The Bernese Mountain Dog: is it the right dog for you?
There’s just something about a big, solid dog with his mass of silky fur, that just makes you want to hug him. If it’s a Bernese Mountain Dog, I’d let you do exactly that and ask for more. That’s because this beautiful tricolor working dog is a gentle giant who loves people and thrives on praise.
It comes from Switzerland, Berne to be exact. This is where the title of his breed comes from: Bernese Mountain Dog. It is a versatile breed: a working dog, a sheep herder, and even a watchdog.
This dog is easy to train due to his easy-going disposition and eagerness to please. But he also makes a lovely pet for families with children because he loves to play and gets along well with his human companions.
But there are other considerations if you want a Berner, as they are called, to become part of your family. For one, he is a huge dog and therefore would not be an ideal candidate for someone who lives in an apartment or condo. He needs room to stretch his legs and run. He is also a people dog, which means he longs to be with humans and would not be happy cooped up in an outdoor kennel. He feels like if he’s not part of the family, he should be!
If you like that puppy stage that seems to go so fast, a Berner is the dog for you. He will discover that he remains a puppy for some time, both physically and mentally. You and your children will never be without a companion and a good play session with one of these silly canines.
As far as training goes, positive reinforcement, a soft glove, if you will, is the way to go. A Bernese is a sensitive dog, which means that he is open to cajoling and eating to please you. On the other hand, if you try to scold or punish him into obeying your commands, you’ll find that he can be a very uncooperative dog. Positive reinforcement is the key to getting their cooperation. You don’t want him to hurt his feelings, as that would only slow down his training even more.
Whatever it is, these beautiful creatures are getting closer to extinction. Part of this is due to inbreeding, but there are other factors, such as size and weight, that can put stress on their joints, leading to dysplasia and other hip and bone problems.
With these and other health issues common to the Berner in mind, weigh the pros and cons before making your decision to buy this breed, and whatever you do, make sure you buy your dog from a reputable breeder and not a reputable breeder! puppy mill! Vet costs add up fast enough to buy an already sick dog. It is also better to know at least one parent. This allows you to learn what to expect temperamentally.
With a pet as affectionate and eager as the Bernese Mountain Dog, it’s hard to go wrong. Just make sure it’s the right breed for you and your family first.