Bernese Mountain Dog: A Working Breed Built for Cold Weather

The Bernese Mountain Dog, or Berner Sennenhund, hails from Switzerland where it worked on farms pulling carts, guarding livestock, and accompanying dairy farmers. The breed was named after the canton of Bern and is one of four Swiss mountain dog breeds.

These dogs were used to protect pastures, pull milk and cheese carts to and from market, and serve as all-purpose workers in rural settings. Recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1937, the Berner has grown in popularity thanks to its calm nature and striking looks.

Affectionate, patient, and eager to please, the Bernese Mountain Dog is known for forming strong bonds with all family members, including children. They tend to be gentle around kids and tolerant of other dogs, although early obedience training is important.

These dogs are usually friendly but may be reserved around strangers. They do best in households where they can be included in daily life and given mental stimulation, not left alone for long periods.

Berners are large, sturdy dogs with a thick double coat that helps them withstand cold weather. Their long coat features a black base with rust and white markings and needs regular brushing to stay healthy and clean.

Because of their dense fur, they shed year-round and more heavily during seasonal changes. Routine grooming includes brushing teeth, trimming nails, and checking ears to prevent infection.

While Berners enjoy walks and light play, they aren't built for running long distances or enduring intense heat. Regular, moderate exercise is key to preventing weight gain and supporting joint health.

Health concerns include elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and a shorter life expectancy compared to other breeds—typically around 7 to 10 years.

Responsible breeders test for genetic issues, and the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America (BMDCA) provides resources on health screening and rescue options.

Berners are intelligent and enjoy learning new things, especially when training is positive and consistent. Agility, nose work, and obedience training are great outlets for their minds and bodies.

They thrive when given a job or purpose, whether that's accompanying owners on errands, playing with the kids, or guarding the house. Though they bark to alert, they are not typically aggressive or prone to biting.

Owning a Bernese Mountain Dog entails commitment, patience, and love. These dogs prefer cool climates and lots of human interaction. Puppies need early socialization and gentle handling to grow into balanced adults.

Whether lounging in the house or exploring the farm, Berners make loyal companions and devoted protectors. With proper care and attention, they’ll lay by your side for years to come.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.