Bernese Mountain Dog Guide: Traits, Care & Activities

Discover the Bernese Mountain Dog, a breed celebrated for its affectionate, loyal, and playful nature. Recognized as a large dog, Bernese Mountain Dogs have their origins in Switzerland, where they were initially bred for guarding livestock and droving work starting in the 1st century.

In this post, we share insights from nearly 100 Sniffspot Bernese Mountain Dog owners, offering practical advice for new and prospective Bernese Mountain Dog owners. Whether you’re considering adopting or rescuing a Bernese Mountain Dog or already have one, you’ll find valuable tips on how to care for and enjoy life with this affectionate breed.

“Very affectionate breed and always has the biggest personalities!” says Sniffspot user Tank. He’s right—Bernese Mountain Dogs are truly one-of-a-kind. Thinking about welcoming one of these gentle giants into your life? This guide compiles insights from nearly 100 Bernese Mountain Dog owners to give you the inside scoop on everything Berner, from their history and temperament to training tips and what daily life is really like. Let's explore!

Source: Sniffspot Community Breed Survey 2024

Bernese Mountain Dog: At a Glance

• Breed Type: Working
• Size: Large
• Life Expectancy: 7 to 10
• Healthy Weight Range: 70 to 115
• Height Range: 23 to 28
• Temperament: Affectionate, Loyal, Playful
• Coat Type: Thick double
• Color: black, white, and rust

Getting to Know the Bernese Mountain Dog

According to nearly 10,000 Sniffspot community users who shared real-world data about their Bernese Mountain Dogs, these dogs are affectionate and loyal. The Bernese Mountain Dog is also known for being very friendly and social with children and other pets.

When living with a Berner, 80% of our owners indicated that a large house with a fenced yard is ideal. Additionally, 44% of owners found that a rural or suburban area with open spaces is also acceptable. This dog is moderately trainable, often benefiting from a professional trainer. Owners say that the Bernese Mountain Dog learns best with positive reinforcement and consistent routines.

In terms of exercise, 58% of Sniffspot owners say their Bernese Mountain Dog benefits from moderate exercise every day, including 1-2 hours of activity each day, such as walks and active play sessions. The Sniffspot Berner community would recommend this dog for first-time owners.

Key Takeaways

• Bernese Mountain Dogs are affectionate companions: These gentle giants are loyal and playful, making them wonderful family pets, especially for households with children and other animals. Be prepared for their large size and grooming needs.
• Training is key for a happy Berner: While generally calm, Berners benefit from consistent training using positive reinforcement. Start early to establish good habits and address potential challenges like separation anxiety.
• A healthy Berner is a happy Berner: Be mindful of potential health issues like digestive and joint problems. Regular vet visits, a balanced diet, and a good exercise routine are essential for a long and happy life with your Berner.

History of the Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog, or “Berner,” is a large working breed originating from the Swiss Alps. Their ancestry can be traced back to mastiff-type dogs brought by Roman soldiers around the 1st century AD, which were then bred with local Swiss dogs. Originally, these dogs were used for draft work, pulling carts, and guarding livestock on farms in Switzerland. They are one of four Swiss mountain dog breeds, distinguished by their long, thick coat that was essential for protecting them from the cold Alpine weather.

Historically, Bernese Mountain Dogs played a vital role in Swiss agricultural life. Farmers relied on them to pull heavy carts of dairy products, guard livestock, and serve as loyal companions. The breed was near extinction in the late 19th century due to industrialization, but efforts by Swiss fanciers helped revive the breed in the early 20th century. They were eventually recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1937.

Today, Bernese Mountain Dogs are cherished for their gentle, friendly nature and strong work ethic. Their calm temperament makes them excellent family pets, but they retain their working dog instincts and thrive in environments where they have tasks or regular exercise. Known for their loyalty, they are especially good with children and are deeply bonded to their families, though their relatively short lifespan is a consideration for potential owners.

