If you’ve ever seen a Bernese Mountain Dog, you know they’re hard to forget. With their striking tricolor coats and gentle, expressive eyes, these dogs are as charming as they are beautiful.
But there’s more to these gentle giants than meets the eye. Here are ten lesser-known facts about Bernese Mountain Dogs that might just surprise you.
1. Swiss Heritage Runs Deep
Bernese Mountain Dogs, or “Berners,” hail from the Swiss Alps, specifically the canton of Bern. Their lineage dates back over 2,000 years, tracing to Roman Mastiffs brought to the region. These dogs were initially bred as versatile farm dogs, adept at herding cattle, pulling carts, and guarding property. (ref)
Berners’ rich history in Switzerland isn’t just about their working abilities; they also hold a special place in Swiss culture and folklore. Their hardiness and loyalty have made them beloved companions for centuries, even becoming a national symbol of sorts for the region.
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2. They’re Multi-Talented Workers
Bernese Mountain Dogs were bred for their versatility and strength. These dogs were used by farmers to pull carts loaded with goods, sometimes weighing up to 1,000 pounds! Their strong, muscular build and impressive endurance made them perfect for this kind of labor-intensive work.
Aside from cart pulling, Berners were also trusted to herd livestock and protect the farm from intruders. Their keen senses and protective nature made them invaluable on the farm. Today, their working instincts still shine in activities like draft work, agility, and obedience competitions.
3. Triple Coat Colors
One of the most distinctive features of Bernese Mountain Dogs is their tricolor coat. The breed standard specifies a jet-black coat with rich rust and clear white markings. The symmetry of these colors is important for show dogs, with specific patterns desired around the chest, feet, and face. (ref)
This beautiful coat isn’t just for looks; it’s also functional. The double-layered fur provides insulation against the cold, making these dogs well-suited to their alpine origins. However, it also means they shed quite a bit, especially during seasonal changes.
4. A Gentle Giant with Kids
Despite their large size, Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their gentle and calm demeanor, particularly with children. They are incredibly patient and often form strong bonds with young family members, making them excellent family pets.
Berners’ sweet nature doesn’t stop at kids; they generally get along well with other pets too. Their friendly disposition and sociable character make them great additions to households with multiple animals.
5. Shorter Lifespan
One of the saddest facts about Bernese Mountain Dogs is their relatively short lifespan. On average, Berners live between 6 to 8 years, which is shorter than many other breeds of their size. This is primarily due to their predisposition to certain health issues like cancer, hip dysplasia, and bloat.
While their lifespan is brief, their impact on their families is profound. Many Bernese owners speak of their dogs’ exceptional loyalty and the deep bonds they form, making their years together truly special.
6. Intelligent but Stubborn
Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their intelligence, which makes them relatively easy to train in many respects. However, they also have a streak of stubbornness, which can sometimes make training a bit challenging, especially for first-time dog owners.
Consistency and positive reinforcement are key when training a Berner. They respond well to praise and treats, and with patience, they can master a variety of commands and tricks. Their eagerness to please often outweighs their stubborn tendencies, making them generally cooperative companions.
7. Therapy & Service Animals
Due to their calm and friendly nature, Bernese Mountain Dogs often make excellent therapy and service animals. Their size and strength also make them suitable for tasks that require physical assistance, such as pulling wheelchairs or providing stability for individuals with mobility issues.
In hospitals and care facilities, Berners are known to bring comfort and joy to patients and residents. Their gentle disposition and intuitive understanding of human emotions make them exceptional in therapeutic settings, where they provide both physical and emotional support.
8. Seasonal Shedding
If you’re considering a Bernese Mountain Dog, be prepared for shedding—lots of it. Berners are known for their heavy shedding, particularly during the spring and fall when they lose their undercoats. Regular grooming is essential to manage this shedding and keep their coat healthy.
Despite the extra work, many Berner owners find grooming to be a bonding experience. It’s also an opportunity to check for any skin issues or parasites, ensuring their dog stays in top condition.
9. Love for Cold Weather
Bernese Mountain Dogs thrive in colder climates, thanks to their thick double coat. They were bred in the Swiss Alps, after all! These dogs often enjoy playing in the snow and can handle wintery conditions much better than hot, humid weather.
In warmer climates, it’s important to keep Berners cool and prevent overheating. They can suffer in high temperatures, so access to air conditioning, shade, and plenty of water is crucial during hot months.
10. Social Butterflies
Bernese Mountain Dogs are incredibly social animals. They love being around people and other animals, often seeking out companionship and playtime. This sociable nature makes them great family pets, but it can also mean they can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
Ensuring your Berner gets plenty of social interaction and mental stimulation is key to their happiness. Whether it’s through playdates, training sessions, or simply spending time with their human family, Berners thrive on social engagement.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are truly remarkable companions, combining beauty, strength, and loving nature in one magnificent package. While they may have a shorter lifespan, the joy and loyalty they bring to their families are immeasurable.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.