Known for their charming tri-colored coats and gentle disposition, Bernese Mountain Dogs are a breed loved by many. But beyond their striking appearance and endearing character, there are many fascinating aspects of Bernese Mountain Dogs that are less known. Here are seven surprising facts about Bernese Mountain Dogs that you probably didn’t know.
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Swiss Origins
Bernese Mountain Dogs, or “Berners,” as they are affectionately called, are one of four breeds of Sennenhund-type dogs from the Swiss Alps. Named after the canton of Bern, they were traditionally used as general-purpose farm dogs for tasks like herding livestock, pulling carts, and serving as watchdogs.
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Drafting Dogs
Berners are exceptional drafting dogs, meaning they are specially trained to pull carts. This ability is a throwback to their history in Switzerland, where they were often used to transport goods. Today, many Bernese Mountain Dogs still compete in drafting competitions.
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Slow to Mature
Bernese Mountain Dogs are one of the breeds that mature more slowly. They often retain their puppy-like demeanor until they are three or four years old. While this prolongs their adorable puppy stage, it also means they need consistent training and socialization throughout their early years.
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Temperature Preference
Despite their size and seemingly high tolerance, Bernese Mountain Dogs prefer cooler temperatures. Their thick, beautiful coats were designed to keep them warm in the Swiss Alps, which makes them less suited to hot climates.
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Variations in Size
While Bernese Mountain Dogs are generally known for their large size, there is a significant range within the breed. Males can weigh between 80 and 115 pounds and stand up to 27.5 inches tall, while females typically weigh between 70 and 95 pounds and can stand up to 26 inches tall.
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Longevity and Health
Bernese Mountain Dogs, unfortunately, have one of the shortest lifespan averages among the breeds, usually between 6 to 8 years. They are also prone to health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia and certain types of cancer. For this reason, it’s essential to find a reputable breeder who tests their breeding dogs for these and other health issues.
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Loyal Companions
Berners are known for their loyalty and desire to be with their families. They are gentle with children and usually get along well with other pets. Their strong sense of loyalty and protective nature can make them reserved around strangers, but they are rarely aggressive.
In conclusion, the Bernese Mountain Dog breed, with their striking appearance and gentle, loyal nature, carries a rich history and an array of fascinating traits. From their Swiss origins and ability as drafting dogs to their slow maturity rate, preference for cooler temperatures, size variations, considerations in terms of health and longevity, and their endearing loyalty, these lesser-known facts provide a deeper understanding of what makes Berners so special. Whether you’re a proud owner of a Bernese Mountain Dog or just an admirer of the breed, these surprising insights bring to light the unique charm of these wonderful dogs.
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