Bernese Mountain Dog FAQ's
Do Bernese shed?
Everyday! They are a double coated breed, so not only is there daily shedding of the longer guard hairs from the top coat, but also seasonal shedding of the undercoat (which is known to Berner Fanciers as “blowing coat”). Can you explain to your dinner guests in good humor how dog hair is a condiment?
How long do Bernese live?
Not as long as you’d like. Surveys show the average life span of is 7-8 years. That’s an average meaning it takes into consideration a number of dogs that die at 4-5 years old, and the same number that live to 10-11 years.
Are Bernese good with children?
They generally do well with children, as they are very affectionate. They are patient dogs that take well to children climbing over them. They make a great play buddy for kids and would love to join their family in group outdoor activities. Though they have great energy, a Berner will also be happy with a calm evening. However, they are big dogs and can easily knock a child over without meaning to, so supervising play is important.
Are Bernese good with other pets?
Absolutely! Our Berners live with a cat and several Havanese. They love to play, so must be supervised with small or elderly pets.
Are Bernese Mountain Dogs high maintenance?
They are high maintenance in terms of needs for human interaction and grooming. They do shed and their heavy coats make them ill-suited for hot weather.
Why are pet puppies sold with limited registration?
When one adopts a Signature Bernese puppy as a pet, it will be eligible for AKC Limited Registration. This means that your Bernese can be registered as a purebred Bernese Mountain Dog, but is not to be bred. If your Bernese is bred, its offspring cannot be registered with AKC. Bernese with limited registration can participate in AKC competitions such as obedience, agility, rally, etc. just not conformation classes.
How big do Bernese get?
On average, males weigh 90-115 pounds and are 25-27-1/2 inches at the withers while females weigh 70-95 pounds and are 23-26 inches at the withers. However, some Berners might be smaller or bigger. One must be willing to accept whatever size your puppy may grow into.
Do Bernese drool?
Sometimes. They are considered dry-mouth breed, but can be known to drool after drinking. Berners with massive heads and loose lips can be prone to drooling. That slobber can end up on the dog, in the house, and even on you!
What are Bernese temperaments like?
They are affectionate, intelligent, loyal and eager to please. Most of all, they have a happy-go-lucky attitude toward life. Bernese are outdoor dogs at heart, though well-behaved in the house; they need activity and exercise, but do not have a great deal of endurance. They can move with amazing bursts of speed for their size when motivated. They enjoy hiking and generally stick close to their people.
Do Bernese need a lot of exercise?
Berners benefit from regular exercise which includes off-leash free play. They were bred to be strong, sturdy, and dependable. They need regular walks and time to run and play. They especially love hikes! However, they are NOT a jogging partner, and having them run or jog with you can cause hip and elbow problems, regardless of genetic health, especially on the growing bones of a puppy. Count on daily walks. Exercise is important to have a healthy, balanced dog.
Are Bernese easy to train?
With love and consistency, they are easily trained. Berners do best with positive training methods. They are fast learners but that means they pick up both the good and the bad easily! Training needs to start the day your puppy comes home with you and should continue throughout its life.
Why are pet puppies sold with limited registration?
When one adopts a Signature Bernese puppy as a pet, it will be eligible for AKC Limited Registration. This means that your Bernese can be registered as a purebred Bernese Mountain Dog, but is not to be bred. If your Bernese is bred, its offspring cannot be registered with AKC. Bernese with limited registration can participate in AKC competitions such as obedience, agility, rally, etc. just not conformation classes.
What is a “Swiss kiss?”
It is a white mark located typically behind the neck, but may be a part of the neck.
Why do Berners sometimes have red eyes?
Red eyes are a result of physical exertion and/or fatigue in large and giant breed dogs. If the redness does not go away, please consult see your veterinarian.