The Bernese Mountain Dog breed, also called Berner Sennenhund or Bouvier Bernois, cuts quite a dashing figure. Bernese Mountain Dogs have distinctive tricolor (black, tan, and white) coats. The white fur of the dogs' undersides supposedly resembles the white Swiss cross, at least in some animals. But beneath the stylish coat lives a hard-working dog. Sturdy and strong, these dogs at one time were used as draught animals (like oxen). They hauled carts of groceries in the mountains of their native Berne, Switzerland.
Here are the characteristics of the Bernese Mountain Dog breed as determined by the American Kennel Club's published breed standard.
Bernese Mountain Dog�s Behavior
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Recommended for: family pets
Descended from draught animals, Bernese Mountain Dogs need plenty of exercise and outdoor time. The Bernese Mountain Dog breed tends to be affectionate, loyal, faithful and intelligent. They make wonderful family pets. Just don't provoke these dogs. When on the attack, they tend to be swift and efficient. (Source: Wikipedia)
Remember that breed only provides a general clue as to any individual dog's actual behavior. Make sure to get to know dogs well before bringing them into your home.
The Bernese Mountain Dog�s Physical Characteristics
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- Size: Males: 25-27� inches; females: 23-26 inches
- Coat: thick, moderately long and either straight or slightly wavy
- Color: tri-color, jet black with markings of clear white--especially on the underside and chest--and a tan color that the American Kennel Club's breed standard calls "a rich rust"
- Eyes: slightly oval-shaped, dark brown eyes
- Ears: medium-sized, high-set, triangular, with rounded tips
- Skull: broad, flat-topped, and slightly furrowed
- Muzzle: straight
- Nose: black
- Tail: bushy
The Bernese Mountain Dog�s Origins and History
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The following historical facts on the Bernese Mountain Dog breed are based on information from Wikipedia.
Country/Region of Origin: Switzerland
Original purpose: cow and sheep herding, hauling carts of milk cans and farm goods
Name: The Bernese Mountain Dog breed is said to have been developed in the canton of Berne in Switzerland. The breed is especially well suited for the mountainous terrain there. Also called Berner Sennenhund or Bouvier Bernois.
Historical notes: Legend has it that the breed is descended from the molossus war dogs of the Roman legions. By the end of the nineteenth century the breed had nearly disappeared. The Swiss breeder Franz Schertenleib gathered the few remaining dogs and revived the breed. Today, the breed suffers from inbreeding. Stillbirths, cancers, kidney disease, autoimmune diseases, and elbow and hip displacements are relatively common. It is relatively rare for a Bernese Mountain Dog to live longer than ten years.