Detailed description of Bernese mountain dog
Bernese mountain dog is a large dog breed that for many years has been working as a guard gods and herding dogs across Switzerland. Dogs of this breed can get stringy attached to their owners and separated from humans can become a bit on edge.
Genesis
The progenitors of Bernese mountain dogs are believed to have been brought to Switzerland by Roman legions. Although archaeological findings from the second decade of the 20th-century point to Bernese mountain dogs being present in Switzerland even before the Romans. Dogs of this breed were commonly used as herding dogs. With the expansion of the cheese industry in Switzerland, Bernese mountain dogs were often used to pull heavy carts loaded with dairy. As the St. Bernard dogs became more popular the population of Bernese mountain dogs dwindled. The first breeders of Bernese mountain dogs appeared sometime between the 19th and 20th century. In 1902 the breed has been presented during a show for the first time. Five years later the first breed standard has been created.
Appearance
Bernese mountain dogs are rather muscular and solid in build dog. Dogs of this breed are massive, but not sluggish. Bernese mountain dogs have a long and shiny coat, sometimes slightly wavy. Dogs of this breed have big and strong heads with a big muzzle that forms an almost perfect 90 degrees angle where it meets with the skull. They have ears that are set high on the head, triangular in shape and laying flat against the head. Bernese mountain dogs have strong, muscular legs, their tail and back of the hind legs are covered in thick, luscious hairs.
Behaviour
Bernese mountain dogs are well-behaved and friendly canines. Younger dogs of this breed can be a bit more impulsive, but with age, they become very calm and collected companions. They tend to get strongly attached to their owners and do not like to be left alone for too long. Dogs of this breed are very intelligent, learn quickly and are always ready to work. Bernese Mountain dogs are patient and understanding and they make for great companions for kids of any age. They do require a fair bit of physical activity. Too much energy in Bernese mountain dogs can lead to destructive behaviour around the house.
Requirements
Young Bernese mountain dogs can try to pull the leash on walks. Get your dog a sturdy collar and a leash. Try to avoid bright coloured fabric collars, as they can stain the coat on your dog's neck. Bernese mountain dogs need durable and properly sized toys - avoid smaller objects, as your dog can easily swallow or choke on them.
Daily care
A long coat of Bernese mountain dogs does require weekly brushing. During shedding season you can even switch to daily brushing. Whole brushing focus on the longer coat on your dog's legs, tail and ears, which tangles much easier than the rest of the coat. Give your Bernese a bath once you can see or smell that he's dirty. Since Bernese mountain dogs love physical activity, don't forget to apply a moisturizing balm to your dog's toe pads.
