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Famously known as ‘Berners’, the Bernese Mountain Dogs are beautiful, strong, and steadfastly loyal to say the least.
Despite being a large breed, Berners can be a great fit for many families. We love them more especially because they are not exhaustive.
Their beautiful tri-colored coats make them easily identifiable, but they come with the tag of being heavy shedders.
Berners are a favorite to many people, but some will find their downside a bit overwhelming.
This is why we have gathered everything you need to know about Bernese Mountain Dogs to help you decide if this tri-colored pup is yours for the taking.
Continue reading this breed information guide to learn about Berners’ appearance, temperament, health needs, overall care, and much more.
History of the Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog, often abbreviated as BMD, has a fascinating and storied history that dates back thousands of years.
Originally from Switzerland, this breed belongs to a group of Swiss mountain dogs collectively known as the “Sennenhund” dogs.
The Sennenhund family consists of four breeds (the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, the Appenzeller, the Entlebucher, and the Bernese Mountain Dog) all bred to support farming.
It’s believed that the Romans brought the ancestors of the Bernese Mountain Dog to the Swiss Alps more than 2,000 years ago.
These early dogs, considered large, Mastiff-type breeds, were used by the Romans as guard dogs, war dogs, and companions.
Over generations, these dogs adapted to the harsh Alpine conditions and eventually became the foundation for the native breeds in the region, including the Bernese Mountain Dog.
The name “Bernese” originates from the Canton of Bern, a region known for its vast farms and mountainous landscapes.
In this area, the BMD developed into a versatile and invaluable farmhand, handling a variety of demanding tasks for local farmers.
As farming methods modernized, the need for working dogs like the Bernese began to decline in the 19th century.
Breeding numbers dwindled, and the breed was at risk of disappearing entirely. However, dedicated Swiss breed enthusiasts recognized the BMD’s qualities and historical importance.
This led them to initiate collective efforts in the 20th century to preserve and restore this workaholic dog breed.
One of the most notable figures in this revival was Professor Albert Heim, a Swiss geologist and dog lover who, with other enthusiasts, established breeding standards and programs.
In the early 20th century, Berners began to gain attention outside of Switzerland and they were eventually introduced to the United States in the late 1920s.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the Bernese Mountain Dog in 1937, which marked a significant milestone in the breed’s international presence.
5 Facts About Bernese Mountain Dogs
1. Bernese mountain dogs have a tri-colored coat
The first thing you are likely to recognize about this working dog is their beautiful tri-colored coats, which are black, white, and crusty.
Berners have a thick, dense, and double-layered coat which is designed to protect them from the cold Alpine temperatures where they originated from.
2. Berners stay playful and puppy-like for years
Bernese Mountain Dogs are large from the outside, but you’ll be surprised to learn that they maintain their puppyhood antics well into their adulthood years.
Berners have a slower maturation process than most other dog breeds, which makes them a perfect choice for people who want a dog that ‘never grows up’.
3. Berners are built for cold weather
The Bernese Mountain Dog can be a perfect choice for people living in colder climates. These working dogs were initially bred to survive in the snowy mountains of the Swiss.
Your BMD will be more than happy to tag along your next hiking, backpacking, or other outdoor adventures during the cooler months.
Despite their high affinity to snowy conditions, your Berner will be happy to hang with you indoors once all the fun is over.
With this in mind, we strongly suggest that you avoid overexerting your BMD during the warmer months, and be ready to provide cooling points to keep them happy.
4. BMDs are excellent at carting and drafting
The American Kennel Club has categorized this dog as a working breed, meaning they can excel in various sports including carting and drafting.
Bernese Mountain Dogs have the body, strength, and all the talents required to perform well in these canine sporting activities.
They are also good participants in obedience, herding, and agility courses, often emerging as winners in such competitions.
5. Berners shed constantly
One of the major downsides of owning a Bernese Mountain Dog is their shedding pattern which occurs throughout the year, but more so in Spring and Fall.
BMD owners should maintain a regular grooming practice and continuously vacuum their homes to reduce the impact of excessive hair fall.
Bernese Mountain Dog Puppies
Bringing a new Bernese Mountain Dog puppy home is a wonderful choice. These pups are curious, friendly, and often eager to learn, though they can also be a bit stubborn.
Early social training and gentle, consistent physical training are necessary to help your Berner puppy grow into a well-adjusted adult.
