- Bernese Mountain Dog Breed: Everything You Need to Know
Everything You Need to Know About
Bernese Mountain Dog Breed
Disclosure: Some of the links below are partner links, meaning that at no cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase.
Table of Contents
For How to Take Care of a Bernese Mountain Dog:
Bernese Mountain Dog General Information
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large dog breed that originated in the Swiss Alps. Historically, they were bred to help farmers drive cattle, pull carts, and guard the farm.
Overall, Bernese Mountain Dogs are loyal dogs who can make very fun companions.
Bernese Mountain Dog’s general temperament is easy-going and tolerant, reinforcing their perception as gentle giants.
They are alert, affectionate, intelligent, and calm — all desirable traits for large working dogs.
Characteristics of a
Bernese Mountain Dog
Keep these common traits in mind when considering a Bernese Mountain Dog:
Temperament
Any dog’s individual temperament will vary, but most Bernese Mountain Dogs tend to be friendly and easy-going.
These intelligent and loyal dogs are mostly calm, responsible, and aloof, but some tend to be excessively shy. Occasionally, others (usually males) are more dominant and may take some time and positive encouragement to accept you as their leader.
If trying to avoid these somewhat difficult traits, consider adopting an adult dog with an already developed temperament. When adopting a puppy, be careful to get your puppy from a well-known and reputable breeder who is very knowledgeable on the breed.
Energy Level
Bernese Mountain Dog’s activity level is pretty low compared to many other dogs, but that doesn’t mean they are couch potatoes.
Bernese need exercise to stay happy and healthy (a minimum of one hour per day). They enjoy playing in large open areas.
They also make great companions during long walks and hikes, particularly in snowy and chilly areas, and don’t mind being put to light work like hauling a sled.
Bernese Mountain Dog’s activity level is pretty low compared to many other dogs, but that doesn’t mean they are couch potatoes.
Bernese need exercise to stay happy and healthy (a minimum of one hour per day). They enjoy playing in large open areas.
They also make great companions during long walks and hikes, particularly in snowy and chilly areas, and don’t mind being put to light work like hauling a sled.
Size
Bernese Mountain Dog is a very large dog breed whose biggest individuals can grow to gigantic proportions. A Bernese Mountain Dog’s weight can easily exceed 45 kg (100 lbs).
As such, they’re considered a giant dog breed.
- Weight:
On average, Bernese Mountains Dog may vary in weight from 30-55 kg (65-120 lbs).
- Weight:
- Height:
They usually range from 58-70 cm (23-27.5 in) in height and 88-105 cm (35-41.5 in) in length.
- Height:
Average Size Chart
Weight
Female
Male
30-45 kg
70-100 lbs
35-70 kg
80-150 lbs
Height
Female
Male
58-66 cm
23-26 in
64-70 cm
25-27.5 in
Length
Female
Male
88-105 cm
35-41.5 in
88-105 cm
35-41.5 in
Weight
Female
30-45 kg
70-100 lbs
Male
35-70 kg
80-150 lbs
Height
Female
58-66 cm
23-26 in
Male
64-70 cm
25-27.5 in
Length
Female
88-105 cm
35-41.5 in
Male
88-105 cm
35-41.5 in
Trainability / Intelligence
Bernese Mountain Dogs are easy to train due to their eagerness to please.
It should be kept in mind that they are emotionally sensitive and do not react well to harsh words or punishment.
Training sessions should be kept short and made into a positive experience for your Bernese Mountain Dog, with lots of praise, encouragement, and treats when they do something well.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are easy to train due to their eagerness to please.
It should be kept in mind that they are emotionally sensitive and do not react well to harsh words or punishment.
Training sessions should be kept short and made into a positive experience for your Bernese Mountain Dog, with lots of praise, encouragement, and treats when they do something well.
Other Pets / Children
-
- Other pets: Bernese Mountain Dogs usually get along well with most other dogs and cats due to their good-natured personality. This is especially true when they are introduced to other pets while still young.
