One of the four Sennenhund or Swiss Mountain breeds, the Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy is a large working breed that originated in the canton of Bern in the Swiss Alps. These fluffy kind giants weigh between 70 and 115 pounds and they are distinguished by their characteristic tricolor coat of black white and rust.
Table of Contents
They have a reputation as loyal family companions because of their gentle and calm disposition. In addition to being smart and reasonably easy to train Bernese Mountain Dogs are a great fit for active families with young children. To pull carts, herd livestock and defend their families from predators were their original purposes in breeding.
These loyal dogs make excellent working dogs, therapy dogs, service animals and companions even though they were originally imported to the US in the 1920s for agricultural labor. Do some research on the health issues and shorter lifespan of the Bernese Mountain Dog breed before bringing a puppy home.
A few extra years have been added to the lifespan of Bernese Mountain Dogs thanks to the tireless efforts of breed conservationists. However compared to other dog breeds they have the highest risk of developing canine cancer. Regretfully the lifespan of a Bernese Mountain Dog is limited to six or eight years.
The History of the Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy
One old breed that sticks out as being particularly adaptable, well-traveled and influential in the development of many Mastiff-type dogs including Berners is the Molosser. If you want to know about Russell then check out our detailed article on Short Legged Jack Russell | Short Legged Jack Russell Terrier
The theory behind the development of the four breeds of Swiss Sennenhunds Appenzeller Entlebucher Berner and Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is that the farm dogs from the Swiss Alps crossed with the Molosser or Mastiff-type dogs that the Romans brought with them when they invaded the mountains in the first century B. C.
Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy is most likely silently tucked away on small holdings in the Alps where they have been employed on Swiss farms for over 2000 years. They have stood guard, dragged carts, accompanied livestock and offered devoted company to owners.
The need for a powerful dog that could herd cattle and pull a cart full of goods decreased when the number of agricultural workers in Switzerland dropped to 36% by 1888. But the Swiss started a dog club called Berna in 1899 because they were interested in keeping their original breeds. Among the members were breeders of various purebred canines.
A show at Ostermundigen in 1902 organized by the Swiss Dog Club brought attention to the Swiss mountain breeds. A couple of years later the breeds made significant progress thanks to a number of events: the Swiss Dog Club sponsored a class for Swiss shepherd dogs which included Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy at an international dog show in Bern.
Additionally this was the first year that the term Bernese was applied to these dogs. The Swiss Kennel Club officially acknowledged Bernese Mountain Dogs as a breed in that same year. World War I saw the priority of war operations over dog shows and breeding. Still the American Kennel Club had not yet recognized the breed when the first Bernese Mountain Dogs were exported following the war first to Holland and then to the US.
In 1936 the first litter of Berner pups was born in England where two British breeders had started importing the breed. A girl and a boy Berners were brought from Switzerland to Louisiana by the Glen Shadow Kennel in the same year. The AKC informed Glen Shadow in early 1937 that the Working Class had come to accept the Bernese Mountain Dog as a new breed.
The breed’s progress outside of its native country was once more halted by World War II but after 1945 importation and registration in the US started up again. The Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy Club of America was established in 1968 with 43 registered Berners and 62 members. After three years the club boasted over a hundred members.
The breed was reintroduced in Great Britain in the meantime after going extinct in England during World War II. In 1981 the America branch of the Bernese Mountain Dog Club joined the AKC. The current Bernese Mountain Dog standard was adopted by the AKC in 1990.
All About Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy
The flamboyant tricolor coat and white Swiss cross on the chest of the Bernese Mountain Dog also known as the Berner or Berner Sennenhund in their native Switzerland make them instantly recognizable. These elegant kind dogs have a long history of being employed in Switzerland as herders and draft dogs.
Beneath that gorgeous coat is a robust dog that is well suited for hard labor. In the past the Berner was an essential component of agricultural life guarding families driving cattle and pulling carts full of supplies to be sold in neighboring villages.
The early 20th century saw them almost go extinct despite being well-mannered and diligent workers as farmers had access to alternative modes of transportation. Luckily there were some enthusiasts who worked to keep the breed alive.
The Berner has an amazing disposition to go along with its stunning appearance. They have a reputation for being clever, devoted, loving and eager to please. Give them time to process what you want them to do and they will be easy to train. Above all they approach life with an optimistic outlook.