New owners can expect a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy to be a little bundle of energy, stacked with curiosity and playfulness.
As they grow, they’ll quickly develop their distinctive features and size, maturing into their full-grown stature within the first two years.
Bernese Mountain Dog Physical Characteristics
As large dog breeds, male Berners typically stand between 25 – 28 inches tall while their female counterparts are slightly smaller at 23 – 26 inches in height.
When it comes to weight, you can expect a healthy male Berner to tip the scale at around 80 – 115 pounds and their females to weigh an average of 70 – 95 pounds.
As we mentioned before, the Bernese Mountain Dogs coat is one of their most outstanding physical attributes.
The breed has a beautiful tri-colored coat that combines a jet-black base with bright white and warm rusted color markings.
The black forms the primary color on the body, with white accents typically seen on the chest, paws, face, and tail tip
Rust-colored highlights frame the cheeks, and legs, and sit above each eye, giving the Berner an expressive look that often appears soulful and kind.
Berners have a double-layered coat with a characteristic thick, soft undercoat that insulates them against cold temperatures.
The breed’s fluffy outer coat, on the other hand, is medium-long in size and it can also be straight or slightly wavy.
A white marking often appears on BMDs’ chests in the shape of an inverted cross, along with a white blaze between the eyes and a touch of white at the tip of the tail.
Bernese Mountain Dog Temperament and Personality
The temperament and personality of Bernese Mountain Dogs can be described as being good-natured, eager to please, and well-mannered.
Berners are good family dogs who are always open to welcoming visitors when given the right training and adequate socialization.
Bernese Mountain Dogs can be loud barkers, which makes them decent watchdogs to keep your house in check for strangers.
The other good thing about Bernese Mountain dogs is their receptivity to other pets, making them a good choice for multi-pet homes.
Despite their well-rounded personality, Berners can be overwhelming to novice dog owners because of their massive size.
Their large size and immense strength require an owner who can handle them, especially during their puppyhood years.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are easygoing and highly adaptable. This set of qualities makes them a good choice for both active and laid-back homes.
Bernese Mountain Dog Intelligence
Bernese Mountain Dogs have an eager-to-please attitude and above-average intelligence which makes them an easier-to-train breed.
In Dr. Stanley Coren’s intelligence rankings for dog breeds, Bernese Mountain Dogs ranked 22nd out of 138 breeds in the ‘above average’ category for working intelligence.
This means that most Berners can learn new commands within 15 – 25 repetitions and tend to follow familiar commands on the first try about 70% of the time.
Berners excel in problem-solving tasks, obedience, agility, and even therapy work because they benefit from both mental stimulation and physical activity.
Despite their quick learning abilities, you should aim to be patient with your Berner and rely on positive reinforcement techniques during training for better results.
7 Common Health Problems Affecting Berners
Despite being generally healthy dog breeds, Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to certain medical conditions either due to genetics or their large sizes.
Here are 7 of the most common health issues that new and experienced Berner owners should be aware of:
1. Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a common orthopedic condition in large-breed dogs like the Berner, where the hip joint fails to develop properly.
This can lead to pain, inflammation, and eventually arthritis as the dog ages. Symptoms may include stiffness, difficulty standing up, or reluctance to climb stairs.
Regular vet check-ups and weight management can help in early detection and management. In severe cases, surgery may be recommended.
2. Elbow Dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia is another joint-related condition often seen in Berners, where the bones in the elbow don’t fit together correctly.
This misalignment causes wear and tear on the joint, leading to discomfort and potentially limiting movement over time.
Berners with elbow dysplasia may exhibit signs such as limping or favoring a front leg. Treatments include anti-inflammatories, weight management, and surgery.
3. Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)
Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), is a life-threatening condition that affects deep-chested breeds like the Bernese Mountain Dog.
In GDV, the stomach fills with gas and can twist, cutting off blood flow. This condition requires immediate veterinary attention and is considered a medical emergency.
Clinical signs include a swollen abdomen, restlessness, and unproductive vomiting. Feeding smaller meals and avoiding intense exercise right after eating can prevent bloating.
4. Cancer (especially Histiocytic Sarcoma)
Unfortunately, Bernese Mountain Dogs have one of the highest cancer rates among dog breeds, with histiocytic sarcoma being particularly common.
This aggressive form of cancer affects the immune cells and can occur in various parts of the body, including the bones, lungs, and skin.
