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Bernese Mountain Dog (Berner Sennenhund)
Large Breed
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a strong, agile and loving dog, with a long coat that is a joy to touch and look at.
Breed standards
Country of origin
Switzerland
Weight
Males 41-54kg / 90-120lbs;
Females 36-48kg / 80-105lbs (standards may vary)
Height
Males 64-70cm / 21-28 in;
Females 58-66cm / 23-26in (standards may vary)
Coat
Medium length, straight or slightly wavy, long, shining hair
Markings
Tri-colour, Black, White, and Tan. Rich tan above both eyes, on cheeks, on all four legs and on the chest. White symmetrical markings on the head extending down the muzzle on both sides towards the nose, broad unbroken white marking on throat and chest.
Lifespan
Under 10 years
Although a large breed, they have a gentle, loving nature that makes them excellent family companions. Their intelligence makes them easy to train and they will quickly become an essential part of any family.
Temperament
A very happy breed with a gentle, loving nature that is excellent around children, with a playful attitude making them perfect family dogs. Whilst they can be protective, they are not aggressive dogs but are very loyal and may have problems adjusting to new owners after 18 months of age. A social breed that will not flourish if left on their own, but if in a loving family situation you will experience the best the dog has to offer.
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PoorChildrenGood
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VeryCombativenessNot very
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VeryDominanceNot very
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Not veryFriendlinessGood
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Not veryIndependenceVery
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LoudNoiseQuiet
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Not veryTrainabilityVery
Good to know
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a friendly, beautiful breed of dog that is recognisable by its muscular frame and eye-catching long, shiny coat.
- Makes a wonderful family pet and is excellent with children
- No trimming or stripping needed
- Relatively calm indoors
- Good for novice owners
- Regular grooming needed as seasonal heavy shedder
- Requires daily sufficient exercise
- Not suited to apartment life
- Prefers cooler climates
- Can suffer from hip and elbow joint problems as well as cancer, bloat and eyelid problems