessary. He will be a heavy shedder. He will need daily walks to help stay in shape. This dog will not do well in a townhouse or apartment. He needs a large secure yard to play in.
Health
Life Expectancy is 6 to 8 years.
Possible Issues
- Cancer strikes this beautiful dog more, and more and has reduced the life expectancy from 10 to 12 years downs to 6 to 8 with some dying much younger. Current research is being done.
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Bloat
- Eye Lid Issues
