Bernese Mountain Dog
Summary
The Bernese Mountain Dog is the most popular of the four Swiss Sennenhunde, bred in the farmlands of the Canton of Bern for multiple functions: guarding property, driving cattle, and pulling carts loaded with milk and cheese to market. Today it is primarily a family dog with a gentle temperament, but it retains its athletic robustness and working instincts. It is easily recognisable by its dense tricolour coat and unmistakable white chest.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Large
- Height (male)
- 64–70 cm
- Height (female)
- 58–66 cm
- Weight (male)
- 38–50 kg
- Weight (female)
- 36–48 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 7–10 years
- Coat
- Long, dense, slightly wavy; double coat
- Common Colors
- Tricolour: black, rust, and white with a cross-shaped white marking on the chest
Temperament & Personality
The Bernese Mountain Dog has an exceptionally balanced character — it is affectionate, gentle, and extremely devoted to the family. It is a dog that thrives in the company of people, especially children, and tends to develop deep bonds with household members. It can be slightly reserved with strangers but is rarely aggressive. Its intelligence is above average and it learns easily through positive methods.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- Moderate
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 60–90 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- High
- Shedding
- Heavy
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 4–6 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Autoimmune diseases
- Cancer (mast cell tumors, hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma)
- Gastric dilatation/torsion
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Recommended Health Tests
- Hip and elbow X-rays
- Screening for hereditary eye conditions
- Von Willebrand test
Compatibility
- With Children
- Excellent
- With Other Dogs
- Excellent
- With Cats
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Acceptable
