Bernese Mountain Dog

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Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, moderately active dogs originating from the mountains of Switzerland.

Once used as farm dogs for Alpine herders, Bernese Mountain Dogs’ thick, medium-to-long coats are typically black, brown, and white in colour.

When it comes to behaviour, each doggo has their own traits and quirks. And we wouldn’t have it any other way. We’re taking a look at everything Bernese Mountain Dog, bringing you the important facts and things to consider.

Could you give a Bernese Mountain Dog a forever home?

Caring for Bernese Mountain Dogs

Every dog is different with their own personality and needs. Here are some areas to think about when taking care of a Bernese Mountain Dog.

Health issues

Before giving a Bernese Mountain Dog a forever home, consider any possible health issues. Not every dog experiences them, but it’s important to be prepared.

For more advice on potential health issues for Bernese...

Before giving a Bernese Mountain Dog a forever home, consider any possible health issues. Not every dog experiences them, but it’s important to be prepared.

For more advice on potential health issues for Bernese Mountain Dogs, speak to your local vet. Some practices offer ‘pre-purchase consultations.’ These tell you about potential health conditions, management options and an idea of financial costs.

If you’re considering buying a puppy, they can advise you on finding a responsible breeder and testing for genetic diseases.

Any breed of dog needs basic preventative healthcare like vaccinations and flea and worming treatments. Pet insurance is also important to help cover your vet bills.

How much food does a Bernese Mountain Dog need?

There is no set amount for how much food your Bernese Mountain Dog need. This depends on their:

age
size
activity levels
fitness
weight.
There is no set amount for how much food your Bernese Mountain Dog need. This depends on their:
- age
- size
- activity levels
- fitness
- weight.
The information on dog food packets can be a helpful guide, but you still need to adapt the portion size to your dog’s individual needs.
It’s helpful to know your Bernese Mountain Dog's body condition when deciding how much food to give them. You can find out about body condition scoring through the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WVASA).
Check with your vet to find out more.

How much exercise does a Bernese Mountain Dog need?

Bernese Mountain Dogs are usually moderately active dogs who need regular exercise and stimulation to keep them physically and mentally healthy.

They need daily walks, plus plenty of time and opportunity to expl...

Bernese Mountain Dogs are usually moderately active dogs who need regular exercise and stimulation to keep them physically and mentally healthy.

They need daily walks, plus plenty of time and opportunity to explore, burn energy, and play. Like all dogs, they need training and benefit from daily enrichment.

If you enjoy regular time outdoors, this breed could be a great match for you.

Bernese Mountain Dogs, like all dogs, need training and daily enrichment. When exercising your Bernese Mountain Dog, consider their:

age
health
personality.

Young or growing pups, for example, might need a few short walks instead of one long one. Exercise plans for older, injured, or ill dogs may need to be adapted based on advice from your vet. Quiet, peaceful walks may suit some dogs, where others may require something more sociable.

Ask your vet for advice on exercising your dog.

How much grooming does a Bernese Mountain Dog need?

Bernese Mountain Dogs shed heavily. To put your dog at ease and help their confidence, introduce handling and grooming step by step. This will make grooming more enjoyable for everyone and ensure a positive experience...

What crate size do you need for a Bernese Mountain Dog?

In their crate, your dog should be able to comfortably:

sit and stand at their full height
turn around without touching the edges
lie down at full stretch
comfortably wag their tail....

Bernese Mountain Dog behaviour and training

Even if you think you know about Bernese Mountain Dogs, it’s important to remember that every dog has their own personality.

What's the temperament of a Bernese Mountain Dog?

Like people, each dog is different with their own individual personality and experience. So, the temperaments of different Bernese Mountain Dogs vary.

Dogs learn all about the world as they grow from puppies to ...

Like people, each dog is different with their own individual personality and experience. So, the temperaments of different Bernese Mountain Dogs vary.

Dogs learn all about the world as they grow from puppies to adult pooches. They find out what they do and don’t like, and develop responses to situations differently.

For instance, some might enjoy new experiences like meeting other dogs. Others might need to take it a bit slower.

Are Bernese Mountain Dogs easy to train?

Any dog can be taught new tricks, whatever their breed. It’s all about positive learning. Find out what motivates your dog, whether that’s treats, toys or praise. You can use this as a reward throughout training to ma...

Any dog can be taught new tricks, whatever their breed. It’s all about positive learning. Find out what motivates your dog, whether that’s treats, toys or praise. You can use this as a reward throughout training to make it a positive experience for everyone.

They also need some useful life skills like recall, loose lead walking and settling. This ensures that you and your pup both feel relaxed spending time together out and about or at home.

Are Bernese Mountain Dogs good with children?

Each dog’s personality is shaped by their experiences of the world and they respond differently to certain situations.

But there are some universal ways to treat any dog, including Bernese Mountain Dogs, ...

Each dog’s personality is shaped by their experiences of the world and they respond differently to certain situations.

But there are some universal ways to treat any dog, including Bernese Mountain Dogs, respectfully and behave safely around them. This is an essential skill for the whole family; adults and children.

Why not book one of our family workshops on living happily together? Our family workshops are suitable for children aged 7 to 11. Booking one of these sessions could help your situation.

On this page..

Caring for Bernese Mountain Dogs

Health issues

Why dog insurance is important

Preparing for your new dog

How to have a happy vet visit

How much food does a Bernese Mountain Dog need?

How much exercise does a Bernese Mountain Dog need?

Enrichment activities to keep your dog enterta...

How to find a good dog walker

How much grooming does a Bernese Mountain Dog need?

What crate size do you need for a Bernese Mountain Dog?

Playpen and crate training a p...

Bernese Mountain Dog behaviour and training

What's the temperament of a Bernese Mountain Dog?

How to understand your dog's body language

Introducing your new dog or puppy to your curr...

Introducing your puppy to the ...

Are Bernese Mountain Dogs easy to train?

Top 10 dog training tips

Positive reinforcement – training with rewards...

Are Bernese Mountain Dogs good with children?

Getting a dog when you have ch...

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