Bernese Mountain Dog Size
80 to 115 pounds is the average weight for male Bernese Mountain Dogs and they typically measure 25 to 28 inches at the shoulder. Females are 70–95 pounds in weight and 23–26 inches tall. Breed members can vary in size.
Bernese Mountain Dog Personality
A loving, perceptive and vigilant dog is the Berner. They are also patient, peaceful and kind. They thrive when involved in family activities and prefer to be with their relatives. One of their most distinguishing characteristics is their size and it goes without saying that early training is necessary to teach them appropriate behavior in the house and around humans.
Berners mature slowly, reaching adult size well before mental maturity. Berners are fiercely loyal to their family even though they aren’t typically violent. It is crucial to introduce Berner puppies to a diverse range of individuals, animals and circumstances because they have a tendency to be reserved and reserved towards newcomers.
Your Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy will develop into a well-rounded dog with the help of socialization. It’s a great idea to enroll them in a kindergarten class for puppies. Regularly inviting guests and bringing your dog to crowded parks, dog-friendly stores and leisurely walks to socialize with neighbors will also help your dog develop social skills.
Bernese Mountain Dog Health
Because of careless breeding practices Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy can occasionally have health problems. While not all Burners will develop any or all of these illnesses it’s still vital to know about them if you’re thinking about adopting one of these dogs.
Cancer: Different types of cancer can result in early death and affect a lot of Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy. A sore or bump that swells abnormally sores that won’t heal bleeding from any bodily opening and trouble breathing or urinating are among the symptoms. Surgery chemotherapy and medication are used as cancer treatments.
Hip Dysplasia: An inherited disorder known as hip dysplasia causes the thigh bone to not fit snugly into the hip joint. Not all dogs exhibit obvious signs of discomfort; some may limp or show pain in one or both of their back legs. The most reliable method of diagnosing the issue is X-ray screening. In either case as the dog gets older arthritis may develop. There is no way to breed dogs with hip dysplasia.
Elbow Dysplasia: A degenerative condition common to large-breed dogs similar to hip dysplasia. Its cause is thought to be aberrant growth and development that leaves the joint weak and deformed. The illness can range in severity; the dog may only get arthritis or become paralyzed. Surgery weight loss medical supervision and anti-inflammatory drugs are all part of the treatment.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): Slow degradation of the retina is the hallmark of a group of eye conditions known as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). Affected dogs become night-blind early in the disease and as it worsens they eventually lose their daytime vision. As long as their environment does not change, many affected dogs adjust well to having little or no vision.
Portosystemic Shunts (PSS): Blood flow abnormalities between the liver and the body are known as portosystemic shunts (PSS). That’s problematic because the liver gets rid of drugs, metabolizes nutrients and detoxifies the body.
Neurobehavioral abnormalities, anorexia hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) irregular gastrointestinal problems, obstructions in the urinary tract drug intolerance and stunted growth are just a few of the symptoms. Typically symptoms start to show up before the age of two. In the long run both corrective surgery and a particular diet can be beneficial.
Von Willebrand Disease: A blood condition that affects the clotting process this disease is present in both humans and dogs. Affected dogs may experience bleeding gums, nosebleeds, prolonged bleeding following surgery, prolonged bleeding during heat cycles or following whelping and in rare cases blood in the stool.
This disorder is incurable and typically diagnosed in children between the ages of three and five. Treatment options for it however include suturing or cauterizing wounds receiving transfusions prior to surgery and avoiding certain drugs.
Panosteitis: Also referred to as pano this illness results in self-limiting lameness. Between five and twelve months of age the dog may begin to limp initially on one leg then on the other until the limping stops. Typically there are no lasting consequences. For a while if the dog is in pain, rest and limited activity may be required. Feeding your Berner a premium dog food without excessive calcium or protein content which some people think could lead to pano is the best thing you can do for them. Find out what your veterinarian recommends.
Gastric Torsion: Known by the name bloat gastric torsion is a potentially fatal illness that can strike big chest-deep dogs like Bernese Mountain Dogs. This is particularly true if they are fed one large meal per day, consume a lot of water, eat quickly and then engage in vigorous exercise right afterward.
Bloat is more prevalent in senior dogs. Torsion happens when the stomach twists after becoming enlarged due to gas or air. There is an obstruction to the normal return of blood to the heart and the dog is unable to vomit or belch to release the excess air in the stomach. Canine shock results from a drop in blood pressure. The dog may not survive if emergency medical care is not given.
