Bernese Mountain Dog: The Gentle Giant with a Heart of Gold

The Bernese Mountain Dog, often affectionately called the Berner, is a large, strong, and affectionate working breed that hails from the Swiss Alps. With their striking tri-colour coat, gentle nature, and deep loyalty, they have won the hearts of families and dog lovers worldwide. Originally bred as farm and draft dogs, they have transitioned into beloved companions and therapy dogs.

If you’re considering adding a Bernese Mountain Dog to your family, this comprehensive guide will help you understand their history, temperament, care requirements, and suitability for Australian households.

History of the Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of four Swiss Mountain Dog breeds, all part of the Sennenhund group. They were developed in the canton of Bern, where they were used for herding cattle, pulling carts, and guarding farmsteads.

Their ancestors likely trace back to mastiff-type dogs brought to the region by Roman soldiers over 2,000 years ago. These dogs interbred with local farm dogs, resulting in the strong, versatile, and weather-resistant breed we know today.

By the late 19th century, industrialisation and mechanised farming led to a decline in working dogs, putting the Bernese Mountain Dog at risk of extinction. However, dedicated Swiss breeders revived the breed, and by the early 20th century, they gained recognition outside Switzerland. Today, they are cherished worldwide as family companions, therapy dogs, and versatile working dogs.

Physical Characteristics

Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, powerful, and well-proportioned, with a distinctive tri-colour coat and a gentle, intelligent expression.

• Size: Males stand 64–70 cm at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller at 58–66 cm.
• Weight: Males typically weigh 38–50 kg, and females range from 36–48 kg.
• Coat & Colour: Their thick, double coat is primarily jet black, with rich rust and crisp white markings on the face, chest, and paws.
• Body Structure: Berners are muscular and sturdy, designed for strength and endurance.

Their dark brown eyes and gentle, affectionate gaze give them a warm and approachable look.

Temperament and Personality

Bernese Mountain Dogs are renowned for their gentle, affectionate, and loyal nature. They are deeply devoted to their families and thrive on human companionship.

• Friendly and Loving: Berners are affectionate dogs that form strong bonds with their owners. They are known for their sweet, gentle nature, making them excellent family pets.
• Great with Children: Their patient and protective temperament makes them fantastic companions for children.
• Social and Good-Natured: While they are friendly with strangers, they can be naturally watchful, making them alert but non-aggressive watchdogs.
• Eager to Please but Sensitive: They respond well to positive reinforcement training but may shut down if treated harshly.
• Separation Anxiety Prone: Due to their strong attachment to their humans, Berners do not do well if left alone for long periods and may develop separation anxiety.

Their calm demeanour and loving disposition make them wonderful companions, but they require regular interaction and mental stimulation.

Training and Exercise Needs

While not as high-energy as some working breeds, Bernese Mountain Dogs require consistent training and moderate exercise to stay happy and healthy.

• Daily Exercise: Berners need at least 30–60 minutes of exercise daily, including walks, playtime, and mentally stimulating activities.
• Obedience Training: Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them highly trainable, but early socialisation and positive reinforcement are essential.
• Cart Pulling & Working Tasks: Some Berners enjoy pulling carts, a nod to their traditional work, or participating in obedience trials and therapy work.
• Cooler Climate Considerations: Due to their thick coat, Bernese Mountain Dogs are sensitive to heat. In warm Australian climates, they should exercise during the cooler parts of the day to avoid overheating.

While they are not as demanding as some other working breeds, their size and strength mean they require consistent training from an early age.

Living Conditions

Bernese Mountain Dogs are adaptable but do best in homes with space to move.

• Ideal for Homes with Yards: While they can adjust to suburban living, they thrive in homes with a secure, spacious yard.
• Not Suitable for Hot Climates: Their dense coat makes them prone to overheating, so they need plenty of shade, air-conditioning, and water in warmer regions.
• Family-Oriented Dogs: Berners love being part of family life and should not be left alone outside for long periods.

While they can adapt to apartment living, this requires extra commitment to daily exercise and mental enrichment.

Health and Lifespan

One of the biggest challenges of owning a Bernese Mountain Dog is their short lifespan, which averages 7–10 years. They are prone to several health issues, including:

• Hip & Elbow Dysplasia: Common in large breeds; responsible breeding and maintaining a healthy weight can help.
• Cancer: Unfortunately, Berners have a high incidence of cancer, which is a major reason for their shorter lifespan.
• Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): A life-threatening condition common in deep-chested breeds. Feeding smaller meals and avoiding exercise after eating can help reduce the risk.
• Degenerative Myelopathy: A progressive neurological disease affecting mobility.

Routine vet check-ups, a high-quality diet, and appropriate exercise are essential for maintaining their health.

Grooming Needs

Bernese Mountain Dogs have a thick, double coat that requires regular maintenance.

• Brushing: At least 2–3 times per week, daily during shedding seasons.
• Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks or as needed.
• Nail & Ear Care: Regular trimming and cleaning are necessary to prevent infections.

Due to their heavy shedding, they are not ideal for allergy sufferers and require frequent vacuuming in the home.

Is the Bernese Mountain Dog Right for You?

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a wonderful family companion but is not suitable for everyone. They are best for owners who:

✔ Have enough space for a large dog

✔ Are committed to training and socialisation

✔ Can provide daily exercise and companionship

✔ Are prepared for heavy shedding and grooming needs

✔ Understand their shorter lifespan and potential health challenges

If you’re looking for a gentle, loyal, and affectionate companion, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a fantastic choice for the right household.

Conclusion

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a majestic, gentle, and loving breed that makes a wonderful family companion. Their sweet temperament, intelligence, and affectionate nature make them excellent pets, but they require dedicated care, training, and attention.

If you believe a Bernese Mountain Dog is the right fit for your home, be sure to research thoroughly, connect with ethical breeders, and prepare for their unique needs.

For expert training advice, visit Jordan Dog Training—helping Aussie dog owners build a strong bond with their four-legged friends!