General Appearance

• Bernese Mountain Dogs are striking in appearance, with a soft, shining black coat and highly characteristic markings of white blaze, white chest, feet and tail tip. A rich rust separates the white from black on the legs and muzzle, with one dot above each eye. Their height ranges from 23 to 27 1/2 inches at the shoulder, and weight for these sturdily built dogs range from 80 to 110 pounds.
• The Berner is intelligent, strong and agile enough to do the draft and droving work for which it was bred for. It’s coat is thick, moderately long and slightly wavy or straight. A very distinct white inverted cross is seen on the chest of puppies but changes as they grow in their thicker and longer adult coat. There can be variations of markings, more or less white on their faces, feet and chest, but symmetry of markings is desired. Some deviation in white or rust is normal.

Temperament

• The temperament is one of self confidence, alert, good nature and never sharp or shy. The Bernese Mountain Dog should stand steady, though may remain aloof [ acknowledge but ignore ] to the attention of strangers. The temperament of this breed is without doubt it’s greatest attribute.
• Typically the Bernese forms strong attachments to it’s human family. They need lots of human companionship and thrive on being a full member of the family. They are very gentle, calm, affectionate, faithful and good with children and other animals.
• Bernese are highly intelligent but need patient, consistent training. They need lots of socialization as puppies. Although not naturally water dogs, some will take to swimming for fun. Bernese do love the cold, especially the snow, they don’t do well in the heat of summer. They have a moderate activity level and make fine walking companions. Bernese puppies are quick to grow but slow to mature.

Grooming

• Grooming your Bernese is a relatively simple procedure, but vital to the dog’s health, both physical and emotional. The Bernese coat is a dry coat and naturally repels dirt, with regular brushing, only an occasional bath is required to keep them looking their best. They will shed out their coat once or twice a year. Nails must be trimmed regularly. The Bernese is a natural dog that does not need to be trimmed except for the long hair under and around it’s feet. The hair that hangs from the back of the ears can be stripped or thinned to keep the dog looking neat and tidy. If you require a fastidiously kept house the Berner may not be the breed for you, as you will always have some dog hair, rugs,furniture, clothes, eyes, mouth and yes even in food.

Exercise

• The Bernese is not a dog that requires an abundance of exercise. They have a moderate activity level, with their natural gait being a slow trot. However, in keeping with his use in carting and droving work, he is capable of speed and agility. It is very important not to over exercise young puppies and let them do any jumping or rough playing until they have finished growing.

Training

• The Bernese is a very versatile dog, and capable of doing several different jobs. They are most well known for pulling carts, but many excel at obedience, herding, tracking and agility. Many people are getting involved with Search & Rescue and pet therapy. It is important to start puppies in socialization classes and continue with obedience classes to ensure you have a well behaved 100 pound pet. Bernese are very willing to please but don’t do well if the training methods are too harsh, be firm, consistent and fair.

Housing

• The Bernese is a dog that requires allot of time spent with their family. They do not have the tendency to stray, but a fenced secure run or yard is necessary,and at no time should they be chained or allowed to run at large. Even though they do have a wonderful weather resistant coat, a dry, draft free area is required in the run. Bernese do best if they can come inside and be a part of the family.

Nutrition

• Proper nutrition for your Bernese is very important. They do well on a top quality Lamb & Rice or Natural food. Most Bernese are greedy eaters, so you must be careful not to let them get overweight. They do not need a large amount of food to keep them in top shape, on the average 3 to 4 cups of food daily is typical. Always feed 2 meals a day and no exercising right before or right after feeding. Most breeders recommend puppies go onto adult food anytime after three months of age.

Carting

• Most Bernese take to carting quickly and really enjoy it. Dogs, should be at least 1 year preferably 18 months before they start carting. Allot of people get involved in carting with their dogs for the fun of the sport.