Bernese Mountain Dog

Health

As a large/giant dog, the Bernese has a high chance of having hip dysplasia (a type of misfit of the hip joint) or elbow dysplasia - conditions that cause a lot of pain, locomotion problems and even difficulty keeping up. standing alone. If he is not well fed as a puppy, with adequate food and the right nutrients, the risk of having this health problem increases considerably, but genetic issues are the most important in these cases. In addition, this breed is also likely to have Von Willenbrande disease, which is a serious condition that can cause blood clotting disorders. Progressive retinal atrophy is also a frequently reported problem in dogs of this breed. The American Kennel Club also warns of other diseases that can affect Bernese people, even if less frequently. Among them are: tumors, sub-aortic stenosis, disorders involving the thyroid, skin diseases and autoimmune diseases. Because of this large number of problems, it is necessary to pay close attention to the Bernese's health and regularly take him to the veterinarian. Talking to your puppy's breeder to identify hereditary problems can be a good solution to preventing some of them.

Curiosities

There is a theory that Bernese dogs were used by the Roman army as guard dogs. Vase paintings show dogs very similar to this breed. In addition, around 1800, the breed dogs almost became extinct due to industrialization, but luckily they were saved and can be seen in many parts of the world even today. In the past, in Brazil, they were called Bernesian bouvier, a name that is hardly mentioned in the literature here. In addition to being a herding dog, many specimens have already been used as draft dogs, pulling carts and small carts full of horticultural products.

Intelligence

Due to their origins and the way the Bernese were bred previously, the dogs of this breed have kept many of their original characteristics. One of the main points that have been maintained over time is obedience. Bernese dogs are considered very obedient and disciplined, so they are examples of control among dogs. Many of them even participate in animal obedience contests. The fact that they are extremely disciplined dogs is a good proof of their intelligence. Because they are quiet dogs, they are not masters of "catch the ball" commands, but they can learn many other things. Teaching tricks to dogs of this breed is an easy task. They are easily trained and enjoy interacting with people. In addition, they adapt easily to new places and new families, already easily realizing their place, where they can or can't stay, what they can't do and other necessary things - something that helps with the puppy's arrival at home.

Temperament

The Bernese is a family dog, very calm and friendly. They have an even temperament and are quite helpful and calm. Affectionate, Bernese get along well with other dogs, different types of animals and even children. He's also a very quiet dog, who doesn't usually bark unless something out of the ordinary happens. They are also very attached to their human parents and those with whom they usually live. With visitors, he tends to be affable and very receptive.

Lifetime

Because it is a giant dog, the life expectancy of dogs of this breed is approximately eight years. This number, however, varies according to the type of life he leads and what diseases he develops. Remember that feeding him correctly when he is still a puppy increases his life expectancy and decreases the chances of illness.