🐾 Quick History
The Bernese Mountain Dog, also known as the Bernese Bouvier, is a breed of dog that originated in the mountains of Appenzell and the canton of Bern in Switzerland. This working dog has historically been used for herding livestock, pulling carts, and protecting farms. It is one of the three Swiss mountain dog breeds, alongside the Entlebucher Mountain Dog and the Valais Mountain Dog. Its role in the daily life of Swiss farmers has allowed this breed to develop into a robust and loyal dog, perfectly suited to working conditions at altitude. The Bernese Bouvier is now especially appreciated for its gentle nature and affectionate character, although its imposing size can sometimes be intimidating.
🐕 Breed Profile
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, massive, and powerful dog with an imposing appearance and a majestic demeanor. It is easily recognizable by its tricolor coat (black, white, and rust) and its distinctive markings. Although it has an impressive build, it maintains a gentle, friendly nature and is particularly devoted to its family. Its coat is dense and double, allowing it to withstand the cold and harsh conditions of the mountains.
🔍 In Brief
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Weight: 35-50 kg (males), 35-45 kg (females)
- Height: 64-70 cm (males), 58-66 cm (females)
- Life Expectancy: 7-10 years
- Physical Activity Needs: 1 to 1.5 hours per day
❤️ Personality & Compatibility
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Protective: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
Compatibility:
- With children: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- With animals: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- With strangers: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- In an apartment: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
> Good to know: Although this breed needs a minimum of daily exercise, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a rather calm and balanced dog at home. It makes an excellent family companion, very affectionate and protective. However, its size and weight should be taken into account for living spaces.
🛠 Hygiene & care
- Maintenance difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Maintenance frequency: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 1000-1500 €
- Average annual cost: 600-1000 € (food, veterinary care, accessories)
💡 Fun fact: The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of the most popular breeds in Switzerland and is also used as a therapy dog due to its calm and patient nature. It makes an excellent companion for those looking for a loyal and protective dog.