They are unlikely to give you much trouble in this regard.
-
- Children: Young children are usually not a problem with Bernese Mountain Dogs. They are one of the least aggressive dogs towards humans, with a kind and playful disposition that makes them great family pets.
That being said, they can sometimes accidentally knock over small children due to their large size.
Shedding / Coat
Bernese Mountain Dog shedding season is in the spring and fall, but they still shed moderately throughout the year.
This frequency, combined with their long hair, can take quite a bit of brushing and vacuuming to manage.
For this reason, it is necessary to regularly brush the coat all the way from the root to the tip with a metal pin brush.
During shedding seasons, use a rake comb to remove the loose undercoat, minimizing excess hair.
Bernese Mountain Dog shedding season is in the spring and fall, but they still shed moderately throughout the year.
This frequency, combined with their long hair, can take quite a bit of brushing and vacuuming to manage.
For this reason, it is necessary to regularly brush the coat all the way from the root to the tip with a metal pin brush.
During shedding seasons, use a rake comb to remove the loose undercoat, minimizing excess hair.
Grooming / Care
Bernese Mountain Dogs need a fair amount of grooming, as they are double-coated and year-round shedders.
Their undercoat needs to be thoroughly groomed at least every 4-8 weeks, and they require daily brushing during their active shedding season (spring to fall).
These dogs usually don’t need frequent baths. When bathing Bernese Mountain Dogs, it is best to bathe them with specifically formulated dog shampoo and conditioner to maintain and enhance their luxurious coat.
They also need paw balms to prevent cracking and dryness and keep their paws soft.
Common Health Issues / Veterinary Needs
Bernese Mountain Dogs are a relatively short-lived breed, predisposed to a lot of health problems due to their genetic makeup.
They have an average lifespan of about 8 years and require frequent vet visits to maintain their well-being.
The Bernese Mountain Dog breed’s most common health problems include:
- Cancers
- Musculoskeletal issues like malignant histiocytosis
- Mast cell tumor
- Histiocytic sarcoma
- Arthritis
- Hip dysplasia
- Cruciate ligament rupture.
Nutrition
As a giant breed, Bernese Mountain Dogs need more protein than an average dog (25%-28% compared to most adult dogs who only need 18-25%). This increased protein is necessary to maintain their lean muscle.
Bernese also need about 8% of fat in their daily diet, plus a good percentage of carbohydrates.
Fat in moderate quantities is vital for maintaining healthy fur and skin, while carbs provide energy. These nutritional requirements should be met through high-quality filler-free food.
As a giant breed, Bernese Mountain Dogs need more protein than an average dog (25%-28% compared to most adult dogs who only need 18-25%). This increased protein is necessary to maintain their lean muscle.
Bernese also need about 8% of fat in their daily diet, plus a good percentage of carbohydrates.
Fat in moderate quantities is vital for maintaining healthy fur and skin, while carbs provide energy. These nutritional requirements should be met through high-quality filler-free food.
First Time Owner?
Another thing to keep in mind when getting a dog is your level of experience. Bernese Mountain Dogs require a lot of gentle care, so they’re usually not the best choice for first-time dog owners.
Inexperienced dog owners might find them hard to keep and maintain.
But that doesn’t mean they are completely off the table. These gentle giants are strongly recommended for people (even first-timers) who are looking for very large, devoted family dogs and are willing to put in the work for their maintenance needs.
Special Needs
• Lots of Socialization
A Bernese Mountain Dog puppy needs a lot of careful socialization while young to prevent it from becoming a shy adult.
This breed has a great tendency to develop anxiety issues if not properly socialized with cats, dogs, and people during their developmental puppy years.
Take your Bernese Mountain Dog to lots of new places where they can meet new people and pets during their formative periods (generally 2-4 months) to prevent anxiety and fear in the face of unfamiliar experiences.