Bernese Mountain Dog Temperament & Traits

• Temperament: Affectionate, Loyal, Playful
• Energy Level: Moderate
• Trainability: Moderately trainable – Learns commands with consistent training and practice.
• Grooming needs: High maintenance – Requires frequent grooming, including regular brushing, bathing, and trimming.
• Good with Kids: Very friendly and social with children
• Good with Other Pets: Very friendly with other pets

Owning a Bernese Mountain Dog: What to Expect

As a Bernese Mountain Dog owner, it’s important to know the best breed tips and what to expect from current Bernese Mountain Dog owners.

Source: Sniffspot Community Breed Research 2024

Grooming Your Bernese

Bernese Mountain Dogs require high-maintenance grooming. Owners should expect frequent grooming, including regular brushing, bathing, and trimming. These dogs have a thick double coat, which provides protection from cold mountain climates and is considered high-shedding.

To keep your Bernese Mountain Dog’s coat healthy and up to breed standards, brush at least twice a week. Among the coat types for breeds in the working group, the grooming needs of Bernese Mountain Dogs are considered high maintenance.

Exercise Requirements

Bernese Mountain Dogs require moderate activity each day. Though one of the most popular dog breeds, Berners are very athletic and high-energy.

Berners thrive with between 1-2 hours of activity each day, including walks and active play sessions. Owners report that their dogs especially love playing with squeaky toys and engaging in tug-of-war.

When large breeds like Berners don’t get sufficient exercise, they are more likely to exhibit undesirable behaviors such as separation anxiety and excessive chewing. They need consistent training, mental stimulation, and regular moderate exercise to avoid excess energy.

Feeding Your Bernese

What should you feed your Bernese Mountain Dog to keep them healthy? As a moderate energy breed, their diet is important. A reported 73% of our community feeds their Berners commercial dry kibble.

With moderate exercise, Berners should eat 4 to 6 cups of vet-recommended food to maintain a healthy weight of around 70 to 115 lbs. However, your Bernese Mountain Dog’s ideal weight and food intake depend on factors such as sex, activity level, and age.

Bernese Mountain Dog Health

The Bernese Mountain Dog breed is most prone to digestive issues (e.g., bloating, sensitive stomach) and joint problems (e.g., hip dysplasia, arthritis). A reported 56% of our Bernese Mountain Dog owners have reported digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, and lack of appetite. The risk for these challenges increases as they age.

Similarly, 42% reported joint problems like arthritis, elbow dysplasia, degenerative issues, and osteosarcoma. Additionally, 24% of Bernese Mountain Dog owners have noted that their dogs struggle with ear infections caused by allergies, ear mites, or contact dermatitis — a common health concern for the breed. If you’re worried about any of these health issues, consult your Bernese Mountain Dog’s vet.

Are Bernese Mountain Dogs Friendly?

Another important consideration when adopting a Berner is whether this breed fits with your current family. How friendly are Bernese Mountain Dogs compared to other large-sized breeds?

Source: Sniffspot Community Breed Survey 2024

With moderate training, you can channel your Berner’s working instincts into an affectionate and loyal family dog. Introducing your pet to positive reinforcement (treats, praise, rewards) and maintaining consistent daily training routines early on helps them avoid undesirable behaviors like separation anxiety and excessive chewing. Our community Bernese Mountain Dog owners comment on their pet’s friendliness:

• They are totally devoted to their owners. I have had five Bernese Mountain Dogs. All are soul mates. (TE)
• Berners love their families!!! They are happiest when they are with their people! (Kathy)
• Their loyalty and affection towards their humans. 💗 (KZ)

Training Your Bernese Mountain Dog

Whether you’re adopting a Berner puppy or an adult Bernese Mountain Dog, training is a significant part of owning this large breed. Without proper training, your Berner is more likely to display undesirable behaviors such as separation anxiety and excessive chewing. Providing stimulating activities is a great first step, but this needs to be paired with the right training for your Berner.