Signs may vary depending on the affected area but can include unexplained swelling, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
Early detection through regular veterinary check-ups can improve treatment options and outcomes.
5. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is an inherited eye condition that gradually deteriorates a dog’s vision, eventually leading to blindness.
While there’s no pain associated with PRA, it can significantly affect a Berner’s quality of life as they lose their sight over time.
Symptoms include night blindness, clumsiness, and reluctance to move in low light.
Although there’s no cure, your trusted vet can offer advice on managing the condition, and many dogs adapt well to their vision loss with proper support from their owners.
6. Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a progressive spinal cord disease that affects the nerves responsible for hind limb function, leading to muscle weakness and eventual paralysis.
The condition is often seen in older Bernese Mountain Dogs and initially presents as wobbliness or difficulty walking.
Despite having no cure, supportive care such as physical therapy, mobility aids, and regular low-impact exercise can improve comfort and help maintain mobility for as long as possible.
7. Von Willebrand’s Disease
Von Willebrand’s Disease (vWD) is an inherited blood disorder in dogs, caused by a deficiency in the von Willebrand factor, a protein essential for blood clotting.
When a dog has this blood disorder, their blood doesn’t clot as it should, making them more prone to excessive bleeding from minor injuries, during surgeries, or even with nail trims.
Veterinarians manage vWD by avoiding certain medications and using clotting agents or transfusions as needed. Genetic testing can help breeders reduce its occurrence in the breed.
Genetic testing is available for von Willebrand’s Disease, and breeders can use this to help reduce its prevalence within the breed.
Average Lifespan of Bernese Mountain Dogs
The average life expectancy of Bernese Mountain Dogs is about 7 – 10 years, which can be seen as ‘short’ when compared to small dog breeds.
The good news is that a well-cared-for healthy Berner can live past 10 years, so it depends on how much work you put into their well-being.
In a 2004 survey of 394 deceased Bernese Mountain Dogs in the UK, the longest-living Berner at that time was found to have died at the age of 15.2 years.
Preventative Measures for Good Health
Maintaining the health of a Bernese Mountain Dog involves a proactive approach to prevent common health issues and promote longevity.
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection of any potential problems, particularly conditions like hip dysplasia, cancer, and Von Willebrand’s disease.
Keeping your BMD at a healthy weight through a balanced diet and portion control can reduce stress on joints and minimize risks of obesity-related health issues.
Consistent physical workout helps maintain muscle tone, support cardiovascular health, and prevent boredom, though activities should be moderate to avoid strain on their joints.
Routine dog care such as regular grooming also plays a key role in preventing common communicable diseases and maintaining overall wellness.
Responsible breeders will conduct genetic testing for inherited conditions, so choosing a regulated dog breeder can reduce the likelihood of genetic disorders.
Bernese Mountain Dogs & Allergies
Bernese Mountain Dogs are NOT hypoallergenic, so they are not a good fit for individuals with allergic reactions.
But that does not mean they cannot own this sweet fluffy breed. If you are likely to suffer negative reactions from dog allergens, we recommend regular grooming to keep up with shedding.
Regularly cleaning your Berner’s bedding and living areas can also help control allergen levels in your home.
You can also think about installing a humidifier in your home to eliminate dry air and make the air more relaxed for breathing.
Bernese Mountain Dog Grooming Needs
This beautiful tri-colored canine companion comes with a price, albeit manageable. They require regular grooming to keep them neat and for shedding control.
We strongly recommend weekly brushing to remove loose fur from the dog’s coat and prevent the long strands from matting.
Be prepared to increase the brushing frequency to several times a week during the high-shedding months to keep up with continuous hair fall.
Most Bernese Mountain Dogs drool only a little, but those with looser jowls can produce quite a bit more. This slobber can end up not only on the dog but also around the house and on you.
If your Berner is prone to drooling, it’s a good idea to keep a cloth nearby for quick cleanups to prevent drool from matting in their fur.
Bathing your Berner at least once every three months, or whenever required, will keep their gorgeous coats looking fresh all the time.
While at it, it’s a good idea to check your dog’s paws and give them a monthly nail trim for comfortable walking and gait.
Inspect your Berner’s floppy ears every week and give them a quick wipe-down to remove dirt, debris, and excess wax.
Always use a vet-approved ear cleaning solution when grooming your dog’s ear canal and look for warning signs of infections such as redness, swelling, or pungent smell.
