Do you love larger-than-life pet dogs? Look no further than a Bernese mountain dog. They originated in Bern, Switzerland where they were used in agricultural work. They used to help farmers herd their cattle.
Since Bern is an agricultural region, Bernese dogs were often seen dragging carts heavier than them. These carts would be carrying either cheese or chocolate or both which are the main exports of this area.
They made their way to America in 1973 and have become a famous breed worldwide. These adorable balls of fluff are loyal companions and love to be around people. They have a thick coat and therefore need brushing often.
Space
For a Bernese to thrive well, they need an outdoor environment, preferably fenced would be ideal for them. Much as they love to be indoors with you around, remember historically, they are mountain dogs and therefore love to roam about.
Also, given their size, they do well with big space. Otherwise you risk fighting over a couch with your hairy puppy.
Energy
Barnese dogs are moderately energetic which calls for about 30 minutes of daily exercise. Therefore, they will need a spacious space, preferably a fenced backyard to romp around with their favorite person.
If you need it to grow well, don’t deprive it of this daily exercise, otherwise you won’t experience its full potential.
Training
Bernese dogs are confident and calm which makes training them easy. Also, since they love to make their owners proud, they follow instructions easily. However, it’s easy to hurt their feelings.
Therefore, ensure you don’t use harsh training methods. Start with early obedience and socialization classes and slowly upgrade to more instructions.
You want them to learn to be in the same space with other smaller animals and people.
Grooming and Healthy Needs
Since Barnese dogs have a double thick coat, they shed regularly, especially during warm temperatures. You will need to regularly brush them to remove loose hairs and keep them clean.
You also need to regularly wash them with soap and water since the thick coat can harbor dust, dirt and other foreign particles.
Generally, Barnese dogs are healthy but you will need to check it regularly for bloat. Bloat is a potentially fatal condition present in most sizable dog breeds.
As a dog owner, you’ll need to know the signs and symptoms of bloat because it requires immediate attention, else you lose your dog.
The signs include unproductive vomiting, panting, pacing, difficulty when lying down, pale gums, abdomen enlargement, excessive saliva and stomach sensitive to pressure.
In case you notice these signs, immediately call your vet. Also, it is important that you know how to prevent bloat. For instance, you can train your dog to eat slowly rather than fast eating.
Also, put away the stressors, let your vet treat any inflammatory bowel diseases and food allergies. You will also start feeding your puppy small portions of food because a big chunk can block the stomach.
Temperament
It is important that you learn your dog’s temperaments. Bernese dogs are generally indoor dogs but also love outdoor because of their moderate energy requirements and need to play.
They also love to enjoy the outdoors with their favorite people. They love people but also love to herd animals too-from their history. Bernese dogs tend to be distant with strangers.
Last Remark
Barnese dogs are generally healthy dogs and therefore won’t be problematic. Given that their thick double coat that sheds a lot, you will need to brush it more often to remove loose hairs.
Also, it requires frequent washing with soap and water to get rid of dirt, dust and other foreign particles that can get trapped in the thick fur. Also, look out for bloat, which is common in large dog breeds.
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