As a working breed, Bernese Mountain Dogs benefit from praise and positive reinforcement. Here’s what our Berner community recommended based on their experience with their own dogs:

• Positive Reinforcement (87%): This includes treats, praise, rewards, and so on for positive behavior.
• Consistent Routines (53%): A consistent training routine helps your pet get comfortable with expectations.

As dogs bred for guarding livestock and droving work, Berners are considered moderately trainable and often benefit from the guidance of a professional trainer.

Why Do People Love Bernese Mountain Dogs?

We asked Sniffspot Berner owners what they love most about their Bernese Mountain Dog pups, and here’s what they had to say:

• Sweet, gentle, playful—these big babies are the sweetest, cutest nanny dogs. Once past puppyhood, they are calm and easy to handle. (MJ)
• The sweet personality that wins everyone over. They’re literally gentle giants. (Katrina)
• They are very protective of the farm animals and are fun dogs. (Jae)

Challenges of Bernese Mountain Dog Ownership

Similarly, Berner owners shared some of the biggest challenges of living with their Bernese Mountain Dog:

• Very big dog with a lot of hair. Sometimes can be stubborn. (Brianan)
• STUBBORN—Not husky levels, but when a 100+ pound dog doesn’t want to get in a car or go on a walk, it can be very challenging to train around or through this. You essentially have to gently out-stubborn the dog. (Tank)
• Size—Watch out if they accidentally step on your foot; ouch! (Audrey)

Bernese Mountain Dogs: Good for First-Time Owners?

Source: Sniffspot 2024 Community Dog Breed Survey

According to 69% of our Sniffspot community, Bernese Mountain Dogs are a great choice for first-time dog owners. This is attributed to their affectionate nature and moderate exercise needs. Bernese Mountain Dog owners say it best:

• They are very protective of the farm animals and are fun dogs. (Jae)
• The protective instinct they have combined with the pure love they show to everyone. (Jordyn)
• They are totally devoted to their owners. I have had five Bernese Mountain Dogs. All have been soul mates. (TE)

Tips for Bernese Mountain Dog Owners

Luckily, our Sniffspot community is full of experienced, trustworthy Berner owners. These Bernese Mountain Dog owners share the most essential tips and advice for prospective or new dog owners:

Finding a Reputable Breeder

When you’re ready to add a Bernese Mountain Dog to your family, finding a reputable breeder is crucial. A responsible breeder prioritizes the health and temperament of their dogs above all else. They play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of the breed and ensuring happy, healthy puppies. Here’s how to find a breeder who meets these standards:

Documentation and Health History: Ask for a full multi-generational pedigree and detailed health information for the puppy’s parents and other dogs in their lineage. Transparency is key. A good breeder will openly share this information, including any potential health issues in the puppy’s family history. This gives you valuable insights into the health and longevity of your potential new family member.

Breeder Referral Programs: The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America (BMDCA) offers a breeder referral program, connecting you with breeders who adhere to the BMDCA’s code of ethics and prioritize responsible breeding practices. Other organizations also offer similar programs, providing a valuable resource for finding reputable breeders.

Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask the breeder about their experience, the health testing they perform, and their socialization practices for puppies. A responsible breeder will welcome your inquiries and provide thorough answers. This conversation helps you assess their commitment to the breed and the well-being of their dogs.

Local Breeder Directory: The BMDCA also provides a local breeder directory, listing breeders committed to the breed standard and ethical breeding practices. It can be a valuable tool for finding breeders in your area.

Avoiding Puppy Mills: Be wary of breeders who don't allow you to meet the puppy's parents or who have multiple litters available at once. These can be signs of puppy mills, which prioritize profit over the well-being of the dogs. A reputable breeder will want you to meet the parents and see the environment where the puppies are raised. They’ll also be focused on a limited number of litters to ensure adequate care and attention for each puppy.