As with any other breed, dental care is equally important for Berners too. Aim to brush your dog’s teeth at least three times a week to prevent dental issues and support overall health.
Bernese Mountain Dog Exercise and Activity Levels
Bernese Mountain Dogs are moderately energetic, so they need moderate physical exercise for about 30 minutes daily.
Aim for interactive activities such as brisk walks, runs, weekend hikes, games of fetch, and occasional trips to a nearby dog-friendly park.
As intelligent working dogs, Berners can take part in competitive canine sports, so long as they receive adequate training for such.
You’ll be surprised at the kind of activities Berners love engaging in, including pulling small children in dog-powered carts.
In addition to the regular physically exerting activities, Bernese Mountain Dogs enjoy brain-taxing activities like obedience training, puzzle toys, and scent games.
These dogs have a rich history of working in the field, so they tend to enjoy heavy tasks that involve problem-solving and structured activities.
Bernese Mountain Dog Training and Socialization
Because Bernese Mountain Dogs are intelligent and eager to please, new owners will find it easy to train them using the right approach.
Be sure to include positive reinforcement methods and avoid correction training to get the best out of these fluffy gentle giants.
Reward your dog with training treats, a pat on the back, and praise every time they show an improvement during training.
We recommend socializing your Berner as soon as they receive all their core vaccines and are ready to go out.
Social training will boost your dog’s confidence and teach them how to behave in different settings or environments.
Your Berner puppy may benefit a lot from puppy classes and group training, where they learn how to coexist with other dog breeds and humans.
Bernese Mountain Dog Living Conditions
Bernese Mountain Dogs are best when kept in large homes both indoors and outdoors. Their large size requires a spacious yard where they can wind up and exercise to satisfaction.
Berners are at their best during cooler months and can become easily overheated when exposed to too much sunlight or heat.
Aim to install a shaded outdoor area with a kiddie pool and a climate-controlled indoor space during the summer months.
Berners are family-oriented dogs who value interaction with humans. They don’t do well when left alone for extended periods and can suffer separation anxiety due to constant isolation.
Bernese Mountain Dog Diet & Nutrition
Bernese Mountain Dogs have the potential to become overweight when they overeat poor-quality dog foods or table scraps.
Plan to offer your Berner high-quality dog foods that list real organic meats as their main source of proteins appropriate for their activity needs and age.
It pays to consult your trusted vet or canine nutritionist on how and when to feed your Berner for optimal wellness.
But in general, aim for protein-rich sources like chicken, beef, or fish, with a subtle mixture of complex carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes.
We have created a list of the best commercial and homemade dog foods for Bernese Mountain Dogs to make the work much easier for you.
We also recommended including omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin supplements to support your dog’s joint health and keep their coats soft and shiny.
Feeding two to three smaller meals daily, rather than one large meal, can help prevent gastric dilatation-volvulus which is common among large breeds.
Clean drinking water should always be available. Training treats should be given in moderation to avoid excessive calorie intake.
Bernese Mountain Dog Pregnancy & Litter Size
The gestation period of Bernese Mountain Dogs can last about 63 days. You can expect a litter size of 6 – 8 puppies, but some Berners can give birth to more than 10 puppies.
In 2013, CBC News featured a Berner named Dakota who delivered 15 healthy puppies in one sitting through a Cesarean (C) section.
Many factors influence the litter size of any dog. The younger and healthier the female, the more puppies you can expect.
First-time mothers can have a smaller litter size than those who have delivered before. Besides the female, the health of male dogs also plays a role in the litter size.
Conclusion
Double-check that you’ve gone through everything you need to know about Bernese Mountain Dogs before settling on this fluffy breed.
With the knowledge from our Berner dog breed info guide, we also recommend you talk to experienced BMD owners, breeders of repute, and online dog breed communities.
Don’t worry if the potential downsides of Bernese Mountain Dogs are overwhelming for you because there are still lots of other related dog breeds to choose from.
Laura is the founder of Furs'n'Paws. She is a also a pet writer and expert with more than 20 years of experience of working with dogs and cats. She developed a very strong love for animals at a young age. Her passion led her to establish a thriving pet sitting and dog walking business in Dubai. As an expert in pet training, behavior, and nutrition, Laura is committed to helping pet owners and pet lovers by offering high-quality information on a wide range of topics.
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