If your dog is drooling excessively retching without vomiting and has a distended abdomen you should suspect bloat. In addition they might be weak, agitated, depressed and have a fast heartbeat. Seeking veterinary care for your dog promptly is crucial if you notice any of these symptoms.
Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy Care
Life in an apartment or condo is not for Berners. The ideal option is a house with a sizable well-fenced yard. The Berner breed has a lot of energy since they are working dogs. They require at least thirty minutes of intense exercise per day in addition to yard play three times that amount to maintain this robust dog in peak condition.
The Berner is a perfect match for cold climates because of their elegant thick coat. They adore having fun in the snow. They are more vulnerable to heat stroke though because of their size and black coat. Permit them to work out only in the early morning or late at night when the temperature is lower and don’t let them work out vigorously in the summer heat.
During the hot days either keep them cool outside in the shade or indoors with fans and air conditioning. If you’re raising a Berner puppy you’ll need to be especially careful. Berners like many large-breed dogs grow quickly between the ages of four and seven months which puts them at risk for injury and bone problems.
Their optimal growth is prevented by eating a high-quality low-calorie diet. Furthermore, until the Berner puppy reaches at least two years old and their joints have fully developed, avoid letting them play or run on hard surfaces (like pavement) , jump excessively or pull heavy objects. Both regular grass play and puppy agility classes which involve one-inch jumps are acceptable.
Bernese Mountain Dogs Feeding
A large breed with high energy and exercise requirements like Bernese Mountain Dogs should have a diet designed specifically for them. When unsure about what to feed your Bernese Mountain Dog or how much food is appropriate speak with your veterinarian or a qualified nutritionist. As they grow into adulthood and old age their dietary requirements will also change. Make sure you are meeting these dietary needs.
Color and Grooming of Bernese Mountain Dogs
The Berner coat is exquisite; it is a thick double coat with an undercoat made of wool and a longer outer coat. Jet-black hair with rich rust and brilliant white highlights covers most of Berners body giving him his distinctive tricolored appearance.
Usually there is a white blaze between the eyes a white marking on the tip of the tail and a white marking on the chest that resembles an inverted cross. However there is a cost to beauty and in this case that is the Berners tendency to shed. They shed a little throughout the year and a lot in the spring and fall.
Brushing multiple times a week keeps the coat tidy and free of tangles while also assisting in the reduction of hair in the home. Regular bathing approximately every three months will keep them looking presentable. To get rid of bacteria and tartar buildup give your Berners teeth a brushing at least twice or three times a week. It’s even better to brush every day to avoid gum disease and bad breath.
If your dog’s nails don’t wear down, naturally trim them once a month to avoid painful tears and other issues. If they click on the floor they are too long. Due to the blood vessels found in dog toenails, cutting them too deeply can result in bleeding. The next time your dog sees the nail clippers coming out it might not cooperate. Ask a veterinarian or groomer for advice if you’re not skilled at trimming your dog’s nails.
Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy Price | Bernese Mountain Dog Prices
In addition to the unending love and devotion these dogs can provide, adopting a Bernese Mountain Dog entails taking on a number of responsibilities. We will go over some of the initial costs associated with bringing your puppy home including food vet visits, vaccinations, grooming and other ancillary costs.
Adoption
$500 to $5000. Adopting a Bernese puppy from a shelter or rescue group typically costs between $50 and $500. Adoption fees frequently pay for the puppy’s medical expenses such as vaccinations and microchipping prior to the puppy finding a permanent home.
Initial Costs
$250–$1000 are the initial costs. Purchasing a few necessities is necessary when preparing your house for a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy; this initial supply run can cost anywhere from $250 to $1000.
A crate for comfortable resting places, a variety of toys to keep your new pet occupied, a comfortable bed, a collar and leash for walks and food and water bowls should all be part of your shopping spree. Don’t forget to add the training and grooming supplies to help lay the groundwork for a companion who is well-mannered and behaves himself.
Microchipping Cost
$50 to $75. Pet microchipping is a small expense that can make a big difference. The microchip may save your life if your dear friend disappears by assisting you in locating and reuniting with them. Compared to collars or tags which can be lost or taken off, microchips offer a reliable means of identification that increases the likelihood of a happy reunion.
Cost of Vaccinations
$75 to $100. There are three mandatory veterinary check-ups during your Bernese Mountain Dog puppy’s first year of life in order to complete those vital shots. Usually a cycle of core shots costs between $75 and $100. By providing protection against common dog illnesses these vaccinations help ensure that your fur ball has a happy and healthy life.