Keep Your Bernese Stimulated

• Berners worked on farms pulling carts. They need daily activity and are extremely strong. They will require early intervention in walking properly on a leash. Use a professional trainer if needed. Plan to take them on a short walk, hike, or other adventure every day. Also, be prepared to vacuum daily! (Kathy)
• This breed needs lots of room to run and thrives best on farms. (Jae)

Grooming & Maintenance Tips

• Make sure to keep up with exercise and maintenance, including grooming and baths. (Alex)
• Be prepared for dog hair, drool, and being smooshed, but enjoy their love! (River)

Training Your Bernese

• It is imperative that you find a breeder who breeds for health and performs all the necessary tests. Check local breed clubs for breeders using Bernergarde (important breed health tracking), conduct all clearances, and run genetic tests. Avoid breeding lines with issues like DM, histo, and lymphoma. Additionally, you absolutely MUST train your dog. What’s cute at 20 lbs is not cute at 120 lbs, and early training (starting at 8 weeks) sets you and your dog up for success. Lastly, consider getting pet insurance. Most importantly, you’ll never regret choosing a Berner. It’s all worth it. (MJ)
• Consistency is key. Use positive reinforcement as they are a very sensitive breed and do not respond well to harsh punishments. (Stacey)

Breeders & Health Issues

• Do your research and find a good breeder. Get pet health insurance and a good vacuum cleaner. (Donna)
• Research the breed thoroughly and understand their health issues. Only purchase from a reputable breeder who performs health testing. (Sharon)

Creating a Safe and Enriching Environment

Safeguarding Your Home

Creating a safe and comfortable space for your Bernese Mountain Dog is paramount. Given their large size, Berners need ample room to move around. As our Sniffspot research shows, 80% of Bernese Mountain Dog owners find that a large house with a fenced yard is ideal. This provides a secure area for your Berner to play and explore without the risk of escaping. A fenced yard also offers peace of mind, knowing your dog is safe and contained. If a large house isn't feasible, consider a home with easy access to dog parks or open spaces where your Berner can stretch their legs and burn off energy.

Think about your Berner's needs when setting up your home. Keep potentially harmful substances out of reach, secure any fragile items, and ensure they have a comfortable and designated space to rest. A cozy dog bed and access to fresh water are essential. Creating a safe haven for your Berner will help them feel secure and reduce the likelihood of accidents or destructive behaviors.

Providing Mental and Physical Enrichment

Bernese Mountain Dogs are intelligent and active dogs that thrive on both physical and mental stimulation. While they're generally calm, they still need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Our Sniffspot research indicates that Bernese Mountain Dogs benefit from moderate exercise each day, ideally between one and two hours. This can include walks, playtime in a securely fenced area, or even a visit to a dog-friendly water park if your Berner enjoys swimming. Remember, these dogs historically worked on farms, pulling carts—they're built for activity.

Beyond physical activity, mental enrichment is crucial for a well-rounded Bernese Mountain Dog. This can be as simple as learning new tricks, playing puzzle games, or participating in dog sports like agility or obedience training. Check out our resources on dog names for inspiration! Working with a qualified dog trainer can provide structured learning and address specific behavioral needs. Providing mental stimulation prevents boredom and reinforces positive behaviors, strengthening your bond with your Berner.

A tired Berner is a happy Berner. By providing a combination of physical exercise and mental enrichment, you can help your Bernese Mountain Dog live a fulfilling and balanced life. This also minimizes the risk of behavioral issues arising from boredom or excess energy, such as excessive barking, chewing, or digging.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dog Lifespan

The average lifespan of a Bernese Mountain Dog is typically between 7 to 10 years.

Bernese Mountain Dog Size

An adult Bernese Mountain Dog weighs between 70 to 115 pounds and stands between 23 to 28 inches tall.

Grooming Needs

Bernese Mountain Dogs require high-maintenance grooming. Regular grooming helps keep their coat healthy and manageable. They have a thick double coat, are well-suited for protection from cold mountain climates, and are considered high shedders.

To maintain your Bernese Mountain Dog’s coat, it is important to brush at least twice a week. Among working breeds, grooming for Bernese Mountain Dogs is categorized as more complex.

