Bernese Hound

Breed Description

The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of the most beautiful and unique dog breeds, originally bred for hunting in the Alps. It has a stunning, thick coat of black, white, and rust colors, which gives it a majestic and graceful appearance.

The history of the Bernese Mountain Dog begins in Switzerland, in ancient times when alpine hunters needed a loyal and fearless companion. The large wolves and bears that inhabited the mountains posed a significant threat to people and were prey for these dogs.

An extraordinary animal, possessing not only excellent hunting qualities but also remarkable psychological traits, became the guardian and helper of hunters. These dogs were entrusted to protect hunters and accompany them on their tough journeys along mountain trails.

After the introduction of a hunting ban in Switzerland at the end of the 19th century, the fate of the Bernese Mountain Dog changed dramatically. Hunting dogs became extremely rare, and more owners began to seek them out for companionship and family outings. Soon, the Bernese Mountain Dog gained popularity as a pet due to its kindness, loyalty, and calm demeanor.

In 1937, the Swiss Club for Bernese Mountain Dog Lovers was established to promote its breeding and preserve its breed characteristics. Thanks to the efforts of these enthusiasts, the Bernese Mountain Dog continues to flourish today and holds a respectable place among other breeds.

Modern representatives of this breed have adapted well to family life but still retain their hunting instincts. They have a gentle, friendly, and calm nature, making them excellent companions for people of all ages.The Bernese Mountain Dog is an incredibly beautiful dog with a strong build, resilience, and intelligence. It is ready to protect its family to the last breath while also being the most affectionate and caring friend. More importantly, this breed reminds us of our roots and history when dogs were an integral part of our lives, helping us survive in a challenging world.The price for a puppy ranges from 20,000 to 50,000 rubles.

Appearance

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a breed that looks like a true royal. They are majestic and luxurious, evoking admiration and affection from everyone who encounters them. They are medium-sized with impressive musculature that gives them both strength and grace.

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a breed whose appearance captivates with its majesty, beauty, and harmonious proportions. Their look embodies strength, grace, and dignity. They seem specially made for work and for connecting with people, inspiring awe and confidence in their abilities. If you are looking for a breed that boasts not only an outstanding appearance but also a wonderful temperament, the Bernese Mountain Dog could be the perfect choice for you.

Отличительные черты

Голова

The head of the Bernese Hound has a wide and powerful shape, with distinctly pronounced cheekbones. The skull is round, and the forehead is slightly convex, giving the dog a confident and strong appearance. The transition from the forehead to the muzzle is smooth and harmonious.

Морда

The Bernese Mountain Dog has a long and strong muzzle with a straight profile. The jaws are well-developed and powerful, allowing the dog to effectively grasp and hold objects. The lips fit closely, preventing the teeth from falling out and preserving bite strength.

Уши

The ears of the Bernese hound are long, drooping, and have rounded tips. They are positioned high on the head and hang loosely at the sides, giving the dog a friendly and open appearance.

Глаза

The Bernese Mountain Dog has large, round eyes that are usually dark in color. They express intelligence and alertness, giving the dog a keen and lively gaze. The eyes are set at a moderate distance apart, which adds to the overall harmony of the appearance.

Зубы

The Bernese Mountain Dog has strong and healthy teeth with a correct bite. Its jaws are powerful, allowing it to confidently grasp and hold objects. Healthy teeth and gums are important for a balanced diet and overall health.

Корпус

The body of the Bernese Hound is strong and muscular, with a broad chest and a sturdy back. The back is straight and solid, providing excellent stability and support during movement. The belly is taut, indicating the dog is in good physical shape.

Конечности

Конечности у бернской гончей сильные и пропорциональные, с хорошей мышечной массой. Передние и задние лапы прямые, что обеспечивает отличную маневренность и скорость. Лапы имеют округлую форму с прочными подушечками, что позволяет уверенно передвигаться по различным поверхностям.

Хвост

The Bernese Mountain Dog has a tail of medium length, thickening at the base and tapering towards the tip. It is usually carried at back level or slightly higher and can be raised when excited, which adds to the expressiveness of its overall appearance.

Шерсть

The Bernese Hound has short, dense fur with a water-repellent texture. This feature makes it resistant to adverse weather conditions and makes maintenance easier.

Окрас

The Bernese Mountain Dog's coloring is diverse and can include black, rust, and white shades, often with distinctive spots. This variety of colors gives each dog a unique personality and makes them appealing.

