The dog breed Bernese Mountain Dog, also known as Bernhardiner, originates from Switzerland and has its roots in the mountains. It was originally used as a working dog and was mainly responsible for work on farms and as a draft animal for carts and sleds. Today, however, the Bernese Mountain Dog is primarily a popular family dog and companion.

Appearance 

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large and powerful dog, with an average shoulder height of about 70 cm for males and about 65 cm for females. They weigh on average between 50 and 80 kg. Their coat is long and shiny and comes in the colors black, white, and brown. This color combination is referred to as "tricolor".

Character and Personality 

Bernese Mountain Dogs are friendly and gentle dogs that are very affectionate and loyal to their owners. They are very patient with children and other pets, making them well-suited as family dogs. They are also very intelligent and learn quickly what they are taught.

Care and Training 

Bernese Mountain Dogs require a lot of exercise and outdoor time, as they are an active and energetic breed. They are well-suited for long walks or hikes in the mountains. However, they should not be kept in very hot or humid climates, as their coat can cause them to overheat quickly.

Their coat should be brushed regularly to avoid matting. It is also important to regularly check and clean the eyes and ears of the Bernese Mountain Dog to prevent inflammation or infections.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are intelligent and eager to learn, but they need consistent and gentle training. It is important to teach them good manners from the start and to keep them regularly engaged to promote their mental and physical fitness.

Health 

The Bernese Mountain Dog has an average life expectancy of about 7-8 years. Like many large dogs, the breed can be prone to certain health issues, including joint diseases such as hip dysplasia (HD) or elbow dysplasia (ED) and heart diseases. It is important to have regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing to detect and treat these issues early.

Another common problem in Bernese Mountain Dogs is obesity, as they enjoy eating and tend to be less active if not sufficiently exercised. A balanced diet and enough exercise are therefore important to keep their weight in check and to prevent overloading their joints.

Summary

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, friendly, and affectionate dog that is well-suited as a family dog. They are intelligent and eager to learn, but require regular exercise and training to promote their mental and physical fitness. They are also prone to certain health issues and therefore need regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet and care. Overall, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a wonderful companion and family member if one has the responsibility and time to care for them.