The Bernese Mtn Dog is a very large, very hairy, wonderful dog. The breed standard for size is males - 25-27.5 inches at the wither (top of the shoulder) 90 to 125 lbs & females 23-26 inches at the wither & 80 to 110 lbs.

These dogs were originally working farm dogs that herded cattle, pulled carts, and were the farmer's daily working companion. These dogs aren't backyard dogs. They require a lot of daily interaction with their owners and a lot of socialization to develop a good steady temperament. Lack of socialization will often result in an overly shy or overly aggressive dog. Obedience classes are a must if you want to have a well mannered dog who doesn't jump on people or drag you down the street at the end of the leash.

They certainly do shed! 365 days a year. If you don't want fur all over everything you need to brush daily. Even then, expect to find stray hairs in your morning omelette & on your clothes. I have 3 males varying from 26 to 27.25 inches & from 98 to 115 lbs. Two of them are rescued dogs.
To find out more about this breed or to locate a breeder or to rescue a dog go to www.bmdca.org or to www.bmdcgs.org .

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Short History of the Breed

Physical Description and Size
Males are about 27" high and 90-120 pounds. Females are quite a bit smaller - 24" high and 70-85 pounds.

Temperament
I can't say enough good things about this breed. Very happy and gentle with their people, children and other animals. Sweet with a clown like personality. They can be a bit shy if they are undersocialized but in general they are very friendly with everyone. They have a special relationship with kids and are very drawn to them -- even when they aren't members of their family. They love to be with you but they don't follow you around. And they are not outdoor dogs. They are lap dogs. Very large lap dogs.

Smart and quiety protective. They make good watch dogs because they have huge barks but they aren't aggressive dogs.

Dog Care
Two walks a day and lots of play time when they are young. Brush or rake their fur once a week and they are fine. They really don't require much grooming. But they do shed. A lot. They love the snow and if you take them snow-shoeing or sledding you should trim the feathers around their paws. Other than that they don't need trims. My 110 pound male eats 2 1/2 cups of good quality dry food a day. Contrary to what people think they don't really eat that much.

(exercise, grooming, diet)

Health Issues and Life Expectancy

Additional Resources
Bernese Mountain - Breed Information

Bernese Mountain Dog Online Community - DogBreed.org