Character

The character of the Bernese Mountain Dog epitomizes the best qualities one can find in a breed representative. They are friendly, loyal, devoted, and protective of their owners. These dogs have a gentle and amiable nature, making them wonderful companions for the whole family and reliable friends for children. They possess an excellent sense of smell, which makes them great rescue and search dogs.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are very social animals and love being the center of attention. They quickly adapt to new people and easily make connections with those around them. With a great sense of humor, they can lift spirits even in the toughest moments.

However, despite their friendliness, Bernese Mountain Dogs retain hunting instincts and can be exceptionally resolute and protective when it comes to defending their family. They are prepared to give their lives to safeguard their owners, and their loyalty knows no bounds.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are not overly energetic and typically maintain a calm demeanor. They are well-suited for living in a country house or apartment, as they adapt to various conditions and do not require excessive physical activity. However, regular walks and active play are essential to maintain their good physical condition.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are easy to train. They are very intelligent and observant, quickly mastering commands and behavioral rules. They enjoy collaborating with humans and always strive to please their owners. Nevertheless, they require a clear and consistent training approach to avoid any potential opposition.

In summary, the character of the Bernese Mountain Dog combines kindness, loyalty, protectiveness, and affection. They are an ideal choice for those seeking a faithful and devoted friend capable of becoming an irreplaceable family member. The Bernese Mountain Dog is a breed that possesses a unique charm and appeal, and they invariably hold a special place in the hearts of their owners.

Care and Maintenance

Caring for and maintaining a Bernese Mountain Dog requires attention, love, and certain skills to ensure a long, happy, and healthy life. These beautiful and kind animals deserve affection and monitoring, and the following recommendations will help you create a comfortable environment for your Bernese Mountain Dog:

Proper Nutrition: Nutrition is one of the most important aspects of caring for your dog. Choose high-quality commercial foods or consult with a veterinarian about the right diet for your Bernese Mountain Dog. Remember that they are prone to obesity, so monitor portion sizes and pay attention to your dog’s activity levels.

Physical Activity: Bernese Mountain Dogs are energetic dogs that need regular exercise. Long walks, running, and active play will help them express their energy and feel satisfied. This also helps maintain their physical fitness and health.

Mental Stimulation: Bernese Mountain Dogs are intelligent dogs, and they need mental stimulation. Provide them with puzzles, interactive toys, and training that will challenge their cognitive abilities.

Socialization: It is especially important to socialize your Bernese Mountain Dog with other dogs, animals, and people from an early age. This will help them develop confidence and good manners in social situations.

Coat Care: Bernese Mountain Dogs have beautiful double coats that require grooming. Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and prevents hair from accumulating in your home. It is especially important to focus on this during seasonal shedding.Ear and Eye Care: Conduct regular checks of your dog’s ears and eyes. Clean them when necessary, and watch for signs of infections or irritations.Regular Vet Visits: Schedule regular check-ups and examinations with your veterinarian. Vaccination and prevention of fleas and ticks are also important for your dog’s health.Training and Obedience: Training and socializing from an early age will make your dog obedient and well-mannered. It is recommended to use positive reinforcement methods.Cozy Resting Place: Provide your Bernese Mountain Dog with a cozy place to rest where they can feel comfortable and safe.Caring for a Bernese Mountain Dog is not just a commitment, but a pleasure. These dogs are characterized by loyalty, kindness, and intelligence, and in return for your love, they will offer you endless affection and joy. By paying attention to your Bernese Mountain Dog’s needs, you will

Training and Education

Training and educating Bernese Mountain Dogs is an engaging and essential process that requires patience, skill, and an understanding of the breed’s characteristics. Known for their kindness and intelligence, Bernese Mountain Dogs can become excellent sports partners, hunting dogs, and loyal family friends when trained correctly.

Socialization from an early age: Proper socialization is very important for Bernese Mountain Dogs. Their friendly nature can be reinforced by introducing them to other dogs, people, and various situations from the start. This will help them better adapt to the world around them.

Positive reinforcement: Bernese Mountain Dogs are sensitive to negative training methods, so it is vital to use positive techniques. Encouragement, praise, and rewards in the form of treats or toys can be powerful motivators for them. Avoid punishments and physical corrections.

