The Bernese mountain dog - A Guide

It is very difficult choosing the right type of breed of dog.  There are so many things to consider; how are they with children?  Do they need a lot of outdoor space and exercise?  Do they need a lot of grooming?  Here at Animal Friends Insurance, we like to look at a particular breed in depth, and today it is the turn of the Bernese mountain dog.

 

The Bernese mountain dog is a Swiss working dog, one of a group of four known as Sennenhund.  The four types are Entlebucher, the smallest of the four, followed by the slightly larger Appenzeller, the Bernese and the Great Swiss Mountain Dog.  They were originally used as cattle drovers and their ancestors probably came over the Alps with the Romans.

 They are a very attractive breed with distinctive coats of black, white and a lovely rich chestnut colour.  They stand at between 58 and 70cms and can weigh up to 120lbs and will usually reach their adult height when they are around 15 months or so.

 The Bernese makes an excellent family dog and they love being part of the family.  They are gentle, easy-going and affectionate.  They are a very good breed to consider if you have children as they will be kind and gentle with them.  They show great loyalty to each member of their family, although they may well single out one person to be their very best friend.  They can be shy, so socialising your puppy early will pay dividends later on.  They may come across as being slightly aloof with strangers.

 

They love exercise, but don't need as much as some more energetic breeds, and could walk between 1 and 5 miles a day.  They do shed their coat a lot, so you will need to be prepared for that.  They don't need as much grooming as some other long-haired breeds, but the more they are groomed, the less amount of hair you will find on your carpet.

 The Bernese mountain dog is an extremely intelligent breed and will need to be mentally stimulated, however, its intelligence makes it an excellent breed to train and they will pick things up very quickly.

 So, all in all, a very good family dog, loyal, intelligent, attractive, good-natured and affectionate.   If you think that a Bernese is the right breed for you, don't forget that each breed will normally have their own rescue site with plenty of wonderful dogs that need re-homing, so this is something you might want to consider.  A quick check on the internet should put you in touch with the right person.

 

Finally, don't forget to get the right insurance for your new friend.  Call Animal Fr