Each month we will be shining a light on different dog breeds in our regular series, Dog Breed of the Month. Next up, we take a look at everything you need to know about Bernese Mountain Dogs — including why they are brilliant for families.
Considering adopting a Bernese Mountain Dog? From interesting facts to what kind of owner is right for them, keep reading to find out all you need to know...
Is a Bernese Mountain Dog a good family dog?
Famed for being affectionate and good-natured, Bernese Mountain Dogs are believed to be one of the least aggressive dogs towards humans — making them excellent family dogs. Thanks to their calm spirit and willingness to play, they are brilliant companions for young children. They have been described by The Kennel Club as "a kind and devoted family dog".
Do Bernese Mountain Dogs suffer from any health problems?
"Unfortunately, this beautiful breed does suffer from health problems, including hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy (a spinal disease causing hind limb weakness and eventually paralysis) and cancers, particularly an aggressive form called histiocytic sarcoma, among others," PDSA Vet, Lynne James, tells Country Living.
"Prospective puppy owners should ask to see the results of these tests, and also the medical history of any potential puppy’s parents and grandparents. Speak to your vet for further advice on what the test results could mean for your puppy."
Are Bernese Mountain Dogs expensive to own?
Bernese Mountain Dogs are relatively expensive pets to welcome and maintain. According to the PDSA, their health insurance bills can be expensive, as can the food they eat.
Lynne tells us: "You'll need to mindful that Bernese Mountain Dogs can be expensive dogs to own, not least because of the amount of food they need! The cost of insurance as well as vet fees are also typically higher, due to their larger breed and some of the health conditions they are prone to."
Can Bernese Mountain Dogs tolerate hot weather?
While Bernese Mountain Dogs can live in hot weather, they will need a little help from their owners to keep cool and comfortable when it's warm.
"They have a beautiful thick coat, which needs brushing regularly – owners have a lot of loose hair to deal with," Lynne explains. "Their thick coat and body size means bad weather won't bother them – they'll still need their walks in the rain and snow, even if we'd rather not venture outside. But they can sometimes struggle in the heat, so you'll need to take care they don't overheat on days when the temperature rises."
8 reasons Bernese Mountain Dogs are the best family dogs
- They are excellent guard dogs
- They are known to be great guardians
- Bernese Mountain Dogs get on very well with children
- They will easily welcome newcomers to the home, as long as they've been taught socialisation training
- They have an even-temper and a calm disposition
- They have a strong desire to keep family members safe
- These pups are easy to train
- Bernese Mountain Dogs want to please their owners, so are always up for a fun game together
Do Bernese Mountain Dogs shed a lot?
The friendly Bernese Mountain Dog will need to be groomed at least every two weeks, due to its thick, heavy coat. They shed moderately all year, so keep their fur soft and tidy by brushing it every day.
Do Bernese Mountain Dogs need a lot of space?
Lynne explains: "Bernese Mountain Dogs were originally bred in Switzerland to herd cattle and pull carts as well as being family watchdogs. They are large dogs, up to 65kg in weight when fully grown, so need a lot of space and exercise."
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24 indestructible dog toys for aggressive chewers
KONG Tires Durable Rubber Chew Toy and Treat Dispenser for Power Chewers
This tyre-shaped chew toy has been made from durable rubber, so it's perfect for determined chewers. It also gives owners the chance to fill the inside with tasty treats, too. Available in two sizes for you to choose the best for your breed.
READ MORE: 6 dog games great for training and bonding
Built for durability, this bright red dog toy will offer your four-legged friend mental and physical stimulation. Starting from £9, it's a real steal buy.
Made from hemp and recycled cotton, this rope ring's tough fibres work to clean your pup's teeth while also being a whole lot of fun to play with.
Soft yet durable, this cute grey bear has minimal stuffing and an internal knotted rope skeleton.
One of the toughest dog balls on the market, this sweet 'planet' design has been made with award-winning Orbee Tuff material. Certain to provide hours of fun...
Ideal for dogs who love to swim, this floating fabric toy has a handle and is designed with abrasion-resistant materials for increased durability. Make sure not to forget it on your next beach trip.
This durable rubber mango toy — which can be filled with dog treats — is sure to provide hours of chewing fun. Perfect for small and medium dog breeds.
Keep your dog entertained for hours with this purse-friendly squeaky toy shaped like a carrot. Plus, we love that you can pick this up at the supermarket as you do your weekly food shop or even have it delivered with your groceries.
Give your dog one of their five a day with this sweetcorn chew toy. It has been designed especially for aggressive chewers and is suitable to small, medium, and large dogs in any breeds. We think dogs will love its small sound function.
If your pup is a fiend for peanut butter, you might want to introduce this peanut butter flavour chew toy into their playtime routine. The T-shape allows them to grip it easily with their paws while the raised nubs on it can help keep their teeth clean.
If they prefer the taste of bacon, why not try this double-bend bone toy. It's available in a range of sizes to ensure that your dog doesn't miss out on this tasty treat.
Let the fun commence with this long-lasting squeaker football dog toy. Perfect for keeping your dog entertained in the garden.
This durable wooden stick is great for dogs who love to chew regularly. While keeping your dog occupied for hours, it's also great for their dental hygiene.
Built to last, this fun donut dog toy has been made from high-quality material and will not wear down dogs' teeth.
This bright fetch toy is ideal for interactive fun. It has a squeaker and a practical handle for throwing at your pup. We're certain they'll love this!
Made from three strands of heavy duty tightly woven rope, this traditional rope toy is perfect for medium or larger breeds and can withstand some serious pulling and tugging.
This chew toy encourages healthy, non-destructive chewing habits with dogs. And it also has a tasty flavour to it too.
Great for young puppies, this gentle bone will help teething pups who have not yet formed any adult teeth.
We love this unique toy, which is great for chew sessions and endless fun. Top tip: fill with peanut butter to extend playtime and satisfy chewing instincts.
In a blush pink, this large onion toy is surprisingly durable. Best of all, it's currently on sale for less than £3.50.
Another great option if your dog loves to play fetch, this durable fetch stick toy not only makes it easier for them to spot where their stick has landed when you're out on a walk or a trip to the park. But it also works for all dogs of all sizes.
Looking for a durable rubber frisbee? Well, look no further, as this red style from KONG is perfect for keeping your four-legged friends fit and healthy.
Another great frisbee option is this XL one. It might even be easier for your four legged friend to grip and it's also currently on sale.
Made by Arm & Hammer, this gorilla-shaped toy is infused with baking soda to safely help with bad breath. Add in the fact that it is extremely durable and has a built-in treats dispenser and we can see why so many shoppers have given it five-star reviews.
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
