Everything You Need to Know About a Bernese Mountain Dog Rescue

The Bernese mountain dog is a big, but very lovable dog. Honestly, this dog looks a lot like a teddy bear. This type of mountain dog has beautiful markings and a thick, strong coat. They usually are quite strong, but even with that quality, they are just big, energetic, and playful dogs.

If you choose to adopt a Bernese dog, you will need to make sure they are getting vigorous, daily exercise. Just putting them outside won’t be enough. You should also make sure this mountain dog is being included in activities.

They are very social and love to be part of everything that is going on. You will find that the Bernese dog is easily trained if they have positive reinforcement. 

Facts About the Bernese Dog Breed

If would like to get a Bernese mountain dog rescue, there are some basic facts that you may want to know about this breed. Some of the basic facts that you should know include the following: 

• Adult Height: 25 to 27.5 inches from their feet to shoulders (males) and 23 to 26 inches from their feet to shoulders (females)

• Average Weight: 80 to 115 pounds (males) and 70 to 95 pounds (females)

• Bernese Moutain Dog Lifespan: 7 to 10 years 

With these facts, you can start deciding whether this is the size of the dog that you would like to bring into your family. Some people prefer smaller dogs. However, if you like larger dogs, this might be the perfect dog breed for you. 

Origin of the Bernese Dog

The Bernese dog of today originated back at the beginning of the 1900s. They came around first in the Bern, Switzerland region. However, before that, they had ancestors that came to Europe with the Roman Invaders. 

It is likely that this type of mountain dog worked on Swiss farms a long time ago. When farming started to be around less in the 1800s, citizens of Switzerland wanted to preserve this breed. This is when they came up with a club for them named Berner. After many dog classes and shows, the Bernese mountain dog was noticed by the European dog communities. They named these dogs Bernese starting in 1904. 

The first time the Bernese dogs were found in America was in 1926. The American Kennel Club first recognized the Bernese dog in 1937. 

Bernese Dog Temperament

The Bernese dog breed is very smart. They are also confident, calm, good-natured, easy-to-train, and patient. If you are looking for a loyal dog that is also active and playful, then the Bernese dog might be just what are you looking for. 

If you have children or plan to have children, you will likely be looking for a dog breed that is great with children. As long as they are raised well, this type of mountain dog is great with children. The Bernese dog usually gets along great with other animals, too. 

Even though these dogs usually have great temperaments, they are often cautious when strangers are around. They might also take a bit of time to warm up to you, as they are often shy when first meeting new people. After getting to know you, they will be more social.

Grooming for Bernese Dogs

Bernese mountain dogs have a long and thick double coat. It is important to know that they do shed quite a bit. If you are going to get a Bernese dog, you should brush them a minimum of 3 to 4 days every week. This will help to get the excess dirt and fur off. You will only need to give a Bernese dog a bath once every 3 months. However, if they get dirtier than usual, they will need a bath sooner. 

Bernese Dog and Exercising

People who own a Bernese dog will also need to make sure they are getting enough exercise. You will need to take your Bernese mountain dog for 2 to 4 longer walks every day. These walks should last from 10 to 20 minutes. You will also need to make sure they are getting a minimum of 30 minutes of intense exercise every day. 

These dogs don’t mind the cold weather. Most of them usually enjoy playing in the snow. However, during the summer, you should only have them outside for extended periods of time at night and morning. This way they aren’t outside long in the hot weather. 

Where to Get Bernese Dogs

If you are thinking about getting a Bernese dog, you can check out a Bernese mountain dog rescue. You can also check pet stores and breeders, as well. 

Conclusion

There is a lot to learn about Bernese dogs. However, now that you have all of this information, you can decide if you would like to have this type of mountain dog as a pet and as a friend. They are lovable and energetic, so you will need to ensure they have plenty of exercises. 

Do Bernese mountain dogs shed?

The Bernese dog does have a longer and thicker coat than many other dog breeds. They have a double coat and undercoat, as well. They do shed quite a bit and even more when it is shedding season. Shedding season is usually during the spring and again in the fall. You should brush a Bernese dog regularly to help get rid of excess shedding hair.

How much is a Bernese mountain dog?

If you are looking into getting a Bernese dog, you will probably be spending between $800 to $2,000. If you are getting a Bernese dog with excellent lineage, you might pay between $2,500 to $10,000, possibly more.

How big do Bernese mountain dogs get?

This type of mountain dog is quite big. They can be more than 27 inches from their feet to their shoulders. If you are looking for a larger dog, you might want to get a Bernese dog. Male Bernese dogs can be up to 115 pounds or a bit more.