Building basic commands: Start with fundamental commands such as “sit,” “lie down,” “stay,” “no,” and “place.” Bernese Mountain Dogs generally learn quickly, but they require systematic and consistent training.

Physical activity and mental stimulation: These dogs are very active and intelligent, so they need both physical activity and mental stimulation. Long walks, running, play, and puzzles will help them feel happy and fulfilled.

Hunting skills: If you plan to use a Bernese Mountain Dog as a hunting dog, training in hunting skills is crucial. This includes teaching them how to track, follow scents, and obey hunting commands.Patience and consistency: It’s important to remember that training Bernese Mountain Dogs can take time. It should be done consistently and patiently, encouraging positive results and being tolerant of mistakes.Bernese Mountain Dogs are a breed with excellent intellectual and friendly qualities, making the training and education process interesting and enjoyable. It is essential to remember that each dog is unique, and the training approach should be tailored to their individual needs and character. With the right care and attention, a Bernese Mountain Dog will become a devoted and obedient companion, ready to delight you with their loyalty and intelligence.

How to Choose a Puppy

Choosing a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy is a responsible and important decision that requires thoughtfulness and careful consideration. Here are some recommendations to help you select a healthy and well-mannered representative of this wonderful breed.

Research Breeders: Look for a responsible and reputable Bernese Mountain Dog breeder. Investigate the breeder’s reputation, consider their experience, knowledge, and commitment to the health and well-being of the dogs. Reach out to other Bernese Mountain Dog owners for recommendations and feedback. All verified breeders are gathered in one place on the Federal Portal for Dogs, Zooinika.

Examine the Litter: When visiting a breeder, pay attention to the conditions in which the dogs and puppies are kept. Puppies should be socialized, active, and healthy. The litter should appear clean and well-cared-for. Make sure to see the puppy’s mother to assess her temperament and health.

Health of the Parents: Ensure that the puppy’s parents have undergone necessary health tests and are free from hereditary diseases common to the breed. Verify the documentation that confirms the test results.

Buy from a Breeder, Not from Middlemen: Purchasing a puppy from a registered and reputable breeder ensures reliability and guarantees the purity of your pet. Avoid buying from middlemen or dubious sources to prevent potential health and temperament issues with the puppy.

Observe the Puppy’s Temperament: It’s important to see the puppy in action and interacting with its siblings. Pay attention to their behavior, play skills, and interaction with the environment. Characteristic traits of the breed, such as friendliness, openness, and joy, should be evident in their behavior.Consult a Specialist: If you’re having difficulty choosing a puppy on your own, consult a specialist, such as a behavioral trainer or veterinarian. They can help you evaluate the puppy and choose the ideal pet to meet your needs and expectations.Choosing a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy requires careful analysis and making a well-considered decision. Remember that the puppy will become part of your family for many years, so invest the time and effort into your choice and only consult professionals to ensure a happy and healthy life for both you and your puppy. Documentation and pedigree are available on Zooinika – offering a wide selection of breeds.

Health and Diseases

The health and diseases of Bernese Mountain Dogs is an important topic that requires attention and care from owners. This breed is known for its beauty and gentle nature, but like any other dog, they have their own unique traits and potential issues.

Bernese Mountain Dogs typically live an average of 6 to 8 years, but with good care, some can live up to 10 years or even longer.

These dogs tend to gain weight, so it’s important to ensure they receive regular exercise and a balanced diet.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which can cause pain and discomfort. Regular veterinary visits and adherence to activity recommendations can help manage this issue.

This breed has an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer, including lymphoma and bone tumors. Regular medical check-ups and screenings can help detect cancer in its early stages.

Diseases:Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing’s Syndrome): This endocrine disorder can result in excessive production of adrenal cortex hormones. Symptoms include excessive thirst, weight loss, and changes in coat.Diabetes: Some Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to diabetes, requiring ongoing medical care and blood sugar monitoring.Gastroesophageal reflux disease: This condition can cause vomiting and regurgitation in dogs. Proper nutrition and attention to symptoms can help manage this issue.Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas may be a condition that occasionally affects Bernese Mountain Dogs. Symptoms include abdominal pain and vomiting.It is important to emphasize that proper care, regular veterinary visits, and a healthy diet play a crucial role in maintaining the health of Bernese Mountain Dogs. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly increase the chances of a long and healthy life for this wonderful breed. Thinking about it? There’s a huge selection of listings on the map by cities at Zoika.