Exercise Needs

Bernese Mountain Dogs require moderate activity each day. Although they are one of the more popular dog breeds, Bernese Mountain Dogs are classified as moderately athletic and somewhat high-energy.

They thrive with between 1 to 2 hours of activity each day, including walks and active play sessions. Owners note that their dogs particularly enjoy playing with squeaky toys, engaging in tug-of-war, and more.

If large breeds like Bernese Mountain Dogs don’t receive enough exercise, they may develop undesirable behaviors. These dogs need ongoing training, mental stimulation, and consistent exercise to channel their energy effectively.

Bernese Mountain Dogs & Children

According to our data, Bernese Mountain Dogs are very friendly and social with children.

Bernese Mountain Dogs & Other Pets

Our research indicates that Bernese Mountain Dogs are very friendly with other pets.

Best Food for a Bernese Mountain Dog

As a moderate-energy breed, the diet of your Bernese Mountain Dog is crucial. A significant 73% of our community feeds their Bernese Mountain Dogs commercial dry kibble.

For optimal health, Bernese Mountain Dogs should consume 4 to 6 cups of vet-recommended food to maintain a healthy weight of around 70 to 115 pounds. The exact amount and type of food will depend on your dog’s sex, activity level, and age.

Common Bernese Mountain Dog Health Issues

The Bernese Mountain Dog breed is particularly prone to digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, and lack of appetite, as well as joint problems including arthritis, elbow dysplasia, degenerative issues, and osteosarcoma. Our data shows that 56% of Bernese Mountain Dog owners reported digestive issues. The risk for these health issues increases with age.

Additionally, 42% of owners reported joint problems. Finally, 24% of Bernese Mountain Dog owners indicated their dog struggles with ear infections caused by allergies, ear mites, or contact dermatitis. If you have concerns about any of these health issues, consult your veterinarian.

Resources for Bernese Owners

Whether you’re a current Bernese Mountain Dog dog owner or you’re considering adopting a Berner, Sniffspot is here to lend a helping hand. Here are some of the most relevant resources for Bernese Mountain Dog owners.

• Most Popular Bernese Mountain Dog Names
• Best Dog Rescues and Shelters
• Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America

Sources:

• Bernese Mountain Dog Breed Information. (American Kennel Club)
• Bernese Mountain Dog Breed Health. (PetMD)

Connecting with Other Bernese Owners

Connecting with fellow Bernese Mountain Dog owners is a fantastic resource for both new and seasoned pet parents. Sharing experiences, tips, and advice makes navigating the joys and challenges of owning this affectionate breed so much easier. The Sniffspot community is filled with passionate Bernese owners happy to share their knowledge.

According to our community, 69% of Bernese Mountain Dog owners believe this breed is a great choice for first-time dog owners. This is largely thanks to their affectionate nature and moderate exercise needs, making them suitable companions for families and individuals alike. As one owner noted, “They are totally devoted to their owners. I have had five Bernese Mountain Dogs. All have been soul mates.”

Engaging with other Bernese owners can also offer valuable insights into effective training methods. Many owners emphasize the importance of positive reinforcement and consistent routines. As one community member shared, “Consistency is key. Use positive reinforcement as they are a very sensitive breed and do not respond well to harsh punishments.” This approach not only helps with training but also strengthens the bond between you and your Berner.

Exchanging information about grooming and health is another huge benefit. Bernese Mountain Dogs require high-maintenance grooming due to their thick double coat. Many owners recommend brushing at least twice a week to maintain coat health. Discussing common health issues, such as digestive problems and joint issues, can help owners stay informed and proactive.

Ready to connect with other Bernese Mountain Dog enthusiasts? Consider joining local breed clubs or online forums. The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America is a great resource for events, training classes, and support networks. Sharing your adventures on Sniffspot is another wonderful way to connect with other Bernese owners and discover enriching experiences for your dog.

Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

Explore spots near me

Related Articles

• Bernese Mountain Dog: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners | Sniffspot
• Meet the Bernese Mountain Dog: Essential Tips from Owners