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Described as calm, kind and strong AKC, Bernese Mountain Dogs have a lovable temperament that makes them wonderful family pets. While they are not suitable for all owners, most people will find the Bernese Mountain Dog a great companion and family member.
we will discuss Bernese Mountain Dog Temperament Below, but first, we’ll explain the breed’s history and basic physical properties. This should help you determine if they would make a good pet for you.
Before deciding to add a Bernese Mountain Dog to your family, be sure to carefully consider your lifestyle and what you want from your dog.
History and Physical Characteristics of the Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs get their name from their birthplace – the canton of Bern (basically a canton is similar to a canton or territory) – a charming region tucked away in the Swiss Alps.earliest member of the breed undertake various responsibilitiesincluding tending livestock, pulling carts, and perhaps most importantly, being a domestic companion.
The breed almost completely disappeared in the early 1900s, but they regained popularity and were recognized by the AKC in 1937.Unfortunately, due to the dwindling population size, as well as the size of the gene pool, modern Bernese Mountain Dogs are susceptible to a variety of different genetic diseases health problems.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are large animals, ranging in weight from 70 to 110 pounds, with females significantly smaller than males. They have a nice tricolour coat and usually have a “Swiss Cross” on the chest. The Bernese Mountain Dog’s coat is long and thick, which makes them great for cold weather, but reduces their ability to withstand extreme heat.
Bernese Mountain Dog Intelligence and Training
Because of their eventual size, it is important to provide basic obedience training to young Bernese Mountain Dog puppies. Fortunately, it’s not difficult, and they tend to be good at the task.
Bernese Mountain Dogs tend to take a moment to think before executing commands, which has led some owners to underestimate their intelligence. But in reality, they are very sharp.Most Bernese Mountain Dogs are easy to train and eager learn new dog commandsthey tend to be quick to accept.
But intelligence isn’t the only trait that makes Bernese Mountain Dogs easy to train: they’re also very loving canines, very keen to please their owners. This helps give them the motivation they need to learn, process and refine new commands.
Bernese Mountain Dog Energy Levels and Prey Drive
Bernese Mountain Dogs are not couch potatoes that like to doze off. Instead, they want enough time to run, jump, play, sniff and explore.they are Not suitable for apartment living; They want a large, fenced yard where they can roam.
You need to be careful when walking your Bernese Mountain Dog, taking him to the park or introducing him to other pets (especially small pets) as they are very developed prey drive. This allows them to chase squirrels, rabbits, cats and small dogs in the blink of an eye. This can have tragic consequences for smaller animals due to the size of the breed.
Early and continued socialization may help reduce the Bernese Mountain Dog’s prey drive, but it’s unlikely to go away completely, and you’ll always need to be mindful of other animals you’ll encounter when leaving the house.
See also: Puppy Socialization: How to properly socialize your large puppy
Sensitivity and independence of the Bernese Mountain Dog
Despite their large size and muscular build, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a sensitive soul. They do not respond well to harsh training methods or sharp corrections, and they usually respond to the treatment with a pronounced withdrawal of shame. Instead, you will always want to focus on training protocols that emphasize positive reinforcement.
And because Bernese Mountain Dogs are also very loyal and loving to their family, they don’t like left alone For a long time – they wanted to spend as much time with their family as possible. They can be destructive if forced to wait in an empty house all day while the family goes to work or school, and they’re not the kind of dog that’s content to live alone in the backyard.
Another dog (who gets along well with your Bernese Mountain Dog) may help reduce some of the problems associated with separation anxiety, it’s not a panacea. Owners who are away from home for long periods of time should simply look for different breeds.
Bernese Mountain Dog Temperament
Generally speaking, Bernese Mountain Dogs are friendly, fun-loving, easygoing dogs who will always have a good life. Far from being nervous or rigid, these dogs often have playful personalities and are often described by owners as being a bit goofy. In fact, these dogs mature slowly, which often causes them to behave like a puppy long after they reach their adult size.
Bernese Mountain Dogs generally get along well with children, although their large size and carefree nature may present a minor safety concern. While they’re not aggressive toward children, Burns (as they’re often called) are large and incoherent when excited. This can lead to them accidentally knocking a kid over during an overzealous game.
Strangers may be greeted at a distance or warmly, depending on the individual dog in question. Most Bernese Mountain Dogs tend to protect their home and family from threats, but they are not as protective as many other breeds.
Have you ever owned a Bernese Mountain Dog? How is your effect? What do you like and dislike about the breed’s temperament? We’d love to hear about all your experiences in the comments below.
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