Regular visits to dog parks and other walking locations are recommended, alongside obedience training/puppy classes to squash any nervousness before it begins.
• Cold Temperature
As their name suggests, Bernese Mountain Dogs were bred to live in the Alps in temperatures below 75°F (24°C).
They are double-coated and well suited to cold weather and snow, finding it enjoyable as long as temperatures don’t fall below 20°F (-6°C).
The flip side of this is that most Bernese Mountain Dogs are heat intolerant. They can tolerate temperatures up to 85-86°F (29-30°C) for a short duration of time, but their mostly-black coats tend to absorb too much heat from the sun.
They are in constant need of shade and air conditioning.
As their name suggests, Bernese Mountain Dogs were bred to live in the Alps in temperatures below 75°F (24°C).
They are double-coated and well suited to cold weather and snow, finding it enjoyable as long as temperatures don’t fall below 20°F (-6°C).
The flip side of this is that most Bernese Mountain Dogs are heat intolerant. They can tolerate temperatures up to 85-86°F (29-30°C) for a short duration of time, but their mostly-black coats tend to absorb too much heat from the sun.
They are in constant need of shade and air conditioning.
• Enough Space
As a large/giant breed, Bernese Mountain Dogs need a great bit of space to move around freely and comfortably.
A decently sized house with a large fenced yard is ideal, but apartments can also be an option if they are large enough.
Bernese Mountain Dogs can do quite well in moderately sized apartments as long as they get frequent walks and have access to yards or dog parks nearby. They must have some time to run and play freely in a large area.
• Frequent vet visits
Bernese Mountain Dogs need to see a veterinarian more than the average once per year schedule due to their short lifespan and predisposition to health conditions.
Other Things to Consider
• Separation Anxiety
Bernese Mountain Dogs are loyal, devoted, and affectionate dogs that are quite prone to canine separation anxiety. They need a lot of attention and care to avoid this separation anxiety.
Mild to moderate cases can be managed at home by altering your dog’s response via counter conditioning. However, serious cases must be brought to the attention of a professional. In this case, contact your vet.
Bernese Mountain Dog FAQ
How Much Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Cost?
On average, these puppies range from $1,000 – $2,500.
Are Bernese Mountain Dogs Hypoallergenic?
Unfortunately, no. Bernese shed a lot, and the dander in their fur has a high chance of causing severe reactions in people with allergies.
Aside from dander, their saliva and urine can also cause allergic reactions, making them unsuitable companions for those with allergies.
Are Bernese Mountain Dogs Protective?
Yes! These tricolored giants are very devoted and loyal, making them fiercely protective of the people they care about.
And while not very aggressive, they have been known to effectively protect young children against other dogs and can easily deter ill-intentioned humans with their sheer size and volume.
Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Drool?
Yes, quite a bit. And while most Bernese don’t drool excessively, many with loose lips do.
Drooling is especially common before and after meals, but Bernese also drool in anticipation, like when they know you’re about to play with them. This is completely normal and not a cause for concern, so just keep a rag to quickly clean up any mess created.
Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Like Water?
Not usually. Most Bernese mountain dogs don’t really like water and are unsuited to swimming due to their thick, heavy coat.
In addition, they don’t have the stamina for it, and are not as instinctively good at it as some other breeds. When in water, they should be kept only in shallow waters, and supervised.
Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Bark A Lot?
A little bit. Bernese Mountain Dogs are natural watchdogs with very loud barks, but only some of them tend to bark constantly.
Luckily, this behavior can easily be trained away once properly socialized, as Bernese enjoy working and getting praise from their people.
Bernese Mountain Dog Pros and Cons
Pros
- Gentle and loving
- Good with kids and seniors
- Good-looking dogs
- Need less exercise than other large working dogs
Cons
- Short Lifespan — Bernese Mountain Dog average lifespan is 8 years.
- Shedding all year
- Need cool temperatures
- Can be shy if not socialized well
- Need high protein diet
Bernese Mountain Dog Care Guide
How to Keep Them Healthy
Bernese Mountain Dog Care Basics
If it’s your first time taking care of a Bernese Mountain Dog, there is a lot to learn.