Extra Cost
between $200 and $300. A responsible pet parent will budget extra money for unforeseen costs associated with their companion. Dog walking, dog sitting boarding and even those impromptu trips to the park can be covered by setting aside an extra $200 to $300 per year in your budget. Having this cash cushion can help you make sure you can give your pet the best care and experiences possible whether life gets busy or you want to treat them to some extra fun.
Bernese Mountain Dog Puppies For Sale | Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy Breeders
Give adoption from rescue groups or shelters top priority in order to give a dog in need a loving home. However picking a trustworthy breeder is essential if you’re looking for Bernese Mountain Dog puppies.
Make sure the breeder prioritizes the health of their dogs and adheres to ethical standards by doing extensive research. Reputable breeders give careful consideration to their dogs temperament and overall health, perform any required medical examinations and provide their puppies with a loving environment.
At www.bernesemountaindogsranch.com , they share a natural love with dogs. They are a small family breeder of registered Bernese Mountain Dog puppies. They have primary jobs so breeding puppies is for the sake of love and habits only, as they have a long family background of the Breed from childhood and have been breeding them for over 18 yrs and that gives them a good experience in the field of breeding and caring for the puppies.
Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy Rescue
Purchasing a Bernese Mountain Dog frequently occurs without a clear understanding of the responsibilities involved in owning one. Along with several rescues that we have not listed there are a lot of Berners in need of adoption or fostering. You can find a Berners rescue by getting in touch with the national or local breed clubs if you can’t find one listed for your area.
The America Bernese Mountain Dog Club
Swiss Mountain Dog Rescue of the Chattahoochee Valley. BFW Assistance. BARC Group Inc. Breed Associations of Bernese Mountain Dogs. One of the most crucial choices you will make when getting a new dog is choosing a trustworthy breeder.
Healthy well-socialized puppies that will make wonderful companions are the goal of reputable breeders. They will check the health of their breeding stock, socialize their puppies from an early age and offer you lifetime support. On the other hand backyard breeders are more focused on turning a profit than on raising happy healthy dogs.
Dogs from backyard breeders are more likely to have behavioral and health problems because they might not properly socialize or screen their breeding stock for health issues. Locating a trustworthy breeder can be facilitated by the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America.
Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy Names
Top Bernese Mountain Dog Names
These are some of our overall favorite Bernese mountain dog names.
- Alpine
- Asher
- Bear
- Bentley
- Bernard
- Duchess
- Heidi
- Max
- Moose
- Ruby
- Rex
- Tank
Male Bernese Mountain Dog Names
Larger-than-life masculine names work well for the massive Bernese mountain dog.
- Archer
- Asher
- Austin
- Baxter
- Beau
- Bernard
- Bentley
- Bo
- Boomer
- Bruno
- Buddy
- Chance
- Charlie
- Chase
- Cody
- Cooper
- Dax
- Dexter
- Diesel
- Duke
- Everett
- Finn
- Graham
- Guinness
- Gus
- Henry
- Hudson
- Hunter
- Jack
- Leo
- Lincoln
- Max
- Milo
- Murphy
- Oliver
- Parker
- Sam
- Scout
- Teddy
- Tucker
Female Bernese Mountain Dog Names
Though a touch smaller than the boys, female Bernese mountain dogs are still very large, which means giving them an extra girly name can be fun.
- Addie
- Annie
- Arya
- Ava
- Avery
- Bella
- Bonnie
- Carolina
- Carrie
- Charlotte
- Clara
- Cora
- Daisy
- Dawn
- Delilah
- Dolce
- Emily
- Eve
- Evie
- Freya
- Genevieve
- Harmony
- Harper
- Heidi
- Isabel
- Josephina
- Josie
- Lily
- Lucy
- Luna
- Olive
- Rosie
- Ruby
- Sadie
- Savannah
- Stella
- Valentina
- Victoria
- Willow
- Zoe
Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy Pics | Cute Bernese Mountain Dog Puppies
Conclusion
In conclusion a puppy from a Bernese Mountain Dog breed is a wonderful addition to any household because of its gentle, devoted and loving disposition. These puppies develop into big calm and muscular dogs that are excellent family and individual companions.
Although they stand out due to their eye-catching tricolored coat and amiable disposition they do need appropriate training, socialization and consistent exercise to thrive. A Bernese Mountain Dog puppy can brighten your life and provide companionship for years to come with the correct upbringing and care. They also grow into devoted and loving adults.
