The Bernese Mountain Dog comes from the Swiss Alps and it is a large-sized breed that is ranked high when it comes to watchdogs who are also kids-friendly.
Origin
The breed was originally used as an all purpose farm dog for guarding property and to drive dairy cattle long distances from the farms. During the early 1900s, fanciers exhibited the few examples of the large dogs at shows in Berne, and in 1907 a few breeders from the Burgdorf region founded the first club for this breed – the Schweizerische Dürrbach-Klub.
Description
Weight goes from 80 to 120 lb (35–55 kg) for males and 75 – 100 lb (35–45 kg) for the ladies.
The Bernese mountain dog is often described as a crossover between a Golden Retriever and a St. Bernard, both physically and for their temperament.
These large and heavy dogs come in a distinctive tri-colored coat, black with white chest and rust colored markings above the eyes, sides of mouth, front of legs, and a small amount around the white chest.
The breed is docile, good-natured, self-assured and placid towards strangers. Like all large breed dogs, these pooches should be well socialized when young, and given regular training and activities throughout their lives.
Pros
- excellent watchdog
- even-tempered
- kid friendly
- trainable
Cons
- prone to cancer
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Should I adopt/buy a Bernese Mountain Dog?
If you are in the need for a benevolent large-sized dog that is great with the little ones, but also a fearless watchdog, the Bernese Mountain Dog is certainly the breed to consider.