When it comes to the health of Bernese Mountain Dogs, there is a lot to do and keep track of. This includes proper nutrition to extra socialization to cold temperatures.
In this article, we will go over everything you need to know how to keep your Bernese Mountain Dog healthy and happy for as long as possible.
With these Bernese Mountain Dog tips, you’ll be fully equipped with the knowledge of how to take care of your Bernese Mountain Dog.
How to take care of a Bernese Mountain Dog:
Bernese Mountain Dogs are widely considered to require more hands-on care and attention than other dog breeds.
There are many factors to consider when preparing to take care of a Bernese Mountain Dog.
At a glance, the main elements of Bernese Mountain Dog care are:
• High Quality Food
Bernese Mountain Dogs are large to giant dogs that need high-quality, nutritious, and filler-free food to meet their dietary requirements.
Carefully read the labels on anything you feed a Bernese Mountain Dog, and choose dog foods that have meat or vegetables within the first three items on the ingredients list.
In addition to meat and vegetables, they need a proper balance of nutrients in their diet. Include low levels of healthy fats and 22% protein from animal sources.
If you need more help picking a good food, contact your vet for recommendations specifically for your dog.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are large to giant dogs that need high-quality, nutritious, and filler-free food to meet their dietary requirements.
Carefully read the labels on anything you feed a Bernese Mountain Dog, and choose dog foods that have meat or vegetables within the first three items on the ingredients list.
In addition to meat and vegetables, they need a proper balance of nutrients in their diet. Include low levels of healthy fats and 22% protein from animal sources.
If you need more help picking a good food, contact your vet for recommendations specifically for your dog.
• Feeding schedule
Bernese Mountain Dogs need a consistent feeding schedule that takes activity levels and growth rate into account.
Bernese Mountain Dog puppies grow rapidly between the ages of 8-10 weeks and should be fed ¾ to 1 cup of nutritious food per meal four times per day.
As they grow, increase portions and lower the feeding frequency from four to three times per day from 2-6 months of age, and bring it down to two times a day after 6 months of age.
• Avoid toxic substances
As with any dog breed, certain food items that are completely harmless for humans can be lethal to dogs and must be avoided.
Such foods to avoid include chocolate, avocado, grapes, raisins, some nuts, alcohol, onions, garlic, chives, yeast dough, and xylitol-containing sugar-free food.
Dogs are curious about the world and may lick or eat strange items to figure out what they are, which can be very dangerous for your dog.
All non-food toxic items MUST be kept completely out of reach for any dog, including antifreeze, cocoa mulch, fabric softener, insecticide, pesticide, battery acid, etc.
• Monitor weight
Bernese Mountain Dogs are notoriously slow growers and often leave owners concerned about whether their dog is the right weight.
You may use pet scales to periodically check their weight. Ask your vet about the ideal weight for the size of your Bernese Mountain Dog, as the standard varies greatly within the breed.
- Try this to check your dog’s weight:
Run your hands over your dog’s back and ribs to get a feel of their physique, first with no pressure, and then with light pressure.
The acceptable weight range for Bernese Mountain Dogs is quite wide, but if you can’t feel their ribs after applying pressure, they might be overweight.
If you can feel their ribs without any pressure, they might be underweight.
If you suspect a weight problem and aren’t sure what to do, contact your vet before making any changes.
• Fresh and clean water
Due to their large size, Bernese need a lot more water than some other dogs to avoid dehydration.
Provide your Bernese Mountain Dog with a continuous supply of fresh, clean water.
To keep their water appealing to drink, either change their water bowl at least twice daily or invest in a pet water fountain.
Ensure the water stays clean and tasty by frequently washing the water bowl with dish soap and water.
Due to their large size, Bernese need a lot more water than some other dogs to avoid dehydration.
Provide your Bernese Mountain Dog with a continuous supply of fresh, clean water.
To keep their water appealing to drink, either change their water bowl at least twice daily or invest in a pet water fountain.
Ensure the water stays clean and tasty by frequently washing the water bowl with dish soap and water.
• Grooming Fur
Bernese Mountain Dogs need their fur groomed regularly to prevent tangles, minimize shedding, and keep their skin healthy.
At least once per week, brush through their fur with a slicker brush and rake comb.
Bernese Mountain Dog shedding season is spring and fall, so brush at least twice per week during spring and fall.
While brushing, look for ticks, fleas, and any skin abnormalities.
Do not shave, but trim where required to remove large matts from the fur.
Bernese Mountain Dogs need their fur groomed regularly to prevent tangles, minimize shedding, and keep their skin healthy.
At least once per week, brush through their fur with a slicker brush and rake comb.
Bernese Mountain Dog shedding season is spring and fall, so brush at least twice per week during spring and fall.
While brushing, look for ticks, fleas, and any skin abnormalities.
Do not shave, but trim where required to remove large matts from the fur.
• Trim nails
Bernese Mountain Dog grooming also involves trimming their nails.
If nails do not wear down naturally, they can overgrow and splinter, causing painful complications.
At home, you can carefully use a dog nail grinder or clipper to do this at home while slowly acclimating your dog to the process.
Alternatively, take your dog to a professional groomer or vet every 3-4 weeks. These visits specifically for nail trimming usually don’t cost much.
• Brush teeth
Bernese Mountain Dogs generally don’t need daily brushing, but brushing their teeth twice a week can go a long way in removing plaque and bacteria to maintain oral health.
Use a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste to brush both the back and front of the teeth gently.
Your dog might take a while to get used to tooth brushing, and you can use a finger brush if it is easier for you and your dog.
• Living arrangements
Dog proof your home by moving or covering sharp corners on furniture, moving every non-safe item up and completely out of your dog’s reach, and try to keep electrical cables out of your dog’s reach. Puppies tend to bite and chew unfamiliar items.
Pick out locations for a dog bed, toys, food, and water bowls.
A dog bed is a must, even if your dog seems to enjoy sleeping in your bed or somewhere else more. They need access to their own designated space to feel at home with you.
• Toys
Dog toys serve to alleviate boredom and can be an excellent distraction for Bernese Mountain Dogs left alone.
It is essential to get your dog a lot of suitable and safe toys.
Your dog should never play unsupervised with squeaky toys and small balls. There is a high chance a dog may swallow and choke on them.
Soft stuffed toys should be carefully selected to be sturdy and the right size.
Kong toys are generally safe for unsupervised play, and can be filled with food to keep a dog entertained for hours.
Fill a Kong toy with wet food, a soft snack like peanut butter, or put it in the freezer for 2 hours with a mixture of water and dry food, before giving it to your dog.
Dog toys serve to alleviate boredom and can be an excellent distraction for Bernese Mountain Dogs left alone.
It is essential to get your dog a lot of suitable and safe toys.
Your dog should never play unsupervised with squeaky toys and small balls. There is a high chance a dog may swallow and choke on them.
Soft stuffed toys should be carefully selected to be sturdy and the right size.
Kong toys are generally safe for unsupervised play, and can be filled with food to keep a dog entertained for hours.
Fill a Kong toy with wet food, a soft snack like peanut butter, or put it in the freezer for 2 hours with a mixture of water and dry food, before giving it to your dog.
• Exercise
A Bernese Mountain Dog can burn off excess energy with a vigorous 30-minute walk once or twice a day.
Engage your dog in games like Frisbee or fetch, and let your dog play with your kids if you have any.
In the case of a puppy, keep in mind that over-exercising can negatively impact a puppy’s musculoskeletal development.
Limit a puppy’s exercise to five minutes per month of age twice per day. For example, a 4-month-old puppy should exercise for a maximum of 20 minutes at a time, twice per day.
• Socialization
Bernese Mountain Dogs tend to be shy. For this reason, the best Bernese Mountain Dog care tip is to socialize them as early as possible.
To socialize your dog, introduce them to other dogs and people as you walk, and take them to specialized dog parks where you can expose them to as many new sights and sounds as possible. Act normal and positive so they understand that unfamiliar things are OK.
You can also join dog socialization classes or puppy classes for this purpose.
• Vet checkups
Bernese Mountain Dog lifespans tend to be relatively short on average.
Regular vet checkups are essential for keeping them healthy. Keep your dog updated on all the necessary vaccination and booster shots (like the rabies vaccine given at 12 weeks of age).
Visit the vet at least once a year, even if your dog seems completely healthy. This is especially important after your Bernese Mountain Dog crosses the age of six and is already considered a senior dog.
• Spaying/neutering
When you should spay or neuter Bernese Mountain Dogs: between six and nine months is often considered the best time.
Unless you intend to breed your pet, spaying and neutering is usually recommended. It lowers the risk of tumors, cancers, and urinary tract infections and helps with certain behavioral issues.
• Preventive medication
Like many other dogs, Bernese Mountain Dogs are vulnerable to parasites like fleas and heartworms and may need preventive medication for protection against them.
Keep an eye out for fleas while brushing your dog, and get your dog checked regularly for heartworms. You can also give your dog preventive heartworm medication in the form of a tablet once a month, or a shot every six months.
• Training
The first step to training a Bernese Mountain Dog is obedience training. This should be started when they are young and eager to learn and be praised (around 8 weeks of age).
Training should be done in an open space with limited distractions, like a house yard.
Be gentle and patient during training, and use your body language to help your dog better understand what you want it to do. Never punish or scold; only use positive reinforcement.
Praise and/or treat when correct, and ignore mistakes.
How much does Bernese Mountain Dog care cost?
The average yearly cost of Bernese Mountain Dog care is estimated to be around $1,361. They are at the top of the list of the top five most medically expensive dog breeds and cost anywhere from $105 to $410 in supplies alone every year.
Private training is rarely necessary but can add another $150-$200 to your weekly budget if required.
The puppies themselves are also quite expensive, ranging from $800 to $1800 depending on age, pedigree, etc. Even adopting from a breed-specific rescue can cost between $300 and $400, and an additional investment of about $500 is still required to get all the necessary supplies required by first-time dog owners.
How To Take Care Of A Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy
Looking after and caring for a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy is very similar to adult Bernese Mountain Dog care.
You must be extra alert and careful to properly meet their growing needs without over-exerting them.
A puppy’s physical and nutritional requirements are constantly changing, and they are also growing into their individual temperaments and developing behaviorally.
The puppy stage is also the best time to train the dog, get them used to grooming, administer necessary vaccinations, spay / neuter, and adequately socialize.
In addition, bonds and habits formed as puppies are likely to stay throughout adulthood, so it is important to help your dog create good habits early.
Looking after and caring for a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy is very similar to adult Bernese Mountain Dog care.
You must be extra alert and careful to properly meet their growing needs without over-exerting them.
A puppy’s physical and nutritional requirements are constantly changing, and they are also growing into their individual temperaments and developing behaviorally.
The puppy stage is also the best time to train the dog, get them used to grooming, administer necessary vaccinations, spay / neuter, and adequately socialize.
In addition, bonds and habits formed as puppies are likely to stay throughout adulthood, so it is important to help your dog create good habits early.
Additional Bernese mountain dog tips
- Bernese Mountain Dogs prefer cold temperatures, so make sure to place their bed and bowls in cool spots if you live in a warmer area.
- Bathe your Bernese Mountain Dog only as necessary. You can also use a specially formulated dry dog shampoo.
- Bernese Mountain Dogs are curious and prone to wanderlust. Ensure that outdoor spaces they are left alone in are properly fenced to avoid them roaming too far.
